Coastal Maine is known for several things: Its tasty cuisine, gorgeous natural landscape, and rich nautical traditions. Crucial to this special place’s oceanic culture are historic lighthouses. These structures vary in size, shape, and purpose, but all offer opportunities for education and exploration! Here are just a few of the best lighthouses in Maine to visit.
Before embarking on a trip to Coastal Maine, take note of the area’s other unique activities. The nautical town of Boothbay Harbor is an ideal place to start! Here, there are plenty of dining, shopping, and outdoor adventuring opportunities. For a complete list of the area’s top attractions like lighthouses in Maine to visit, request access to our Boothbay Harbor Vacation Guide! It’s the region’s best resource for planning a trip to Midcoast Maine.
Here Are the Best Lighthouses in Maine to Visit
Burnt Island Lighthouse
The Burnt Island Light is one of the most popular lighthouses in Maine that is open to the public. This historic Boothbay Harbor icon offers a unique perspective on the area’s rich history. Located just a mile off the coast, the Burnt Island Light is most visible by boat. Visitors can embark on a 15-minute boat tour with Balmy Days Cruises for $25 per person ($15 for kids two and up), or navigate out using their own vessel. However visitors see this structure, they’ll enjoy stunning photo opportunities!
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
Commissioned by President John Quincy Adams in 1827, the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse boasts a unique and historic background! It crumbled within a few years of its original construction, and was rebuilt in 1835. Now, this beloved monument represents Maine’s enduring maritime heritage. The Pemaquid Point Light is one of the most popular Maine lighthouses you can go in; admission is only $2 per person and allows for plenty of memorable moments!
Ram Island Lighthouse
The petite Ram Island Lighthouse in Boothbay Harbor stands only 36 feet above the tide, but its bright light can be seen for 13 miles! Best seen from a boat passing between Ram and Fisherman’s Island, this storied icon is not open to the public. Regardless, it provides onlookers with plenty of photo-ready views of the rugged Maine coastline.
Monhegan Island Lighthouse
Built in 1824 at the site of a colonial fishing settlement, the Monhegan Island Light is easily accessed by a variety of Boothbay Harbor sailing excursions. Though the granite lighthouse itself is not open to the public, the grounds surrounding this original piece of Midcoast Maine history are open for exploring. Also on the property is the Monhegan Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s intriguing maritime history.
Stay Near All of the Best Maine Lighthouses to Visit
A stay at Linekin Bay Resort, Maine’s only all-inclusive family resort, is a perfect choice for those looking to explore the best Coastal Maine lighthouses. Whichever lighthouses guests choose to visit, they’re sure to have an amazing time taking in the area’s many nautical sights. At Linekin Bay Resort, our accommodations consist of waterfront cabins, wooded cabins, waterfront lodges, and pet-friendly cabins. In addition to Boothbay Harbor’s amazing sights, guests love our rustic lodging and exciting on-property activities!
Ready to see why Coastal Maine’s lighthouses are such celebrated parts of Maine’s character? Check our availability today and start looking forward to a rejuvenating waterfront getaway!