Discover the Majesty of Bass Harbor Head Light Station
Explore the iconic Bass Harbor Head Light Station, a historic lighthouse in Maine offering stunning coastal views and rich maritime history.
A brief summary to Bass Harbor Head Light Station
- 116 Lighthouse Rd, Bass Harbor, Bass Harbor, Maine, 04653, US
- +1207-288-3338
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
- Thursday 9 am-7 pm
- Friday 9 am-7 pm
- Saturday 9 am-7 pm
- Sunday 9 am-7 pm
The Bass Harbor Head Light Station, perched on a rugged cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Maine. Established in 1858, this historic lighthouse serves as a beacon of maritime history and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the region. The striking white tower, which stands tall at 56 feet, is surrounded by picturesque landscapes including rocky shores and lush forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which offers scenic walking paths and stunning vantage points for observing the crashing waves and wildlife. The nearby tidal pools are a treasure trove of marine life, providing a unique opportunity for families and young explorers to discover crabs, starfish, and other creatures up close. The lighthouse itself is not only a significant historical monument but also an operational facility, reminding us of its ongoing role in guiding sailors safely along the coast. For those interested in learning more, the nearby visitor center provides educational exhibits about the lighthouse's history and the role it played in maritime navigation. Whether you're looking to soak in the breathtaking views, capture the perfect sunset photo, or delve into the rich history of the Maine coast, Bass Harbor Head Light Station offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the beauty and heritage of America’s coastal landscapes.
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities.
- Check local tide schedules to explore the tidal pools safely.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails around the lighthouse.
- Bring binoculars to spot marine life and coastal birds from the lookout points.
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds on weekends.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the entrance of Acadia National Park, head south on Route 3 towards Southwest Harbor. Once you reach the intersection at Main Street, turn left onto Main Street. Continue straight until you reach a roundabout. At the roundabout, take the first exit onto Route 102. Follow Route 102 for approximately 3 miles, then turn right onto Lighthouse Road. Bass Harbor Head Light Station will be about 1 mile down Lighthouse Road. You will see signs directing you to the lighthouse once you are close.
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Bicycle
From the Park Loop Road, head towards the Bar Harbor entrance. Follow the signs for Route 3 towards Southwest Harbor. You will be riding approximately 5 miles until you reach the intersection at Main Street in Southwest Harbor. Turn left onto Main Street and continue straight to the roundabout. Take the first exit onto Route 102. Cycle along Route 102 for about 3 miles, then turn right onto Lighthouse Road. The Bass Harbor Head Light Station is about 1 mile down this road, and you will find parking available nearby.
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Public Transport
Take the Island Explorer shuttle bus from the Bar Harbor area that heads towards Southwest Harbor. During peak season, shuttle buses operate daily and can take you to the Southwest Harbor stop. From the bus stop, walk along Main Street until you reach the roundabout. Here, take the path that leads to Route 102 and walk for about 3 miles. Turn right onto Lighthouse Road, and continue for approximately 1 mile until you reach Bass Harbor Head Light Station.
Attractions Nearby to Bass Harbor Head Light Station
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Southwest Harbor View Point Road
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Wendell Gilley Museum
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Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park
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Yourcenar House
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Flying Mountain Trailhead
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Great Harbor Maritime Museum
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Carroll Homestead
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Asticou Terraces
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Bunkers Cove
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Thuya Garden
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Asticou Azalea Garden
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Mt Desert Land & Garden Preserve
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Seal Cove Auto Museum
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Baker Island Lighthouse
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Acadia Mountain
Landmarks nearby to Bass Harbor Head Light Station
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Wonderland Trail Trailhead
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Asticou Azalea Garden Parking
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Echo Lake Beach
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Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
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Gatehouse
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Acadia Mountain Trailhead
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Cobblestone Bridge
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Cliffside Bridge
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Stanley Brook Bridge
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Amphitheatre Bridge
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Jordan Pond House Restaurant
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Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
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Penobscot Mountain
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Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
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Sargent Mountain