Langøytangen Lighthouse

Langøytangen Lighthouse is a fully automated coastal lighthouse on the island of Langøya, just off the town of Langesund in Bamble municipality, southern Norway. It marks the southern point of the Langesund Sound, and today it is also a place where visitors can book an overnight stay.

Where is Langøytangen Lighthouse?

The lighthouse stands on the southern tip of Langøya, facing the town of Langesund. Its coordinates are roughly 58.99° N, 9.76° E. You can see it across the water from the mainland, and reaching it means a short trip by boat followed by a walk on the island. Its job has always been to mark the entrance to the sound, which ships used on their way to the ports of the region.

How did the lighthouse come about?

The idea of a light on the south of Langøya was put forward by a lighthouse committee in 1828. Funding came from the state budget, and construction began in 1837. The light was first lit on 1 October 1839, at the same time as the lighthouse on nearby Jomfruland.

The original station had a wooden tower, a keeper's house, a jetty and a boathouse. It was a typical setup for Norwegian coastal stations, where daily life depended on the sea and on getting around by boat.

What does the current tower look like?

The present light was first lit in 1876. The tower is 12 metres tall, square and built of stone. It is attached to one end of a one-story keeper's house, so the light and the living quarters form a single compact building. This combination of tower and dwelling is common on many older lighthouses along the Norwegian coast.

Keepers and later history

A resident keeper lived at the station for 151 years, with eleven keepers in total over that time. From 1924 the Customs Service also ran a lookout post on the island, helping to keep watch over traffic in the sound. The lighthouse was automated in 1990, which ended the need for staff on site.

Can you stay overnight?

Yes. After automation the station buildings found a new use and are available to rent for overnight guests. It suits anyone who wants to spend time somewhere unusual, with views of the sea and the surrounding islands. Check availability and booking terms with the accommodation provider or the local tourist office.

Frequently asked questions

Is Langøytangen Lighthouse still active? Yes. It operates as a fully automated coastal lighthouse and marks the southern point of the Langesund Sound.

When was the light first lit? On 1 October 1839. The present light dates from 1876.

How tall is the tower? About 12 metres. It is a square stone tower attached to the keeper's house.

When was it automated? In 1990. Before that, a resident keeper lived here for 151 years.

Can you sleep there? Yes, the station is available to rent for overnight guests.

Where is it? On the island of Langøya, just off the town of Langesund in Bamble municipality, Norway.