If you’re looking for the most amazing road trip along Maine’s coast to see the best lighthouses in the state, I’m so glad you’ve found me! Hi there, I’m Sam, and I spend pretty much all my free time exploring New England. As a local northeasterner, this road trip is one of my most favorites I’ve ever taken in the region.
Doing a Maine lighthouse driving tour is an unforgettable experience! Not only will see some beautiful lighthouses, but you’ll also pass through some amazing coastal towns with stunning beaches, dramatic rocky coastline, eat delicious seafood, and even explore Acadia National Park if you have time (which I highly suggest doing!).
As someone who has done this Maine lighthouse driving tour several times, I also frequently stop at all these lighthouses while driving along the coast. I’ve got so many tips to share with you, suggestions on where to stop, and give you all the information you need to plan the perfect trip. This itinerary was created after hours and hours of research and years of experience – and I’ve finally perfected it.
Ready to start planning? Let’s go!
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How Many Lighthouses Are There In Maine?
Maine has a whopping 65 lighthouses total. Not all of them are accessible on land, and in fact, many of them you can only get to or see by boat. But there are also so many you can also drive to, visit, and climb, which makes this an incredible state to tour lighthouses.
For this particular itinerary, you will visit 12 lighthouses, which doesn’t even include ones seen from the water, so you’ll have the opportunity to add on even more with optional boat tours along the way. This itinerary also includes some of the best places to see in New England along the coast, so you’ll get the best of both worlds.
What Are The Best Lighthouses To See In Maine?
This Maine lighthouse driving tour is going to take you to what I think are the best lighthouses to see in all of Maine. These lighthouses are all accessible on land, and they include:
→ Portland Head Light
→ Bug Light
→ Spring Point Ledge Light
→ Doubling Point Light
→ Squirrel Point Light
→ Pemaquid Point Light
→ Marshall Point Light
→ Owls Head Light
→ Rockland Breakwater Light
→ Bass Harbor Light
→ West Quoddy Head Light
→ Nubble Light
How To Plan Your Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour
Since this Maine lighthouse road trip runs almost the entire length of the state’s coastline, this will be an “out and back” style road trip. For that reason, I recommend visiting half the destinations on the first leg, and the second half of the destination on the second leg. This breaks up the driving perfectly, and always gives you something to look forward to, even as your trip comes to an end.
To make planning easier for you, I’ve designed this itinerary exactly this way. Based on my experience in the area, I’ve balanced sight-seeing with drive times, and created a route that allows you to see lighthouses while driving both up and down the coast.
However, if you’re looking to make this a one-way road trip, you can certainly re-arrange my suggestions in order, and then fly home from one of the northern airports instead.
How Many Days Do You Need For A Maine Lighthouse Road Trip?
10 nights and 11 days will be perfect for this road trip, which will allow you time to drive from Portland to Lubec and back, while having some free time in a few coastal towns to relax. If you don’t have 10 days, you could do this itinerary in 5-7 days, and just not have as much down time, or eliminate a destination or two.
If you need to make a shorter road trip and still want to see some gorgeous lighthouses, driving from Portland to the Camden area is perfect, and you can do it in a weekend!
What Airport To Fly Into For This Road Trip
Either Boston Logan in Massachusetts, or Portland International Jetport in Maine. Portland will be the most convenient airport to fly in and out of, however, Boston Logan is the cheapest, and also offers the most options.
Boston is only about 2 hours from Portland, so it’s not a bad option if you need more flight options. This will all be personal preference, and dependent on your timing and plans.
At the end of this road trip, you’ll head a bit further south of Portland to Ogunquit, which is only 45 minutes to the Portland airport, so you’ll be returning to relatively the same area.
Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour
This Maine lighthouse driving tour will stop at lighthouses between Ogunquit and Lubec, and depending on where you’re coming from, you can begin at either point. If you’re coming from anywhere in New England, or the rest of the U.S., you’ll likely want to start in Portland, and work your way up and back. If you’re coming from Canada, start in Lubec, and work your way down and back up.
For the sake of this post, I’m going to start in Portland, and work my way north first, but just reverse this route if you plan to start in the north, and work your way south.
Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrive in Portland, and see Portland Head Light, Bug Light & Spring Point Ledge Light.
Day 2-3: Drive to Boothbay Harbor, stopping at Doubling Point Light & Squirrel Point Light on the way. Spend 2 nights in Boothbay Harbor, including a boat tour to see Ram, Burnt & Pemaquid Lighthouses.
*Editor’s Note: As of November 2023, Doubling Point Lighthouse is closed to the public until further notice for repairs. I’m monitoring their website regularly for news on re-opening, and will update this post accordingly when there’s more information. As of 2025, the lighthouse is still collecting donations for the repairs. Please do not add this lighthouse to your itinerary as of now.
Day 4-5: Drive to Acadia National Park to see Bass Harbor Light. Spend 2 nights to also explore the park and Bar Harbor.
Day 6: Drive to Lubec to see West Quoddy Light, and spend the night.
Day 7-8: Drive to Camden, stopping at Schoodic Peninsula on the way. Spent 2 nights in Camden. Option to add a windjammer tour to see Curtis Island Lighthouse.
