Lighthouse Itinerary
Guiding your way and capturing your heart.
Explore the magical coastline from Maine to Nova Scotia with our Signature Lighthouse Itinerary!
The East Coast is known for idyllic, sweeping coastal scenery that is nothing short of majestic.
Accompanying these seascape views are more than 200 lighthouses, that are not only picturesque but also an important part of the region’s rich maritime history. With 19,000 km (12,000 miles) of combined coastline to explore you’ll find iconic lighthouses dotting our connected coast. To help focus your search we have highlighted some of Maine and Nova Scotia’s most popular lighthouses and organized them by region to inform your itinerary.
Start your adventure at Fore Points Marina, Portland, Maine and embark on our Signature Lighthouse Itinerary with recommendations for destination ports and options to “explore more” in each region!
Greater Portland and Casco Bay
From your berth at Fore Points Marina, Portland, explore this small vibrant city and its world-class dining scene, a truly magnificent art museum, and plenty of places to enjoy the scenic rocky coast.
SpringPoint Ledge Lighthouse
S O U T H P O R T L A N D , M A I N E.
4 3 . 6 4 9 9 0 6 ° N - 7 0 . 2 2 7 6 2 ° E
Built in 1897, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse was constructed to warn mariners of a dangerous ledge in Portland Harbor. The light resembles a giant spark plug standing atop a 900-foot granite breakwater in South Portland and is the only caisson-style lighthouse in the United States that visitors can walk out to.
Tip: Enjoy the incredible view of the entire Portland skyline from Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse.
Stay: Fore Points Marina | forepointsmarina.com | 207-517-4860
Portland Head Lighthouse
C A P E E L I Z A B E T H , M A I N E.
4 3 ° 3 7 ' 2 3 . 2 " N 7 0 ° 1 2 ' 2 8 . 4 " W
Built in 1791, Portland Head Light was Commissioned by George Washington and dedicated by the Marquis de Lafayette. It is the state's oldest lighthouse and is adjacent to 90- acre Fort Williams Park. The former keepers' house is now home to The Museum at Portland Head Light.
Tip: Tour the park’s arboretum, walk the cliffside loop, and explore the rocky beach.
Stay: Fore Points Marina - forepointsmarina.com | 207-517-4860
Portland Breakwater Lighthouse
S O U T H P O R T L A N D , M A I N E
4 3 . 6 5 5 5 ° N 7 0 . 2 3 4 8 ° W
And then there’s the cute one, Portland Breakwater Lighthouse. It’s known, affectionately, as "Bug Light" because of its small size. Diminutive though it may be, Bug Light played a huge role in protecting Portland Harbor beginning with its construction in 1875.
Tip: Bug Light Park is a popular destination for picnicking, boating, kite flying and saltwater fishing.
Stay: Fore Points Marina - forepointsmarina.com | 207-517-4860
Casco Bay Islands
While craggy cliffs and crashing waves dominate Maine's coastline, the delightful islands of Casco Bay — just a boat ride away from Portland — offer a gentler counterpart with soaring pine, oak, and maple trees, homes nestled among lush gardens and docks with hammocks peeking out from dense foliage.
Casco Bay Islands offer fun places for walks, bicycle rides, relaxed meals and a slowed down pace far removed from that of mainland New England. It's a version of island life you'll want to explore. Referred to as "Calendar Islands" because there's at least one for every day of the year, each island has its own style, history, scenic views, activities and shops.
Maine's MidCoast and Islands
Where classic New England villages meet the rugged, spectacular coastline. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, Maine's MidCoast provides world renowned coastlines and beaches, quaint villages, and vibrant working waterfronts.
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
N E W H A R B O U R , M A I N E
4 3 ° 5 0 ′ 1 3 . 0 3 ″ N 6 9 ° 3 0 ′ 2 1 . 7 7 ″ W
Built in 1827, Pemaquid Point Light sits on a sloping, rocky promontory with ridges carved out by the sea. The tower's original Fresnel lens is still in use. In 2003, this light became the first lighthouse to appear on American currency when its image was used for the official Maine quarter.
