Cape Neddick Lighthouse "Nubble Lighthouse"

One of the most famous lighthouses in the world. There is no charge, but parking could be difficult at times. Is it wheelchair accessible? Yes in the parking lot but not walking down the rocks I see plenty of families with their kids. Everywhere parking can be difficult on our packed day. You cannot go over to the actual lighthouse unless you work on it And you cannot swim over so I don’t even try. There is a little gondola thing that takes over supplies in the winter it is lit up. Parking can be very difficult sometimes depending on how many people are there and there are no public restrooms, but the area is very well maintained and easy to get to

Maine has lots of great lighthouses along the coast. Busy parking lot during summer weekends, but someone is always leaving so you. Gift shop with clean bathrooms and you can walk around the somewhat flat but craggy rocks to get some fresh views and pictures.

This was our first time to NE, and we wanted to see a lighthouse! We found this one at the end of the day, and it did not disappoint! Beautiful! It was a great spot to watch the beginning of the sunset. There were a lot of other people there, but it was not too crowded. Definitely check it out if you want a gorgeous 270 view of the water and a classic lighthouse.

Scenic, fully functioning lighthouse operated by the US Coast Guard. You can't actually go out to the island, but it's worth stopping to see. Parking is limited, but there wasn't a crowd.

Living just down the road from (Cape Neddick/ Nubble Lighthouse) was an unforgettable experience. We visited countless times, and each visit felt unique. In every weather conditions there is something new and interesting to photograph or experience. Perched on a rocky island off the coast, it captures our favorite parts of coastal Maine— nostalgic lighthouses , rich history, and a deep connection with the ocean. The cold waves crash against the rocks, the salty breeze fills the air, and seagulls float on the breeze. Sometimes he ocean was calm; other days you can understand why it's estimated over 2,000 ships sank off the coast of Maine. Google Local Guide Tip: Visit early to watch the sunrise from the ocean—it’s a breathtaking sight with fewer crowds. (Grab a coffee/lunch from a local spot and enjoy it from a bench overlooking the water) Safety Note: The rocks can be slippery, and waves can get rough—watch your step and stay a safe distance from the edge.

Haven't been here since I was 9??? Maybe 10 or 11? I'm 39 now, so nearly 30 years later and I am still in aw of the lighthouse. The lighthouse is something special. I love the feeling of being there. Thank you for the memories.

A very nice place to visit any summer day or kind of any nice day. This is my fifth visit of the lighthouse and every time I like this place. Serene, nice neighborhood

Widely considered the gold standard of picture perfect lighthouses…and for good reason…a must see…visited annually for over 50+ years since I was a toddler…a climb around on the rocks a must while still able! Enjoy!

This may not be the first lighthouse when you think of a Maine lighthouse. Despite that I believe all the lighthouses have their own charm/speciality that make them worth checking out. Due to its location and minimal parking spots I would avoid it during summer aka peak tourist season. That's exactly what my wife and I did by showing up in February. Although we weren't the only ones with this brilliant idea, as the lot was roughly half full. The ocean breeze made it chilly but was worth it getting views of the snow covered Island and lighthouse. Bundle up depending on when you visit. Good opportunity for bird watching as well! Despite the fact there is water between you and the lighthouse and you can't get up close as some other lighthouses this is worth it for lighthouse lovers to add to their bucket list! One of the many beautiful coastal Maine spots for photography.

This is a beautiful sight to see along the Maine coast. We love going by here and spending time relaxing and taking in the view. It's especially good to visit on days with bad weather because it's not crazy packed with people and it's still beautiful... On nice days it's over crowded....

When in Maine you need to check out a lighthouse. Doesn't get much more quintessential then nubble. Great little park right on the cliff with excellent views. Went on a misty foggy morning which was all the better.

I LOVE Maine. I hadn't been up here in years. Such a beautiful area to just sit and enjoy nature. There are plenty of benches scattered around to sit on and take in the gorgeous scenery. Also plenty of rocks to explore and walk around on. There is no direct access to the Light House. During the warmer months, there is a gift shop to peruse. There is also a restaurant at the area that was open and had a unique lobster trap Christmas Tree going up. You can also bring your own chairs to sit out or just sit on the rock and have a picnic. Perfect spot to just relax. Hope to get back again sooner than later.

