Along Maine’s rugged 3,478 miles of coastline, lighthouses stand as steadfast
guardians of the sea, each with its own fascinating story to tell. From revolutionary-
era beacons to automated modern towers, these maritime sentinels offer visitors a
glimpse into Maine’s rich nautical heritage while providing spectacular ocean views.
Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking coastal
beauty, these lighthouses provide perfect destinations for memorable Maine
adventures.
Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth
Standing sentinel since 1791 by the order of George Washington himself, this iconic
beacon remains Maine’s oldest lighthouse. The keeper’s house now serves as a
museum where you can explore maritime artifacts and learn about the lighthouse’s
role in protecting Portland Harbor.
The surrounding Fort Williams Park offers picnic spots with stunning views of Casco Bay, while easy walking trails provide multiple photo angles of this most-photographed American lighthouse.
West Quoddy Head Light, Lubec
America’s easternmost lighthouse greets the first U.S. sunrise with its distinctive red
and white striped tower. The visitor center explains the lighthouse’s role in guiding
ships through the treacherous Bay of Fundy, which experiences the world’s highest
tides.
You can walk the surrounding coastal trails to spot whales and seals while taking in views of Canada’s Grand Manan Island.
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Pemaquid Point Light, Bristol
Perched on dramatic granite cliffs, this 1827 lighthouse appears on Maine’s state
quarter for good reason. The fishermen’s museum in the keeper’s house shares
stories of local maritime history, while the grounds offer some of Maine’s most
spectacular rock formations for exploring.
The adjacent art gallery showcases local painters’ interpretations of this photogenic beacon.
Bass Harbor Head Light, Mount Desert Island
This iconic Acadia National Park lighthouse stands above dramatic pink granite cliffs.
A short woodland trail leads to viewing platforms where photographers gather for
spectacular sunset shots.
The working Coast Guard station maintains the automated light while preserving the historic character of this 1858 beacon.
Owls Head Light, Owls Head
Perched atop an 80-foot bluff, this compact lighthouse offers panoramic views of
Penobscot Bay. The grounds include the original 1854 keeper’s house and oil house,
while interpretive panels share tales of shipwrecks and rescues.
Local volunteers staff the light during summer weekends, sharing stories about lighthouse life.
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Marshall Point Light, Port Clyde
Featured in the film ‘Forrest Gump,’ this unique lighthouse connects to shore via a
long wooden walkway. The museum in the keeper’s house displays original
lighthouse equipment and shares stories of local maritime heritage.
The rocky shoreline provides excellent tide pooling opportunities while offering different
perspectives of the lighthouse.
Burnt Island Light, Boothbay Harbor
This living history site features costumed interpreters portraying lighthouse life from
the 1950s. Accessible only by boat, the five-acre island offers guided tours of the
completely restored keeper’s house and tower.
The surrounding grounds provide perfect picnic spots with harbor views and opportunities to spot seabirds.
Spring Point Ledge Light, South Portland
This sparkplug-style lighthouse sits at the end of a 900-foot breakwater protecting
Portland Harbor. Walking the granite breakwater offers close-up views of the unique
cylindrical structure and passing ships.
Weekend tours let you climb the tower for panoramic harbor views while learning about Portland’s maritime commerce.
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Nubble Light, York
Perhaps Maine’s most photographed lighthouse, this classic New England beacon,
sits on its own small rocky island. The seasonal gift shop and visitor center share the
history of ‘the Nub,’ while Sohier Park provides benches for lighthouse viewing.
Local photographers gather here year-round, especially during the holiday season when
the lighthouse dresses up in festive lights.
Seguin Island Light, Georgetown
Maine’s highest lighthouse tower offers spectacular views from its 180-foot elevation
above sea level. Accessible by tour boat or private vessel, the island provides hiking trails and opportunities to see the original first-order Fresnel lens.
Summer caretakers welcome visitors to explore the restored keeper’s house and climb the tower.
Rockland Breakwater Light, Rockland
A mile-long granite breakwater leads to this historic lighthouse guarding Rockland
Harbor. The challenging walk along the breakwater offers unique perspectives of
Penobscot Bay and passing schooners.
Weekend tours allow visits to the restored keeper’s house and tower, providing insight into lighthouse operations.
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Curtis Island Light, Camden
This picturesque lighthouse overlooks Camden’s famous windjammer fleet from its
own small island. Though not open for interior tours, the grounds offer excellent
views of Camden Harbor and the surrounding mountains.
Local kayak tours paddle past the lighthouse while sharing stories of its history.
Ram Island Ledge Light, Cape Elizabeth
This offshore granite tower stands as a testament to Maine’s rugged maritime
engineering. Best viewed from Portland Head Light or local boat tours, the lighthouse
warns ships away from dangerous ledges.
The dramatic wave action during storms demonstrates why this automated beacon remains crucial for navigation.
Doubling Point Light, Arrowsic
This riverside lighthouse guides ships through one of the Kennebec River’s trickiest
turns. The wooden walkway leading to the tower offers views of passing ships and
abundant wildlife.
The intimate setting allows visitors to imagine life as a river lighthouse keeper while watching eagles soar overhead.
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Goat Island Light, Cape Porpoise
This charming lighthouse sits on a small island visible from the working fishing
village of Cape Porpoise. The restored keeper’s house and tower maintain their 1859
appearance, while the surrounding grounds offer excellent views of lobster boats
hauling their daily catch.
Local kayak tours paddle out to the island during summer months, when volunteer caretakers sometimes offer impromptu tours of the grounds.
Maine’s Must-See Lighthouses
These historic beacons represent just a portion of Maine’s rich lighthouse heritage,
each offering unique perspectives on coastal life and maritime history.
Whether you choose to photograph them from shore, join a lighthouse cruise, or
climb their towers, these maritime sentinels provide unforgettable Maine
experiences.
Pack your camera, bring sturdy walking shoes, and prepare to discover why Maine’s
lighthouses continue to captivate visitors from around the world.
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