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Matagorda Lighthouse

Fl W 3s🇺🇸Texas, USInactive

Location & Light Range

About Matagorda Lighthouse

This lighthouse stands 28 meters tall, with its light positioned 27.5 meters above sea level. It emits a white light. The structure is no longer operational. It is situated on Matagorda Island in Calhoun County, Texas.

Why it matters: The lighthouse has been designated as heritage status 2.

Background
The Matagorda Island Light is located on Matagorda Island in Calhoun County, in the U.S. state of Texas. Once under the jurisdiction of the United States Coast Guard, the lighthouse is now managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl W 3s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
1 flash
Interval
3s
Focal Height
27.5m

Construction & History

Heritage Status
2

References & Identifiers

Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →
Wikidata
Q6785980 →
OpenStreetMap
View on OSM →

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
28m

Location

City
Texas
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
28.3379°
Longitude
-96.4240°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Matagorda Lighthouse at night?+
Matagorda displays the characteristic Fl W 3s — 1 white flash every 3 seconds. 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.
Which ports and harbors does Matagorda Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Matagorda Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Port Lavaca at 19.7 NM to the NNW. Other ports served include POINT COMFORT (20.2 NM NNW), PALACIOS (24 NM NNE), Lolita (30.3 NM N), LAMAR (32.7 NM WSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Matagorda Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Matagorda Lighthouse is currently listed as inactive. It may have been decommissioned, replaced by a different navigation aid, or temporarily taken out of service. Mariners should check the latest Notices to Mariners for current status.
How can I track vessels near Matagorda Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Matagorda 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.