Maine Lighthouse Tours

Maine Lighthouses are among the most photographed in the world.  Maine visitors can often be found taking pictures of Maine’s Harbor Lights. The historic Burnt Island Light, built in 1831, helps to guide boats into Boothbay Harbor.  In south coastal Maine Nubble Light is a popular York, Maine attraction. Please share your Maine lighthouse comments. To feature your business, contact us.

Maine Lighthouses

There are more than 60 lighthouses that dot the coastal regions of Maine. The lighthouse has become a symbol for Maine and they have guided many mariners around rocky ledges and dense fog for more than 200 years. Michigan is the only state that can say it has more lighthouses than Maine.

Maine lighthouses were originally kept up by a lighthouse keeper and sometimes by his family as well. Most keepers were said to be very lonely, especially the offshore ones. There are many stories about the isolated lighthouse keeper who lived by his duty to man the lighthouse. Their lives were based on risk and responsibility.

Did you know many Maine Lighthouses are actually made from iron – then lined with bricks. The famous Nubble Lighthouse in southern Maine is actually made from iron with a brick lining.

Discover the Magic of Maine Lighthouses: A Guide to Planning an Enchanting Lighthouse Tour

Maine’s rugged coastline is home to some of the most iconic and picturesque lighthouses in the United States. These beacons of light have guided sailors for centuries and hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Maine lighthouses, exploring their history, sharing intriguing stories, highlighting the famous Nubble Lighthouse, and providing photography tips to capture their beauty.

Maine Lighthouses: Beacons of History and Beauty

Maine’s coastline boasts over 60 lighthouses, each with its unique charm and significance. The state’s lighthouses have played a crucial role in maritime history, guiding ships safely along the treacherous coast. From the iconic Portland Head Light to the remote West Quoddy Head Light, each lighthouse carries captivating tales of the past.

Exploring Maine Lighthouse History and Facts

• The first lighthouse in Maine, the Portland Head Light, was commissioned by George Washington in 1787.
• Maine’s oldest original lighthouse, Wood Island Light, dates back to 1808 and continues to operate today.

Many lighthouses have been automated in recent years, but several still have resident keepers who carry on the traditions of the past.

Stories and Legends of Maine Lighthouses

• The Pemaquid Point Light has a haunting tale of a ghostly sailor who searches for his lost love on stormy nights.
• Seguin Island Light witnessed a dramatic shipwreck that inspired the book “The Lighthouse Keeper’s Daughter.”
• The Goose Rocks Lighthouse played a crucial role in the Prohibition era, serving as a lookout for rumrunners.
• The Enchanting Nubble Lighthouse
• The Nubble Lighthouse, located on Cape Neddick near York, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine.
  Built in 1879, the lighthouse sits on a small rocky island and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Nubble Lighthouse is known for its distinctive red-roofed keeper’s house and its picturesque surroundings.

Capturing the Beauty: Maine Lighthouse Photography Tips

• Timing is everything: Visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for magical lighting conditions.
• Experiment with compositions: Use leading lines, foreground interest, and different angles to create captivating images.
• Pay attention to the weather: Stormy skies and crashing waves can add drama and atmosphere to your lighthouse shots.
• Don’t forget the details: Capture close-ups of architectural features, textures, and the lighthouse’s interaction with the surrounding environment.

Planning a Maine lighthouse tour is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, beauty, and allure of these iconic structures. From the rich stories and legends to the awe-inspiring views and photographic opportunities, Maine’s lighthouses offer an enchanting experience for visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, a trip to Maine’s lighthouses is sure to leave an indelible impression and create memories to last a lifetime.

For more information on planning your Maine lighthouse tour, including detailed guides, maps, and additional resources, be sure to visit the Maine Lighthouse section on Maine Living’s website at https://meliving.com/lighthouses. There, you’ll find a wealth of information to help you explore and make the most of your visit to these captivating beacons along the stunning Maine coastline.

So, set your course and embark on a journey to discover the magic of Maine lighthouses, guided by the valuable insights provided by Maine Living.

Downeast & Acadia Maine Lighthouses

• Bass Harbor Head Light
• Burnt Coat Harbor Light
• Dice Head Light
• Deer Island Thorofare
• Eagle Island Light
• Robinson Point Light
• West Quoddy Head Light

Midcoast Maine Lighthouses

• Browns Head Light
• Burnt Island Light
• Curtis Island Light
• Doubling Point Light
• Fort Point Light
• Grindle Point Light
• Hendrick’s Head Light
• Kennebec River Range Lights
• Marshall Point Light
• Monhegan Light
• Owls Head Light
• Pemaquid Point Light
• Rockland Breakwater
• Seguin Island Light
• Squirrel Point Light

Portland & Casco Bay Maine Lighthouses

• Portland Breakwater Lighthouse
• Cape Elizabeth Light
• Portland Head Light
• Spring Point Light

South Coast Maine Lighthouses

• Boon Island Light
• Cape Neddick Light (Nubble Light)
• Goat Island Light
• Wood Island Light

Maine Lighthouse Gifts

Top Ten Maine Lighthouses

Midcoast Lighthouses | Downeast Lighthouses

Portland Lighthouses

South Coast Lighthouses | Maine Lighthouse  Photos

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