The Best Solar Dock Lights for 2023

How can you choose the best solar dock lights? On the market, there are so many brands and models available in this category. For this reason, it can be overwhelming to browse on too many products especially if you’re clueless of what to look for.

In today’s buying guide, we’re featuring the top 10 picks in the category along with some considerations to check when trying to compare your options.

Referring to below, you can have an idea of what makes good dock lighting as well as the downsides of each product. So if you’re ready, let’s start and find the right solar-operated lighting for your dock today!

Top-Tier Solar Dock Light Reviews

1. Siedinlar Solar Deck Lights

The Siedinlar solar deck lights are made out of a high-quality aluminum alloy casing that is built to last and withstand all kinds of conditions and environments. It is IP68-rated which means that is both waterproof and heatproof, and it can resist up to 20 tons of pressure.

The Siedinlar solar deck lights come with a durable solar panel that absorbs sunlight. The solar power is then converted into electricity and stored in a 500 MAH battery. Unlike other products, the batteries in these lights are replaceable and usually take about 8-10 hours to fully charge.

Siedinlar’s solar deck lights come in a pack of 4 pieces, with each housing two LEDs. The lights can be used for about 12-15 hours. These solar deck lights are also equipped with a light-sensing system, which automatically activates the lights at dusk and deactivates them at dawn.

Moreover, Siedinlar’s solar deck lights are designed to provide 180-degrees of illumination. Each light bulb has a brightness of 20 lumens. It is placed on opposite ends while the solar panel is in the middle. These lights emit a warm, white light.

The Siedinlar solar deck lights design also made it easier to install and mount, especially on flat surfaces. It’s small and compact enough that it doesn’t jut out of your walls and surfaces.

Moreover, the product comes with a set of screws, plastic stoples and a user manual that can help with the installation process. With this, they can easily be attached to fences, pathways, stairs, walls, and the like.

Aside from that, the Siedinlar solar powered dock lighting is also extremely low-maintenance. You don’t need to check on them due to the light-sensing system. In case of cleaning, you would only need a cloth and warm soapy water to do so. However, aside from the occasional cleaning and battery replacement, these solar deck lights do not need much attention and care.

The Siedinlar solar deck lights also come with a 1-year warranty and provide 24-hours of customer service.

2. VOLISUN Solar Dock Lights

The VOLISUN is one of the highest rated solar-powered dock lights. Its thoughtful design is a notch above the competition, while its customer support services are almost second to none. Where others take customer satisfaction in stride, this brand takes it to heart.

Although some people might think 30 lumens are not bright enough, this dock light’s output is sufficiently luminous to ensure safety on dock pathways and walkways. I also like its eye-friendly 6000K color temperature, allowing people to walk on the docks comfortably.

I am impressed with this solar dock light’s 72-hour runtime. Although the figure is only theoretical, it remains laudable. It underscores the fixture’s advanced solar panel technology and 1200mAh battery. Even when this dock light does not reach its maximum theoretical runtime, it can still outlast other products.

This product’s sturdiness is also noteworthy. Aluminum forms its casing, while high-density, impact-proof polycarbonate protects the LED fixture. A ten-ton vehicle can roll over these solar-powered dock lights, and they will never lose their shape or integrity.

The aluminum alloy housing is also more resistant to saltwater than I expected.

Setting up these solar lights on the dock is sweat-free. Two bolts secure the hexagon-shaped lighting fixture, making installation a one-person job. I also appreciate this solar dock light’s IP67 rating, although IP68 would be ideal.

3. JACKY LED Solar Dock Lights

The JACKY LED solar dock post lights are housed in a high-quality poly-carbonate casing that can withstand most weather conditions such as rain, snow, sleet, winds, hail, rust, etc. The IP68- rated aluminum shell cover is also both waterproof and heatproof due to the sealed battery compartment that makes it resistant to rust.

Moreover, it can withstand 20 tons of pressure that you can just walk over them or run over them with your car without worries. With this, these solar dock lights have a lifespan of 3-5 years or longer depending on the use.

JACKY LED’s solar dock lights also come with a monocrystalline silicon solar panel that absorbs sunlight. This solar power is then converted and stored in a 600 MAH rechargeable battery. Charging usually takes about 6-8 hours.