I was beyond thrilled to see the iconic Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick in Maine. We were able to see the lighthouse from the shores of Sohier Park. The lighthouse, keepers quarters and several outbuildings sit on a beautiful little island off the coast. The lighthouse was built in 1879, making it close to 150 years old! Waves crash up against huge boulders that surround the island. A suspended cable trolly system that sends goods to the keeper, can be seen. It lis relaxing to sit (or stand) and watch the movement of the Atlantic Ocean and the lovely lighthouse. There are a number of benches to sit. Parking is free at the park, but spaces fill quickly. There are restroom facilities at the Welcome Center in the park. The ocean breeze is a little chilly, so bring a jacket.

Gorgeous lighthouse! While you are able to drive pretty close to it, there is no access to the public at this time. The stunning view from the lookout offers the best perspective for picture taking since it captures it sitting regally on the island surrounded by the ocean crashing on its rocky shoreline.

If you are in York, Maine I recommend a stop at Nubble Lighthouse. Signs point the way. There was plenty of parking on the Thursday before Memorial Day but I bet it gets real busy in the summer. The view of the lighthouse is good from the parking lot and there are several benches along rocks. You can't actually get to/in the lighthouse or the island it's on. However, you can purchase a $10 raffle ticket at the gift shop for a chance for a half day visit with five friends and a picnic lunch to the lighthouse. They draw a winner every 1000 tickets. It is a great place to walk on the large rocks as well as take a lot of photos. Diving is permitted under certain rules. I recommend a stop to Nubble Lighthouse when in York, Maine for some fresh ocean air and scenic views

Well worth the stop. Beautiful view to take some pictures along the way. The visitor center has clean bathrooms and cute souvenirs

My favorite lighthouse!!! So beautiful and a serene setting. My family enjoys hanging out on the rocks and of course we have to always stop for ice cream across the street. Parking can be tricky but something always opens up, you just have to be patient. Try to catch a nighttime visit when it is light up...truly amazing! (I believe this is usually one week in August and then around the holidays in December) My picture was from an August lighting.

Loved this little lighthouse. It was a nice place to visit explore along the rocks and walk your dogs around.

The Nubble is a MUST see when in or around York. It is insanely packed with tourists in the warmer months, almost impossible to find a parking space unless you're there super early or late in the evening. It's a great photo op area, and a nice place to sit on the rocks and enjoy the ocean.

What a wonderful visit, even on a cold, rainy fall day!! We only had a quick stop and go tour, but what we saw was BEAUTIFUL and left us (me, at least...) wanting to come back and explore more!! Will post pics SOON... CROWDED parking lot, but we were lucky to find a space. As much as I enjoyed taking in the sights with my wonderful host and group of friends, I might have secretly wished for a bit more time to fully take in and appreciate this beautiful, historic spot. Well, I'll add it to my list for the NEXT time I'm up there... DEFINITELY worth a visit, no matter the weather, if you're in the area!! Be sure to give it PLENTY of time!!

The Nubble Lighthouse on the coast of southern Maine is surely a sight to behold. The waves crashing against the rocky shore and "nub" of land the light sits on, the sea sprays, and spectacular views are nothing short of awe inspiring. While the lighthouse is not open to the public, raffle tickets can be purchased online or at the gift shop (seasonal) for a chance to win a trip to the island! The drive to the lighthouse (signs point the way way) and around York is absolutely beautiful any time of year, and in the warmer months take a boat tour for a look at it from another vantage point.

For years, the beautiful view of the water has been our family's favorite spot to hang out, take pictures, and chill--very zen.

One of the treasures of Maine. For a state with 60+ lighthouses this may be the crown jewel. It's beautiful

Amazing view!! The food was great so was the ice cream. Long line though especially if you're there at night in the summer. Great place to visit if you're in the Maine area.

The most photographed lighthouse in North America is always a welcome site. Whether in the middle of Christmas with all the lights adorned or through the toughest of storms this classic lighthouse is still a must see when visiting Maine.

