Maine’s rugged coastline is home to more than 60 historic lighthouses, each with its own story and charm. From towering granite structures perched on wave-battered cliffs to smaller beacons guarding quiet harbors, these lighthouses have guided mariners through fog, storms, and darkness for over two centuries.
In this guide, we’ll highlight ten of the best lighthouses to visit in Maine—places that offer not only breathtaking views but also rich maritime history. Whether you’re planning a summer road trip along the coast or looking to add a lighthouse stop to your Acadia itinerary, this list will help you make the most of your coastal adventure.
Each lighthouse featured here includes practical visitor information, travel tips, and a link to a dedicated detail page so you can dive deeper into their history and plan your visit.
Map of Featured Lighthouses
To help you plan your trip, we’ve created a map pinpointing all of the lighthouses found in New England. Check it out here!
Southern Maine Lighthouses
Southern Maine is home to some of the state’s most iconic and accessible lighthouses. From postcard-perfect Nubble Light to the storied Portland Head Light, these coastal beacons are easy to reach and make ideal stops for day trips or weekend getaways.
Cape Neddick Light (Nubble Light) – York
Perched on a tiny island just off Sohier Park, Nubble Light is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Though the island itself isn’t open to the public, visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the mainland and explore the scenic park grounds. It’s especially beautiful at sunset and during the holiday season, when the lighthouse is lit with festive lights.
Learn more about Cape Neddick Light here.
Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse (Two Lights) – Cape Elizabeth
While only one of the original twin towers remains active, Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse still makes for a dramatic sight atop the cliffs of Two Lights State Park. Though not open for tours, visitors can walk the nearby trails, admire the bold granite tower, and enjoy ocean views that inspired artists like Edward Hopper.
Learn more about Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse here.
Portland Head Light – Cape Elizabeth
Commissioned by George Washington and first lit in 1791, Portland Head Light is Maine’s oldest and arguably most famous lighthouse. Located in Fort Williams Park, the site offers a museum inside the former keeper’s quarters, walking trails, picnic spots, and unbeatable coastal scenery. It’s a must-visit for first-time visitors to Maine.
Learn more about Portland Head Light here.
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse – South Portland
This unique, caisson-style lighthouse sits at the end of a granite breakwater extending from Southern Maine Community College. Visitors can walk the breakwater right up to the base of the tower, which occasionally opens for tours in summer. It offers sweeping views of Casco Bay and nearby forts.
Learn more about Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse here.
Midcoast Maine Lighthouses
The Midcoast region offers a scenic blend of rocky shores, quiet fishing villages, and some of Maine’s most beloved lighthouses. These lights are known not just for their beauty, but for the unique stories and coastal charm that surround them.
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse – Bristol
One of Maine’s most recognizable lighthouses, Pemaquid Point sits atop dramatic granite cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. It’s featured on the Maine state quarter and is a favorite among photographers. The tower is open seasonally, and the site includes a small museum, art gallery, and the charming Fishermen’s Museum housed in the keeper’s quarters.
Learn more about Pemaquid Point Lighthouse here.
Marshall Point Lighthouse & Museum – Port Clyde
Famous for its cameo in Forrest Gump, Marshall Point Light is as photogenic as it is historic. A wooden walkway connects the shore to the tower, offering stunning views of the surrounding bay. The small museum in the keeper’s house showcases local maritime artifacts and the history of the light.
Learn more about Marshall Point Lighthouse here.
Owls Head Lighthouse – Owls Head
This compact but commanding lighthouse sits high above Penobscot Bay on the grounds of Owls Head State Park. A short uphill trail leads to the tower, which offers panoramic views of the water and nearby islands. The light is still active, and the site is open seasonally for tours and exploration.
Learn more about Owls Head Lighthouse here.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – Rockland
Located nearly a mile offshore at the end of a massive granite breakwater, Rockland Breakwater Light is a favorite among hikers and photographers. The walk itself is part of the experience—visitors traverse the long jetty to reach the station, which is open to the public during select summer weekends.
Learn more about Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse here.
Downeast Maine Lighthouses
Downeast Maine is known for its rugged, remote beauty—and its lighthouses are no exception. These coastal sentinels are perched at the edge of the U.S., offering dramatic landscapes, rich history, and fewer crowds for those willing to go the extra mile.
Bass Harbor Head Light Station – Mount Desert Island
Located within Acadia National Park, Bass Harbor Head Light is one of Maine’s most iconic and heavily photographed lighthouses. Built atop a rocky cliff and surrounded by evergreen forest, the lighthouse is especially popular at sunset. Visitors can explore short walking trails to viewing platforms and enjoy sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Learn more about Bass Harbor Head Light here.
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse – Lubec
Standing at the easternmost point of the continental United States, West Quoddy Head Light is instantly recognizable thanks to its red-and-white candy-striped tower. The surrounding Quoddy Head State Park features hiking trails, whale-watching opportunities, and interpretive exhibits on the area’s maritime history.
Learn more about West Quoddy Head Lighthouse here.
Tips for Visiting Maine Lighthouses
Whether you’re planning a full coastal road trip or just a weekend stop, a little planning can make your lighthouse visits even more rewarding. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your time at Maine’s lighthouses.
Best Times to Visit
The prime season for lighthouse visits in Maine is late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer offers the most access, with museums and towers often open for tours. Fall adds a dramatic backdrop of colorful foliage and fewer crowds, though some sites may close for the season by mid-October.