The JACKY LED solar dock lights come in a pack of eight, with six LED bulbs each. If charged for 8 hours, the lights can be used for 72 hours while a full charge provides a 100-hour working time. These lights are equipped with a light-sensing system that automatically turns it on at dusk and turns it off at dawn.

Moreover, the JACKY LED solar lights feature a unique design wherein three bulbs shine at opposite sides of each other. With each bulb having a brightness of 400-500 lumens, the solar dock lights can provide illumination for about 500- 875 yards. The solar lights give off a warm, white light; however, they are also available in yellow, blue, and green lights.

JACKY LED’s unique design also made it very easy to install- it’s lightweight and wireless. Moreover, along with the screw sets and the user manual, its design also makes it easier to mount. If you don’t want to screw it, adhesives would provide the same effect.

The JACKYLED solar dock lights also come with excellent customer service. It comes with a 1-year warranty and its customer support is always responsive to queries.

4. CHINLY Solar LED Dock Lights

People looking for round solar dock post lights should consider the CHINLY. Its construction is almost similar to the VOLISUN, but with a few distinct features.

This solar dock light’s principal advantage over the VOLISUN is its 50-lumen output, allowing people to make their marina pathways safer for everyone. These lights can illuminate passages and prevent accidental falls, trips, and similar events.

Although this solar dock light shines brighter than the VOLISUN, its operating lifespan is less impressive. Specifically, its 40-hour maximum runtime is shorter than the VOLISUN’s 72. Still, I laud this solar dock light for its long-lasting illumination capabilities.

Like the VOLISUN, this solar dock light also has an aluminum alloy casing, protecting the sensitive solar system circuitry from crushing forces. Surprisingly, its design has twice the VOLISUN solar dock light’s strength. It can accommodate 20 tons without caving under pressure.

Protecting this option from harsh weather elements is a jiffy because it has an IP67 rating. Rain showers, snow, and dust storms do not concern these fixtures. Their low-profile design and robust construction make these solar-powered lights ideal for other applications, such as on steps, driveways, gardens, and sidewalks.

Like the VOLISUN, installing this deck light does not require elbow grease. The mounting hardware lets users secure the device on almost any surface, allowing people to complete the project within minutes.

5. Home Zone Solar Deck Lights

Are you having trouble making your way around on the outdoors during the night? To avoid any unwanted little accidents such as tripping and stumbling over because of the darkness, just install lovely lights to solve the problem. The Home Zone Security Solar Power Deck Lights can do just that. Providing you with lights and improving the way your home looks.

With its 4 LED lights producing 5 lumens each for a total of 20 lumens output, these deck lights are sure to light up your patios, driveway, garden, or any other outdoor areas where you need some lights. This product will help one see better at night promoting everyone’s safety.

The Home Zone Security Deck Lights are solar-powered requiring only the direct energy from the sun to do its job. These deck lights are equipped with advanced crystalline solar panels, which effectively harness energy from the sun for optimal performance. Not only can it help you save up on your electric bills but it is also completely harmless for the environment.

Saving you from any more hassle, these lights have an auto-on sensor. Gone are the days of manually turning outdoor lights on/off let these lights do it for you. The auto-sensor enables these solar lights to keep its light off during the day while it is charging and turn it on automatically when the night comes.

These lights are also built to last providing you with much-needed lights for a long time. Using high-quality durable aluminum together with a plastic casing, these lights are made to withstand outdoor conditions. The Home Zone Security Solar Power Deck Lights are tested and approved for an IP67 rating. This means that it will be able to resist extreme weather conditions.

These deck lights can be mounted anywhere, no wiring required. Even better than that, these lights have a modern and sophisticated design, which makes it perfect for decoration. The package includes the screws and anchors needed for installation and an instruction manual. More conveniently, this product has a hassle-free one-year product warranty for guaranteed customer satisfaction.

6. Happybuy Driveway Lights

The Happybuy driveway lights are housed in a high quality and durable cast aluminum casing that is built to withstand different weather conditions and environments. It is IP68 certified, meaning it is 100% waterproof and heatproof.

Moreover, it can resist 20 tons of pressure. Thus, you can run your car over it and still, it won’t show any kinds of damage. The aluminum casing also is anti-UV, anti-yellowing, and anti-rust, assuring you that your product would still look good no matter how much time passes.