A must see when in York, ME! Just a 5 minute drive from Short Sands beach, and Long Sands beach. Free parking lot for visitors. Lots of benches and great views just seconds away from the parking lot. Walking to see the lighthouse is pretty accessible as it's almost all pavement. There are some rocks you can walk down to get closer, but even if you just stay on the parking lot it's still able to be seen. There is also a gift shop and visitor center on property, as well as a restaurant next door (Fox's Lobster House). The restaurant has their own parking lot. In addition to the restaurant, they have ice cream and a takeout window. We grabbed an ice cream after seeing this lovely lighthouse! A few things, the lighthouse is on its own island, so you don't actually get to walk up to it. Just can photograph it from afar. Second, there is a enough parking, however during the summer time it probably will be hard. I recommend coming during the off season.

Pretty picturesque view of the lighthouse, I loved the city York ... would certainly come back and vacation here someday.

Stopped here very briefly to check out this beautiful lighthouse. The weather was so windy and cold but we braved the temperatures to check out the amazing coastal views. You enter through sohier park, park your car and walk over. I was surprised at how many people were out fishing, painting and bird watching. Lots of friendly locals willing to talk about the area. I learned you can see habour seals from here... we didn't on our visit. There's a small gift shop and restrooms here but they are only open seasonally. Mid April til mid October. Interesting fact that President Rutherford B Hays was the one to get this place built back in 1874 for $15,000. Great views, need to stop back on a warmer day!

We visited this beautiful spot in late afternoon and found a parking spot right away. The lighthouse and, Gulf of Maine with waves crashing on the rocky shore is a majestic scene, reminiscent of Peggy's Cove in Nova Scotia. It's fun to climb on the boulders and just take in the beauty all around. A must-see while visiting Maine!

I loved this place. It is where i met my fiance and spent an amazing first night together. It's now a bit more than a year after we met that night, and my fiance has dumped me. So, I kind of hate this place, but it's not the lighthouses' fault. Ha!

We were told this is the most photographed lighthouse, not sure how this is calculated, but it is stunning. There is a free parking lot to stop and walk along the rocks to take pictures. There is also a gift shop nearby, along with benches to sit and admire the views.

The southernmost lighthouse in Maine that you can see from land, Nubble is actually on a small island a hundred yards or so away from the park. There is a little cable car thing that is likely only used for transporting supplies. It doesn't look sturdy enough for a person. We were here at 9am, so there was good light and the lighthouse was not backlit. That gave us some great photos, though of course, you can only see one side of it. Officially the Cape Neddick Light, it completed construction in 1837 and is 41 feet tall. The light is 88 feet above sea level and has a range of 13 miles. The parking lot here is massive and the rocky area around it is decently accessible so that you can get maybe 100 degrees of angle for the lighthouse. There are some benches if you just want to drink a coffee and look at it. If you're coming up from Massachusetts and need to see a lighthouse, this is a good one as it is close. But as lighthouses go, there are others that are more accessible though further away. The Portland Head Light would be my recommendation if you want to get personal with one but that's an hour north of here. [Round number review 14900 overall, 402 of 2021, number 82 in Maine.]

If you are from the area, then you've probably been here, but if you're not local, then you should find the time to visit Nubble Lighthouse. Two disclaimers: first, NO, you can't go in the lighthouse. It's on a separate island, and, well, it's kind of a preserved place. So look, don't touch. Secondly, the rocks are not for those without agility and there are no handholds. So beware the angles, the heights, and the higher tides because a fall/stumble is a sure bet to land you in boo-boo-ville, or for those of us who are aged, maybe worse. So BE CAREFUL. And enjoy the view! If you have the time, the gift shop is your usual charmer, full of tchotchkes and keepsakes showing you've been to Maine. The small grill/eats across the drive has sit-down service but what you really want is the ice cream. Pro tip: get the Maine blueberry, if in season or available. Simply delish.

Cool lighthouse and photo spot. Unfortunately the sun wasn't cooperating but it was still cool

Nubble Lighthouse was one of our last minute trip decisions and im soooo happy we stopped by before heading home. It was such a unique lighthouse being that it was situation on that "nub" of an island thus the name Nubble! It looks amazing even from a distance almost surreal. The place was beautiful and well kept. Parking may get tricky during peak seasons though but we were lucky it wasnt so when we went. They have a nice souvenir shop available and benches were you can enjoy the sea view and perhaps even wait for sunset! And when youre done taking in this picture, drive along the coast line and if you like house-watching then you may be in for a treat! The houses in this area are beautiful!

