Few things stand as mysteriously and brilliantly as historic lighthouses. Exploring the grounds of these structures is a true experience that buzzes with history and wonder. Lucky for us, the Ocean State has its fair share of old lighthouses that are simply out of this world! Here are 11 historic lighthouses in Rhode Island.

1. Newport Harbor Light, Goat Island

This stunning old lighthouse was constructed in the early 1800s and is known locally as the Goat Island Lighthouse. It can be found on the northern part of Goat Island in Newport.

2. Rose Island Lighthouse

This magnificent working lighthouse was built in 1869 and is currently run by the Rose Island Lighthouse Foundation. Not only can you visit the museum on the first floor, you can also sign up for week-long lighthouse keeper stays! Not only is this a unique vacation, it is also filled with beautiful views.

3. Pomham Rocks Lighthouse, East Providence

Pomham Rocks Lighthouse sits brilliantly in the Providence River near the Riverside neighborhood of East Providence. It was built in 1871 and became automated in 1974.

4. Point Judith Light House, Narragansett

The stunning octagonal brick structure now standing was constructed in 1816. It replaced the original wooden lighthouse that was destroyed during the Great Gale of 1815.

5. Castle Hill Lighthouse, Newport

Constructed in the late 1800s, the design of Castle Hill blends flawlessly with the stunning landscape. It can be found off Ocean Ave in Newport and is located directly across the bay from Beavertail State Park.

6. Dutch Island Lighthouse

Built in 1857, this 42 foot brick tower replaced the original stone lighthouse in the designated 6 acres of property on Dutch Island. After restoration, the structure went back into operation in 2007 after several decades being out of use.

7. Sakonnet Point Lighthouse, Little Compton

This sparkplug style lighthouse is as beautiful as it is classic in appearance. It can be seen from Sakonnet Point in the charming town of Little Compton.

8. Beavertail Lighthouse, Jamestown

Few places compare to Beavertail State Park, and the historic lighthouse on the property certainly adds to its brilliance. Not only can you visit the lighthouse, there is a wonderful museum open to the public offering historical and educational attractions.

9. Ida Lewis Lighthouse, Newport

While each of the lighthouses on this list have unique histories, Ida Lewis might be the most fascinating. The lighthouse is named after the keeper of the lighthouse from the years 1857 until her death in 1911. She took over her father's lighthouse duties when he became ill and became a local legend for saving 18 people in total who were stranded at sea over the years she tended to the property.

10. North Light, Block Island

North Light located on beautiful Block Island was built in 1867. The impressive structure is made from granite and iron and can be visited in Sandy Point in New Shoreham.

11. Southeast Light, Block Island

Southeast Light is a designated national historic landmark and is considered one of the most architecturally brilliant lighthouses in the entire country! As if that wasn't enough of a reason to visit this place, its location at the natural wonder known as Mohegan Bluffs definitely makes this a must-see attraction.

Have you visited all 11 of these lighthouses in Rhode Island? If not, we encourage you to start planning your trip!