Happybuy’s solar power dock lights also come with a monocrystalline solar panel that absorbs sunlight. The solar power is then converted into electricity and subsequently stored in a 600 MAH rechargeable battery. Charging usually takes about 8 hours.

If charged for about 8 hours, the Happybuy solar lights can be used for 40 hours while a full charge provides more than 72 hours of illumination. Moreover, it also comes with a light-sensing system that automatically turns it on at dusk and off at dawn.

The Happybuy driveway lights come in packs of four, eight, twelve, sixteen and twenty-four and features five different color options for you to choose from and buy. Each piece has six LED bulbs that provide a brightness of 400-500 lumens. Moreover, the Happybuy solar light provides a viewing distance of up to 800 meters or more.

Happybuy’s driveway lights also feature a unique design. Its LED bulbs are attached at opposite ends while the solar panel is placed in the middle. Its angular sides make it small and unobtrusive. They can make installation easier. You wouldn’t have to worry about these lights jutting out of their places.

Aside from that, Happybuy’s solar lights are wireless, which makes installation easy. They are also lightweight and multipurpose. You can set them up in your pathways, driveways, decks, patios, gardens, yards and the like.

Aside from that, these solar lights are extremely low maintenance. Aside from the occasional cleaning and battery replacement, you wouldn’t have to constantly watch over and worry about these lights.

7. Abu Garcia Solar Dock Lights

The Abu Garcia solar dock light is housed in high-quality materials that are built to last. The LED bulb is encased in durable polycarbonate lens that protects it from weather conditions such as rain, snow, sleet, hail, winds, and the like. The airtight container also makes it resistant to rust, dust, dirt, and the like as well as makes it withstand pressure and heat.

Abu Garcia’s dock lights also come with a solar panel to absorb the sunlight. The solar power is then converted into electricity and stored into a rechargeable battery. Charging usually takes about 6-8 hours or more, depending on the weather.

Unlike other products, these dock lights conceal the battery underneath the circuit board. This in turn, gives the lights a smooth appearance. The batteries are also replaceable.

The Abu Garcia dock lights come in a pair with an LED bulb each. Each bulb has a brightness of 10 lumens which results in a warm, white glow. In fact, the dock lights are designed to ensure maximum light output. The polycarbonate lens is made to diffuse and reflect the light while the interior is convex-shaped to refract the light. Hence, depending on the charge, the dock lights have a total working time of 12 hours or more.

Moreover, the Abu Garcia dock solar light solution features 6 pre-installed LED colors which you can conveniently change using the built-in touchpad. With this, you won’t need to change the LED bulb just to get a different color.

The LED color feature is also useful since it lets you easily blend your lights with your dock’s theme and colors. It also provides a fun, creative to stand out from your neighbors and friends. This feature can also come quite handy during parties and celebrations.

The Abu Garcia dock lights are also very easy to install. It has no wires and also comes with adaptors, which makes it easier to mount on flat surfaces. Moreover, each post lite is also lightweight and compact. In fact, it can fit most posts, ranging from 4.1 cm to 8.3 cm.

8. Dock Edge Solar Pile Cap Lights

Enjoy and be comfortable in the docks during the nights. Illuminate your docks while at the same time also enhancing its landscape with these quality Dock Edge Solar Pile Cap Lights.

If you want lights for your docks without producing any adverse effects to the environment, the Dock Edge Solar Pile Cap Lights are just the perfect product for you. These dock lights are completely powered by the sun.

The Dock Edge Solar Pile Cap Lights are wireless and do not require any power source other than the sun. There is no need to worry about forgetting to charge it. It charges on its own with only the direct energy from the sun.

The automatic feature of these Dock Edge lights makes it even more convenient for you. It automatically turns off during the day to charge and automatically turns on during the night. Included in the product is a rechargeable, replaceable AAA Ni-MH battery. It produces 10 lumens of brightness and can last up to 12 running hours if fully charged providing your docks with 360 illuminations all night.

What makes these lights more attractive is the variety of colors you can choose. The Dock Edge Solar Pile Cap Lights is equipped with six pre-installed LED colors along with a convenient touchpad. You can easily switch to any colors you want that fits your style.

