These Haunted Lighthouses Will Give You the Creeps

Tybee Island lighthouse
Photo: Getty Images

Looking for a good scare this Halloween but don't want to run through a cornfield rife with chainsaw-wielding murderers? Try getting a thrill with a trip to a haunted lighthouse instead.

Lighthouses stand against stunning backdrops across the South, from the St. Augustine haunted lighthouse to the haunted lighthouses in North Carolina. Each has its own spooky history to contend with as you walk the grounds, so watch out! From murdered lighthouse keepers to restless soldiers and distraught children, these haunted spots host a myriad of characters that'll have you turning around to look over your shoulder.

Not feeling brave enough to go alone? Several lighthouses offer paranormal tours, so you can ghost-bust as a group—strength in numbers, they say. Bring your own equipment or borrow some on site. Don't worry, though. There may be ghosts (all according to lore), but nothing to curdle the blood. We are (pretty) sure you'll be able to sleep afterwards. Pretty sure.

01 of 08

St. Augustine Lighthouse

st augustine lighthouse
Getty Images

St. Augustine, Florida

Visitors to St. Augustine Lighthouse can take the Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour, which delves into the landmark's paranormal past with access to the Keepers' House and the lighthouse tower.

Click here for more info.

02 of 08

St. Simons Lighthouse

St Simons Island Lighthouse
Getty Images

St. Simons Island, Georgia

During the Civil War, Confederate soldiers destroyed this working lighthouse, which is today one of five left in the state. It is said that the ghost of a murdered keeper haunts the grounds, assuring smooth operation of the light.

Click here for more info.

03 of 08

Pensacola Lighthouse

Pensacola lighthouse
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Pensacola, Florida

Fancy a ghost hunt? Bring your own equipment or borrow some on site before you spend time with the six ghosts said to inhabit the property.

Click here for more info.

04 of 08

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Getty Images

Buxton, North Carolina

The only reported ghost is a friendly black-and-white cat that disappears as soon as someone tries to hold it. Will you let it slip through your fingers?

Click here for more info.

05 of 08

Cape Romain Lighthouse

Cape Romain Lighthouse
Coastal Expeditions

Lighthouse Island, South Carolina

As the legend goes, a lighthouse keeper murdered his wife and buried her on the property. Now, you might hear her footsteps as she climbs the stairs.

Click here for more info.

06 of 08

Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse

Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

If you come, beware of the Blue Lady, said to be the 21-year-old daughter of a former keeper who died of a heart attack during a storm.

Click here for more info.

07 of 08

Tybee Lighthouse

Tybee Island lighthouse
Getty Images

Tybee Island, Georgia

As the rumors go, reports include apparitions (sometimes dressed as lighthouse keepers), strange noises, and a young girl warning off visitors.

Click here for more info.

08 of 08

Georgetown Lighthouse

Georgetown Lighthouse
Justin McIntyre, South Carolina Maritime Museum

North Island, South Carolina

It's said that the ghost of seven-year-old girl named Annie is a guardian angel to ships, warning of inclement weather.

Click here to learn more.

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