Day 9: Drive to Harpswell/Bailey Island, stopping at Rockland Breakwater Light, Owls Head, Marshall Point Light and Pemaquid Light along the way. This is a longer driving day, but broken up with lots of stops. Spend the night in Harpswell/Bailey Island.
*I also provide the option to spend two nights in your last destination, which is either Ogunquit or Kennebunkport, and skipping Harpswell/Bailey Island. I’ll provide insight into this under that section to help you decide.
Day 10: Drive to Ogunquit or Kennebunkport (both are great!) to spend your last night in a gorgeous coastal town. See Nubble Light while in this area.
Day 11: Drive home.
↓ Check out my YouTube video below on this amazing road trip!
Day 1 Breakdown: Portland Lighthouses & Exploring The City
You’ll want to stay the night in Portland, and plan your arrival so that you have time to see three lighthouses: Portland Head Light, Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light, all of which are within a 15-minute drive from one another.
To get to the lighthouses, you’ll need to drive to South Portland, which is only about 15 minutes from downtown Portland/Old Port.
Don’t want to drive to the lighthouses? I have a great option for you!
→ Check out this city tour that goes to all 3 Portland lighthouses
Portland Head Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, and is definitely a must-see during your Maine lighthouse driving tour. The surrounding area with the rocky cliffs and stunning scenery will make for some amazing pictures, and the grounds are free to walk around. I would budget around 1 hour here.
The Bite Into Maine food truck is often parked at the Portland Head Lighthouse, and they actually serve up a delicious lobster roll, so keep that in mind 😉
Bug Light is a really unique and ornate lighthouse that you likely won’t see anywhere else. It was actually inspired by Greek architecture, so this is a great one to stop by and see in person. It’s situated in a little park where you can linger and enjoy the scenery.
Spring Point Ledge Light is at the end of a breakwater, so it’s definitely fun to walk out to the end, and see the lighthouse up close.
I think all 3 Portland lighthouses are worth your time during your Maine lighthouse driving tour, especially since they’re all so close to each other. However, if you’re short on time, Portland Head Light is the one to see.
Spend the rest of your time in Portland exploring the charming scenery and fun things to do. Here are some things I recommend checking out in Portland:
→ Take a food tour! This is a fantastic culinary destination in New England.
→ Stroll around the Old Port neighborhood, which is the best in the city.
→ Grab drinks and light bites at Batson River or Aprés.
→ Visit the museums: Victoria Mansion, Portland Museum of Art, Portland Observatory.
→ Explore the breweries! Portland is known for them. Click here for my Portland Brewery Guide.
Where to eat in Portland:
→ Luke’s Lobster at the Pier
→ Eventide Oyster Co.
→ Via Vecchia
→ Flatbread Company for pizza (a New England brand, and a cozy waterfront location)
Where To Stay In Portland:
I always recommend the Old Port area, as it’s very walkable to shops and restaurants, and has the most character.
✓ Portland Press Hotel – the best in the city, and worth the splurge!
✓ Portland Harbor Hotel
✓ Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront
Parking At Portland Head Light & Portland Lighthouses
Parking is free and easy at Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light.
Parking at Portland Head Light is also easy with two designated lots, but if you visit between April 1-November 15, you’ll have to pay for parking at the lots closest to the lighthouse. The metered parking isn’t expensive, but you’ll want to be sure to pay at the self-serve kiosks before leaving your car.
Day 2 Breakdown: Doubling & Squirrel Point Lighthouses & Drive To Boothbay Harbor
On your drive from Portland to Boothbay Harbor, you’ll want to stop at two adorable little lighthouses: Doubling Point & Squirrel Point. These lighthouses sit along the Kennebec River, and are small, but really fun to visit during your Maine lighthouse driving tour.
These lighthouses are less than an hour drive from Portland. I would suggest stopping at Doubling Point first, and then making your way to Squirrel Point, which is only a 15-minute drive from Doubling Point.
How To Visit Doubling Point Lighthouse
*Editor’s Note: In case you missed it earlier in the post, as of November 2023, Doubling Point Lighthouse is closed to the public until further notice for repairs, and is not open as of 2025. I’m leaving these details about visiting Doubling Point here for when it opens back up, but for now, please do not add this one to your itinerary.
If you type “Doubling Point Lighthouse” into your GPS or Google Maps, your navigation system will take you right there, but there are some things to know. First, this lighthouse is free to visit and open to the public, but it’s very, very close to a private residence. When I visited in mid-May, the people who lived in the adjacent house were there, so it’s best to be very respectful while visiting.
Secondly, you’ll be driving down a dirt road for a bit until you reach the lighthouse. Don’t worry! You’re on the right track to get there!
Lastly, while it seems like the lighthouse is part of the private residence, know it’s okay to walk right up to it. You don’t need permission. There is also a small parking area off to the side of the house that accommodates 2-3 cars, so you can easily park during your visit.
I like this lighthouse because there’s a long footbridge leading to the actual structure, and because it’s not one of the more popular lighthouses and a bit off-the-beaten-path, not many people visit. There are great views of the Kennebec River from here, too.
