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Sombrero Key Lighthouse

Fl White 60s🇺🇸USOperational

The Sombrero Key (2) Lighthouse, erected in 2015, is located in the Florida Keys. This modern marker continues the navigational purpose of its predecessor, signifying a reef or channel in the sea area of Sombrero Key. Its white light flashes once every 60 seconds from a focal height of 6 meters, offering a geographic range of 8.9 nautical miles. The structure is positioned in waters near Summerland Key, approximately 18.6 kilometers distant. The lighthouse site is open for viewing, but the tower is not accessible to visitors.

Why it matters: This lighthouse provides necessary navigation for safe passage through the Florida Keys, an area known for its shallow waters and coral reefs. It offers main direction for commercial and recreational vessels, assisting them in avoiding groundings and following the marked shipping lanes.

Characteristic Signature
Fl White 60s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Interval
60s
Raw Code
Fl W 60s
Focal Height
6m
Geographic Range
8.9NM
Year Built
2015
Open to public
Site open, tower closed
Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Structure: The Sombrero Key (2) Lighthouse, a modern navigational aid, stands in the vibrant, turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. This structure was established in 2015, taking over the vital role of its historic predecessor, which had long guided mariners through these often-treacherous coral-laden passages. Its presence ensures continued safety for vessels navigating the intricate channels and avoiding the extensive reef system that characterizes this part of the Atlantic. While the original Sombrero Key Lighthouse was a towering, iconic structure, this newer iteration represents a contemporary approach to maritime safety. The site around the lighthouse is open for observation, allowing visitors to appreciate its remote setting amidst the clear waters, though access to the tower itself remains closed to the public. It quietly performs its duty, a constant, reliable presence in a dynamic marine environment.

Country
🇺🇸United States
Sea Region
Sombrero Key, Florida Keys, marking a reef or channel
Latitude
24.6278°
Longitude
-81.1086°
Nearest Port
Summerland Key(18.6 km)
Admiralty No.
J2998
USCG No.
3-1001
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How do mariners identify Sombrero Key Lighthouse at night?+
Sombrero Key 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 Sombrero Key Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Sombrero Key Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 5 nearby ports. The closest is MARATHON at 4.9 NM to the N. Other ports served include OHIO KEY (8.1 NM WNW), Summerland Key (18.6 NM W), ISLAMORADA (30.3 NM NE), PLANTATION (35.7 NM NE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Sombrero Key Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Sombrero Key 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 Sombrero Key Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Sombrero Key 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.