Four Lighthouses to Visit to Get the True Maine Experience
When you think of Maine, do you think of a lighthouse? This is a widespread association for the state, perhaps even the most popular (after lobster, of course). When you realize that Maine has 65 different lighthouses spread amongst the state, you can see a fair association. Today, we have decided to go over 4 of the amazing lighthouses, all of which are located in Downeast Maine. If you’re coming to Maine, your trip isn’t complete until you visit a lighthouse, so consider adding one of these lighthouses and the awesome towns they’re located in on your itinerary for your next trip to Maine!
1.West Quoddy Head Lighthouse – 973 South Lubec Rd, Lubec, ME 04652 | (207) 733-2180)
Our first lighthouse on the list is unique in more ways than one! Firstly, this is Maine’s only candy-striped lighthouse, giving it a distinctive match! The red and white stripes are not somewhere you can see just anywhere! Secondly, as it’s located on West Quoddy Head in Lubec, this means it’s on the easternmost point in the continental states. If you can catch the lighthouse at sunrise, you’ll be one of the first to see the sunrise in the whole US! There is also a museum and visitors center attached to the lighthouse, which will be reopening in 2021 after being closed last summer due to COVID! The lighthouse is located in a state park, which will give you plenty of hikes to walk along during your visit. Don’t forget to check out Lubec, and all of the amazing things that are available.
2. Moose Peak Lighthouse – Mistake Island, ME (off of Jonesport Harbor)
Our second lighthouse is located on an island (Mistake Island) located five miles southeast of Jonesport. To reach this island, you have a couple of options. The first is by a public boat, and the second is through a boat tour from Coastal Cruises & Dive Downeast, which will bring you up close and personal to the lighthouse! This is also a very foggy island, so if you’re looking for a spooky atmosphere, this is the place to go! Moose Peak has a long history, which you can read all about here! And, of course, don’t forget to check out Jonesport and all it has to offer!
3. Dyce Head Lighthouse – Dyces Head Rd, Castine, ME 04421| (207) 326-4502
Our third lighthouse is on the Western shore of Castine, which has much to offer. In fact, the entire town is on the National Register of Historic Places. This lighthouse has been used for over 200 years! However, this lighthouse and lightkeeper house has been consistently buffeted by fires and storms, meaning it has been updated and renovated several times!
4. Little River Lighthouse – Cutler, ME 04626 | (877) 276-4682
Our final lighthouse of the list offers a very unique opportunity. The Little River Lighthouse allows up to 6 guests to stay in the keeper’s room! The lighthouse is located on an island just off Cutler. The stay will include a boat ride to the island. There are amazing walking trails on the 15-acre island, great places to see the sunrise, and you can even walk all the way up to the top of the lighthouse! Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a ‘hotel’ like never before! During your stay, you can also check out Cutler and all the great places they have to offer.