The older lighthouse in Garðskagi was constructed 1897 and the second one in 1944 but a landmark had been there since 1847 and later a lamp was added to the landmark at 1884. The old lighthouse was used as a bird observatory on behalf of Natural History foundation from 1962 to 1978. The old Lighthouse is often an inspiration in both art and photography.
The majestic Garðskagaviti, designed by Axel Sveinsson engineer, was built in 1944 to replace older Garðskagaviti that was both too low and vulnerable to land infringement. At Garðskagi the lighthouse keeper had permanent residence and remained so until 1979. The lighthouse keepers house still stands, built in 1933 to a design by architect Einar Erlendsson. Byggðasafn Garðskaga or The Municipal Museum in Garður operates in the outbuildings of the lighthouse keeper estate. Garðskagi lighthouse is open in good weather in order to enter inside you must first go to the Museum and talk to the director of The Municipal Museum in Garður.