Maine is blessed with 5,000 miles of coastline, inlets, and islands. For hundreds of years, mariners have depended on 65 historic lighthouses to safely guide them home. Many of these lighthouses now serve as tourist attractions with museums and breathtaking views. You could create an entire trip centered around the lighthouses of Maine.
We are delighted to have two stunning lighthouses that are available for tours within a short distance of our inn.
Permaquid Point Lighthouse is the most photographed lighthouse in the state of Maine. Built in 1835, it is featured on the Maine state quarter. The name is said to come from an Abenaki word meaning “situated far out.” It marks the entrance to Muscongus Bay and Johns Bay. Both the lighthouse and the keeper’s home have been preserved. The grounds also feature a fog bell tower and an oil house. The first innkeeper was paid $350 a year and moved to the lighthouse with his wife and five children. A sixth child was born at the lighthouse. This is the second lighthouse to have been built on this point. The original, which went into service in 1827, didn’t last. The tower has been staffed by volunteers since 1972. It is open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. Donations are appreciated but there is no set fee to climb the tower.
Burnt Island Lighthouse was built in 1821 and is still active. The 5-acre island was used as sheep pasturage before the United State of America purchased it for $150 from local residents. Thirty men served as keepers of the lighthouse over the years until it was automated in 1988. Accessible only via boat, the island housing the lighthouse is open to the public 7 days a week. The island boasts a rocky shore, sand beach, meadow, and maritime forest and features many ideal spots for a picnic with a view. Recreational boaters may use the dock and moorings on a first come first served basis. The lighthouse is open to tour groups or by appointment.
Boat tours are one of the best ways to visit and photograph these iconic seashore buildings.
Cap’n Fish’s Cruises offers many opportunities to view nearby lighthouses including the Harbor Cruise with Seals, Lighthouses, and Lobster Trap Haul. The tour passes by Burnt Island Lighthouse and Ram Island Lighthouse. (Ram Island Lighthouse is not open to the public. The grounds are open by appointment.) The Inner Islands Cruise passes by 3 lighthouses on a 2-hour cruise. The Cocktail Harbor Cruise has an open bar and photo opportunities with two lighthouses.
If you’re interested in venturing a bit off shore, take a boat to Monhegan Island with Balmy Days Cruises. The island is 12 miles off shore, has about 65 year-round residents, and has no paved roads or cars. The grounds of Monhegan Lighthouse and a museum in the keeper’s house are open to the public. This tour is available Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend.
