“It shines like your very own star. Every time you see it, you won’t have to be afraid. You’ll know that you’re not alone.” ~ Cynthia Ellingsen, The Lighthouse Keeper
If you’re traveling in search of lighthouses of mid-coast Maine, you’ve hit the jackpot. More than 60 lighthouses dot the rocky coast and offshore islands of our beautiful state. Many of our Inn guests plan their entire day around visiting the nearby lighthouses. So, we thought it best to map out the location of each, town by town, and those a little further afield.
What is the lure of these iconic beacons, you ask? Beyond their unique architecture and brilliant beams lies the mystique of stormy nights, wind-tossed waves, and heroic recues of sailors stranded in a turbulent sea. A few of our lighthouse seekers are professional photographers. Off they go at the break of dawn, laden down with telescopic lenses, tripods, and sophisticated lighting equipment. Some wait until the “golden hour” to capture the reflection of the setting sun behind a towering landmark. But even the amateur can take a gorgeous lighthouse photo with just a smart phone or simple camera.
So, get out a map and pack up your gear for a day exploring the lighthouses of mid-coast Maine. Start right here in Rockland for two of our favorites, then head north to Rockport and Camden. Or take a lighthouse tour by boat.
Rockland
- Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse: Standing tall at the end of a mile-long breakwater, Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is one of our top attractions.
- Owls Head Light: Climb the steps to this active lighthouse for a gorgeous view of Penobscot Bay.
Camden
- Curtis Island Light: Accessible only by boat, Curtis Island sits in Camden’s harbor. Catch a glimpse of it from an overlook in town.
- Grindle Point Lighthouse: Take the ferry to Islesboro for a look at this historic lighthouse. Then pop into the Sailor’s Museum for some souvenirs to take home.
Rockport
- Indian Island Light: this beauty is privately owned and not open to the public. The best view of this lighthouse is from Rockport Marine Park.
- Browns Head Lighthouse: Resting along the shore of Vinalhaven, Browns Head Light is still active, though now automated.
Further Afield
- Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, Bristol
- Monhegan Lighthouse, Monhegan Island
- Isle au Haut Lighthouse, Isle au Haut
While you’re exploring the lighthouses of mid-coast Maine, you’ll want to stay in the heart of the coast. Book a room at the Berry Manor Inn in Rockport for a luxurious getaway on the coast of Maine.
July 2020