These Dock Edge lights are made fit for the outdoors. It is made out of ABS material. It is durable and UV resistant. It is also complete with a wildlife deterrent spike. This product is weatherproof designed to withstand any weather conditions it will be exposed. Quite certainly, this product will provide you with the lighting that you need for a long time.

The Dock Edge Solar Pile Cap solar dock lights are easy to install. The lighting can be installed in flat or conical mount in just a couple of minutes. This product is definitely designed for the consumer’s convenience.

9. ECO Safety Lights Solar Beacon Light

Solar warning lights are used in numerous occasions. In the water, they can be used to mark channels, breakwaters and boating hazards, and as buoys for navigation to ports and marina entrances, and the like.

On land, they are mostly used in construction sites, highway construction projects, work zones, etc. Yet, some people even install and use them at home.

In short, solar powered beacons are a necessity and offer the most practical solution to various lighting needs. There are many solar beacon lights that boast different features. One of which is the ECO Safety Lights solar beacon light.

The ECO Safety Lights solar beacon light is made out of high-quality aluminum alloy that enables it to withstand various weather conditions and environments. As such, it can still work in settings that have -40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

ECO Safety Light’s beacon lights come with a durable solar panel that can quickly absorb sunlight. This solar power is then converted and stored in a 500 MAH rechargeable battery. Charging usually takes about 10-12 hours.

Moreover, the beacon light is equipped with four bright LEDs and come in eight different colors. The LED bulbs are durable, having a lifespan of 100,000 hours, and are encased in a sturdy lens casing. Depending on the charge, the solar light can last up to 60 hours or more. ECO Safety Light’s beacon lights also spans and illuminates a distance up to 3280 feet in all directions.

Aside from that, the ECO Safety Light beacon lights are equipped with a light-sensing technology. This means that the system has a photocell switch that automatically turns the light on at dusk and turns it off at dawn. The ECO Safety Light beacon light only has steady lighting mode which can provide a stable source of light.

The problem with solar marine lights stems from wrong or poor mounting. If the lights aren’t mounted properly, it can affect the viewing distance of the light. Luckily, the ECO Safety Light beacon lights can be mounted with ease as it comes with a clamp.

10. LEDMO Solar LED Deck Lights

For everybody’s safety, lights are essential, especially during the night. You would want to see where the steps are, what you are stepping on, or what will you stumble upon something lying around. The LEDMO Solar LED Deck Lights are perfect for illuminating your driveway, decks, steps, and patio.

The LEDMO LED Deck Lights have 6 ultra-high intensity LEDs producing super bright light of over 500 lumens. It emits the brightness that you need for your outdoors. The lights are cost-effective and eco-friendly because they are solar-powered. Just leave it on under the sun during the day to absorb and store energy, and once it is fully charged it can work for about 8 to 10 hours during the night.

Saving you from the hassle, the LEDMO LED deck lights work itself from dusk until dawn. It automatically turns off during the day and charges itself. It then turns on by itself during the night. Completely no manual operation required from you.

The LEDMO LED deck lights are certain to last for a long time with its durable design and material. It is made out of high-quality aluminum alloy and pc panel. Built with a rugged aluminum body it can withstand rolling of wheels. It is tough and hard enough to be able to withstand a pressure of 20 tons. The product is also waterproof. Overall, this product is perfect for the outdoors.

Couple the toughness of the material with its battery service life and LED life expectancy of more than 100,000 hours, you will not need to worry about constantly changing and purchasing another set of lights. These lights have a modern design to it that will perfectly enhance the presentation of your outdoor spaces.

Moreover, the LEDMO Solar LED Deck Lights are conveniently easy to install. There are no wirings required and with just 3 simple easy steps, after a couple of minutes, you have beautiful lights on your decks and driveways.

Solarrific L2049 Solar Piling Lights (Outdated)

Do you need lights for your docks or on the walkways? The Solarrific L2049 Solar Piling Lights are perfectly made for marinas. These lights can light your docks and piers to lead and guide boaters during nighttime.

There is no need to worry about a power source nor will you need any wiring. The Solarrific L2049 piling lights is a solar-powered light and completely wireless. It is equipped with advanced and super-efficient 6V solar panels that effectively convert solar energy into electricity to power up the lights during the night.

