Name and Location

The Cape San Blas Light is located at 200 Miss Zola's Drive, Port St Joe, Florida, USA.

Construction and History

The Cape San Blas Light was constructed in 1849, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in Florida. Initially, it served as a crucial navigation aid for mariners traveling along the Gulf Coast. The light's original height was approximately 60 feet (18 meters), with a focal plane of about 55 feet (17 meters) above sea level.

Architecture and Materials

The Cape San Blas Light features a distinctive tower built from stucco-covered brick and stone, reflecting the Greek Revival style common in American coastal structures during the mid-19th century. The original lantern room was removed in 1963, replaced with a more modern glass-and-metal structure.

Light and Navigation

Although the lighthouse no longer functions as an active aid to navigation, it was initially used to guide mariners along the Gulf Coast.

Accessibility and Visiting

Visitors can access the site via Miss Zola's Drive, with parking available near the lighthouse. Although the structure itself is not open to the public for climbing or exploration, guided tours are occasionally offered during special events or festivals.

Notable Views and Landscape

The lighthouse stands near the edge of Cape San Blas, a scenic peninsula known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. The surrounding area is characterized by sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal forests.

Anecdotes and Folklore

Technical and Operational Details

The Cape San Blas Light is currently managed by the Florida Department of State's Historic Preservation Division. It has been decommissioned since 2004 due to concerns over its structural integrity and maintenance costs.

Further Information

For further reading, please visit the Wikipedia page dedicated to the Cape San Blas Light: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_San_Blas_Light