Magical Lighthouses of Maine road trip

The full route from York to Lubec covers approximately 377 miles and follows much of the state’s spectacular coastline. Most travelers choose a more scenic route using the US-1, which is Maine’s coastal highway and typically takes around eight to nine hours of driving time without extended stops. This is one of the most scenic drives in New England, and you can add extra stops to visit the famous lighthouses in Maine and different scenic overlooks.

Drivers heading north from York may also use sections of the I-95 to save time before connecting with coastal routes. Be aware that tolls apply on portions of the interstate. Allow at least several days to fully enjoy the journey, as many of Maine’s most famous lighthouses and coastal attractions are found off the main roads and reward a slower pace of travel.

Address: Sohier Park Road, York, ME 03909 

Perched just offshore on its own rocky island, Nubble Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine and the perfect place to begin your Maine lighthouse road trip. Officially known as Cape Neddick Light, the lighthouse has guided vessels along the coast since 1879 and is best viewed from Sohier Park, where visitors can enjoy panoramic ocean views. The Victorian-era keeper’s house adds to the postcard-worthy setting, while nearby Fox’s Lobster House offers classic Maine seafood with lighthouse views. Before continuing north, spend time exploring Long Sands Beach and York Harbor, two of the most scenic spots on Maine’s southern coast.

Address: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine 04107  

No Maine lighthouse driving tour would be complete without visiting Portland Head Lighthouse, widely regarded as one of the best lighthouses in Maine. Located within Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, this historic beacon has watched over the entrance to Portland Harbor since 1971, making it Maine’s oldest lighthouse. Visitors can stroll cliffside walking trails, explore the former keeper’s quarters museum and enjoy sweeping views across Casco Bay. The dramatic rocky setting and rich maritime history make it a true highlight of any Maine coastal road trip.

Address: 2 Fort Road, South Portland, ME 04106   

Just a short drive from Portland Head Lighthouse, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse offers a different perspective on Maine’s maritime heritage. Built in 1897 at the entrance to Portland Harbor, this distinctive caisson-style lighthouse sits at the end of a granite breakwater that visitors can walk along for spectacular views of Portland’s coast. The surrounding grounds of Southern Maine Community College provide plenty of open space for sightseeing, with the nearby Bug Light Park and South Portland shoreline adding even more coastal beauty. This is a quieter stop than some of Maine’s more famous lighthouses but remains a favourite among photographers and lighthouse enthusiasts.

Address: Castletown, Portland, DT5 1PB   

While Portland is best known for lighthouses, Maine’s largest city is also one of the state’s most rewarding destinations. There are countless things to do in Portland, from exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Port district to visiting local attractions. Art lovers can browse galleries and museums, while food enthusiasts will find some of New England’s best dining experiences. Portland also serves as an excellent base for discovering nearby lighthouses in Portland, Maine, including Portland Head Lighthouse and Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. Its blend of maritime history, culture and coastal scenery makes it a standout stop for any Maine Road Trip.

Address: 55 Front Street, Bath, ME 04530   

Known as the “City of Ships”, Bath offers visitors a fascinating look at Maine’s rich maritime heritage. Located on the banks of the Kennebec River, this city has been a major shipbuilding center since the 18^th century and remains home to Bath Iron Works, which is a major naval shipyard. The acclaimed Maine Maritime Museum provides insight into the region’s history through exhibits, vessels and cruises. Bath’s charming downtown is filled with local boutiques, restaurants and stunning architecture, making it an enjoyable stop between some of Maine’s most famous lighthouses and scenic coastal viewpoints.

Address: 3115 Bristol Road, New Harbor, ME 04554    

Standing proudly atop rugged cliffs overlooking Muscongus Bay and Johns Bay, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable lighthouses in Maine. Commissioned in 1827 by John Quincy Adams, this lighthouse has quickly become an enduring symbol of the Maine coastline. Visitors can climb the lighthouse tower during seasonal openings, explore the Fishermen’s Museum and admire ocean views from the dramatic rocky shoreline below. The surrounding park offers excellent picnic spots and photography opportunities, making this historic landmark a must-see stop and highlight on any Maine lighthouse tour.

Address: 186 Lighthouse Road, Owls Head, ME 04854   

Located at the entrance to Penobscot Bay, Owls Head Lighthouse combines stunning coastal scenery with a peaceful atmosphere that feels different from busier tourist destinations. Established in 1825, the lighthouse sits atop a peninsula overlooking one of Maine’s most picturesque stretches of coastline. A short walking trail leads visitors to a rocky beach, a spot perfect for picnicking, photography and beachcombing. The nearby Owls Head Transportation Museum adds another interesting stop for travelers interested in transport history. The beautiful location and easy access make this lighthouse a favorite addition to many Maine lighthouse driving tours.

Address: Samoset Road, Rockland, ME 04841    

One of the most unique lighthouse experiences on the Maine coast awaits at Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, which is reached by walking nearly a mile-long granite breakwater extending into Penobscot Bay. This lighthouse offers visitors incredible views back toward Rockland Harbor and the surrounding coastline. Completed in 1902, the structure continues to serve as an active aid to navigation while welcoming visitors who make the memorable walk to its doorstep. The nearby town of Rockland is famously known as “Lobster Capital of the World” and its annual festivals, making it a worthwhile stop on a Maine road trip itinerary.

Address: 116 Lighthouse Road, Bass Harbor, ME 04653    

Located within Acadia National Park, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is a must-visit landmark of Mount Desert Island. Built in 1858, the lighthouse sits dramatically atop granite cliffs overlooking the Gulf of Maine and offers some of the most spectacular sunset views on the entire Maine coast. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, coastal overlooks and wildlife spotting. The setting within Acadia National Park makes this lighthouse a natural highlight of any Maine coastal road trip and an essential stop for a sunset photography session to capture some of the most iconic lighthouse views in all of New England.

Address: 973 S Lubec Road, Lubec, ME 04652     

Marking the easternmost point of the continuous United States, West Quoddy Head Lighthouse provides an unforgettable finale to Maine’s best lighthouse road trip. Instantly recognizable thanks to its distinctive red-and-white-candy-stripe tower, the lighthouse has stood watch over the outstanding coastline near Lubec since the early 19^th century. There are different visitor center exhibits covering maritime history and the Coast Guard heritage that visitors can enjoy before heading out to enjoy nearby sections of the Culter Bold Coast Trail. With sweeping ocean views and rugged cliffs, this iconic Maine lighthouse offers a fitting conclusion to a memorable New England lighthouse adventure.

From the iconic cliffs of Portland Head Lighthouse to the striking red-and-white tower of West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, this journey showcases some of the most memorable scenery on the Maine coast. Along the way, you’ll discover historic maritime landmarks, charming coastal communities, and spectacular ocean views that make every mile worth the drive.

With the freedom to travel at your own pace, Hertz makes it easy to explore Maine’s coastline on your schedule, whether you’re planning a long weekend escape or a multi-day adventure. Ready to start your own Maine lighthouse road trip? Browse available vehicles and reserve your rental car today to begin planning your next coastal getaway.