More than checking out this lighthouse, we (three sisters) enjoyed simply sitting on the nearby rocks, doing some people & ocean watching. The lighthouse is good enough to see, although we wished we could have been able to go right up to or into it, but sitting in the sun, listening & watching the ocean crash against the rocks, check out all the many, many people taking selfies here was good enough for us. The visitor center is also a good find, and the folks working there are happy to share history, kids' crafts & other info with you. Get here early if you want to get a parking spot, or be prepared to wait in the line of cars waiting for someone to pull out of a spot.

Such a beautiful lighthouse and the volunteer who was working was great to talk to about the history and culture with an album of pictures throughout the years .

Very interesting stop on our trip. The guide outside told us all about the lighthouse and history behind it -she was great! Also the visitors store was well stocked with nice variety of merchandise! So glad we stopped

Absolutely stunning, it truly is the most beautiful lighthouse in the whole state of Maine! Definitely worth a visit. We planned our visit to catch the sunset at the lighthouse. It was absolutely stunning! We were able to get so many beautiful photos of the purple red lighting out in the horizon as a backdrop, and focusing in on the lighthouse. Because we arrive so late, we had no issues with parking there was not a lot of people there. Also we visited in the fall time and the weather has gotten colder so not as busy. There were a few benches for people to sit and enjoy the view. We absolutely loved it and took a lot of 360° panoramic photos of the area as well as the houses nearby. The ocean view was stunning. Highly recommend! We love this lighthouse!

How could you give this stunning beauty anything less than five stars?! Although you can't walk up to the lighthouse the views, from a short distance, alone are worth a visit. I visited with my family in late fall so the visitor center was already closed for the season. We arrived to a passing snow squall and some of the coldest temperatures of the season. That didn't stop us from enjoying the magnificent views from any angles we could. Don't expect to spend a ton of time here, even if the visitor center is open. The lighthouse is not too far off the highway and definitely worth a quick trip.

#localadventurechallenge I was so impressed by this park. I was expecting to pay to enter the grounds, and while they DO except donations...there is no gate and therefore, no fee! We had to wait about five-ten minutes to park. But there's a wide enough area to pull off and wait without holding up cars behind you. The lighthouse is situated on an island, so you can't actually get close to it. But the views are delightful. Most people were wearing masks, and those that weren't kept their physical distance. Everyone was very polite. Amazing what beautiful views and fresh air can do. One point I was really impressed with, was that I was able to navigate the grounds with a broken foot. Not a lot of steep climbing!

I made it here during the golden hour of sunset and grabbed the most beautiful shot (see pic). This place was super busy and I found parking to be difficult to find. I had to circle around several times and almost gave up. Instead, I went over to Dunne's for ice cream and tried one last time to find a spot which I did successfully. A really lovely, peaceful place, good for families and great for photo ops.

It was stated as the most photographed lighthouse in the world. Never disappointed us though it was raining we had to take the umbrella out of the scene to at least get a good picture. Glad we road trip from Boston.

Off season amazing view, sunset - for best timing Map uncomplicated, beautiful picturesque stay for a little-

This lighthouse looks like a live Norman Rockwell painting. I believe it's the most photographed location in Maine. It's so beautiful here that you can actually sit on the benches here all afternoon. I think I sent about an hour! The morning rain stopped as we drove into the parking lot and the sun came out almost on cue! There were fisherman on the rocks, birds fling and fish jumping. Amazing!

Always the best! Love the giftshop and the people working there! One of them gave my daughter and sticker and offered to take our picture. So sweet.

Very cool stop! You can walk way out on the rocks to the take pictures of the lighthouse and the island. The parking lot was full, but that shouldn't deter you from stopping to see this sight. A really peaceful setting that we enjoyed. Glad we made the stop.

