New England’s coastline is home to some of the most iconic lighthouses in the country. These historic structures have played a key role in guiding ships through the region’s often challenging waters, and today they offer visitors a chance to experience New England’s maritime history firsthand. From easy-to-reach lighthouses with scenic views to those perched on rugged cliffs, there’s something for everyone who wants to explore these coastal landmarks.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the most well-known lighthouses in New England. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or just looking for your next adventure, these lighthouses are must-visit destinations.
1. Portland Head Light, Maine
Location: Cape Elizabeth, Portland
Established: 1791
Portland Head Light is one of the most recognized lighthouses in the United States. Standing at the entrance to Portland Harbor, this lighthouse has been guiding ships safely into port for over two centuries. Its striking white tower, red-roofed keeper’s house, and the scenic setting in Fort Williams Park make it a popular stop for visitors.
The lighthouse is easily accessible, with walking paths, picnic areas, and beautiful ocean views right next to the tower. The nearby museum inside the former keeper’s house offers a closer look at the history of the lighthouse and its role in Portland’s maritime past.
Visitor Experience
Portland Head Light is not just a historic site—it’s a spot for both relaxation and exploration. You can take in views of the rocky coast, enjoy a picnic in the park, or learn more about the lighthouse’s history through exhibits and guided tours. It’s also a great place for photography, as the lighthouse is often seen in iconic shots of Maine’s coastline.
2. Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick Light), Maine
Location: York
Established: 1879
Nubble Lighthouse, perched on a small island just off the coast of York, is one of Maine’s most photographed landmarks. The lighthouse’s stunning location, surrounded by rocky shores and the open Atlantic, makes it a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Its classic white tower with a red roof is a striking contrast against the rugged coast, and it’s often considered the symbol of Maine’s lighthouses.
While the lighthouse itself is located on an island, it’s easily accessible via a small park with parking and a viewing area on the mainland. The island itself is not open to the public, but visitors can get a perfect view of the lighthouse from the mainland.
Visitor Experience
Nubble Lighthouse is a favorite for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light creates stunning views. It’s also an excellent spot to enjoy a peaceful moment by the water. The park offers plenty of space for a picnic or just to relax and take in the coastal scenery. For those interested in the lighthouse’s history, there are informational signs on the site to provide more context.
3. Boston Light, Massachusetts
Location: Little Brewster Island, Boston Harbor
Established: 1783 (current tower)
Boston Light holds the title of the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the United States. Built in 1783, it has been guiding ships safely through Boston Harbor for over 230 years. Its historical significance goes beyond just its age—it played a vital role during the American Revolution, helping ships navigate through the bustling waters of Boston Harbor.
Today, Boston Light is still active, and it’s accessible via a ferry from Boston Harbor. The lighthouse is located on Little Brewster Island, a small and rugged island, which also houses a keeper’s house and a museum detailing the history of the lighthouse and its role in the nation’s maritime history.
Visitor Experience
Getting to Boston Light requires a guided tour, which includes a ferry ride from the mainland to Little Brewster Island. The tour offers a fascinating look at the lighthouse’s history, the surrounding environment, and the life of the lighthouse keeper. Once on the island, you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline in the distance.
4. Cape Ann Light Station (Thacher Island Twin Lights), Massachusetts
Location: Rockport
Established: 1861
Cape Ann Light Station, located off the coast of Rockport, is known for its twin towers—one of which is still in operation today. The two granite towers, which stand tall on Thacher Island, are a distinctive feature of the Massachusetts coastline. The north tower, no longer in use, is now a historic site, while the south tower continues to guide ships through the waters of Cape Ann.
The lighthouse is accessible by boat, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the island and learn more about the history of the lighthouse. The towers are equipped with first-order Fresnel lenses, a significant engineering feat at the time they were built.
Visitor Experience
Reaching Cape Ann Light Station requires a boat tour, which allows visitors to get a close-up view of both towers and the surrounding area. The experience is perfect for history buffs and those interested in maritime architecture. Once on the island, visitors can explore the towers, take in the scenic views, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
5. Gay Head Light, Massachusetts
Location: Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard
Established: 1799
Located on the western tip of Martha’s Vineyard, Gay Head Light is one of the oldest lighthouses in New England. It stands atop the striking clay cliffs of Aquinnah, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse has undergone significant preservation efforts in recent years, including being moved back from the eroding cliffs to enable its continued operation.
The lighthouse’s location provides a unique perspective on both the island’s landscape and the surrounding waters, making it a popular stop for visitors to Martha’s Vineyard. The lighthouse itself is a picturesque site, with its red-and-white striped tower contrasting beautifully against the natural backdrop.
Visitor Experience
Gay Head Light offers a peaceful escape with its scenic views and rich history. Though the lighthouse is not open for climbing, visitors can enjoy the surrounding area with its walking paths and the nearby Gay Head Cliffs. The area also has informational signs that explain the lighthouse’s history and the challenges it faces due to erosion.
