Name and Location

The Hunting Island Lighthouse is located at 2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, USA.

Construction and History

The Hunting Island Lighthouse was constructed in 1877 to aid navigation for vessels entering the Port Royal Sound. Its construction coincided with the growth of trade and commerce in the area, making it an essential guide for mariners.

Architecture and Materials

The lighthouse's architecture is characteristic of its era, featuring a square, brick structure with a conical roof and a lantern room at the top. The building was constructed using local materials, including brick, mortar, and wood.

Light and Navigation

Initially, the lighthouse was operated manually, with keepers responsible for maintaining the light source and performing daily tasks. In 1935, the lighthouse was automated, using electric lighting to guide mariners.

Accessibility and Visiting

The lighthouse is situated on Hunting Island, a barrier island along the Atlantic coast of South Carolina. Visitors can access the site via Sea Island Parkway (SC-174) and North Beach Road.

Notable Views and Landscape

• Hunting Island is a protected area within the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources' (SCDNR) Beaufort County Heritage Corridor.
• The island's diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife species, including dolphins, sea turtles, and shorebirds.

Technical and Operational Details

The original tower stood 41.5 feet tall, with a focal plane height of 45 feet above sea level. The light source was an oil lamp, later replaced by electricity in 1935.

Further Information

• * National Park Service: Hunting Island Lighthouse
• * Wikipedia: Hunting Island Light
• * South Carolina Department of Natural Resources: Hunting Island