When I planned the Maine part of my New England trip, I imagined three things: 1) Maine Lobster 2) Picturesque seaside towns 3) Lighthouses Certainly got the later two when I visited Sohier Park and Nubble Light. The lighthouse is exactly like I pictured it. I wish I could have seen it at night. I don't know I always pictured what it would be like to be a lighthouse operator back during the sailing ship era. The idea of lighting up the night to help sailors stay safe is a noble one, but who knows if I am romanticizing it. The visitor center is staffed by friendly people and have some neat items for sale. Funny enough one of my favorite things about this place was the gift shop because they sell paintings of Nubble Lighthouse. The painter is Bill Thomson, who from what I heard from a tour guide, is a retired history professor from Salem University. Now he spends his retirement painting. Sounds like a lovely retirement. The paintings are well done and I think they were $20, is really inexpensive. He also personalizes them by putting your name on a boat within his painting. I got three, one for myself and the other two for my brother and mother. Wonderful place to visit!

York, Maine This may be one of the most visited lighthouses in the world. Free parking, great spot for pics! The drive to the lighthouse is fun, lots of great properties to look at on the way!

Still as lovely as the last time we visited! Great new gift shop on the grounds fully stocked with lots of nice, unique items. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area! Picturesque!! Parking lot is always full, but parking spots are constantly freeing up!

One of many gorgeous lighthouses along the coast of Maine. In particular we loved this one given the absolutely perfect views! The area is well-kept and we able to easily find parking.

During Colonial time when commerce/travel by sea was much more prevalent, President Hayes acquired $15,000 to build a lighthouse on a "nub" of land here in 1874 to keep seafarers safe from our jagged, dangerous coast. The lighthouse was automated in 1987, but to preserve and protect its historical relevance it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in December of '97 the Town of York was named the permanent guardian for the lighthouse. For the whole history, please check out and support: http://nubblelight.org/history/ Even as a Mainer, I found this lighthouse to be breathtaking. Set amidst jagged rocks with seriously dramatic waves crashing onto them, and tucked away on an island you can't quite access, it was absolutely a sight worth seeing. We found it particularly interesting that visitors can climb down some of the rocks for closer water access... but very few people dared to do so. It wasn't very steep or dangerous, and offered even more spectacular and intimate views of the dark Atlantic and the birds nestling on an island nearby. I highly recommend risking the possibility of getting a little wet and doing this! Find your inner explorative spirit! As alluded to above, no you can't access the lighthouse directly (locals known that this is true for most lighthouses in the state because of safety reasons, so please - tourists - keep that in mind when visiting), but that doesn't diminish the charm or picturesque views. Busy? Sure. But we found there to be plenty of parking AND plenty of opportunities to snap shots sans other people in them. Just be patient! (The Nubble gets decorated for the holidays, so be sure to come back in December to see it all lit up!)

A great example of Maine lighthouses! This is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine and when you visit, you will quickly see why. Located on a rocky island, the lighthouse is a beautiful, serene beacon to weary sailors. The gorgeous and bright coloring offsets the lighthouse from the sometimes gray, dreary day. The lighthouse is not accessible to guests, so you just walk to an overlook area and take it all on. There is parking, but during peak times expect to wait a while for a spot. Don't give up! The wait will be worth it.

Beautiful park. The lighthouse is on an island but you can view it from the observation area. It's absolutely breathtaking. You can just sit there and watch the surf roll in. Very relaxing. I'm sure during busy time parking can be a challenge. We went on a Friday in September. Must stop when in Maine.

This might be the best stop in all of Maine outside of Acadia National Park! Dramatic waves come roaring into two different bays on two sides of the road, crashing against the rocks. The lighthouse cannot be visited as it's situated on a separate private island. But it provides the perfect backdrop for the quintessential picture of the Maine coastline. From here, you can walk into the main intersection of downtown York where shops and treats abound. Having seen every point of interest in Maine, this is one of the top two or three things that you truly DO NOT miss!

Such a beautiful place. We came close to sunset to see the golden light hit the lighthouse and rocks. I'm so glad me made it here.

Another beautiful Maine lighthouse presiding over a crashing coasline! This one is actually on an islands so you can't really get to it but it's no less magestic. There is free parking and benches to sit and enjoy the view. The park nearby is pretty cool and gives you views of the over in many directions. Loved the visit and absolutely worth the drive!