How To Visit Squirrel Point Lighthouse
Next, you’ll want to make your way to Squirrel Point Lighthouse. Use this address to get to the trailhead: 598 Bald Head Road Arrowsic, ME 04530.
A few things to know about visiting Squirrel Head Light:
→ You’ll also drive down a long, dirt road to get to the trailhead.
→ There is a short and scenic walk through the woods to get to the lighthouse, which is about 2/3 of a mile.
→ You’ll want to be aware of tide schedules, as you’ll cross a bridge over a marsh to get to the lighthouse and back, so be sure you’re visiting well within low tide (or before high tide at the very least). If you visit during high tide, you won’t be able to cross the bridge. Click here for the local tide schedule for this area.
Once you arrive at the trailhead, which is at the end of Bald Head Road, there is free and easy parking. To get to the lighthouse, veer left when the trail splits – it’ll be easy to follow, I promise. The walk is scenic, and there are a few really cool photo spots along the way!
Once you get to the lighthouse, you’ll likely either be there by yourself, or only with a few other people since this is also more of an off-the-beaten-path destination. You’ll have awesome views of the Kennebec River, and be able to enjoy some quiet moments. You can also see across the river to Phippsburg.
Next, drive to Boothbay Harbor, and there are some optional stops you can make on the way.
One optional stop is Georgetown, which isn’t far from Squirrel Point, and a nice stop to make if you’re looking to see as many beautiful coastal towns as possible. You’ll also be able to eat at one of the best seafood shacks in Maine while here, Five Islands Lobster Co.
Another option for a pitstop is Wiscasset, which is a charming little town with a great seafood shack, Reds Eats. Wisacasset is right on the way to Boothbay (you’ll have to drive through it to get there), so it’ll be a very easy stop to make without detouring. Reds is one of the most popular seafood shacks in Maine, and the food lives up to the hype! This is another great stop to make for lunch, but keep in mind the lines here get very long during prime meal times, so you’ll need to plan for extra time.
Once you arrive in Boothday Harbor, check into your hotel and get settled, and get ready to explore one of Maine’s most awesome coastal towns!
Day 3 Breakdown: Boothbay Harbor
While in Boothbay Harbor, you’ll have lots of options to get out onto the water. Since this Maine driving tour is all about lighthouses, you’ll definitely want to consider a cruise to see some more of them from the water. There are so many great options in Boothbay Harbor, which is one of the reasons I selected it for this road trip, and boat tour options include seeing Maine puffin colonies, whale watching, and even lobster trap hauls.
Many of these tours will go by three lighthouses: Ram Light, Burnt Light and Pemaquid Light (Pemaquid is later on this itinerary, so stay tuned!). But be sure to check the descriptions for each tour to know what lighthouses you’ll see if that’s your primary focus.
Here are the best tours to consider when visiting Boothbay Harbor:
✓ Lighthouses, Lobster Traps & Seals Tour
✓ Schooner Sunset Sail
✓ Daytime Scenic Harbor Cruise
✓ Puffin Cruise (you’ll want binoculars for this one)
Fun Things To Do In Boothbay Harbor:
→ Explore the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (highly recommend!)
→ Book dinner with Cabbage Island Clambakes (reservations required, and they sell out fast)
→ Walk around the charming downtown area.
→ Walk across the pedestrian footbridge for awesome harbor views and photo opps.
→ Book one of the above tours, of course!
Where To Eat In Boothbay Harbor:
→ Shannon Unshelled – casual place, but worth it. Open seasonally.
→ Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar
→ Robinson’s Wharf – in nearby Southport, but worth the short drive. Seasonal only.
→ Down East ice cream
Where To Stay In Boothbay Harbor:
✓ Harborage Inn On The Waterfront: Walkable to downtown and right on the water.
✓ Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort: Best for a resort feel with amenities.
Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor, if you need more ideas 😉
Day 4 Breakdown: Drive To Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park
The drive from Boothbay to Bar Harbor is about 2 hours and 45 minutes, and you’ll be in Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park for 2 nights.
Optional Stop: You’ll cross the Penobscot Narrows Bridge on this route, and there are different places to pull over and admire the bridge. But you can also make a stop to go to the top of the bridge, which is the tallest bridge observatory in the world. It’s a pretty cool experience!
Once you arrive in Bar Harbor, I recommend getting settled, and exploring the town first. Bar Harbor is the town adjacent to the park, and it’s really quaint with fun things to do. For shorter visits and first-timers, this is where I recommend you stay because you’re closer to all the top sites in the park.
While in Bar Harbor, you can also take a walk along Shore Path, which is a pedestrian path that takes you along the coastline of Frenchman Bay with awesome views.
Optional Tours: You can do a whale watch or lighthouse boat cruise from downtown Bar Harbor, and with the lighthouse cruise option, you’ll get to see 4 additional lighthouses from the water that you can only see by boat, which are Winter Harbor, Egg Rock, Bear Island and Baker Island. Click here to check out the lighthouse cruise from Bar Harbor.