Tip: Visit the keeper's house which now hosts a Fishermen's Museum and learn about fishing, lobstering and lighthouse service.
Stay: Hodgdon Marina - hodgdonmarina.com | 207-632-5427
Burnt Island Lighthouse
B O O T H B A Y H A R B O R , M A I N E.
4 3 ° 4 9 ' 3 0 . 5 " N 6 9 ° 3 8 ' 2 4 . 9 " W
Built in 1821, Burnt Island Light Station is located at the western entrance to Boothbay Harbor. The restored buildings now serve as a living history museum where interpreters in period clothing portray a lighthouse family who once were keepers there.
Tip: Take a natural history walk along the island's perimeter trail and learn from interpreters about the flora, fauna and geological features of this island.
Stay: Hodgdon Marina - hodgdonmarina.com | 207-632-5427
Owls Head Lighthouse
O W L S H E A D , M A I N E
4 4 ° 0 5 ’ 3 2 ″ N 6 9 ° 0 2 ’ 3 9 ″ W
When you look up Owls Head Lighthouse in Rockland, you really will be looking up! The tower sits on a rocky rise 100 feet above Penobscot Bay. Constructed in 1825 and rebuilt in 1852, the cylindrical tower itself is on the short side at 30 feet, but its light delivers an impressive 16-mile beam.
Tip: While you are in the area visit the Maine Lighthouse Museum in Rockland. You’ll leave enlightened about lighthouse history, lifesaving techniques and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Stay: Journey's End Marina - journeysendmarina.com | 207-594-0400
Explore Monhegan Island
Located 16 km (10 miles) offshore from Boothbay, Monhegan Island is one of Maine’s most unchanged and unbelievably magical natural places.
Explore range cliffs and tidal beaches along the 14 km (9 mile) trail system around the island and stop at Monhegan Island Light and Museum.
The Lighthouse on Monhegan was built in 1824 and is still actively shining. Views from the lighthouse are incredible, overlooking the entire village, harbor, mainland, and nearby islands.
Downeast and Acadia
Maine's Downeast and Acadia Region is famous for rocky shorelines, scenic harbors and mountain-to-sea views. This area is home to Acadia National Park, a treasure of the United States National Park network.
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse
L U B E C , M A I N E. | 4 4 ° 4 8 ′ 5 4 . 3 8 7 ″ N 6 6 ° 5 7 ′ 2 . 4 1 6 ″ W
This candy striped tower is the focal point of West Quoddy State Park. West Quoddy Head Lighthouse was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson in 1808 and rebuilt in 1831 and again in 1858. Overlooking Quoddy Narrows, a strait between Lubec and Campobello Island, Canada, it is the easternmost lighthouse in the United States.
Tip: Explore the lighthouse grounds and enjoy the Visitor Center Museum located inside the Light Keepers' house.
Stay: Bar Harbor Regency Hotel & Marina - barharborregency.com | 207-801-3904
Petit Manan Lighthouse
P E T I T M A N A N I S L A N D , M A I N E
4 4 ° 2 2 ' 0 3 . 1 " N 6 7 ° 5 1 ' 5 1 . 1 " W
Built in 1817, Petit Manan Lighthouse is one of Maine's oldest and at 123 feet, also one of the state's tallest lighthouses. Located off Petit Manan Point, the island is part of the Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge. It is closed to visitors during the Spring and Summer to protect nesting birds.
Tip: As you sail past, keep watch for Atlantic Puffins who sometimes drop by!
Stay: Bar Harbor Regency Hotel & Marina - barharborregency.com | 207-801-3904
Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse
S W A N S I S L A N D , M A I N E.
4 4 ° 0 8 ' 0 3 " N 6 8 ° 2 6 ' 5 0 " W
Built in 1872, the lighthouse marks the entrance to Burnt Coat Harbor, Swans Island's main port. Sometimes called Swans Island Lighthouse or the Hockamock Head Lighthouse.