The Solarrific solar piling lights contain a rechargeable Li-ion battery that stores power for the LED. When exposed directly to the sun during the day for at least 7 to 8 hours, these lights can continuously work and light your docks for over 12 hours during the night.

The specific light-control system that these lights have makes sure that the lights are off and charging during the day then turning it on automatically during the night. It is very convenient for you and hassle-free.

The Solarrific L2049 dock lights have 5 pieces of white LEDs. These LEDs give off a white light that is visible and very noticeable in the water but not that annoying very white bright light. These lights give off just enough amount of light without being a bother to the sight.

These piling lights are designed and made up of durable material. It is weatherproof. It is built to withstand extreme heats, strong rains, and even the snow. This product is also rustproof. It will be able to last for a long time in the outdoor conditions.

The Solarrific L2049 Solar piling Lights are designed for your convenience. It is easy to install and use. The only tools that you need are a drill, stainless steel screws, and screwdriver. And just after some few simple steps. your piling lights are good to go. For your assurance and satisfaction, the Solarrific L2049 piling lights have a 1-year warranty.

S8LFM Solar Magnetic Light (Outdated)

Are you concerned of boaters’ safety during the night? Do you need something to mark your barges and to aid those who are navigating in the night? Do you want to put a landmark so that it will be easy to locate an area? The S8LFM Solar Magnetic Light of ECO Safety Lights is the product for you.

The S8LFM Solar Magnetic Light serves as safety beacon to anyone traversing in the dark night. It can be used in wet or dry environments or -40 F to 140 F. You can screw it on your floating barge, docks, piers, or on construction sites and highway projects. These lights have two nm IP67 flashing solar light perfect for the outdoor conditions.

S8LFM Solar Magnetic Light has 8 ultra-bright LEDs with a variety of LED colors to choose from namely Amber, Blue, Clear, Green or Red. It is visible for 1.5 to 2 miles at night during clear weather and <200 feet if foggy.

These LEDs have a lifespan of over 100,000 hours so there is no need for you to worry about constantly changing it. These lights are designed to last for a long time.

These solar magnetic lights are made up of PC lens and ABS base, which is most desirable for its toughness and durability. The materials of the S8LFM lights meet the standards of IALA, MUTCD, and NFPA.

Another attractive feature of S8LFM Solar Magnetic Lights is that it is designed with photocells that automatically turn on the lights and off. The photocells allow the product to detect light.

It turns the light off during the day when the photocells can detect light and charges itself. It then automatically turns it on during the night when there is no light detected. They are completely hassle-free.

Along with the wonderful features that this product offers, you will also be able to help the environment by being energy-efficient. This product is for the safety of the people and the environment. Completely powered by the sun, just leave it to charge and its batteries can last up to more than 120 hours of working time if charged fully.

Why You Should Trust Us

Trust us to find the right boat dock solar lights for your needs! Our team is composed of clean energy enthusiasts and product reviewers aiming to help our readers find the right solar gears, appliances, systems and products for their needs.

Our team has carefully picked the products to include in our reviews section using the factors we deemed important when choosing this kind of product.

Using our reviews, you’ll be able to make a better decision to find the right dock lighting that fits your situation and that meets your requirements.

Compare your options well, and find an excellent lighting for your boat dock today!

What Is A Solar Dock Light And Who This Is for

Remote docks and marinas need lighting, but it usually does not have any electrical service, that is why a solar dock light is a perfect solution.

Solar powered dock lights have numerous models available that provide light for channel markers and buoys, and they help remove obstructions.

Solar dock lights provide safety for boardwalks, stairs, decks, marinas, and docks. There are dock lights meant for saltwater and freshwater. There are also solar cleat lights that remove dock cleats so that they are not a hazard, especially at night.

Dockworkers and boaters are the ones who need these high-quality lights to prevent any accident from happening.

Solar dock lights recharge during the daytime, it has built-in solar panels, and it turns on at night automatically. They also have bright LEDs, and they are easy to install because there is no wiring needed.

Outlets are also not required, so it will save you the hassle of having to work through the chords and installation of outlets. Solar dock lights have a long lifespan, so it is definitely worth the investment. They do not require electricity to work, so it will save you a lot of money.

