Cape Cod’s charm has always been tied to its rugged coastline, maritime history, and iconic lighthouses, and few capture that spirit better than the Stage Harbor Lighthouse in Chatham. Built in the 1800s, this classic beacon remains one of the most beloved lighthouses on Cape Cod. The Stage Harbor Light is a favorite among photographers, history lovers, and anyone who appreciates the dramatic mix of sea and sky.
The Stage Harbor Lighthouse is in our neighboring town of Chatham, where you’ll find some of the most unique things to do on Cape Cod. Chatham is full of art galleries, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh local seafood year-round. Wandering the streets, where you’ll enjoy glimpses of the ocean at every turn, is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures on the water or indoor discoveries on a rainy afternoon, you’ll find plenty of things to do to fill your itinerary.
Of course, Chatham is just the beginning of the exciting Cape Cod activities you can enjoy during your getaway. From Harwich to Provincetown, there are exciting towns, attractions, beaches, and fun to be had. When your day is done, return to the comfort of our boutique Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod, where modern design meets the warmth of New England hospitality. The Stage Harbor Lighthouse might be the highlight of your day, but our Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod ensures every part of your getaway feels unforgettable. Book your stay today!
Seaside Beauty at Stage Harbor Lighthouse
The Stage Harbor Lighthouse has been keeping watch over the waters off Chatham since 1880. Though the Stage Harbor Light is no longer active, it remains one of the most beautiful reminders of Cape Cod’s maritime history. Today, it’s privately owned, so you can’t go inside, but that doesn’t stop visitors from admiring it from afar. One of the best places to view the lighthouse is from Harding’s Beach, a lovely stretch of sand perfect for a seaside walk. From there, you’ll have an incredible view of Stage Harbor Lighthouse across the water, especially at sunset, when the fading light paints the sky in soft pinks and golds.
Getting a closer look at the Stage Harbor Lighthouse is part of the adventure. Many visitors reach the lighthouse by walking along Harding’s Beach, while others paddle nearby by kayak or boat for a unique perspective. Sitting proudly at the entrance to Stage Harbor, its white tower framed against the deep blue Atlantic is a picture-perfect scene — the kind that makes you stop for a moment and just take it all in. For anyone building their list of things to do on Cape Cod, a visit to Stage Harbor Lighthouse deserves a spot right at the top.
See More Cape Cod Lighthouses
You’ll also want to make time to visit a few other Cape Cod lighthouses nearby. Each has its own story and stunning view.
- Chatham Lighthouse: Just a short drive from Stage Harbor, this iconic beacon is one of the most photographed lighthouses on Cape Cod. Still active and part of a working Coast Guard station, it offers guided tours seasonally and unbeatable views of the Atlantic.
- Monomoy Point Lighthouse: Set on the southern tip of Monomoy Island, this one takes a little effort to reach, either by boat or a long walk. But the remote beauty makes it worth every step.
- Nauset Light in Eastham: Recognizable for its red and white stripes, this beloved Cape Cod lighthouse is open for tours and sits inside the Cape Cod National Seashore, where you can easily spend a day exploring the beach. While visiting the Nauset Light, don’t miss the two other Cape Cod lighthouses in the area that, combined, are known as The Three Sisters.
- Highland Light in Truro: The oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod, Highland Light offers panoramic views of the ocean and a connection to the area’s literary past. Henry David Thoreau once wrote about its dramatic setting.
- Race Point Lighthouse in Provincetown: Surrounded by rolling dunes and sweeping coastal views, this lighthouse feels wonderfully peaceful. The walk there is part of the experience and one of the most scenic on the Cape.
Exploring Stage Harbor Lighthouse alongside these other lighthouses on Cape Cod is one of the most romantic and memorable ways to experience the Cape. Each one tells a story of history, resilience, and beauty, and together they make up one of the very best things to do on Cape Cod.
The Best Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod
After a full day walking the shoreline to see your favorite Cape Cod lighthouses, you’ll want a place that feels both comfortable and special. Our adults-only Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod is exactly that. Offering a fresh, stylish take on coastal lodging, our boutique inn blends modern design with genuine New England warmth. Choose from a variety of guest rooms and suites, some featuring cozy fireplaces or private sitting areas, all with en-suite bathrooms and thoughtful touches that make unwinding easy.
Around the property, you’ll find plenty of ways to relax. Wander through our onsite labyrinth, sip a glass of wine by the outdoor fireplace, or spend a quiet afternoon reading in the Platinum Café or Sitting Rooms. Our Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod feels like a peaceful retreat, yet it’s close to everything that makes the Cape so charming. Guests also enjoy personalized concierge services and curated packages, ideal for planning day trips to landmarks such as the Stage Harbor Lighthouse.
And of course, every great Cape Cod adventure starts with a delicious breakfast. Each morning, our chef prepares a rotating menu featuring inventive dishes made with fresh ingredients from our gardens and local farms. From savory favorites to sweet indulgences, breakfast here is always memorable. We’ll accommodate dietary preferences whenever possible, so let us know what you need in advance. There’s no better way to start another day of exploring the Cape. Book your stay today.
