10 Best Lighthouses In Maine

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Maine is known for its rocky coastline, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages. The most iconic feature of the Maine landscape is its lighthouses. With over 60 lighthouses lining its shores, Maine has more lighthouses than any other state in the nation.

These lighthouses have played an important role in Maine’s history for centuries. Guiding sailors through treacherous waters, they have saved countless lives and helped to make Maine’s coast one of the safest in the world.

Today, Maine’s lighthouses are cherished landmarks that offer visitors a glimpse into the state’s maritime heritage and stunning natural beauty. Many of these lighthouses are open to the public, offering tours, exhibits, and breathtaking views of the Maine coast.

Top 10 Lighthouses in Maine

Here is a list of the top 10 lighthouses in Maine based on their historical significance, architectural beauty, and scenic setting:

  1. Portland Head Light: Located in Cape Elizabeth, Portland Head Light is one of the most iconic lighthouses in Maine. Built in 1791, it is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the state and one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Portland Head Light offers stunning views of Casco Bay and the Portland skyline.
  2. Nubble Lighthouse: Located in Cape Neddick, Nubble Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Perched on a small island just off the coast, Nubble Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to see a classic lighthouse up close.
  3.  Pemaquid Point Lighthouse: Located in Bristol, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is one of the most scenic lighthouses in Maine. Situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse offers stunning coastline views.
  4.  West Quoddy Head Light: Located in Lubec, West Quoddy Head Light is the easternmost lighthouse in the United States. Built in 1858, it is one of the most important lighthouses in Maine, guiding ships through the hazardous waters of the Quoddy Narrows.
  5.  Marshall Point Light: Located in Port Clyde, Marshall Point Light is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to tour a working lighthouse and learn about its history.
  6.  Bass Harbor Head Light: Located in Bass Harbor, Bass Harbor Head Light is a classic lighthouse that offers stunning views of the Acadia National Park coastline.
  7. Seguin Island Light: Located off the coast of Seguin Island, Seguin Island Light is a remote lighthouse that can only be reached by boat. Offering stunning views of the Gulf of Maine, Seguin Island Light is a popular destination for boaters and kayakers.
  8. Portland Breakwater Light: In Portland Harbor, Portland Breakwater Light is a unique lighthouse built on a breakwater. Offering stunning views of the Portland skyline and Casco Bay, Portland Breakwater Light is a popular tourist destination.
  9.  Cape Elizabeth Light Station: Located in Cape Elizabeth, Cape Elizabeth Light Station is a complex of three lighthouses, including Portland Head Light. Offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Casco Bay, Cape Elizabeth Light Station is a popular tourist destination. 
  10.  Owls Head Light: Located in Owls Head, Owls Head Light is a classic lighthouse that offers stunning views of Penobscot Bay. A popular tourist destination, Owls Head Light offers visitors a chance to tour the lighthouse and learn about its history. 

Other Notable Lighthouses in Maine

In addition to the top 10 lighthouses listed above, there are many other notable lighthouses in Maine. Here is a list of a few others that are worth a visit:

  • Burnt Island Lighthouse: Located in Boothbay Harbor, Burnt Island Lighthouse is a unique lighthouse built on a small island in Boothbay Harbor. Offering stunning views of the harbour and the surrounding coastline, Burnt Island Lighthouse is a popular tourist destination.
  • Dice Head Lighthouse: Located in Castine, Dice Head Lighthouse is a classic lighthouse that offers stunning views of Penobscot Bay. A popular tourist destination, Dice Head Lighthouse offers visitors a chance to tour the lighthouse and learn about its history.Â