Another option during your time in Bar Harbor is to explore Acadia National Park by e-bike! There are tons of carriage roads inside the park that are really scenic, and this is a fun way to get around. Click the link below for more information, or to book your e-bikes.
→ Click here to look into renting e-bikes to explore Acadia
Where To Eat In Bar Harbor:
→ Side Street Café
→ The Travelin’ Lobster
→ Jeannine’s Great Maine Breakfast
→ The Stadium for awesome popovers (especially if you can’t get a table at Jordan Pond House inside Acadia).
→ Geddy’s
→ Mount Desert Ice Cream is a great spot for unique flavors and delicious ice cream!
Where To Stay In Bar Harbor:
✓ Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – waterfront and walkable to everything in town.
✓ Inn on Mount Desert – my favorite moderate option.
✓ Bar Harbor Villager Motel – great budget option right in town.
Day 5 Breakdown: Explore Bass Harbor Lighthouse & Acadia National Park
This is your day to explore Acadia National Park, and be sure to plan your visit to Bass Harbor Lighthouse, which is about 30 minutes from Bar Harbor. The lighthouse is part of the park.
To explore Acadia National Park, you’ll need to purchase a park pass, which you can buy online here.
I suggest visiting Bass Harbor Light during sunrise, especially if visiting in peak summer season. The parking area for this lighthouse is not small, but fills up fast, and if you arrive when the lot is full, you have to wait until a spot opens up. The park rangers do not allow you make a U-turn and make your way back, so you’ll have no other choice but to wait for a spot to become available.
Sunset is the most popular time at this lighthouse, so if you want to visit during that time in peak summer season, plan to arrive a few hours early.
At sunrise, however, you’ll likely only see a few other people, and snag your spot right away. When I visited during the above sunrise in May, I was there alone.
Tips For Visiting Bass Harbor Light:
→ The lighthouse is located inside Acadia National Park, so you’ll want to make sure your park pass is displayed on your dashboard when parking.
→ When you arrive at the parking area and you’re facing the water, you can take a path to your right that takes you right to the lighthouse. However, the most iconic viewpoint of the lighthouse is down the path to your left. This path is a short walk through the woods, and then down a staircase. The staircase ends at the ocean rocks, and you’ll need to climb over the rocks to see the lighthouse. It’s NOT for the faint-of-heart or anyone unsteady on their feet. Sturdy shoes are highly recommended for this.
→ This viewpoint down by the water is best explored at low tide. Click here to check tide times.
Top Things To Do Inside Acadia National Park:
→ Ocean Path – A very easy walking path that connects Sand Beach and Otter Cliffs, and will provide some of the best, and most famous, landscapes in all of Acadia. Very big pay off for minimal effort!
→ Drive Park Loop Road. This is known for being the most scenic drive inside the park.
→ Jordan Pond House Lunch – A restaurant located right inside the park, overlooking Jordan Pond, and is famous for their popovers. This is a really fun and serene experience. Open seasonally, so be sure to check hours before arriving.
→ Hiking, of course! A few of my favorite trails are Gorham, Great Head, Beehive, and Bubble Rock. These all offer really nice coastal views at the summit.
→ Cadillac Mountain For Sunrise or Sunset – This is one of the most popular things to do in the park because it’s one of the first places in the U.S. to watch the sun come up. Having done both sunrise and sunset here, I love them both, and would say choose based on what you think you’ll enjoy more. The sun will rise over the water, and set behind the mountain, so sunrise is a bit more dramatic, but sunset fills the sky with a warm glow as it sets behind you.
The park does now require reservations to drive to the summit of
Cadillac Mountain between mid-May and late-October!
Click here to make your vehicle reservation!
*I recommend the option to make your reservation two days beforehand to ensure good conditions for sunrise. If it’s overcast, the sunrise time slots are not worth the early wake-up call.
Good To Know: Cadillac Mountain is only sometimes the first place to see the sunrise in the U.S. Many people get that wrong when visiting, and think it’s all the time. But really, it depends on the time of year. From October 7 – March 7 is when this is the location of the first sunrise in the U.S. But even if you’re not there during these months, the sunrise here is still incredible – as long as conditions are good, of course 😉
I have some guides you may find helpful while planning this part of your trip, including:
- My Perfect Acadia National Park itinerary
- Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park
- Best Towns To Stay When Visiting Acadia National Park
- Is Acadia National Park Still Worth Visiting?
Day 6 Breakdown: Lubec To See West Quoddy Lighthouse
The drive to Lubec is about 2 hours and 15 minutes from Bar Harbor, and I would suggest going straight to West Quoddy Lighthouse first. Also budget time to see the actual lighthouse, and to walk some of the surrounding trails. You’ll be spending a night in Lubec to explore the town, relax, and hit up some of the hiking trails that have gorgeous coastal views!
I can’t suggest the Lubec hiking trails enough! They totally surprised me when I first visited, and I found them to be just as awesome as some of the Acadia trails, so the excursion up to Lubec is definitely worth your time. There’s actually a lot to see and do up this way, so even with just one night, you’ll have plenty of things to keep you busy.
Best Things To Do In Lubec:
→ Explore some of the trails around West Quoddy Lighthouse. I recommend the heading right from the lighthouse (when facing the water) because the views of the trails on this part of the park are better.
