Our namesake, the Lydia Ann Lighthouse, located near Aransas Pass, holds a special place in local history as one of the most iconic landmarks in the Port Aransas area. Built in 1857 and named after the Lydia Ann Channel, which runs north from the pass, this lighthouse guided ships through the Gulf Coast’s treacherous waters. Though it experienced periods of non-operation due to the Civil War and hurricane damage, the lighthouse remained operational for nearly a century.

It is the second oldest lighthouse on the Texas Gulf Coast and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as an important historical site. Today, the lighthouse stands as the oldest surviving structure in the Corpus Christi/Port Aransas area.
Accessible only by boat or kayak, the Lydia Ann Lighthouse remains a treasured sight for visitors seeking a glimpse of local history. The structure is privately owned, so the best views are from the public waterway or boat tours that pass by. Along the way, visitors often encounter local wildlife such as dolphins and various fish, adding to the charm of the trip.

From select rooms in the new addition at Hotel Lydia, guests can even see the lighthouse from their windows, offering a rare and scenic view of this historical landmark. For those looking to explore the lighthouse, launching a boat or kayak from the Lighthouse Trails near Highway 361 is a great starting point.

(Source: VisitPortA.com).