Lighthouses of Portland & the Area, Portland

Try to go to the lighthouses near the ocean. It's a beautiful sight, when the water is splashing on the rocks, when the birds flies around . And on the way, take a stop at one of the amazing beaches all the way along the coast of Maine.

3 more images

This lighthouse is still being used. It happens to be a drop off point for buses so everyone can take a picture. Yes, me too. But I tried to get the buses out of the way. In 1787, George Washington had the lighthouse built and it burned whale oil for years. Then in m id 1800's lens were put in and 1964 an autobeacon installed. It is the most photographed lighthouse in the US.

4 more images

The l;ighthouse was constructured in 1897 to try and deter many wrecks on the habor. A 900 feet granite rock water break was added in 1951 at a cost of $200,000. The break is 15 feet abover wate level. The candlepower has increased to now be 200,000 power-a lot. It went automatic in 1934. It is rarely open to public; maybe once a year.

One of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States. Once you visit, you'll see why. You can't get a bad shot. Whether photography is your hobby or it's the first time you've ever taken a picture, you'll leave with professional looking images.

Spring Point Ledge Light is a 54-foot tall "sparkplug-style" lighthouse that was built in 1897. It used to be isolated from the main land until a breakwater was constructed in 1951. People are free to walk up to the lighthouse (make sure to wear good shoes, the breakwater is uneven, to say the least) and during summer, it is possible to go inside the lighthouse on Saturdays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for a small fee. Again, you need good shoes because you'll have to make it up some pretty steep and narrow stairs, and for this reason, small children are not allowed inside. Tours include a visit of the keeper's quarters inside the lighthouse and some stories about how they would keep themselves busy during the days they spent in the middle of the sea, cut off from their friends and family.

Spring Point Ledge Light is located next to the Portland Harbor Museum and on the grounds of Fort Preble (1808). There is also a small beach next to it.

2 more images

Portland Headlight probably is Maine's most famous landmark. Located on the grounds of beautiful Fort Williams Park, this lighthouse was built at the end of the 18th century and was originally lighted with 16 whale oil lamps. Throughout the years, these have been replaced with lenses and the original tower has been elevated to its current 92' height. The former lightkeepers' residence has now been transformed into a small museum where you can learn more about the history of Portland Headlight (Open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm; $2 for adults, $1 for children).

Fort Williams Park is open from sunrise to sunset, free of charge (free parking is available). This 90-acre park offers splendid views of the bay, and there are several spots where you can take pictures of Portland Headlight along the walking trails. There's also a small beach (but the water is pretty cold) and numerous picnic tables. I did not, however, find a place where you could buy drinks or snacks, so you'd better make sure to fill your picnic basket beforehand :o)

Portland is a great place to visit lighthouses.

The most visited and photographed lighthouse "Portland Head Light", located in nearby Cape Elizabeth, south of Portland.

Maine is a major fishing and shipping area with rocky and cliff coast, open windy ocean and foggy at times.

These historical lighthouses were critical during the days using whale oil light before GPS, modern electronics and radar nagivation to guide ships, boats and fisherman safely home.

This white conical tower stands just south of the entrance to Portland Harbor (Maine). It was originally called two lights since two stone towers were built 300 yards apart at this site in 1829.

In 1924 the twin lights were discontinued. Both structures are found at this site, as of 1987, although the light of the western tower was removed when it became private property.

I want to own a lighthouse on my property!

Portland Head Light was not only Maine's first lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington in 1790, but also the first light to be completed under the direction of the newly formed government of the United States.

It was automated on August 9, 1989 to celebrate the bicentennial of the US lighthouse system. Portland Head is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine.

Portland Breakwater Light is also known as Petroleum Docks, and even affectionately called "Bug Light" by the locals.

Because of extensive damage to Portland Harbor due to a 1831 storm, in 1833 construction began on a breakwater. Although the half-mile barrier provided protection, it was considered to be both an eyesore and a navigational hazard by mariners. In 1855 a wooden, octagonal, pyramidal lighthouse was built. But controversy over the breakwater continued.

It wasn't until 1886 when the barrier was extended to the original 2500 foot length and capped with coursed granite blocks by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The tower was only two feet above water, and the constant washing of sea water damaged wood and iron. The present lighthouse resembles a 4th century B.C. Choragic Monument. The 13-foot cast-iron tower is lined with brick for more strength. The light was discontinued in 1942.