6. Plymouth Light (Gurnet Light), Massachusetts
Location: Plymouth
Established: 1768
Plymouth Light, also known as Gurnet Light, is the oldest wooden lighthouse in the United States. It stands at the entrance to Plymouth Harbor, guiding ships safely into one of the country’s oldest ports. Built in 1768, it has played a role in helping sailors navigate the waters of Massachusetts Bay. Its construction from wood makes it a unique example of early lighthouse architecture.
The lighthouse is located at the Gurnet Point, and although it’s no longer a public facility, it is still an active navigation aid. It’s situated within the historic Fort Andrew site, adding to the significance of the area. The site offers visitors the opportunity to learn about both the lighthouse’s history and the broader maritime heritage of Plymouth.
Visitor Experience
While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public for tours, visitors can take a scenic drive along the coastline to view the structure. You can also enjoy a walk around the Fort Andrew site, where interpretive signs provide information about the lighthouse’s history and its role in Plymouth’s maritime past.
7. Three Sisters of Nauset, Massachusetts
Location: Eastham, Cape Cod
Established: 1892
The Three Sisters of Nauset are a unique set of three historic lighthouses located on the Cape Cod National Seashore. Originally built to warn ships of the dangerous Nauset Beach shoreline, these three wooden towers were moved to their current location in 1923 to preserve them. Today, the lighthouses stand as an iconic symbol of Cape Cod’s maritime history and serve as a fascinating example of early lighthouse technology.
The three towers, originally positioned along Nauset Beach, are distinct in their design and were once equipped with flashing lights. Although only two of the three towers remain operational in their historic role, they continue to attract visitors for their historical significance and beautiful coastal setting.
Visitor Experience
Visitors can explore the Three Sisters of Nauset as part of a visit to Cape Cod National Seashore. The site offers a chance to learn about the history of the lighthouses and the region’s maritime culture. The lighthouses are easily accessible, and the surrounding area is perfect for a walk, photography, or simply enjoying the coastal landscape.
8. Race Point Light, Massachusetts
Location: Provincetown, Cape Cod
Established: 1816
Race Point Light is located at the tip of Cape Cod, near Provincetown, and is known for its dramatic location on the edge of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Built in 1816, it has been a key navigation aid for mariners traveling through the treacherous waters where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Cape’s shores. The lighthouse stands on an isolated stretch of sand dunes, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline.
The lighthouse is accessible via a hike or guided tour, giving visitors the opportunity to experience both the history of the lighthouse and the natural beauty of the area. It remains an active lighthouse and continues to guide ships safely into Provincetown Harbor.
Visitor Experience
Getting to Race Point Light requires a bit of effort—either a walk through the dunes or a tour that takes you directly to the lighthouse. The area is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor exploration and photography. The lighthouse itself is an excellent spot for scenic views, and the surrounding National Seashore offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.
9. Little River Lighthouse, Maine
Location: Cutler
Established: 1876
Little River Lighthouse is a charming, lesser-known gem located on a small island off the coast of Cutler, Maine. This lighthouse stands at the entrance to the Bold Coast, one of the most rugged and remote parts of Maine. The lighthouse itself is relatively small but its location offers incredible views of the surrounding waters and cliffs.
The lighthouse has been in operation since 1876, and while it’s no longer manned, it still plays a role in guiding mariners along the coast. The island on which it stands is part of a larger wildlife preserve, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Visitor Experience
Access to the lighthouse is via a short trail from the mainland, which makes it a family-friendly spot for a visit. The lighthouse offers picturesque views of the surrounding Bold Coast and is a quiet retreat for anyone wanting to experience Maine’s rugged coastal beauty. It’s a perfect spot for photographers or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic stop along the coast.
10. Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, Maine
Location: Bristol
Established: 1827
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, with its distinctive conical tower, is one of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses. Situated on the rocky shore of Bristol, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Built in 1827, the lighthouse has stood the test of time and remains an important symbol of Maine’s maritime heritage.
The lighthouse is part of the Pemaquid Point Historic Site, which includes a museum that explains the history of the lighthouse and the region. The site also features the famous “pemaquid” granite rocks, which have been shaped by centuries of coastal erosion, adding to the charm of the area.
Visitor Experience
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is open to visitors year-round, with summer months offering guided tours and additional activities. Visitors can explore the lighthouse, climb to the top for panoramic views, and enjoy the surrounding area, which is perfect for a walk or a picnic. The site also includes an interpretive center, providing visitors with insights into the lighthouse’s long history and its role in Maine’s maritime industry.
Visiting New England’s Iconic Lighthouses
New England’s lighthouses are more than just navigational aids—they’re a window into the region’s rich maritime history and stunning coastal landscapes. From the well-known Portland Head Light to the remote Little River Lighthouse, each of these landmarks tells a unique story and offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and history of the coast.Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a new adventure, these lighthouses provide the perfect destinations for exploration. Plan your visit to one (or more!) of these iconic lighthouses with our free Lighthouse Visitor Guide and enjoy some of the most scenic views New England has to offer.
