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Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Fl White 60s🇺🇸USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Alligator Reef Lighthouse

Alligator Reef (2) stands as a modern navigational aid situated off the Florida Keys. Constructed in 2015, this active lighthouse continues the maritime safety tradition in an area recognized for its complex coral formations and active shipping lanes. It emits a white flash every 60 seconds, assisting vessels in navigating the reef-laden approaches. The surrounding site is accessible for exploration, but the tower itself is closed to the public. This contemporary light serves to guide seafarers through this beautiful yet demanding coastal region.

Why it matters: Alligator Reef (2) is essential for safe passage through the hazardous Alligator Reef, a significant obstacle in the Florida Keys. Its light helps prevent groundings and collisions for numerous vessels traversing busy shipping routes and popular recreational areas.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 60s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
60s
Raw Code
Fl W 60s

Construction & History

Year Built
2015

Visiting

Open to public
Site open, tower closed

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Structure: Alligator Reef (2), a modern navigational aid off the Florida Keys, marks a crucial point in the vibrant, often challenging waters of the Atlantic. Built in 2015, this active lighthouse replaced an earlier structure, continuing a vital tradition of maritime safety in a region known for its intricate coral reefs and busy shipping lanes. Its white flashes, repeating every 60 seconds, guide mariners through the reef-strewn approaches, ensuring safe passage for both commercial vessels and recreational boaters navigating the clear, turquoise waters. While the site itself is open for those exploring the surrounding marine environment, the tower remains closed to public access, preserving its operational integrity. This contemporary light maintains a silent vigil over the reef, reflecting ongoing efforts to protect seafarers in this beautiful yet demanding stretch of coastline.

Location

Country
🇺🇸United States
Sea Region
Alligator Reef, off the Florida Keys, United States, marking a dangerous coral reef.
Latitude
24.7461°
Longitude
-80.7824°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Tavernier(21.0 km)
Admiralty No.
J2988
USCG No.
3-0981
ARLHS No.
USA-841
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Alligator Reef Lighthouse at night?+
Alligator Reef displays the characteristic Fl White 60s. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Alligator Reef Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Alligator Reef Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is ISLAMORADA at 12.2 NM to the NE. Other ports served include MARATHON (17 NM W), PLANTATION (17.6 NM NE), Tavernier (20.6 NM NE), KEY LARGO (23.9 NM NE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Alligator Reef Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Alligator Reef Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Alligator Reef Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Alligator Reef Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.