On The Water In The Hudson Valley: Execution Rocks Light

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — Situated halfway between Westchester County and Long Island, New Rochelle’s Execution Rocks Light is among the Long Island Sound's most iconic landmarks.

The waters near the tiny lighthouse island is also a favorite springtime fishing spot for anglers. The historic site, which was a manned lighthouse until December of 1979, is a short boat ride from both the Westchester Sound Shore and Long Island.

Execution Rocks Light’s proximity to the shipping lanes in a narrow section of the sound, not far from the bird sanctuary on Huckleberry Island, gives the scenic locale an eerie otherworldly feel - perhaps this is why rumors that the lighthouse is haunted persist to this day.

The lighthouse property is strictly off-limits to unauthorized visitors. Unfortunately, scheduled tours remain suspended due to coronavirus restrictions and the fact that social distancing is near impossible in the tight quarters of the lighthouse first put into service in 1850.

For those willing to forgo modern conveniences (and don’t believe in haunted houses), however, rooms at the now uninhabited lighthouse can be booked for the night. There is no water or electricity on the island, so a little more planning is required than staying at a Holiday Inn Express. Overnight guests must provide their own food, water and ice, as well as transportation to and from the island.

There are three rooms available in the lighthouse for overnight guests. Two of the rooms accommodate two occupants while the smallest of the rooms is only large enough for a single person. The overnight fees of between $250 and $350 are used to help restore and maintain the historic structure.

Absolutely no alcohol, tobacco or firearms are permitted on the privately owned island.

The room rate includes cots, a charcoal grill and a portable toilet that must be serviced by the guests. Although bedding, hot showers and breakfast croissants are not offered at this particularly isolated inn, the spectacular views of the Sound and the Manhattan skyline in the distance should more than make up for the lack of amenities.

More information about how to spend a rustic night living like a lighthouse keeper can be found here.