→ Hike Boot Head Preserve and/or Hamilton Cove – both offer excellent coastal views!
→ Explore the very small Lubec downtown area, which is all along the waterfront.
→ Swing into Monica’s Chocolates for amazing hand-crafted chocolates – if you happen to run into Monica, she’s often there, and very friendly!
→ Drive 5 minutes to Campobello Island, which is in Canada (yep, it’s really that close!). You’ll need your passport, of course, but on the island, you can visit two lighthouses (Head Harbor Light and Mullholland Point), and also visit the summer home of President FDR (and have lunch at the Prince Café on the FDR property, which is surprisingly really good). You can actually visit the island even with just a few hours.
Where To Eat In Lubec:
→ Fisherman’s Wharf
→ Water Street Tavern & Inn
Where To Stay In Lubec:
✓ Inn on the Wharf – absolutely fantastic water views in many of the rooms!
Psst! Here’s my detailed post on all the best things to do in Lubec, if you need more ideas 😉
Day 7 Breakdown: Camden & An Optional Stop In Schoodic Peninsula
The drive from Lubec to Camden is about 3 hours, but it’s great to break it up with a stop in Schoodic Peninsula, which is the lesser-known/visited part of Acadia National Park. A park pass will be required to stop here, but if you went to Acadia, your pass is good for 7 days, so you likely won’t need to buy a new one – unless you’ve added a lot of extra days to your itinerary.
Schoodic is the lesser-known part of Acadia, and far fewer tourists visit this part of the park. While the main area of Acadia that you saw earlier on the trip is definitely the best part to see, Schoodic is very underrated, and I think it’s definitely worth a stop. It’s also small, and doesn’t really require a ton of time to explore. In fact, you can even just drive the loop around, making quick stops along the way if you’re short on time.
Tips & Best Things To Do When Visiting Schoodic Peninsula:
→ Schoodic Peninsula is a one-way, looped road. Meaning if you drive past something you want to do, there is no option to make a U-turn and backtrack, and you’ll have to finish your drive to the park exit, and re-enter. It’s not a huge deal because the drive around the entire peninsula is about 15-20 minutes, but it’s best to have a plan for the stops you want to make to avoid this mistake.
→ Definitely stop at Raven’s Nest, which is no longer on the park map because it could potentially be dangerous. I found it much less dangerous than some popular areas in Acadia National Park, but if you have young children that might run away from you, you may want to skip this one.
To find Raven’s Nest lookout, you’ll pull into the third pull-over for cars (on your left), or use these GPS coordinates: 44.352005, -68.074934. Park your car, cross the street, and you’ll see the trail head. The walk is about 5 minutes or less to the amazing overlook.
→ Schoodic Point is absolutely worth the stop! It has amazing, giant rocks you can climb out onto and watch the crashing waves. Lots of space to explore and take pictures.
→ There are also some great hiking trails inside this part of the park. If you’re looking to do some hiking, consider either the Blueberry Hill trail, or the Buck Cove Mountain trail.
Once you’re done in Schoodic, drive to Camden, which is just under 2 hours from here. After arriving in Camden, check into your hotel, and enjoy walking around the adorable town and harbor. For things to do in Camden, check out the next section below.
Day 8 Breakdown: Explore Camden
Camden is a great town for relaxing because it’s small, but also has a lot to do, and it’s always one of my most-recommended places for a Maine vacation. So, if you’re feeling tired from all the hiking you’ve done so far on your Maine lighthouse driving tour, this is a good time to relax and do some easy activities.
Camden is also home to some fantastic dining options, so this is a great place to make a reservation for a nice dinner out.
Best Things To Do In Camden:
→ Explore the Main Street shops. Head down Bayview Street for even more shops to visit.
→ Stroll around the harbor to see the awesome sailboats that are docked, as well as the nearby park.
→ Drive to Camden Hills State Park, and take the auto road to the summit of Mt. Battie, which provides incredible views of Camden from above. You can also hike if you’re up for it.
→ Walk or drive to the Curtis Island Lookout, which is a very short walk from the road.
→ Take a sunset sailing tour on a class Windjammer, which will also sail by Curtis Island Lighthouse. Click the link below for more information, or to book your tour.
→ Click here to check out the sunset Windjammer sail tour in Camden
Where To Eat In Camden:
→ The Waterfront (outdoor patio on the harbor)
→ Natalie’s
→ Franny’s
→ The Camden Deli for lunch or light bites/coffee
→ Camden Cone or River Ducks for ice cream
Where To Stay In Camden:
✓ Grand Harbor Inn – Upscale waterfront hotel walkable to everything in town.
✓ Camden Harbour Inn – An upscale inn walkable to town and with a fantastic restaurant on-site.
✓ Camden RiverHouse Inn – One of the more budget-friendly options in town that’s very cozy.
Day 9 Breakdown: Harpswell/Bailey Island & Stops At 4 Lighthouses
This is a bit of a long driving day, but I promise you, it’s loads of fun and absolutely worth it!