Tip: Take a walk on the trails that wind around Hockamock Head with gorgeous water views and access to two beaches. Visitors can also stay overnight in the Keeper's house apartment!
Stay: Bar Harbor Regency Hotel & Marina - barharborregency.com | 207-801-3904
Acadia National Park
Marvel at the beauty of the Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor from above!
This area is referred to as the jewel of the North Atlantic coast, a rare meeting of ocean and mountains. From here evergreen forests fan out from craggy granite peaks leading to miles of rugged coastline.
Embark on a helicopter tour taking you offshore to capture the stunning views of Schoodic Point to the east, Baker Island and the Cranberry Islands to the south, and the Blue Hill area to the west, giving you a whole new perspective our this magical coastline from the air.
Yarmouth and Acadian Shores
Yarmouth and Acadian Shores welcome you to Nova Scotia, Canada's Ocean Playground. Immerse yourself in authentic working fishing towns and villages, gorgeous landscapes and rich cultures by day and prepare to be mesmerized by the stars at night.
Cape Forchu Lighthouse
Constructed in 1962 to replace the original lighthouse that was built in 1839, Cape Forchu Lighthouse is renowned for its unique “applecore” design. Explore the surrounding rugged landscape and Leif Erikson Trail, soaking up breathtaking views and stunning sunsets at the southern tip of Nova Scotia.
Tip: Climb to the lantern room and enjoy an incredible panoramic view of Cape Forchu, Yarmouth Harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Stay: Killam Bros. Marina - townofyarmouth.ca/marina-services.html | 902-740-4780
Bunker Island Lighthouse
B U N K E R I S L A N D , N O V A S C O T I A
4 3 . 8 1 2 4 ° N 6 6 . 1 4 3 4 ° W
Bunker Island Lighthouse, affectionately known locally as "Bug Light" is a small lighthouse built on a caisson reachable from Bunker's Island at low tide. It was erected in 1874 as a supplement to the Cape Forchu light station.
Tip: Visit nearby Fish Point Historical Site to view the Lost to the Sea Memorial and learn more about the history of the Yarmouth Bar area including the Beacon (Bug) Light through interpretative panels.
Stay: Killam Bros. Marina - townofyarmouth.ca/marina-services.html | 902-740-4780
Seal Island Lighthouse
S E A L I S L A N D , N O V A S C O T I A
4 3 . 3 9 4 6 ° N , 6 6 . 0 1 4 2 ° W
Seal Island lies off the southwest tip of Nova Scotia where the broad mouth of the BAy of Fundy meets the waters of the open Atlantic. Built in 1830-31, it is is the second oldest lighthouse tower in Nova Scotia and is accessible by boat only.
Tip: Seal Island has a fascinating history worthy of a trip to the Seal Island Lighthouse Museum on the mainland in Barrington.
Stay: Anchor off Seal Island or return to Killam Bros. Marina, Yarmouth.
Folklore & Star Gazing
Step into living history when you set foot on the enchanting Tusket Islands, home to seasonal fishermen anxious to be closer to their fishing grounds. Stories of lobster and tuna fishing, World War II spies, shipwrecks, buried treasure and much more will leave you yearning to learn more about this magical place.
Yarmouth and Acadian Shores is where you can find some of the darkest and clearest skies in North America. In fact, the region is so perfectly suited for viewing the night sky that it has been designated the first Starlight Reserve in North America by The International Starlight Foundation.
City of Halifax
The magnetism of Halifax’s historic waterfront anchors this captivating urban destination where you will find yourself surrounded by fine dining, pubs, museums, cafés, boutique shopping and vibrant nightlife - all just a step away from your boardwalk berth.
Peggy's Cove Lighthouse
P E G G Y ' S P O I N T , N O V A S C O T I A
4 4 . 4 9 3 4 ° N 6 3 . 9 1 2 6 ° W
Built in 1915, this classic red-and-white lighthouse is situated on an extensive granite outcrop and is one of the most-photographed structures in Atlantic Canada.