How Do Solar Dock Lights Work

Solar dock lights have become popular for docks and marinas within the past few years as people are looking for a green alternative to the traditional dock lighting. Solar dock lights use aluminum alloy casting frame; it keeps the dock lights from rusting.

Dock lights have a sealed compartment for its battery so that it can withstand harsh weather conditions, snow, heavy rain, and sunlight. Solar dock lights can be installed for most types of environments so that it can be used not just outdoors, but indoors as well.

One of the top-tier things about solar dock lights is its wireless operation. It can be installed by just placing it to the path, fence, wall, pillar, stairs, or tree. It is screwed on the ground, or vertically, the size of the screw holes is just right, so the installation is more solid. It can upgrade the look of your yard and your garden as well.

Solar dock lights automatically charge in the morning. It turns on automatically during the night, and it turns off automatically at sunrise. Dock lights have around six high-quality LED bulbs, which give out a bright light that can give up to 12 hours of lighting at night. It does not produce any UV rays, and it is environment-friendly.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Dock Lights

There are different types of solar dock lights; they are overhead solar dock lights, solar post lights, solar dock dot lights and marine solar lights.

The overhead solar dock lights are outdoor lighting system that is equipped with an IR sensor, which gives lighting, and it has a compact that is easy to install and mounting hardware. It also has a combination of lithium battery storage and LED lighting.

The solar post lights are designed for installation on the top part of a post, which anchors your dock; this is a way to light up your pier or your dock. In the morning, the solar panel collects the energy from the sun, and it charges the batteries. The light sensor turns on the LED automatically, and it can provide light for over 18 hours. The light is four times brighter than conventional garden lights.

Solar dock dot lights are solar-powered. It can be placed into the dock surface on EZ dock by using the security curbing or the pocket fillers. For composite and wood docks, they can be placed on any dock section. It is great for accenting your dock in blue or white and it can be installed easily.

Marine solar lights are solar-powered lights that are made for the harsh saltwater environment. It is available in different colors for safety applications and dock lighting.

It is also available in both flashing mode and constant mode. It is perfect for marinas, boathouses, dock lighting, channel markers, safety lighting, obstruction lighting, buoys, mooring lights, and anywhere that you will need light. It can be visible for over a mile.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Lights For Docks

What are the advantages and disadvantages of solar lights for docks? There is no doubt that solar lights are useful and are great alternatives to the old type of dock lighting, but what are the advantages and disadvantages of switching to solar dock lights?

Advantages

• Marinas and dock owners can save a lot of money by using solar dock lights instead of the traditional dock lighting. Since solar dock lights are powered by the sun’s energy, they do not need electricity, and you do not need to purchase bulbs or even batteries.
• They do not need maintenance and are self-contained. There is no need to replace bulbs and buy new batteries to get it to work. Solar dock lights are self-cleaning, so it does all the work.
• They can give optimal brightness, so it illuminates your walkways and your docks beautifully. It marks the edges of the dock as well, so it is easier to see when you approach the dock from your boat. It helps to increase safety and convenience.
• The dock light styles are versatile; they can be used for saltwater and freshwater docks and even the decks.
• They are the top-rated alternative to the old dock lighting. This is especially useful if you are thinking of going “green.” Depending on your location, some tax incentives and grants are given to marinas and individuals that are switching to solar energy.
• Since there are no wirings, solar dock lights can be installed by anyone and it is easy to use. You only need to remove the switch so you can activate the light. For installation, you can set the fixture where you want solar dock lights to be placed, and you can insert the screw in each end. That step completes the installation.
• They can automatically charge during the daytime, and they use solar panels that are built-in. They also turn on and off automatically.
• These lights are vandal proof and waterproof. Most models have a dome that helps protect the solar panel of the lights.
• Solar dock lights can last for a long time. Most solar dock lights have nickel-cadmium batteries, which gives about two years of service. The bulbs of the dock lights can last for as long as 100,000 hours.

