Lighthouse Hunting
portland head light
Portland, Maine - Lighthouses
In rain or sunshine, lighthouse hunting is a MUST when visiting the coast. Each lighthouse has its own name, story, and history behind the location.
Below is the quick address to the ones I visited. Yes, it was raining but I believe it adds a different shade of beauty. You get to see the lighthouse do its job.
#1 Portland Head Light - 1000 Shore Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
I was able to climb along the rocks, without people yelling at me to get off. There is a gate that opens up and allows you to get a better view of the ocean and lighthouse. Fun fact, there are actually two lighthouses in the above picture. Can you see it? Sunrise/sunset is a must if you can make it.
#2 Two lights state park (“twin” lighthouse) - 7 Tower Dr, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
TBH, I was unable to hit this one location. I’ll just need to go back!
spring point ledge lighthouse
#3 Spring point ledge lighthouse -Lighthouse Circle, South Portland, ME 04106
Super cool lighthouse! The rocks leading to the lighthouse are uneven, with rather large gaps, and from time to time might be a little slippery. Be careful, especially on a rainy day and you might want to leave the high heels at home for this one. Legit photo op.
#4 Portland breakwater lighthouse (bug light) - NE End Of Portland Breakwater In Portland Hbr, South Portland, ME 04106
A simple white lighthouse on a small inlet, although not too grand can still get you pretty close to boats passing. Close enough and you wave they might just wave back at you.
portland breakwater lighthouse
Bar Harbor, Maine - lighthouse
#1 Bass Harbor Light Station - Route 102a, Bass Harbor, ME 04653
Last but not least was one of my favorite lighthouses!!! Here are some very simple facts that are needed for this lighthouse. It is the only lighthouse in Bar Harbor. It is attached to Acadia National Park. The lighthouse only has 10 parking spots so if you do not show at least 3 to 4 hours before sunset you will not get a parking spot, traffic does back up, and parking is not allowed on the side of the road due to the narrow two-way street. I parked at the top of that road and walked about the half-mile and some down to the lighthouse. REMEMBER to wear long sleeves due to the temperature dropping when the sun sets and the evil misquotes.
The cool part about this lighthouse is that it sits on the side of a cliff. If you get there an hour before sunset you should be able to get a good seat on the rocks below the lighthouse but again be warned that it gets packed with other photographers, tourists, and locals you come for a GORGEOUS sunset.
Lastly, stay a little bit longer after the sun has set. People leave and the lighthouse’s light turns on; giving a beautiful reflection in the puddles around the rocks.
bass harbor light station
Yep, no one yelled at me to get off the rocks. A stranger took this picture, found me, and asked me to send it to myself. Kinda cool! The view was surreal. Go climb the rocks!
Lighthouse hunting was by far one of my favorite adventures in Maine. I was able to see the sites, feel the ocean breeze, and listen to the waves slap against the shore.
