PORT ISABEL LIGHTHOUSE

This area, long known to the coastal Barrado Indians, was discovered by the Spanish explorer Pineda in 1519 during an expedition to map the Gulf coast. Built in the 1850s, the Port Isabel lighthouse dominates the coast. During the Civil War, both sides used the lighthouse as an observation post. You can climb the stairs to enjoy the 360-degree view from the top of the 70 steps. Note that the lighthouse was restored in 2017. Movies are shown on the side of the lighthouse, and for free!