Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum

"Historical treat for lighthouse lovers"

We had a great time visiting the small museum and gift shop while waiting to go on our guided tour of the lighthouse.  The museum exhibits gave us a good overview of life in the area throughout history.  The museum staff was friendly and informative.  There are a few films that help tell the stories of the lighthouse, the surrounding plantation and a brief history of the area.  

Lighthouse tours are limited by group size so you might have to wait for a place on a tour if it is crowded.  I would suggest checking in right away to secure your spot and get a tour time.  Then, explore the museum, visit the gift shop or sit on the porch and enjoy the views of the water.  

The best part is that this lighthouse is in wonderful condition and you can climb up to the top!  I took so many photos from all angles and every photo looks fantastic.  The climb up can be a bit challenging if you are afraid of narrow spaces or heights.  The metal, open, winding staircase only allows for one direction of travel but once at the top, the view is expansive.  Some people on our tour were nervous about climbing the stairs and also on the catwalk at the top of the lighthouse.  Try to put your fears aside and make the climb.  It really is worth it!  If someone in your group is too small or timid to make the climb, there are beautiful banyan trees to rest under while you wait.  If you have children shorter than 48", please note that they will not be allowed to climb the lighthouse.  We took turns waiting at the museum with our preschooler who was not yet tall enough to enjoy the climb.  For that reason alone, I gave this visit a four out of five stars.  It would have been wonderful to be able to experience the top of the lighthouse as a family but I can fully appreciate the safety issues involved.

The volunteer who took us on our lighthouse tour took his job very seriously and kept us on schedule.  He had all of the historical facts readily available in his head.  The tour guides in the Tindall Pioneer Homestead really helped to make life on this Plantation come alive for all of the folks on the tour.  They told captivating stories, engaged guests and had us all laughing.  One of the ladies pointed out the various garden plants and vegetables while the other led the tour inside the home and kitchen.  We had so much fun with these ladies that we really didn't want to leave.  Their stories were marvelous!

We had a great visit and took some classic photos as souvenirs.  Don't forget to stop by the gift shop after your visit for your free "I climbed the lighthouse" certificate for your scrapbook!

Disclosure:   I received complimentary tickets to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum.   They did not request or require that I express a particular point of view.  This review is my honest opinion of my experiences.