If you’ve spent even a small amount of time in Maine you know that there’s something beautiful at every turn. That’s why it’s not uncommon to see tourists and even locals with a camera or phone in-hand ready to capture the beauty that surrounds them. While we think just about everything is worth capturing, there’s one place that stands out. Considered one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country, this place is worth a visit!
Welcome to Portland Headlight, located on the stunning coast of Cape Elizabeth!
Ben Sullivan / Google
If you’ve spent time in southern Maine (or even further north!) there’s a good chance you’ve been here. And for good reason. It’s gorgeous! But, did you know that just about everyone in the country agrees?
Brian Kennedy / Google
This beautiful lighthouse is considered the most photographed in the country!
Stephanie Lacasse / Google
But more than just beauty, the light has an interesting history beginning back in 1776. With a deep desire for independence, the folks living in Cape Elizabeth posted eight soldiers in this spot. Their job was to warn locals of oncoming attacks by the British.
jmiske / Flickr
In 1787, Massachusetts provided $750 to begin construction of a lighthouse. Later, the U.S. government took responsibility for the country’s lights and offered another $1,500 to get the job done. It was lit for the first time in 1791.
jmiske / Flickr
Another fun fact? The height of the light has changed over the years!
queenmichelle / Flickr
Between the years of 1813 and 1881, the tower was lowered and raised by about 20 feet - a total of four times! The only significant change since then came in 1989, when the previous light was removed and replaced with an airport-style revolving beacon
madmiked / Flickr
Today you’ll find it in Fort Williams Park, a lovely place to explore walking paths and trails.
reabhecc / Flickr
You can visit the lighthouse year-round, but there’s nothing like a summer’s day to enjoy the breeze and the salt air. Just don’t forget your camera!
queenmichelle / Flickr
The Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park is open from sunrise to sundown year round. It’s free to visit, but there’s a small fee for parking from May 1st to November 1st. You can learn more about visiting here. You can reach them on 207-799-2868. To enjoy more of the state’s coastal wonders, take this lighthouse road trip on the Maine coast. It’s dreamily beautiful!
Ben Sullivan / Google
Brian Kennedy / Google
Stephanie Lacasse / Google
jmiske / Flickr
queenmichelle / Flickr
madmiked / Flickr
reabhecc / Flickr
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Address: Portland Head Light, 12 Captain Strout Cir, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107, USA
