Explore Maine's Iconic Lights
Welcome to Maine, home to over 60 of the most picturesque and storied lighthouses along the Atlantic coast. Nestled amidst rocky shores, rugged cliffs, and scenic harbors, Maine’s lighthouses stand as enduring symbols of maritime history and coastal charm. Discover the timeless beauty and rich heritage of Maine’s iconic beacons, where every light tells a story and every visit leaves a lasting impression.
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Portland Head Lighthouse
Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Nestled along the rugged coastline of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Portland Head Light is a symbol of New England’s rich maritime history. As Maine’s oldest lighthouse and one of the most photographed in the world, Portland Head Light captivates visitors with its dramatic ocean backdrop, timeless architecture, and fascinating past.
Interactive Map: Maine Lighthouses
Maine's Most Popular Lighthouses
Maine is home to some of the most well-known lighthouses in the country, each with its own history and significance. From easily accessible landmarks to remote coastal beacons, these lighthouses continue to attract visitors and serve as important navigational aids.
Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest and most photographed lighthouse, has stood at the entrance to Portland Harbor since 1791. Further up the coast, Bass Harbor Head Light in Acadia National Park offers stunning ocean views from its rocky perch.
The History of Lighthouses in Maine
Maine’s coastline, stretching over 3,500 miles, is home to some of the most historic and picturesque lighthouses in the United States. The need for lighthouses arose as Maine became a hub for maritime trade, fishing, and shipbuilding in the 18th and 19th centuries. Treacherous waters, rocky shores, and frequent fog made navigation perilous, leading to the construction of beacons to guide sailors safely to port.
The first lighthouse in Maine, Portland Head Light, was commissioned by George Washington and lit in 1791. It remains one of the most iconic and continuously operating lighthouses in the country. Throughout the 19th century, more lighthouses were built, including West Quoddy Head Light (1808), marking the easternmost point of the U.S., and Bass Harbor Head Light (1858), which guards the entrance to Blue Hill Bay.
Many Maine lighthouses were manned by keepers who endured harsh winters and isolation to keep the lights burning. Automation in the 20th century reduced the need for human keepers, but these lighthouses remain vital aids to navigation. Today, Maine’s lighthouses are cherished landmarks, drawing visitors with their rich history, stunning scenery, and enduring role in maritime safety.
Browse All Maine Lighthouses
Maine Lighthouse FAQs
Can you go inside Maine’s lighthouses?
Some Maine lighthouses allow visitors to go inside, while others can only be viewed from the outside. Pemaquid Point Light and Portland Head Light Museum offer access to lighthouse grounds and exhibits, while West Quoddy Head Light sometimes opens for seasonal tours. However, many lighthouses remain active aids to navigation and are not open to the public.
How many lighthouses are in Maine?
Maine has 65 lighthouses, spread along its rocky coastline, offshore islands, and river inlets. Some of the most famous include Portland Head Light, Bass Harbor Head Light, and Cape Neddick “Nubble” Light. Many are still operational and maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard.
What is the best way to see Maine’s lighthouses?
The best way to see Maine’s lighthouses depends on your preference. Many, like Portland Head Light and Pemaquid Point Light, are accessible by car. Others, such as Boone Island Light, require a boat tour. Lighthouse cruises, offered in places like Portland and Bar Harbor, provide great views of multiple lighthouses in one trip.