Portland Head Light
Portland Head Light
5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Although Maine’s oldest lighthouse is closed to the public, there’s plenty to do within the grounds of Fort Williams Park. Stop by the adjacent museum to learn about the lighthouse’s history and enjoy the lawns—perfect for a picnic as you watch boats entering and leaving the harbor. You can also hike one of the trails along the rocky shore or explore several ruins within the former Fort Williams, which include two batteries, a powerhouse, and a bunker. More adventurous travelers can snorkel or scuba dive at the stunning Ship Cove. – Tripadvisor
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See what travellers are saying
- Chloe ThomasOrlando, Florida1,724 contributionsBest Views Near Portland!When in the area, make sure to stop by the Portland Head Light. You’ll be sure to get some of the best views in the area. There’s even a few small trails you can take for a change in scenery. We only spent about an hour hear but could have made a day out of it picnicking and people watching.Visited September 2023Travelled with familyWritten 11 October 2023
- ChristyCharlotte, North Carolina242 contributionsMust see!Lovely site! I have always loved lighthouses and this one is spectacular. Easy access and lots of area to take photos. Scenery is so beautiful- crowds were light and many folks were very interested to meet our dog who was traveling with us!Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 October 2023
- Rashae WilliamsYardley, Pennsylvania42 contributionsLovely experience, would come back againWe loved our experience here! Parking was cheap, we walked around right up to the lighthouse and the other views and spots were so pretty and perfect. History and plaques were interesting, and we got dinner at Bite into Maine food truck right across the street. Beautiful place and could have stayed longer just sitting and listening to the ocean, enjoying the view.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 21 October 2023
- Travelbugsforlife1,113 contributionsGorgeous viewsGorgeous views. There are a lot of parking areas (pay parking) so that was nice we found a spot pretty easily. The whole coast area is beautiful and you can explore a decent stretch. The lighthouse itself is stunning and a beautiful piece of history.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 October 2023
- llhtexasAustin, Texas286 contributionsHead light at it's best!Beautiful grounds with great views of the head light against the ocean. The property includes trails for walking, picnic areas with BBQ pits and plenty of grounds to relax and enjoy the view. Food and drink options available also.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 30 October 2023
- Bea1,321 contributionsThe oldest lighthouse in MaineReally spectacular. Amazing lighthouse and breath-taking ocean views. Portland Head Light at a Cape Elizabeth was built in 1791 and it was commissioned by George Washington. It is the oldest lighthouse in Maine.Visited July 2023Travelled with familyWritten 11 December 2023
- John GHartsdale, New York34 contributionsBeautiful accessible lighthouse on the picturesque Maine coast.This is the most photographed lighthouse in America for a reason. It sits on o rocky outcropping and can be viewed from land on three sides. There is ample (paid but reasonable) parking. The are easy trails to follow along the shore and you can climb out onto the rocks for a better view if you are feeling adventurous. Overall just a beautiful peaceful place!Visited October 2023Travelled soloWritten 6 March 2024
- SwonQonDoiBoston, Massachusetts405 contributionsPerfect Day @ Portland Head LightWe wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and liberate ourselves in the refreshing breeze and serene blue sea, so we headed to Maine for our holiday. There's always something special about visiting beautiful states like Maine, and our destination was Portland. It was truly charming and picturesque. We allowed ourselves to break free from the demands of daily life and let the soothing sea calm our minds. It was incredibly peaceful. One highlight we highly recommend is Portland Head Light. As the oldest lighthouse in Maine, it offers breathtaking views from every angle. Picture a pristine white lighthouse standing tall against the backdrop of the blue sky and sea – it's an unforgettable sight. Nearby, you'll find food trucks where you can grab delicious food, drinks, and ice cream to make your day here in Portland even better.Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 April 2024
- NHjoSaco, Maine14,929 contributionsThis Lady survived the brutal 2024 winter storms.I took a few shots of Portland Head Light from different angles than I have in the past, which included a shot from the Bite Into Maine food truck. It was a perfect day -- warm but not humid, with a nice breeze. The lighthouse survived the terrible winter storms we had, although some of the other buildings and embankment didn't do as well.Visited May 2024Travelled soloWritten 2 June 2024
- gtanggPetaling Jaya, Malaysia558 contributionsMy favourite lighthouseThe rain did not deter us from visiting two days in a row. We would’ve loved to see the Head Light in sunny weather but it held its appeal even with the overcast skies. There are a couple of food trucks for those who have walked up an appetite. The lobster rolls were really good but we didn’t manage to sample the gelato.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 14 June 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
2,472 reviews
Excellent
2,032
Very good
375
Average
55
Poor
3
Terrible
7
Sophie
Boston, MA35 contributions
Jul 2021
On visiting today at about 4:00, I was really disappointed – and equally shocked – to find that while the park is open until dusk, the museum is only open until 2:00 on weekdays! I don't think they do a good job explaining that on their website at all. So all I was able to do was walk a trail along a craggy beach, which apparently is thrilling for some people, but I'm the sort of person who wants to have something to focus on and learn about when I sightsee, so in the words of the great philosopher Shania Twain: that don't impress me much.
