The Majestic Portland Head Light: A Beacon of History and Beauty
Discover the historic Portland Head Light, a stunning lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, offering breathtaking views and rich maritime history.
Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, is a stunning historical landmark that captivates visitors with its picturesque views, rich maritime history, and beautifully landscaped grounds. This iconic lighthouse, built in 1791, stands as one of the oldest and most photographed lighthouses in the United States, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
A brief summary to Portland Head Light
- Cape Elizabeth, Maine, 04107, US
- +1207-799-2661
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography.
- Check the local tide schedule to see dramatic wave action along the rocks.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy it on the grassy areas overlooking the lighthouse.
- Take advantage of the free museum to learn more about the lighthouse's history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there are walking paths and trails to explore around the park.
Getting There
-
Bus
From downtown Brunswick, walk to the nearest bus stop on Maine Street. You can catch the Metro bus heading towards Portland. Make sure to check the schedule for the specific bus times. Once on the bus, stay on until you reach the stop at the intersection of Route 77 and Shore Road. From there, it's about a 1-mile walk to Portland Head Light. Head south on Route 77, then take a right onto Shore Road and follow it until you reach the lighthouse.
-
Bicycle
If you're up for a bike ride, you can rent a bicycle from a local shop in Brunswick. Start by heading south on Maine Street towards Pleasant Street. Take a left onto Pleasant Street and follow it until you reach Route 1. Merge onto Route 1 and continue until you reach the fork, then take the left fork onto Route 77. Continue on Route 77 for about 5 miles; you will find Portland Head Light on your left. Be sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules!
-
Walking
For those who prefer to walk, start at the Brunswick Town Mall and head south towards Maine Street. Follow Maine Street until you reach Route 1, then turn left onto Route 1. Continue walking along Route 1 for about 5 miles. You will then need to turn left onto Route 77, which will take you towards Cape Elizabeth. Keep walking for about another mile, and you'll arrive at Portland Head Light. Be prepared for a longer walk, wear comfortable shoes, and stay hydrated!
Discover more about Portland Head Light
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Battery Knoll
0.2 km
Explore Battery Knoll, a historical landmark in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, where military history meets stunning ocean views.
Fort Williams Mine Casement
0.4 km
Explore the historical significance and breathtaking views at Fort Williams Mine Casement, a key landmark in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, capturing the essence of coastal defense history.
Abandoned Fort Williams Bunker
0.6 km
Discover the historic Abandoned Fort Williams Bunker in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, a captivating blend of military history and stunning coastal views.
Soldier and Sailor Monument
2.9 km
Explore the Soldier and Sailor Monument in Portland, Maine, a historical landmark honoring military valor and sacrifices, set in a serene and reflective environment.
Fort Scammell
3.1 km
Explore the historic Fort Scammell in Portland, Maine, a stunning fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich military history.
Historic Map Works, LLC
4.3 km
Explore the captivating world of cartography at Historic Map Works in South Portland, Maine, where historical maps come to life.
Casco Bay Bridge
4.5 km
Discover the stunning views and natural beauty at the iconic Casco Bay Bridge, a true gem of Maine's coastline.
Fort Gorges
4.6 km
Explore Fort Gorges, a stunning historical fortress in Portland, Maine, offering rich history, breathtaking views, and a tranquil escape on the harbor.
Portland Waterfront Historic District
4.8 km
Discover the charm and history of the Portland Waterfront Historic District, where maritime heritage meets vibrant culture in Maine's premier tourist destination.
Portland Schooner Co.
4.9 km
Experience Portland's stunning coastline with Portland Schooner Co. – unforgettable boat tours and breathtaking views await you.
Maine Day Ventures/formerly Maine Foodie Tours
5.1 km
Explore Portland, Maine's culinary scene with Maine Day Ventures, offering immersive food tours that celebrate local flavors and vibrant culture.
A piece of the Berlin Wall
5.1 km
Explore the Berlin Wall memorial in Portland, ME: a powerful historical landmark reflecting on division and reunion amidst stunning waterfront views.
The Real Portland Tour
5.1 km
Experience Portland's rich history, stunning landmarks, and vibrant culture with The Real Portland Tour, your ultimate sightseeing adventure in Maine.
Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
5.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of Portland, Maine, with unforgettable land and sea tours from Portland Discovery.
Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours
5.1 km
Explore Portland's vibrant history on a vintage fire truck with Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours, an unforgettable adventure for all ages!
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Williams
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning ocean views at Fort Williams, a must-visit historical landmark in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
Fort Williams Park
0.3 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine - a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Goddard Mansion
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting Goddard Mansion in Cape Elizabeth, a historical landmark offering stunning views and a glimpse into Maine's rich architectural heritage.
Ram Island Ledge Light Station
1.9 km
Explore the historic Ram Island Ledge Light Station, a picturesque lighthouse off Portland's coast, rich in maritime history and breathtaking views.
Fort Levett
2.0 km
Explore Fort Levett, a historic fortress in Portland, Maine, offering stunning views and rich maritime history for every traveler.
Spring Point Shoreway
2.9 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Spring Point Shoreway in South Portland, Maine, a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Willard Beach
2.9 km
Experience the tranquil shores of Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine, where stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere await every visitor.
Fort Preble
3.2 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Fort Preble in South Portland, Maine, where history meets stunning coastal views.
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
3.5 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, a must-visit landmark in South Portland, Maine.
Fifth Maine Museum
3.5 km
Explore the rich local history of Peaks Island at the Fifth Maine Museum, featuring period artifacts and breathtaking coastal views.
Umbrella Cover Museum
3.7 km
Explore the Umbrella Cover Museum on Peaks Island, a whimsical gem showcasing creativity through over 700 unique umbrella covers from around the world.
Mill Creek Park
3.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Mill Creek Park, a tranquil urban oasis in South Portland, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor adventures.
Cushing's Point Museum
3.9 km
Explore the captivating history of South Portland at Cushing's Point Museum, where local stories and maritime heritage come alive.
South Portland Historical Society
3.9 km
Explore the vibrant history of South Portland at the Historical Society, where engaging exhibits and captivating stories await every visitor.
Liberty Ship Memorial
4.0 km
Explore the Liberty Ship Memorial in South Portland, Maine, where history and stunning waterfront views converge in a tribute to World War II heroes.
Essential places to dine
Cousins Maine Lobster Portland, ME
0.1 km
Savor authentic Maine seafood at Cousins Maine Lobster in Portland – home to fresh lobster rolls and local coastal flavors.
Elsmere BBQ & Wood Grill
2.4 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue with a New England twist at Elsmere BBQ & Wood Grill in South Portland.
Thai Taste
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Thai Taste in South Portland—your go-to destination for authentic Southeast Asian cuisine.
DiPietros Market
2.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at DiPietros Market in South Portland—where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Davids 388 Restaurant
2.6 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine and exceptional wines at Davids 388 Restaurant in Portland, Maine – perfect for any special occasion.
Bistro Leluco
2.7 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Maine at Bistro Leluco, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in a cozy setting.
SeaWolves Cafe
3.1 km
Discover local flavors at SeaWolves Cafe in South Portland - where great food meets warm hospitality.
Ruby Thailand Cuisine
3.3 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Ruby Thailand Cuisine—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
El Corazón Casita
3.3 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at El Corazón Casita in South Portland, ME – where every dish tells a story of tradition.
OTTO
3.4 km
Experience the unique flavors of OTTO Pizza in South Portland – where creativity meets quality in every slice.
North 43 Bistro
3.4 km
Discover culinary excellence at North 43 Bistro in South Portland – where New American cuisine meets stunning waterfront views.
Cafe Louis
3.9 km
Discover innovative brunch dishes at Cafe Louis in South Portland - where culinary creativity meets cozy ambiance.
SoPo Seafood
3.9 km
Discover SoPo Seafood: where fresh catches meet inventive cocktails in South Portland's vibrant culinary scene.
Dok Mali Noodle Bar
3.9 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Dok Mali Noodle Bar – where every noodle dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
BenReuben's Knishery
4.0 km
Experience authentic knishes and local flavors at BenReuben's Knishery in South Portland—a must-visit culinary destination!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stella's Seller Consignment Boutique
2.5 km
Explore Stella's Seller Consignment Boutique in South Portland for unique fashion finds and vintage treasures that elevate your shopping experience.
