Maine’s light stations are on the top of the to-do list for many vacationers. If you’re traveling to Bangor, Maine, there are a few nearby lighthouses that you can add to your trip!
As the hub of eastern and central Maine, the city of Bangor offers tons of opportunities for visitors. Its location on the Penobscot River helped it become the “lumber capital of the world” in the 1800s. The river was also home to a bustling ice industry.
Bangor is about a 45 minute drive from the Atlantic Ocean, so if you’d like to see some of Maine’s iconic beacons on your Bangor visit, you’ll have to take a little drive. But there are some really great options that aren’t too far away!
Here are five lighthouses near Bangor, Maine, to consider visiting on your visit.
NOTE: Some of Maine’s lighthouses are private property or active residences. Please respect signage and the privacy of lighthouse keepers!
Fort Point Light (Stockton Springs)
Located about 45 minutes away in Stockton Springs, Fort Point Light warns boaters of the steep Cape Jellison bluff. The lighthouse is located in Fort Point State Park, which overlooks the delta of Penobscot River. The park is also home to the remains of Fort Pownall, a pre-revolutionary fort built for the French and Indian War.
The park offers sweeping views of Penobscot Bay and the Penobscot River, and it’s a great spot to have a picnic or relax. While you’re there, be sure to visit nearby Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory.
Admission: Fort Point State Park entrance fees apply
Dyce Head Light (Castine)
Farther down the bay on the other side of the river, Dyce Head Light overlooks Penobscot Bay from the charming town of Castine. Castine’s rich nautical history makes it a must-visit for any boating fans. (It’s also the home of Maine Maritime Academy.) The town is located just under an hour from Bangor.
In addition, a path leads around the tower to some great views for those who want a short hike.
Grindle Point Lighthouse (Islesboro)
If you’re looking for a bit of an adventure (or just want an excuse to get out on the water), head just over an hour south. From Lincolnville, a 20-minute ferry ride will bring you to the island community of Islesboro. Grindle Point Lighthouse is just a few steps from the ferry station once you reach the island.
Islesboro offers a quiet option for those who want a small taste of Maine island life. The island is about 11 miles long from north to south, so you can choose to walk, bring a bike, or take your car. (There are some dining options just over a couple of miles from the ferry terminal.)
Admission: Free (fares for the ferry apply)
Curtis Island Light (Camden)
Just south of Lincolnville, the town of Camden is a visitor favorite. Its iconic harbor and plentiful shopping and dining options are great for those who want to enjoy the Maine coast.
At the mouth of the harbor, Curtis Island Light watches over Penobscot Bay. Though the island is private, there’s an overlook from the mainland that affords some great views. But the best option to see the lighthouse is to take one of the schooners that leave from Camden Harbor. That will let you experience how it feels to see the light as you approach the harbor from the water!
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse (Bass Harbor)
A visit to Bangor is a great opportunity for a stop in Acadia National Park. Lighthouse lovers should be sure to see Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, which is just under an hour and a half from Bangor. This gorgeous station is one of Acadia’s best-known sights.
Visitors can walk right up to the lighthouse on one side, or you can take a few sets of stairs down to the coastal rocks to view it from the rocky shore. Whichever you choose, it’s something every lighthouse fan should see!
If you’re looking for more lighthouse ideas, check out our guide to Maine lighthouses that you can reach by foot.
