St. Augustine's first lighthouse was actually a watchtower built by the settlement's founder, Pedro Menendez, in 1565. Since that time, the lighthouse has been rebuilt and additions made to suit the seafaring needs of the day. Today it is a stunning black and white spiral structure with a red top that towers 165 feet above the ground. Over 200 steps lead visiting families to an observation deck that affords some awesome views of the area. Maritime exhibits tell the story of the lighthouse's history both in the lighthouse, visitor's center and keeper's house.