Consider Maine Open Lighthouse Day
Held each September, Maine Open Lighthouse Day is a statewide event when many towers—some of which are usually closed to the public—open for guided tours. It’s one of the best times to access hard-to-reach sites and get inside the towers.
Check Access and Conditions in Advance
Not all lighthouses are open to the public, and some are best viewed from a distance. Before visiting, check each lighthouse’s official website or local tourism site for the latest on accessibility, hours, and any seasonal closures.
Pack for Coastal Weather
Maine’s coastal weather can shift quickly. Bring layers, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection—even on cooler days. If you’re walking a breakwater (like at Rockland or Spring Point), sneakers or hiking shoes are strongly recommended.
Respect Private Property
A few lighthouse grounds are on private land or are operated by nonprofit groups. Be sure to stay on marked paths and observe signage to respect property boundaries and local preservation efforts.
Photography Tips
Maine’s lighthouses are a dream for photographers—whether you’re shooting with a DSLR, a drone, or just your smartphone. The following tips can help you capture memorable shots, no matter your experience level.
Time It Right
Golden hour—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—offers the most dramatic lighting for lighthouse photos. For west-facing lights like Bass Harbor Head Light, sunset is ideal. East-facing towers like West Quoddy Head are best in the morning.
Scout Your Angles
Some of the most iconic lighthouse shots come from lesser-known vantage points:
- Portland Head Light: Try the cliffside trail to the south of the tower for wide-angle shots with crashing surf.
- Nubble Light: Head to Sohier Park and shoot across the channel for a full view of the island.
- Marshall Point Light: Position yourself on the wooden walkway for symmetry—or get low to include wildflowers in spring or early summer.
Use a Tripod
For long exposure shots, especially at dawn, dusk, or during foggy conditions, a tripod is a must. It’s also helpful for capturing clear detail shots of the tower or surrounding landscape.
Mind the Tide
Tide levels can dramatically change the look of coastal lighthouse photos. At low tide, you may have access to rockier foregrounds or tidal pools, while high tide can make for cleaner waterlines. Use tide charts to plan ahead if you’re going for a specific look.
Be Safe
Stay on marked paths, especially near cliffs or on slippery breakwaters. No photo is worth a dangerous climb or a fall into cold water.
Plan Your Lighthouse Route
With more than 60 lighthouses scattered along Maine’s rugged coastline, a lighthouse road trip is one of the best ways to experience the state’s maritime heritage and coastal beauty. Here are three recommended routes, organized by region, to help you make the most of your time on the road.
Southern Maine: A Classic Lighthouse Day Trip
This itinerary is ideal for travelers based in Portland or along the southern coast. It packs in some of Maine’s most iconic and accessible lighthouses, all within a short drive of one another.
Suggested Route:
- Cape Neddick Light (Nubble Light) – York
- Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse (Two Lights) – Cape Elizabeth
- Portland Head Light – Cape Elizabeth
- Spring Point Ledge Light – South Portland
- Bug Light (Portland Breakwater Light) – South Portland (Bonus: Great park setting and skyline view)
Driving Time (Total): ~1.5 hours
Recommended Duration: Half-day or full-day with lunch and coastal stops
Midcoast Maine: Two-Day Scenic Tour
Midcoast Maine offers dramatic headlands, working harbors, and some of the state’s most beautiful drives. This route is ideal for a weekend getaway and includes smaller towns, seafood shacks, and opportunities to tour museums and walk breakwaters.
Suggested Route:
- Doubling Point Light – Arrowsic (near Bath)
- Pemaquid Point Lighthouse – Bristol
- Marshall Point Lighthouse – Port Clyde
- Owls Head Lighthouse – Owls Head
- Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – Rockland
Driving Time (Total): ~3.5 hours
Recommended Duration: 2 days with overnight in Rockland or Camden
Downeast Maine: Remote & Rewarding
This route takes you off the beaten path to some of Maine’s most scenic and dramatic lights. Perfect for travelers heading to Acadia or those who want to experience quieter corners of the state.
Suggested Route:
- Bass Harbor Head Light – Mount Desert Island (Acadia National Park)
- Egg Rock Light – Viewable by boat from Bar Harbor (boat tour required)
- Little River Light – Cutler (accessible by boat or kayak)
- West Quoddy Head Light – Lubec
Driving Time (Total): ~4.5 hours (not including boat trips)
Recommended Duration: 2–3 days, with stops in Bar Harbor and Lubec
These itineraries can be customized based on your interests—whether you’re seeking photo ops, maritime history, or a peaceful walk by the sea. As you plan, be sure to check for seasonal access, tide conditions, and local events like Maine Open Lighthouse Day.
Additional Resources
Planning your lighthouse adventures in Maine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few helpful resources to make your trip smoother and more enriching:
Free Lighthouse Visitors Guide
Want a printable checklist, trip-planning tips, and a brief overview of lighthouse etiquette?
Download our free Lighthouse Visitors Guide here to make the most of your coastal journey.
Explore More Lighthouses
If you’re expanding your trip beyond Maine or want to discover even more lighthouse experiences, check out these popular articles:
Maine Lighthouse Events
- Maine Open Lighthouse Day: Held every September, this event offers rare access to towers and keeper’s quarters usually closed to the public.
- Local Festivals: Coastal towns like Rockland and Lubec often host maritime-themed events throughout the summer.
More Planning Tools
