Marking the northern limit of the third largest Coral Barrier Reef system in the world, the Hillsboro Inlet Lighthouse is located halfway between Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton.  Built in 1906 sitting on three acres, this iron skeletal lighthouse which lets the storm winds blow straight through it is 136 ft high and 147 ft at it’s highest point.  The original light was incandescent oil vapor light fueled by kerosene at 370,000 candle power and it could be seen for 35 miles away at Sea on a clear night. The Fresnel clamshell lens 9 ft in diameter and weighing 3600 pounds,  produces the most powerful light of any remaining lighthouse in the United States.

The 175 steps of the spiral staircase is worth the sensational view. Several times a night fuel was carried by hand up the steps. The oil lamps were replaced by Electric lamps in 1932 and by a powerful 1000 watt quartz iodine bulb in 1966.

Only open for monthly tours and arrival is only by boat.  Don’t wear flip-flops if you are going to climb the lighthouse.      Bring a picnic, beach chairs, towels and make a day of it.