The lighthouse itself isn't open to the public at all, which is a pity, but I'm sure there's good reason for it (money and/or safety), so it doesn't upset me. A museum that's only open four hours a day, though... I get that things are different in the late-pandemic era, but at a bare minimum they need to do a better job messaging that on their website.
The lighthouse itself isn't open to the public at all, which is a pity, but I'm sure there's good reason for it (money and/or safety), so it doesn't upset me. A museum that's only open four hours a day, though... I get that things are different in the late-pandemic era, but at a bare minimum they need to do a better job messaging that on their website.
Written 16 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
janiewa
Punta Gorda, FL523 contributions
Jun 2021
How wonderful that a lovely site like this is maintained by the community! The lighthouse is picture perfect in every way and the surroundings are beautifully maintained. The museum is very informative (and super reasonable at $2/person) and the gift shop has a great selection. I would definitely put this site at the top of the list for places to visit in Maine!
Written 16 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
W2322CLjennifers
Smithfield, VA60 contributions
Jul 2021
What a fantastic lighthouse to visit! Although you cannot climb the lighthouse, there is a museum with extensive displays that is only a few dollars to see. For those of us with lighthouse passport books, you can get four stamps as there are other lighthouses within view of Portland Head Light. There is a small gift shop. And of course, the lighthouse is amazing and beautiful to photograph! There is a rocky beach to explore, and also Fort Williams is adjacent to the lighthouse. A must-see for any lighthouse hunter! Tip: Check the museum hours before you go. They closed at 2 pm the day we went.
Written 20 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lady Gigglemug
Monrovia, CA5,011 contributions
Oct 2020 • Business
Said to be the inspiration for Longfellow’s poem The Lighthouse! I can see why, to be sure! A fantastic example of a Victorian lighthouse...and the keepers house was adorable and quaint as well. Shame it wasn’t open! Supposedly the keepers were friends of Longfellow!
I caught the lighthouse on a gloriously sunny, breezy and cool New England day! The island was peaceful yet buzzing with a few tourists, the water calm and crystal clear blue, the breeze perfect in strength and temperature! Made for a lovely little hike around the grounds!
It’s easy to find. There’s plenty of parking but you have to pay - I found out as I was leaving...the tiny little “pay station” is obscure and poorly marked so be aware. I didn’t see any widespread signs either so had no idea.
So many little trails and nooks and crannys to explore! I could’ve happily stayed all day! There was even a Mainer man in the parking lot selling his artwork!
Lots of great areas for photos...from all angles. I also stumbled upon a gelato stand and some other little buildings - closed for the season - but this would be idyllic in summer time, no doubt! Must revisit!
I caught the lighthouse on a gloriously sunny, breezy and cool New England day! The island was peaceful yet buzzing with a few tourists, the water calm and crystal clear blue, the breeze perfect in strength and temperature! Made for a lovely little hike around the grounds!
It’s easy to find. There’s plenty of parking but you have to pay - I found out as I was leaving...the tiny little “pay station” is obscure and poorly marked so be aware. I didn’t see any widespread signs either so had no idea.
So many little trails and nooks and crannys to explore! I could’ve happily stayed all day! There was even a Mainer man in the parking lot selling his artwork!
Lots of great areas for photos...from all angles. I also stumbled upon a gelato stand and some other little buildings - closed for the season - but this would be idyllic in summer time, no doubt! Must revisit!
