The Ponce de Leon Light Station

By Juble.com

There is nothing quite as scenic or romantic as a beachfront view of a massive lighthouse looming against the skyline. This has been the subject of thousands of paintings since the inception of the concept of lighthouses. Unfortunately, time and nature have removed many of the once numerous lighthouses that once lined the coast of the United States. Today, only a handful still stand, and many of them go sadly unnoticed. To stand before a real lighthouse that actually once guided ships to safety is an experience that will be imprinted in the average persons' memory for a lifetime. You can stake your claim on this magnificent recollection in Daytona Beach Florida at the Ponce de Leon Light Station.

This awe-inspiring structure is a part of the Florida coastal history in that it was originally constructed in the late 1800's. Though it took years to restore, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse Preservation Association finally got this marvel of architecture back to the original shape it was in during the days when it served the many ships that wandered through this section of the Atlantic Ocean. Over one hundred thousand visitors on an annual basis frequent this national landmark, making it one of the most popular attractions that Florida has to offer.

As you come upon it, you will be enthralled by the actual size of it. Most people only get to see lighthouses in pictures, so they do not realize quite how big these architectural works of art actually are. Of course, you are allowed to enter the lighthouse and make your way up the stairs. Nevertheless, take a moment from here to gaze upon the beauty of it, the sleek walls and the ruby red exterior. This is the memory that will stay with you when you head back home from your Florida vacation.

The actual tour itself is aptly called the "Climb with the Keeper Tour." In this excursion into the past, you will actually get a feel for what it was like to be the lighthouse keeper with all the responsibilities included therein. Your tour guide will be dressed in the traditional clothing of the original keepers. This person is highly trained and knowledgeable about every aspect of the keeper's lifestyle. They will lead you up one flight after another, pausing to tell you every detail possible on every aspect of the lighthouse, from the construction to the actual daily schedule.

The highlight (no pun intended) of the journey will be once you reach the top of this grand tower at the Lantern Room. The guide will teach you everything that there is to know about this massive beacon, all the way from the origins to the manner in which it worked. Then you can step out onto the deck and marvel at one of the most impressive views in all of Florida. From up here, it is not completely uncommon to have to look down to see the Seagulls fly through the area. http://www.ponceinlet.org/planningyourvisit.html

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Juble.com