On your drive from Camden to Harpswell & Bailey Island, you’ll stop at 4 incredible lighthouses: Rockland Breakwater Light, Owls Head Light, Marshall Point Light and Pemaquid Point Light. That is also the order in which you’ll drive to them. I suggest you have a good breakfast and pack some snacks for the road, and leave early this day so you don’t feel rushed at each lighthouse.
Visiting Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
The drive to Rockland Breakwater Light is only about 15 minutes from Camden. Parking here is free, and found at the end of Samoset Road. Parking is limited, but since you’re getting an early start today, you should be able to get a spot.
The lighthouse is at the end of a breakwater that’s just less than a mile long, so be prepared for a bit of a walk! But it’s a really cool and different lighthouse to see on your road trip, and I think it’s worth a stop. You’ll want to wear sturdy shoes like sneakers for walking on the breakwater.
Visiting Owls Head Lighthouse
Owls Head Lighthouse is actually one of my absolute favorites in all of New England. I love this little lighthouse so much! The drive here is about 20 minutes from Rockland Breakwater Light, and parking is free and easy. Once you park, you’ll walk about 10 minutes to the lighthouse. There is a very slight incline, but it’s fairly easy to get to.
It’s also worth the effort to climb the stairs to the top and enjoy the views. In the distance, you can see Vinalhaven island from the lighthouse.
In the town of Owls Head, you can also swing by the harbor, which is a working fishing dock/marina, and very small, but if you love coastal New England scenes like this, it’s worth a stop. Just be respectful of any fishermen working in the area, but you’re more than welcome to enjoy the views from here.
Visiting Marshall Point Lighthouse
Also one of my top lighthouses to visit on your Maine lighthouse driving tour is Marshall Point Lighthouse. You may recognize it from the movie Forest Gump – one of his running scenes was filmed at this lighthouse. The drive here from Owls Head is about 35 minutes.
Parking at Marshall Point is free and easy, and if you visit in the summer, there’s also a museum on-site, which is a cool spot to check out.
Editor’s Note: As of 2025, the footbridge leading up to the lighthouse is still blocked off due to damage from a storm. There are plans in the works to fix it, but for now, you’re not able to walk on the footbridge. You can still see the lighthouse when you visit, though, and I think it’s worth stopping for! There are some cool photo opps from down below along the shoreline, and the bridge is in-tact.
Visiting Pemaquid Point Lighthouse & An Optional Stop In Friendship
The drive straight from Marshall Point Light to Pemaquid Point Light is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you decide to make the detour to the small town of Friendship, it’ll only add about 15 minutes of extra driving time.
Friendship is home to probably the most photogenic market I’ve ever seen called Wallace’s. In the town, there’s also a cute little harbor you can visit. There’s not much else to see in Friendship, but if you’re looking for a fun, off-the-beaten-path pitstop, it’s definitely worth it. Wallace’s market also has a great deli on-site, so this is a good stop to make for lunch, or shopping for road trip snacks.
From Friendship, the drive to Pemaquid Point Light is just under an hour. To visit Pemaquid Point, there is small per-car entrance fee, and on-site are public bathrooms, a lighthouse museum, and lots of coastline to explore. Be aware that admission can only be paid in cash, so plan accordingly.
In-season, the Pemaquid lighthouse tower is also open for climbing between the hours of 9a-5p. It’s run by volunteers, and dependent on weather, so if this is something you have your heart set on, you can call ahead for more information.
If you’re looking for a good lunch spot nearby, drive to Pemaquid Seafood, which is a casual seafood shack with outdoor tables and a great view!
Drive To Harpswell & Bailey Island
I chose to end your day in Harpswell/Bailey Island because this is a fantastic, lesser-known area of Maine that I think is very underrated. There aren’t as many attractions and things to do in this area, however, it’s packed with natural beauty and gorgeous scenery. This stop in Maine will allow you to experience some hidden gems during your trip.
The main attraction in Bailey Island is the Giant’s Stairs trail, which is a short cliff-walk that has huge rocks you can climb out onto for incredible views of the ocean. I always make an effort to come here whenever in the area.
Bailey Island is also home to the only cribstone bridge left in the world. You’ll cross it as you come from Orr Island!
Best Things To Do Around Bailey Island & Harpswell (in addition to Giant’s Stairs):
→ Drive around Bailey Island after visiting the Giant’s Stairs trail. It’s small, and won’t take you long.
→ Stop at Island Candy Company on Orrs Island (on your way in or out).
→ Visit the Land’s End Gift Shop on Bailey Island.
→ Explore Stover’s & Pott’s Point Preserves (two different areas, both are beautiful).
→ Hike the Cliff Trail for water views (park at Harpswell Town Office at 263 Mountain Road).
Where To Stay In Harpswell/Bailey Island:
✓ The Harpswell Inn
✓ Bailey Island Motel
Optional Itinerary Adjustment: If off-the-beaten-path isn’t your jam, you can definitely skip Harpswell and Bailey Island, and instead head straight to the next destination, which is Ogunquit or Kennebunkport (both are close to each other). Then, you could spend two nights in one of these towns instead of one night. In peak summer season, it can be harder to find places that allow one-night stays, especially on weekends, so if your itinerary has you landing in Ogunquit/Kennebunkport on a weekend in the summer, it may be better for you to stay two nights there instead.
