Lighthouse Touring

Maine’s coastline, with its thousands of islands and jagged ledges, has historically been treacherous for mariners. The solution? A network of over 60 lighthouses that still stand as sentinels today, affectionately known as “The Maine Lights.”

The Icons

• Portland Head Light (Cape Elizabeth): Commissioned by George Washington, it sits in the spectacular Fort Williams Park. It is the oldest lighthouse in Maine and arguably the most beautiful.
• Pemaquid Point (Bristol): Famous for its dramatic, striated bedrock leading into the crashing surf. It is the lighthouse featured on the Maine State Quarter.
• West Quoddy Head (Lubec): Located at the easternmost point of the contiguous US, it is instantly recognizable by its red-and-white “candy cane” stripes.
• Bass Harbor Head (Acadia/Tremont): Perched precariously on a granite cliff, it is a sunset icon.

Accessibility Guide

• Drive-Up: Portland Head, Nubble Light (York - view from shore), Pemaquid Point, West Quoddy Head, Marshall Point (Port Clyde - famous from Forrest Gump).
• Hike-In: Rockland Breakwater (a nearly mile-long walk on granite blocks into the harbor).
• Boat Only: Many of Maine’s most stunning lights, like Seguin Island, Monhegan Light, and Mount Desert Rock, are located offshore. Tour boats from Portland, Boothbay, and Bar Harbor offer “Lighthouse Lover” cruises.

Maine Open Lighthouse Day

Held annually in September, this event is a unique opportunity to enter and climb dozens of lighthouses that are normally closed to the public. It is organized by the American Lighthouse Foundation.

Lighthouse Legends

Maine’s lights are steep in history and folklore.

• Owl’s Head Light: Said to be haunted by a “Little Lady” who shakes out tablecloths and rattles silverware.
• Seguin Island: Home to one of Maine’s most famous ghost stories involving a keeper, his wife, and a piano.