Nestled
2.6 km
Explore Nestled in South Portland, Maine — a unique home goods store offering curated decor to enhance your living space with local charm.
Sunday Town
2.6 km
Explore Sunday Town in South Portland, Maine - a unique home goods store filled with eclectic finds and charming treasures for every taste.
Lulu Ceramics
3.8 km
Explore Lulu Ceramics in South Portland for unique handcrafted pottery and special gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Heirloom Consignment Maine
3.9 km
Discover unique treasures at Heirloom Consignment Maine, where vintage charm meets modern flair in South Portland.
Bonny Read
4.1 km
Explore Bonny Read, South Portland's charming antique store, filled with unique treasures and vintage finds reflecting Maine's rich heritage.
Danforth Pewter Portland
5.1 km
Explore the charm of handmade pewter gifts at Danforth Pewter in Portland, Maine - a must-visit gift shop for unique treasures.
Ports of Call
5.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Ports of Call in Portland, Maine's charming Old Port district, where memories come alive.
The Blue Lobster
5.1 km
Experience the charm of Maine at The Blue Lobster, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs in Portland's picturesque Old Port.
Blanche & Mimi
5.2 km
Explore Blanche & Mimi in Portland, ME for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a charming shopping atmosphere.
suger
5.2 km
Discover Suger, a unique women's clothing boutique in Portland's Old Port, offering stylish apparel and accessories for every occasion.
Shipwreck & Cargo
5.2 km
Explore Shipwreck & Cargo in Portland, ME for unique gifts, local crafts, and charming souvenirs that capture the essence of Maine.
Cool As A Moose
5.2 km
Explore Cool As A Moose, the perfect gift shop in Portland for unique Maine souvenirs, clothing, and fun accessories.
Life is Good
5.2 km
Experience the joy of casual fashion at Life is Good in Portland, where positivity meets style in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Siempre Mas
5.2 km
Discover unique clothing and handcrafted jewelry at Siempre Mas, Portland's charming boutique in the heart of Old Port, Maine.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spring Point Tavern
3.3 km
Discover the charm of Spring Point Tavern in South Portland, a cozy bar known for its local brews and hearty comfort food, perfect for tourists.
Evie’s Ferry Village Watering Hole
3.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and welcoming charm at Evie's Ferry Village Watering Hole, a must-visit bar in South Portland, Maine.
Lambs
4.3 km
Unwind at Lambs, South Portland's vibrant bar offering a cozy atmosphere, handcrafted drinks, and a taste of local culture.
The King's Head
5.1 km
Discover the essence of British pub culture at The King's Head, Portland's vibrant spot for craft beers and hearty meals in a cozy setting.
Andy's Old Port Pub
5.1 km
Discover the quintessential Portland experience at Andy's Old Port Pub, where delicious seafood meets live music and a lively atmosphere.
Luna Rooftop Bar
5.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Luna Rooftop Bar in Portland, Maine, where crafted cocktails meet stunning waterfront vistas.
Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub
5.2 km
Discover the essence of Portland's craft beer scene at Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub, where great food and brews come together in a lively atmosphere.
The Independent Ice Co.
5.2 km
Discover the unique flavors of Portland at The Independent Ice Co., where craft cocktails meet delectable dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Portland Mash TUN
5.2 km
Discover the heart of Portland at Mash TUN - a lively beer hall offering craft brews and delicious bites in the vibrant Old Port district.
Bonfire Country Bar Portland
5.2 km
Experience the heart of Americana at Bonfire Country Bar in Portland, Maine, where delicious Southern cuisine meets vibrant nightlife.
Room for Improvement
5.2 km
Discover Room for Improvement, Portland's premier cocktail bar, offering a unique blend of artisanal drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Old Port.
Lincolns
5.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lincolns in Portland, where craft cocktails and local brews meet a lively atmosphere and welcoming locals.
The Armory Lounge
5.2 km
Discover The Armory Lounge: Portland's premier destination for handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine in a stylish setting.
The North Point
5.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft cocktails at The North Point, a must-visit lounge in Portland's Old Port district.
Ruski's
5.3 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Ruski's in Portland, Maine, where delicious grilled dishes and a lively bar atmosphere await.