Day 10 Breakdown: Ogunquit & Kennebunkport – Nubble Lighthouse
The next area is southern Maine, which is home to wonderful coastal towns, and the last official lighthouse on this road trip – Nubble Lighthouse. The two towns I recommend staying in are Kennebunkport or Ogunquit.
These are about 25 minutes from each other, so it’s easy to see both on your trip. Both have beautiful beaches and quaint downtown areas, however, Ogunquit is more walkable, whereas Kennebunkport’s downtown area is more separated from its beach areas. Both are great, and you can’t go wrong with either. I will say, though, Kennebunkport has more hotel options.
Optional Stops: On your way to Ogunquit or Kennebunkport, you can also stop in Freeport to see the flagship L.L. Bean store (and take a picture with the giant boot!). Old Orchard Beach is also on the way, and they have a beautiful beach to explore with a cool pier (just be prepared to pay a daily parking rate for Old Orchard, which can be upwards of $20). Old Orchard has less of a New England vibe, and more of Jersey vibe, just FYI.
Visiting Nubble Lighthouse
During your stay in this area, be sure to venture over to Cape Neddick, just 15 minutes south of Ogunquit, and see Nubble Lighthouse. This lighthouse sits on an island inaccessible by foot, so you’ll be looking across the water to see it. However, the views of the lighthouse from Sohier Park are amazing. It actually works out better for photos to enjoy the lighthouse from this distance.
Best Things To Do In Kennebunkport:
→ Enjoy Dock Square, which is the hub of downtown. Be sure to also swing by the cottages at Morning Walk Lane for more cute shops (walkable, but a bit further from town center, so you may want to drive).
→ Drive out to Cape Porpoise for idyllic coastal scenery. The charming Farm + Table shop is out here, too.
→ Head out for a coastal walk on Parsons Way.
→ Take a lobster cruise with Rugosa if you have time!
*If you have trouble parking by Dock Square, there is a free lot at 30 North St., which is a 5-10 minute walk back into town.
Where To Eat In Kennebunkport:
→ Allison’s in Dock Square
→ Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. for a lobster roll (another reason to head out this way)
→ Old Vines Wine Bar
→ Baston River for light bites and great cocktails
Best Things To Do In Ogunquit:
→ Marginal Way coastal walk – about 1 mile each way, and connects downtown Ogunquit with the cute Perkins Cove harbor (my personal favorite thing to do!).
→ See the beaches. Ogunquit’s Main Beach is walkable from town, and a short drive away is the beautiful Footbridge Beach.
→ Explore the charming downtown area. It’s small, but you’ll find some cute shops and great places to eat.
Where To Eat In Ogunquit:
→ Ogunquit Beach Lobster House
→ Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove for a lobster roll
→ Treehouse Tacqueria
→ BeachFire Bar & Grille
Where To Stay In Kennebunkport:
✓ Captains Collection Inns – a group of historic houses-turned-inns walkable to Dock Square.
✓ Tides Beach Club – where to stay closer to the beaches.
✓ King’s Port Inn – more budget-friendly option walkable to Dock Square.
Where To Stay In Ogunquit:
✓ Anchorage By The Sea – right on the water with amazing views from their lawn.
✓ Terrace By The Sea – water views from their wrap-around porch, and a short walk to the beach.
✓ Cliff House – Located on Cape Neddick close to Nubble, and one of the best resorts in Maine!
Psst! Here’s my detailed post on the best things to do in Ogunquit, if you’re looking for more ideas!
Day 11: Drive Home
Your Maine lighthouse driving tour is now complete! It’s time to head home, and scroll through all the amazing pictures you took to remind you of the incredible adventure you just had.
However, if you’re flying out of Boston, or simply have some extra time before having to leave, here are some places I recommend checking out that are worth your time:
- York, Maine, including the Stonewall Kitchen Flagship Store
- Portsmouth, NH
- Newburyport and Plum Island, MA
- Rockport, MA
- Salem, MA (you can also visit Derby Wharf Lighthouse and Fort Pickering Lighthouse)
- Marblehead, MA (you can visit Marblehead Light here, which is a skeletal lighthouse)
I have some posts on these destination, if you’d like to visit and need some ideas:
- Things To Do In Newburyport, MA & Plum Island
- Things To Do In Rockport, MA
- Things To Do In Marblehead, MA
- Ultimate Guide To Taking A Salem, MA Day Trip
Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour – FAQ
Can You Tour Lighthouses In Maine?
Yes, many lighthouses in Maine offer tours of the interior, including the light towers. It’s best to keep in mind that these tours are usually offered in the summer months only, so if there’s a specific lighthouse you want to climb, you’ll want to confirm when the lighthouse will offer tours, if at all.
Most lighthouses in Maine that are on the mainland will be open for visitors to explore the grounds and walk up to the lighthouse year-round.
What Lighthouses In Maine Can You Climb?
