When we think of Maine’s rocky coastlines and crisp sea air, one place instantly comes to mind—Portland Head Light. Located in Cape Elizabeth, this historic lighthouse offers incredible ocean views, walking trails, and a deep dive into American maritime history.

Whether we’re road-tripping through New England or planning a weekend escape, here’s everything we need to make the most of our visit—complete with ticket prices, hours, tips, and more.

Location and Basic Info

Portland Head Light is situated inside Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, about 5 miles (8 km) from downtown Portland.

- Address: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107

- Coordinates: 43°37′23″N 70°12′28″W

- Year Built: 1791 (the oldest lighthouse in Maine!)

- Height: 80 feet (24.4 meters)

- Still active: Yes, automated since 1989

Entry Fees and Parking

- Entry to Fort Williams Park: Free

Parking:

- $2 USD per hour

- $10 USD per day (Pay stations accept credit cards or mobile app)

Museum (Keeper’s House):

- Adults: $2 USD

- Children & Seniors: $1–$2 USD

- Children under 6: Free

Museum Opening Hours:

- Late May to mid-October

- Daily from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

- Note: The lighthouse tower is not open for climbing, but the museum offers a rich historical experience.

How to Get There

- From Portland International Jetport (PWM):

20 minutes by car

- From downtown Portland:

Around 15 minutes’ drive

- By rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate locally

- By bike: A scenic ride from Portland with dedicated coastal paths

- By seasonal trolley: Check with local companies like Portland Discovery for summer services

Best Time to Visit

We recommend visiting between May and October when the weather is warm and all park amenities are open.

- Best Photo Times: Sunrise and sunset

- Avoiding Crowds: Weekday mornings are quiet and peaceful

- Fall Bonus: Autumn leaves add golden hues to the cliffs—perfect for photos

What to See and Do

- Portland Head Light: Snap stunning photos from multiple viewing points along the trail.

- Keeper’s House Museum: Learn about lighthouse life, old technology, and shipwrecks in the area.

- Cliff Walk Trail: Easy and scenic trail hugging the rocky coast.

- Goddard Mansion Ruins: Just a short walk away—hauntingly beautiful remains of a 19th-century home.

- Picnics & Views: Plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables with Atlantic views.

- Food Truck (seasonal): “Bite Into Maine” serves some of the best lobster rolls in the region (around $18–$22 USD per roll).

Practical Tips for Visitors

- Dress in layers: Even in summer, sea winds can be chilly.

- Wear walking shoes: The park paths are uneven in places.

- Bring binoculars: Great for spotting birds or distant ships.

- Restrooms: Available and well-maintained near the parking area.

- No entrance fee = great budget-friendly half-day trip

- Plan for 1.5 to 3 hours to enjoy the park fully

Where to Stay Nearby

Here are some nearby accommodation options with approximate nightly rates in USD:

- Inn by the Sea (Cape Elizabeth) – from $350 USD/night

- Portland Harbor Hotel (Downtown Portland) – from $250 USD/night

- AC Hotel by Marriott (Portland Waterfront) – from $220 USD/night

Where to Eat Around the Area

- The Lobster Shack at Two Lights – 10 minutes away for no-frills seafood with ocean views

- Duckfat (Portland) – famous for sandwiches and hand-cut fries, about $15–25 USD/person

- Eventide Oyster Co. – upscale but casual seafood, oysters start at around $3 each

Why We Love Portland Head Light

What keeps drawing us back to Portland Head Light is the combination of history, nature, and serenity. The sound of waves crashing below, the fresh sea air, and the stories told through its museum bring the place to life. Whether we’re standing at the edge of the cliffs or walking along quiet trails, this is one of those rare places that calms the soul.

Lykkers, Will You Catch the Light With Us?

So—are you ready to explore one of Maine’s most iconic landmarks with us? Portland Head Light offers everything from breathtaking views to enriching history. Bring your camera, grab a lobster roll, and join us by the sea. Let’s make memories at the edge of the Atlantic!