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North Head Lighthouse

Fl (2) W 30s🇺🇸Washington, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About North Head Lighthouse

North Head Lighthouse is a maritime navigation aid located in Washington, US. It is currently operational and active, providing guidance to vessels navigating the surrounding waters. The light sits at a focal height of 59 meters above mean sea level.

Light characteristic: The identifying signal of this lighthouse is Fl (2) W 30s. This means the light produces 2 flashes every 30 seconds. Mariners use this distinctive pattern to positively identify the light and distinguish it from other aids to navigation in the area. The light displays a white signal, the most common color for major coastal lights.

Position: North Head Lighthouse is positioned at 46.2988°N, 124.0780°W, near Washington in US.

Geographic context: North Head Lighthouse is situated on the North Pacific Ocean, within the US West Coast shipping lane — a major trans-Pacific trade route serving West Coast ports of the United States. The location falls within the temperate maritime climate zone.

Nearby lighthouses in US: Other lighthouses in the region include Abagadasset Point Range, Absecon, Admiralty Head Light, Ahukini Breakwater, Alameda County (Oakland Area) Lighthouses. View all on the Lighthouses Directory.

Nearby Ports

Ilwaco

USIQL

1.6 NME

Chinook

USCJC

6.3 NMESE

WARRENTON

USWTO

10.5 NMSE

Astoria

USAST

13.2 NMESE

South Bend

USACJ

25.2 NMNNE

Flash Characteristics

Characteristic Signature
Fl (2) W 30s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
2 flashes
Interval
30s

Physical Specifications

Focal Height
59m
Light Range
Not available
Status
ACTIVE
City
Washington
Country
🇺🇸US
Latitude
46.2988°
Longitude
-124.0780°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify North Head Lighthouse at night?+
North Head displays the characteristic Fl (2) W 30s — 2 white flashes every 30 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 North Head Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
North Head Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is Ilwaco at 1.6 NM to the E. Other ports served include Chinook (6.3 NM ESE), WARRENTON (10.5 NM SE), Astoria (13.2 NM ESE), South Bend (25.2 NM NNE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is North Head Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, North Head 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.
What shipping routes pass near North Head Lighthouse?+
North Head Lighthouse is located within the US West Coast shipping lane — a major trans-Pacific trade route serving West Coast ports of the United States. This makes it an important navigation reference for commercial shipping traffic in the region.
How can I track vessels near North Head Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near North Head 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.