The Allmusic review by Stephen Thomas Erlewine awarded the album 4 stars stating "The music on Live at the Lighthouse is hotter than some of their studio recordings, pulsating with energy and good feelings, demonstrating that they had worked out any of the problems that hampered Vibrations. It's their finest set since Black Orchid".[3] The All About Jazz review by C. Andrew Hovan stated "Live at the Lighthouse captures The Three Sounds at or near their peak and in one of only three live performances ever caught on tape. Let's cherish it".[4]