Disadvantages

• Unless you buy solar dock lights from a trusted retailer, some of them can be poorly made. The poorly made ones will not last long and it won’t work as it should.
• Some owners prefer turning their dock lights on and off manually, and some models do not have that option.
• Some owners are worried about the reliance of solar lighting on the weather. Poor lighting or partial shade because of rain or overcast skies can result in shorter running time or dim lights. The atmosphere must not be polluted, or it could affect the efficiency of the dock lights, as it reduces the brightness. High levels of humidity or too much rain can limit the batteries from operating and storing up the sun’s radiation.
• Some models do not have the brightness that most owners are looking for, and dock lights that can provide the brightness that they want is too expensive compared to traditional dock lights.

How We Picked And Tested 

Solar deck lights provide safety lighting and ambiance for your dock without electricity, batteries or wires. Dock lights are solar-powered, waterproof, and can withstand various elements, and it is bright enough to light up a dock for visibility and security at night. So how do you choose solar dock lights?

Design

The first feature that you must look for is the aesthetics. You must find a light that will fit your dock and would look amazing during nighttime.

No matter how great the lighting and the durability is, if the lights do not look good when installed on your dock, then they are not worth the purchase. You need to make sure that you consider the variations in the color of the lighting and way it would look like on your dock.

Most dock lights have different color options, such as blue, yellow, green, and basic white. If you have your lighting on, then the color variations can help distinguish your dock from the rest.

Price

The next feature that you need to consider is the price. High-quality solar dock lights come at a cost. If there is a lot of space that needs to be covered, less expensive lights will do the trick. But if you need light in a small space, then a high-quality light for a reasonable price is the best.

Security

The most important feature that you need to consider is security. Depending on your dock’s exposure and the proximity of your house, you can add a solar dock light to add visibility and security.

There are light docks with motion-sensing technology and the widest, brightest angle. There are also dock lights with 360-degree coverage.

Purpose

Another thing to consider is what you want to do with the dock lights. It can be installed on your docks, decks, stairs, and even pathways. You should also check on the waterproof feature because dock lights will be exposed to rain and harsh weather conditions and at times, it could even duck underwater, so water-resistant and waterproof construction is the top-rated.

Most solar lights are not meant to be underwater, but you have the option for lights that can be used even during heavy waves washing over your dock and during heavy rain.

All of the best solar dock lights are specified as water-resistant and waterproof, but some models are just better than the others.

Some are ready for heavy rain, but they are not ready for heavy waves washing the dock. It is best to check on the reviews of those who have purchased the models that you are contemplating to buy.

Durability

And lastly, the feature that you need to consider is durability. You do not want to replace your solar dock lights often. It is ideal to set it up and leave it running for years. Some models can run up to two years, and some have replaceable batteries do you do not have to purchase new dock lights if the battery power does not work anymore.

You also need to check on some models because their construction does not give you an option to replace the battery.

It is also important to talk to your marina manager or neighbor before you install any dock lights. Unless your dock is located far from other people’s houses or docks, your dock lighting will affect the people around you. Before you install your solar dock lights, it will be best to chat with those that the lights would affect.

At your home, you have to talk to your neighbors. If you own a dock, you can install as many lights that you want. But it is best to tell your neighbors about your project, if you share a dock then your neighbors may be interested in chipping in to cut the overall cost of purchasing the dock lights.

If you own a dock slip, you need to talk to the marina manager. Many marinas have rules and regulations about the uniformity in the appearance of the marina, so it is most suitable to consult them before installing your solar dock lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

How bright should dock lights be?

States have varying laws about how bright marine dock lights should be. However, they share a rule that requires these fixtures to be visible offshore to help boats and other vessels navigate the coast.

Generally, illuminating the dock walkways or pathways requires a lighting fixture with 50 to 200 lumens to improve visibility and safety as people walk to and from their boats. These figures should give you an idea of how bright solar dock piling lights should be.

Moreover, while implementing your solar dock lighting ideas (whether on railings, deck edges, or elsewhere), make sure you avoid blinking red or blue bulbs, or the authorities might come knocking and ask you to remove them.

What is the top-rated color light for night fishing?

Green is the top-rated color for night fishing because its 550 nm wavelength is within the 440 nm to 675 nm absorption spectra of phytoplanktons. We know that these microscopic algae require light to produce energy via photosynthesis. Everyone also knows phytoplanktons are at the bottom of the aquatic food chain.

