Lighthouses

With thousands of miles of rugged coastline, you’ll discover more than 60 iconic lighthouses in Maine. These historic beacons direct maritime travelers to a safe harbor—and there’s even one on Cobbosseecontee Lake, the only landlocked lighthouse in the state.

Or go on a lighthouse tour. The Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse offer guided tours on the island off the coast of Biddeford Pool.

Want even more? Enjoy an interactive, in-depth virtual experience in “The Light You Keep” about Ernest Deraps and the lighthouses of Maine.

Maine Lighthouse Experiences

A lighthouse with its light on at dusk, viewed from the base of the stairs leading up to it. Trees and bushes are silhouetted against a darkening sky with tinges of pink clouds, creating a serene backdrop for Owl's Head Lighthouse.

Climb a Lighthouse

A few Maine lighthouses are open to the public, allowing you to go inside the tower and see the coast from a new perspective. Accessible by Car: Pemaquid Point Lighthouse and Owls Head Lighthouse (May-Oct.) Accessible by Boat: Wood Island Lighthouse, (July-Aug.), and Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, (June-Sept.)

Lighthouse and white house with red roof on a rocky shoreline surrounded by trees and water on a clear day.

Stay Overnight

Several Maine lighthouses offer overnight stays, giving visitors a chance to experience life at a historic light station. At Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol and Burnt Coat Harbor Light on Swan’s Island, rent an apartment upstairs in the keeper’s house. At Little River Lighthouse off Cutler, stay in the restored keeper’s house and explore wooded trails on the 15-acre island.

Unique Lodging

A large sailboat with white sails glides on open water under a clear blue sky, with a group of people on deck.

Lighthouse Sightseeing Tours

From Portland to Camden and beyond, guided boat, bike and walking tours offer fresh ways to explore Maine’s lighthouses. Watch a lighthouse come into view from the deck of a sunset cruise, pedal toward a coastal beacon or hop aboard a trolley to hear the stories behind the scenery.

See Tours

The Portland Head Lighthouse and adjoining buildings with red roofs stand on a rocky coastline under a colorful sunset sky. An American flag is visible near the buildings.

Open Lighthouse Day

On this event held every September, participating lighthouses welcome visitors to climb historic towers, take in sweeping ocean views and discover the stories behind these coastal landmarks—including spaces rarely open to the public.

See Event