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Alligator Reef Light Tower

Alligator Reef Light Tower
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Type of Site
Outlying Areas, Buildings & Monuments
Neighborhood
Coast/Beach
Interests That Apply
Outdoors, Sports & Recreation, Technology, Architecture
More information here...
Price: $40-$50
You will need a boat or charter to reach the lighthouse.
Is there parking?: No
Wheelchair Accessible: Partial
Mobility Obstacles: Waterways
Water/Drinks: NOT available at this site or nearby.
Eating: This is NOT a good place to get a meal or snack.
Restrooms: Not Available
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Alligator Reef Light Tower

Alligator Light

Reef Light Tower



Address:
Alligator Reef
Matecumbe Keys, FL

Description

Part of the West Indies Squadron in the early 1800s, the USS Alligator tracked and intercepted pirate ships. The ship ran aground at Matecumbe Reef in 1821 and limped her way northward, throwing cargo overboard and unloading most of her cannons to a sister ship. The Alligator finally succumbed and began to sink at what is now aptly named Alligator Reef. She was set on fire so the pirates couldn't claim her. The light tower was finally built to mark the dangerous reef in 1873. The area surrounding the light tower is a popular fishing and diving spot.


What you should know before visiting Alligator Reef Light Tower

Times & Dates

Open Hours: Dawn-dusk, daily
Notes: The tower can be seen during sunlight.
Visit Time: 6hr-Full day(8hr)
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during daylight hours.
Average Wait Time: 15-30min
Notes: It will take you at least 30 minutes to get out to Alligator Reef. The Coast Guard allows no access to the lighthouse tower itself.
Price: $40-$50
Price Notes: You will need a boat or charter to reach the lighthouse.

Exposure

Outdoor with little or no covering.

Age Recommendations/Requirements

Ages Admitted: Infants/Toddlers (0-3yrs), Children (4-8yrs), Pre-teen (9-12yrs), Teen, Adult, Senior
Ages that would most enjoy this site: Teen, Adult, Senior
Groups that would most enjoy this site: Couples, Families, Friends, Groups, Solo Travelers

Transportation

Best Modes of Transportation: Ferry/Boat
Notes: You'll need to take a personal or rental boat or go on a charter fishing or diving excursion to get to Alligator Reef.
Parking Availability: No
Notes: Only accessible by boat.


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