These creatures congregate around green underwater lights at night to continue their photosynthetic activities. Fish will move towards the phytoplanktons, feeding on them, thereby making themselves available to anglers.

How long do solar dock lights last?

Solar dock lights saltwater units last longer than other lighting fixture types. However, their components have varying lifespans.

For example, lithium batteries might only last three years or about 500 charge cycles, while NiMH power cells have a five-year maximum lifespan. Some brands use proprietary technology, extending battery life to seven years.

Solar dock lighting fixtures feature LED technology, with an operating lifespan ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 hours. The integrated photovoltaic cell panel in these lighting fixtures can continue collecting light energy for 25 to 30 years.

What are the most trusted solar dock light brands?  

Aside from those factors mentioned in our buying guide earlier, you might also want to choose one from a reliable brand. While there are many of them on the market, not all of them are great choices because they’re not from trusted brands.

Before conducting the reviews, we’ve found the top-tier brands for solar-powered dock lights, including JACKY LED, Siedinlar, ECO Safety Lights, Happybuy and Abu Garcia.

For the rest, you can refer to the other reviews that we’ve conducted above for reference when buying new solar-operated dock lighting.

Where are these lights made?     

The materials vary from one manufacturer to another. One can be made of IP68 waterproof rank as well as aluminum die-casting and PC, working for different conditions and weathers like wet conditions as well as rainy, windy or hot weather.

They can be hard-shelled of polycarbonate material. It only means it won’t be damaged even if a vehicle runs over them.

Nevertheless, you should be able to find lights made of durable materials for outdoor use.

How long will these lights work?

There is no definite answer to this question. The boat dock lights can keep running for up to 72 hours if the batteries are charged for eight hours. On the other hand, a full charge can offer up to 100 hours of working time.

Can these lights be mounted on a post?

Yes, they can be mounted on a post. Most of them can fit most posts, fences and other outdoor spaces. They’re versatile that they can be used for lighting different outdoor places like the garden, too.

What is the warranty?      

It is not the same for all products. Some can offer up to one-year warranty while the others can be longer.

A warrant y is an important factor when shopping around for dock lights to ensure you can get help when there is something that goes wrong with your purchase.

For some manufacturers, they offer warranty on the parts, and others on the replacement. There can also be others that offer money back guarantee.

But nevertheless, it will be wise to pick a product that comes with a warranty to make sure that you can get help when needed.

What are the most trusted places to buy?

There are many great places to purchase your solar lights, but one of the top-tier ones among them is on Amazon. This online marketplace can offer a wide range of selection from most brands and affordable deals. You can also have peace of mind of buying genuine products from the manufacturer themselves.

How to install and use?    

You can install and use the product in a breeze!

There are no special instructions needed, as the most trusted ones can also be wireless, not hard to install at all especially on flat surfaces. Just go over the user manual for any special instructions.

How to care & maintain?  

Most of these products are low maintenance. They need only occasional cleaning or replacing of the battery.

You might also want to refer to the user manual for specific directions. There can be some manufacturer instructions included based on the material or design of the dock lighting.

Conclusion

You definitely need the dock lights if you have a boat or a waterfront property. They can improve your property’s security because lights are still thieves’ deterrents. They can provide a level of protection to secure your boat.

These dock lights can also improve safety to your boat or home. S if you had to dock at night, you can see well because the lights can guide you to your way.

Some of them can be set on a motion sensor that lets the lights activate as soon as you’re at a specific distance from the dock. Definitely, these special solar lighting solutions have their valuable qualities that make them more appealing for more dock owners in the world.

However, you need to spend some time and effort to compare and weigh your options. In the end, you will increase your chances of picking the right set that can last longer and serve their purpose well.

To get started compare the features you’re looking for as well as some preferences in color, design and overall appearance that you deem useful. In addition, figure out how much you are willing to spend and what great brands are available out there.

Refer to our buying guide to find the best solar dock lights today!

Eddie B. Robinson

Hi, I am Eddie, Cleanenergysummit’s content editor. It’s so much joy to work alongside Justin, as the idea of providing knowledge about using clean energy excites us.

I’ve been working to address any concerns or questions you may have as you transition to using solar electricity to power your home. Tune in to hear our advice and suggestions on anything clean energy. Welcome!