We Saw the Light!

August 4, 2026

Washington Island did not disappoint in the least. From the ferry ride, that cup of morning “pick me up,” Stavkirke, and the lavender fields to Schoolhouse Beach with the smooth stones and beautiful water view, we would have loved to stay longer but we had a ferry to catch. As Becca mentioned in our last post, we had one more place to see on our way back. . . Cana Island Lighthouse near Bailey’s Harbor.

After stopping at Mariners Park at Gills Rock to make a quick sandwich, we headed to the eastern side of Door County. No ferry needed to get to this island, we simply walked about a half mile across the rocky causeway to Cana Island.

Originally built in 1869 of cream city brick, the lighthouse was clad in steel in 1902 to protect it from storm damage. It houses a Fresnel lens to concentrate and focus light into a strong, distant beam to guide ships. Originally fueled by heated lard, then kerosene, it now uses electricity.

The 89-foot-tall lighthouse has 97 steps to the gallery deck at the top, via a spiral staircase. For me, it was easy peasy. For Becca, it was a challenge.

It wasn’t the number of steps but rather the narrow, twisty, open staircase that caused her some anxiety. But she made it! And we purchased a sticker from the gift shop to prove it!

Experiencing Cana Island Lighthouse was a nice way to finish a wonderful day. The views from the top were well worth the anxious moments on the stairs. And the walk along the shoreline was priceless!

Check out our Instagram page for more photos.

---Terry