There are a few lighthouses in Maine that allow visitors to climb to the tower. Below is a list of each lighthouse you can climb that you can drive to (this list does not include lighthouses only accessible by boat). Be sure to click on the links for information about tours offered to climb inside the lighthouse. If you click on the link during off-season, many websites don’t update their upcoming tour season until May, so be sure to check back!
Tip: Jump down to the section about lighthouses you can stay overnight in, as many of them will offer opportunities to climb to the tower during your stay!
What Maine Lighthouses Are In Portland?
There are 3 lighthouses in South Portland that are a short 15-minute drive from Portland’s downtown, and they are Portland Head Light, Bug Light and Spring Point Ledge Light. These lighthouses are all very close to each other, and you can see them all with just a few hours.
What Maine Lighthouses Are Near Bar Harbor?
The only lighthouse that you can drive to near Bar Harbor is Bass Harbor Lighthouse, which is within the grounds of Acadia National Park in the town of Tremont. The drive is about 30 minutes. You can also take a lighthouse cruise from Bar Harbor to see other nearby lighthouses like Egg Rock, Bear Island, Winter Harbor and Baker Island Lights.
Maine Lighthouses You Can Stay Overnight In
There are 7 lighthouses in Maine that offer overnight stays. Some you can easily book online or by calling to reserve, and some require a donation in order to stay overnight, which goes into preservation efforts for that particular lighthouse. The Maine lighthouses you can stay overnight in are:
- Goose Rocks Light
- Burnt Coal Harbor Light
- Pemaquid Point Light
- Little River Light
- Seguin Island Light
- Whitehead Light
- Marshall Point Light
Why Does Maine Have So Many Lighthouses?
Maine has over 280 miles of coastline (and over 3,400 miles of tidal coastline, which accounts for all the inlets, and navigation around Maine’s islands). To keep sailors safe while getting around Maine’s famous jagged coastline and islands (which could be dangerous in the dark), quite a few lighthouses were needed. Considering how much coastline there is to navigate around Maine and its islands, 65 lighthouses doesn’t seem like that many!
Best Time Of Year For A Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour
The summer season in Maine is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit in general because the weather is the warmest, and there’s fewer chances of rain. All restaurants and shops will also be open during the summer.
This is also when hotel prices and crowds will be at their highest, so it’s a bit of a trade off. You’ll also want to consider that 1-night stays in the summer, especially on weekends, may be harder to come by, but there’s more flexibility with that other times of the year. That said, visiting Maine in the summer is exciting!
I also personally love visiting Maine in late May just before Memorial Weekend, the first week of June (right after Memorial Weekend), or in September after Labor Day. In the spring season, especially, you’ll find very few crowds and pleasant weather (with the occasional chance of rain). September is slowly becoming more popular for New England travel, and I’ve experienced some crowds during this month, but late September seems to quiet down a lot more.
One thing to note is that many of the seafood shacks in Maine are very seasonal, and they don’t usually begin to open until mid-May at the earliest – some not even until June. If you’re looking to stop at some of the best seafood shacks during your Maine lighthouse driving tour, it’ll be best to plan your trip between June-Labor Day.
I have some seasonal guides on Maine to help you decide which is best for your plans:
What To Pack For A Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour
In addition to what you plan to pack for clothing during your Maine lighthouse driving tour (and assuming you’re traveling in any season other than winter), here is a list of things you may forget, and may want to consider bringing:
- Rain gear (especially if traveling in the spring or fall), which includes an umbrella or waterproof jacket and/or rain boots.
- Swimsuit and beach towel if you want to visit any beaches during your trip (summer only).
- Sunscreen to protect your skin.
- Camera with a back-up battery and charger (if you have one).
- Tripod for your camera or iPhone to take pictures with the self-timer function.
- Lightweight jacket or sweater for boat tours, since it’s always colder out on the water.
- Dramamine if you get seasick!
- Band-aids for blisters from hiking.
- Hiking boots and apparel.
- Small backpack for hiking and boat tours.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Travel-sized dish soap to wash your reusable water bottle.
Have more time for your vacation?
Heading into Canada to see more lighthouses is a great idea 😉
Nova Scotia and PEI have absolutely beautiful lighthouses to check out.
Check out my guide on traveling from Bar Harbor, Maine to Nova Scotia and my New England To Canada Road Trip Itinerary to help you plan.
More Of My Maine Travel Guides:
- Portland, Maine In The Winter
- Best Stops To Make On A Portland, Maine To Acadia National Park Road Trip
- Where To Find The Best Whoopie Pies In Maine
- Best Day Trips From Portland, Maine
- Blueberry Picking In Maine
Other posts you may find helpful:
- 7-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary (+5 & 10-Day Options)
- The Most Incredible New England Lighthouses To Visit
- Best New England Gifts To Look For During Your Trip
That’s A Wrap On Planning The Best Maine Lighthouse Driving Tour
Now that you know how to plan the most amazing Maine lighthouse driving tour, I hope you feel excited and inspired to take this trip. It’s such an underrated part of the U.S., and this itinerary strikes the perfect balance between seeing the most beautiful lighthouses in Maine, and also seeing some of the best and prettiest coastal towns along the way. Happy planning 😊
