Celebrate National Lighthouse Day With These Unique Lighthouses

Today, August 7, is National Lighthouse Day. It's a day to celebrate the lights that guide us home and the historic importance of lighthouses and their keepers, who not only guided ships into harbor but also played key roles in naval battles across the globe. Check out these incredible lighthouses across the globe as well as recommendations on the best places to stay near them, courtesy of Booking.com.

The Tower of Hercules is the world's oldest operating lighthouse, built by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sight to behold. Located just steps away in view of the lighthouse is the Blue Ocean Penthouse, which also offers incredible sweeping views of the ocean.

Located in Letterkenny, Ireland is Fanad Lighthouse, which is now run by a nonprofit that rents out the lighthouse's three cottages for stays. Cottagecore lovers, or those who'd like the ultimate socially isolated vacation, will love this lighthouse-turned-boutique hotel and the rugged landscape surrounding it.

Originally built in 1848 by the British, the Galle Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in Sri Lanka and is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lighthouse is located within the Galle Fort, where just across the street, travelers can stay in Villa Aurora, Galle Fort.

The Cape Byron Lighthouse in Byron Bay, Australia was built in the early 20th century to help protect the Australian coastline. Today, it's a beautiful location to watch the sunrise. Within walking distance is The Watermark, a perfect place to stay and get some much-needed rest and relaxation from daily life.

The Lighthouse of Chania, Crete is one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in the world, dating back to the sixteenth century. Travelers can stumble across romance while walking along its long pier during the sunset. Located near the pier to the lighthouse is a restored villa from 1890, The Ambassadors Residence Boutique Hotel, which offers stunning views of the bay.

The Umhlanga Lighthouse in Durban, South Africa was built in a speedy five-day period in 1954. Its characteristic shape and red top make it a beautiful structure to take photos of, while The Oyster Box is located right next to both the lighthouse and the area's incredible beaches.

The Key West Lighthouse was built in 1825 to help guide ships entering the port. Travelers can enjoy climbing up the lighthouse to reach the spectacular sea views and can stay at the Kimpton Lighthouse Hotel, within close proximity to the lighthouse and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

One of the most photographed spots in Minnesota is the Split Rock Lighthouse in Beaver Bay. Located within a state park, this lighthouse offers incredible views of the rocky cliffs and ample outdoor activities to enjoy. Stay at the Cove Point Lodge, just a few miles up the coast to enjoy everything the state park and lighthouse have to offer.

Two hours south of Portland, Oregon is the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, located on a peninsula at the mouth of the Yaquina River. It was originally built in Paris in 1868 and later shipped to the state in 1873, where it now operates as a museum. Five minutes away is the Ocean House, a perfect B&B for a relaxing getaway along the rugged Oregon coastline.

The Pigeon Point Lighthouse in Pescadero, California was built in 1871 to help ships navigate the region's rugged and dangerous coastline. Today, the lighthouse is a state handmark, and the quarters where the lighthouse keepers lived have been turned into a hostel, making it a great home base to explore the outdoors, spot whales and gaze at the stars.

The Diamond Head Lighthouse is located in Honolulu under the volcanic Diamond Head ridge. Built in 1899, this historic lighthouse is one of the most recognizable in the Pacific. Steps away from the beach and within close proximity to the lighthouse is the Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head.