Written 15 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bill925
Madison, AL419 contributions
Sept 2020
The lighthouse is a popular spot so best to get there early or late in the day. I would have given it five stars but there is a security guard riding around on a cart with a bull horn right before sunset telling everyone to leave. I am a professional photographer and was there on a night when a full moon was going to rise, but not able to get the shot since everyone was run out.
Written 12 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Melanie T
New York City, NY7,042 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Portland Head is supposedly the most photographed lighthouse in the country (or world?). And it was a pretty sight to see. They have a coastal walking trail. However, you can only see the lighthouse from certain angles. Parking is $2 an hour but just make sure you check opening/closing times because I believe the lot does close. We came at around 1:30 on a Monday and while the lot was pretty full, we were still able to find a spot. But of course, as with any tourist attraction, the earlier you go the better.
Written 10 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Roberts69
Northampton, UK18,962 contributions
Feb 2020
Visited Portland Head Lighthouse in Feb 2020 when there was snow all around so we had the Fort Williams Park and the lighthouse all to ourselves. This really is a very picturesque lighthouse and it is also the oldest lighthouse in Maine. Construction began in 1787 at the directive of George Washington, and was completed on 10th January 1791. In those days whale oil lamps were used for illumination. Today the light station is automated, and the tower, beacon, and foghorn are maintained by the US Coast Guard. The former lighthouse keepers' house is a maritime museum but this was not open when we were there. This historic lighthouse is definitely worth a visit and looked particularly beautiful in the snow, even if rather cold.
Written 31 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aud E
Grafton, MA569 contributions
Sept 2020
We arrived the Portland Head Light and were greeted by a great staff member who advised us of how to traverse the park, what directions to look in for all the noteworthy sights on their cliff walk. He was spot on (I think his name was Tony) and we really enjoyed our time touring the park. While we were there, we also had the additional sights of the leftover surf from Hurricane Teddy, heading to Nova Scotia. Nice park to visit and easy cliff walk with scenic ocean views.
Written 27 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ThomasTCat
St. Louis, MO780 contributions
Aug 2021
We now know why this is the most photographed lighthouse in the country. The craggy coastline in front of the lighthouse and the picturesque lighthouse itself is so beautiful. It began operation in 1791 and was authorized by President George Washington, so it is very historic. You have to pay for parking and rest rooms are port-a-potties, but this is a must see sight. The trolley tour stops here so we went back a second time and during that visit there were military men in full uniform standing at attention at the top of the lighthouse as a flyover of six military planes passed overhead. What an amazing sight! Beautiful view of Casco Bay, it is located in Fort Williams Park and it has a museum and walking paths. This is definitely Maine at its best!
Written 6 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gladysbarros66
Connecticut295 contributions
Aug 2020 • Family
The Portland Head Light was such an incredible sight the closer you walked towards it. The light was shining bright in the mist. Every visitor was respectful of one another and wore their masks. The ground were well kept. It was a nice adventure for the last weekend of summer vacation.
Written 2 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Is the parking lot big enough to park a camper?
Written 1 March 2021
Is there free parking and is there a fee just to go see the lighthouse?
Written 6 June 2020
How to photograph the lighthouse before sunrise and after sunset? The lighthouse is closed, I am planning to do astrophotography. Can anyone guide me the locations?
Written 2 September 2018
I believe there was a beach area in a nearby neighborhood where you could view the lighthouse from a distance, but I do not know of they close it off at certain times either. Otherwise, try contacting the museum and asking someone there if they grant permission for such things.
Written 2 September 2018
I am arriving late. The museum will be closed already. Can I still go in the park and see the lighthouse? Thanks!
Written 25 August 2018
For sure... Gate closes at dusk. You can see the light house and walk around the park all you want.
Written 25 August 2018
There were a few port-a-potties.
Written 13 April 2018
Planning to head out here today....is there a paved bike path around here or within Fort Williams area? Wasn't sure if it was worth bringing bikes out there or not?
Written 22 June 2017
You could bike there, but it really is more enjoyable to walk. It is not large enough to have trails for biking.
Written 22 June 2017
Come si raggiunge il faro dal centro di Portland con i mezzi pubblici?
Written 1 May 2017
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