Tip: Spend an afternoon exploring the surrounding picturesque village, home to local artisans and the unique topography of the Peggy's Cove area.
Stay: Halifax Waterfront - buildns.ca/visit/halifax/halifax-marina | 902-229-2628
Georges Island Lighthouse
G E O R G E S I S L A N D , H A L I F A X , N O V A S C O T I A
4 4 ° 3 8 ' 2 9 . 0 4 ' ' N 6 3 ° 3 3 ' 3 7 . 4 0 4 ' ' W
Located in the middle of the Halifax Harbour, Georges Island is home to one of Canada’s first automated lighthouses built in 1917. The lighthouse is adjacent Fort Charlotte, established on the island in 1750, one year after the founding of Halifax and declared a National Historic site in 1965.
Tip: Plan to spend one to two hours on the island, taking in the views of the city skyline and exploring Fort Charlotte and its network of tunnels.
Stay: Halifax Waterfront - buildns.ca/visit/halifax/halifax-marina | 902-229-2628
Sambro Island Lighthouse
S A M B R O I S L A N D , N O V A S C O T I A
4 4 ° 2 8 ' 4 2 . 9 2 4 ' ' N 6 3 ° 3 6 ' 1 7 . 5 6 8 ' ' W
Standing on a granite island outside the entrance to Halifax Harbour, Sambro Island Lighthouse, built in 1758, is the oldest standing and operating lighthouse in North America, sitting 62 feet on top of the rocky island. The original lens from the lighthouse is on display at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, Halifax.
Tip: Feel the fresh ocean breezes, enjoy the sounds of crashing waves and capture rare photo opportunities on the rock seemingly in the middle of the sea.
Stay: Halifax Waterfront - buildns.ca/visit/halifax/halifax-marina | 902-229-2628
Sambro Island Escape
Take a thrilling helicopter journey over the City of Halifax and the stunning Nova Scotia coastline to Sambro Island. Your flight will whisk you to Sambro Island where you will learn about local legends, secrets, and stories on a guided tour of the island. Indulge in Nova Scotia bubbly on a private beach, explore a secluded cove and enjoy a locally sourced tasting picnic on the island. You’ll likely have the island to yourself as you explore the sparkling granite coastline and pathways through flowing grasses!
Eastern Shore
Discover the Eastern Shore, Nova Scotia's wild side, with its breathtaking natural landscapes, naturally built for outdoor adventure and coastal activities, including tranquil coves, sparkling waters, rugged cliffs, and unique boreal forests.
Sheet Rock Lighthouse
S O B E R I S L A N D , N O V A S C O T I A
4 4 . 8 4 7 0 ° N 6 2 . 4 6 1 5 ° W
Sheet Rock Lighthouse has been a beacon to seafarers for close to 200 years. It marks the entrance of Sheet Harbour and owes its name to the sheer bedrock cliff facing the seaward side, at times resembling a suspended sheet. A series of lighthouses shone their beacon from 1878 to 1968 when the last one was automated.
Tip: Grab your binoculars and camera as you are sure to encounter wildlife sightings in this rugged environment.
Stay: Guysborough Marina - guysboroughmarina.ca | 902-533-2052
Port Bickerton Lighthouse
P O R T B I C K E R T O N , N O V A S C O T I A
4 5 ° 2 3 ' 2 4 . 9 7 2 ' ' N 6 1 ° 3 0 ' 0 . 0 6 8 4 ' ' W
Built in 1901, the Port Bickerton Lighthouse marks the entrance to Port Bickerton Harbour. The initial structure was destroyed by fire in the late 1920s. The second lighthouse, constructed in 1930, now houses the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Interpretive Centre. The most recent lighthouse (circa 1960), the third in the series, was de-staffed and automated in 1988.
Tip: The light tower on top of the Interpretive Centre and the oceanfront lookoff offer wonderful views of the sea and the community of Port Bickerton.
