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Pleasure Bay Lighthouse

Fl White 2.5s🇺🇸Boston, USOperational

Location & Light Range

About Pleasure Bay Lighthouse

Located in Pleasure Bay, a section of Dorchester Bay in South Boston, Massachusetts, this light stands on a small island enclosed by causeways. The light itself is mounted atop the Sugar Bowl Shade Shelter, a covered observation structure, rather than a traditional tower. It emits a white flash every 2.5 seconds, with a focal height of 13 meters and a geographic range of 11.3 nautical miles. The site is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation as part of Castle Island Park. This maritime marker is situated on the south side of Castle Island.

Why it matters: This light is important for navigation within Pleasure Bay, specifically guiding recreational boaters and marking the island. Its placement atop a public observation shelter distinguishes it as a unique landmark.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 2.5s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
2.5s
Raw Code
Fl W 2.5s
Focal Height
13m
Geographic Range
11.3NM

Location

City
Boston
Country
🇺🇸United States
Region
Massachusetts
Sea Region
Pleasure Bay, a section of Dorchester Bay in South Boston, Massachusetts, on the south side of Castle Island. It marks a small island within the bay, enclosed by causeways.
Latitude
42.3307°
Longitude
-71.0152°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Structure: The light is mounted atop the Sugar Bowl Shade Shelter, a covered observation shelter.

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Dorchester(1.9 km)
Admiralty No.
J0336
USCG No.
1-11235
ARLHS No.
USA-449
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Pleasure Bay Lighthouse at night?+
Pleasure Bay displays the characteristic Fl White 2.5s. 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 Pleasure Bay Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Pleasure Bay Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is SOUTH BOSTON at 0.5 NM to the W. Other ports served include Dorchester (2.2 NM SW), Boston (2.8 NM NNW), WINTHROP (2.9 NM NE), Chelsea (3.2 NM WNW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Pleasure Bay Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Pleasure Bay 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 Pleasure Bay Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Pleasure Bay 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.