If you’re in the mood for a serene escape that takes you back to a simpler time, pack your car and come visit this historic Washington lighthouse.

The New Dungeness Lighthouse in Sequim, Washington was the first U.S. lighthouse completed on the Strait of Juan de Fuca. In fact, it was lit back in December of 1857 and has been guiding ships through the Straight ever since!

Nestled in Nature

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge Sand Spit
Image via Shutterstock Edmund Lowe Photography

This picturesque lighthouse also sits at the end of one of the world’s longest sand spits within the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. The 5.5-mile natural sand spit shelters a bay that’s rich in marine life, from migrating shorebirds to harbor seals looking for an isolated beach for their pups.

if you fancy a stroll, winding trails offer breathtaking views of the beaches, Dungeness Harbor, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Settle in for some casual wildlife viewing at one of the picnic spots, or become a lighthouse keeper for a week if you want a longer stay!

Be a Lightkeeper for a week

Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
Image via Shutterstock Checubus

That’s right, you can actually stay at the New Dungeness Lighthouse thanks to the Lighthouse Keeper Program. Live out the introvert’s ultimate fantasy… with the company of family and friends if you like.

Escape reality for a little while and spend a week at one of the best restored light stations in the country. It’s a rare opportunity since very few lighthouses in the U.S. offer extended stays!

All you need to do is be a member of the New Dungeness Light Station Association (NDLSA). It only costs $35 to sign up as an Individual, or $50 as a family. From there, members can reserve one or two bedrooms or the entire light keeper’s house for a week-long stay. Just know that if you’re only reserving a room, you might be sharing the lighthouse with other lightkeepers – what a great way to make new friends!

Take a look through the availability calendar for dates that fit your schedule. And maybe consider the tide chart if you’re targeting a certain ‘aesthetic’ for your visit.

Better brush up on a few sea shanties to really set the mood.

New Dungeness Lighthouse – Sequim, Washington

Where: Sequim, WA – Directions Here

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Alicia Lyons

Alicia Lyons

Staff Writer

Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not writing, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling up under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.

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