Stay: Guysborough Marina - guysboroughmarina.ca | 902-533-2052
Queensport Lighthouse
R O O K I S L A N D , N O V A S C O T I A
4 5 ° 2 0 ' 5 2 " N 6 1 ° 1 6 ' 1 8 " W
Built in 1936, the Queensport Lighthouse is located on Rook Island, a small island off the shore of Queensport Harbour, in Chedabucto Bay. The island's solo structure combines a lighthouse and keepers’ dwelling, a popular design for lighthouses in remote areas.
Tip: Explore the secluded beaches and coves along Chedabucto Bay’s shoreline. Keep your eye out for bald eagles, blue heron, osprey, gannets and other birds!
Stay: Guysborough Marina - guysboroughmarina.ca | 902-533-2052
100 Wild Islands
Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore is home to the 100 Wild Islands, one of the few unspoiled archipelagos in North America! These isolated islands offer sheltered coves of turquoise water with pristine white sand beaches, dramatic windswept headlands, and unique boreal rainforests, bogs, and barrens, as well as a rich diversity of seabirds, songbirds, and shorebirds.
Unpack your kayaks or SUPs - this area is perfect for exploring! Head out with a picnic to one of the many secluded beaches. Depending on wind direction, anchor overnight in Owls Head Bay, off DeBaies Point or in the vicinity of Wolfes Island.
Cape Breton Island
Cape Breton Island is one of the world’s top island destinations. At the heart of the island, you will find the Bras d'Or Lake, a UNESCO designated biosphere that boast over 1000 km (600 miles) of pristine coastline with hundreds of coves, inlets, harbours and hidden anchorages.
Low Point Lighthouse
Low Point Lighthouse (also known as 'Flat Point Lighthouse') marks the eastern entrance to Sydney Harbour. It has been a shining beacon for mariners since 1936 and boasts the only remaining circular lantern in Nova Scotia, built by Chance Brothers, England's famous builders of lenses and lanterns.
Tip: Check out the world’s largest fiddle located on the Sydney Waterfront. The fiddle and bow reach a height of 60 feet!
Stay: Port of Sydney - sydneyport.ca | 902-564-0800
Louisbourg Lighthouse
L O U I S B O U R G , C A P E B R E T O N I S L A N D.
4 5 ° 5 4 ' 2 4 . 1 " N 5 9 ° 5 7 ' 3 0 . 5 " W
Admire the natural beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and gaze upon the red-and-white beacon that watches over Louisbourg Harbour. Lighthouse Point is the site of the first lighthouse in Canada, which was built in 1734. The current lighthouse is the fourth one built on the site and is nearly 100 years old.
Tip: Experience what life was like in the bustling French fortified Town of Louisbourg in 1744 at the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site.
Stay: Anchor in Louisbourg Harbour or return to Port of Sydney.
Kidston Island Lighthouse
K I D S T O N I S L A N D , C A P E B R E T O N I S L A N D
4 6 ° 0 5 ′ 5 3 . 3 ″ N 6 0 ° 4 4 ′ 3 1 . 3 ″ W
Nestled along the shore of Cape Breton Island’s Bras d’Or Lake, Baddeck is a favourite stop for boaters and those looking for tranquil beauty in the heart of the Cape Breton Island. Baddeck’s picturesque waterfront extends to Kidston Island where its lighthouse has been keeping watch over the harbour since 1875.
Tip: Learn about the fascinating life of famous inventor, Alexander Graham Bell at Baddeck's Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.
Stay: Baddeck Waterfront - baddeckwaterfront.ca | 902-295-1389
The Cabot Trail
Exquisitely carved out of the breathtaking Cape Breton Island landscape, the Cabot Trail is a 298 km (185 mile) long winding roadway recognized as one of the most scenic drives in North America.
Rising from the sea and clinging to mountains, the coastal highway weaves through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, rewarding travellers with spectacular scenery and breathtaking vistas.
Looking for more ways to explore? The trail is renowned as a hiker’s paradise. Breathtaking landscapes await you on every highland crest, low-tide beach, and serene trails through old growth forests.
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207-517-4860 | info@forepointsmarina.com