Portland Head Light

The view is just breathtaking. Such a picture perfect place. We got some amazing pictures. Lots of place around for the kids to play. Paid parking We visited first week of October. Make sure to go around sunset and you get amazing photos when the light hits the water.

We really enjoyed visiting Portland Head Light, even though it was quite busy when we went. The lighthouse is absolutely stunning — one of the most photographed in the U.S. — and it’s easy to see why. The view over the rocky coastline is just breathtaking. The walking paths around Fort Williams Park are great for exploring and give you plenty of chances to enjoy the landscape and ocean views. There are picnic areas, a small museum in the keeper’s house, and even a couple of food trucks nearby for a quick bite. It’s a place you can easily spend a few hours just walking, taking photos, and soaking in the scenery. Definitely worth the visit if you’re in the Portland area!

This is a lovely light House outside of Portland in Cape Elizabeth. If you have a car you can drive there and pay for parking. There is a public bus that will take you half way but you will have to walk 45 minutes the rest of the way. Your best bet would be Uber or Lyft. Its not much going ($15) but double the price ($41) returning. It takes about 15 minutes. Reception is very bad there also so it'll take a while for a signal. You may want to reserve an Uber back. It's worth it for the views. There is also a cliff walk and Fort Williams. The Lighthouse museum is $2 located in the Lighthouse keeper's house. They also have a short tour conducted by a park ranger at 11:00am. They have three food trucks located in the park. It should take about 4-5 hours.

Beautiful lighthouse! The wind was really strong and chilly here even on a sunny day in the second week of October. You can walk along the coastal trail to see various views of the lighthouse.

We saw this on a bicycle ride from SoPo. We actually did a ride where we saw 6 or 7 lighthouses, this was by far the most spectacular. Being on bikes we didn't have to fuss with parking and such, but it was the off season anyway (October) and there were plenty of spots available if you had a car. couple of short walks you can do to see the lighthouse from different perspectives. They have a couple of food options including lobster rolls, if you've missed out on that so far. I'd recommend going, it'll always be crowded, but it really is a beautiful spot. If there were tickets required we somehow missed that so yet another reason to ride a bike here.

Absolutely stunning area, so many great spots to see the view. Great for waking with pets or kids! I think a picnic here would be lovely. Limited parking, we came just before dusk and there was plenty of open spots. Close to the water, it's much cooler and more windy than you might think if you haven't been by water much! Especially around sunset. There are portable bathrooms available.

Beautiful views! Parking is plenty, but the light house area is quite a walk from parking - BUT this little spot in the world is so beautiful!! There are food trucks in several areas in this park - we tried the blueberry pie ice cream and the black raspberry ice cream truck near the light house and it was AMAZING! There is a small fee for parking, but the parking meters are easily accessible. There are porta-potties near the parking area.

Portland Head Light is one of those places that truly takes your breath away the moment you see it. The lighthouse stands tall and proud on a rugged stretch of Maine’s coastline, surrounded by crashing waves, rocky cliffs, and the salty sea breeze. It’s absolutely picture-perfect. We visited on a beautiful day, and the combination of the lighthouse, the ocean, and the stunning scenery felt almost magical. The walking paths and overlooks are easy to navigate, and every angle offers another postcard-worthy view. Dating back to 1791, Portland Head Light is actually the oldest lighthouse in Maine and has guided mariners for well over two centuries. Its history stretches all the way to the era of George Washington, who authorized its construction. Standing there, it’s easy to feel the weight of that history and imagine the countless ships that once relied on its beam to guide them safely home. This stop was a true highlight of our trip — peaceful, inspiring, and absolutely unforgettable. If you love lighthouses, coastal views, or a bit of living history, this is a must-see.

Portland Head Light is an absolute must-see if you're in the Portland, ME area! Located in Fort Williams Park, this iconic lighthouse is breathtakingly beautiful and steeped in history. The first thing that stands out is the view--it's hard to beat the picturesque scene of the lighthouse perched on the rocky coastline with the Atlantic Ocean stretching out before you. The lighthouse itself is stunning, with its classic white and red color scheme, and the surrounding park is well-maintained, offering plenty of space for a leisurely walk or picnic. It's a great place to walk with family, as the paths are wide and easy to navigate, and there's plenty of room to explore. The area around the lighthouse has plenty of historical signage, so you can learn about its significance, which dates back to 1791. The museum inside the lighthouse keeper's house is small but informative. There's also ample parking, and the park is dog-friendly, which is a nice touch for pet owners. It's perfect for a morning or afternoon visit, especially if you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax by the sea. Highly recommend stopping by whether you're a history buff, photography lover, or just someone who appreciates scenic beauty. Portland Head Light never disappoints.

Light the Good Fight Lighthouse located at gorgeous Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The Good: *Completed in 1791, it's the oldest lighthouse in the state of Maine and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. *On a clear day you can see FOUR other lighthouses (Spring Point Ledge, Ram Island Ledge, Halfway Rock Light, & Cape Elizabeth Light). *Seasonal (May - Oct) Museum $2/admission *Seasonal (May - Oct) gift shop *Leashed dogs ok *Large paved parking lot *Four food vendors located on the premises, including Cousins Maine Lobster. The Meh: *Park is free to enter but parking is not; $2/hr w/ 2-hr minimum ($10/all-day) The Ugly: *Honestly? Not much other than it can get really busy during certain times of the year. Conclusion: Must-see if you're visiting the Portland, ME area.

On our way up to Maine from Boston we made a stop to visit the Portland head light. I always saw lighthouses growing up on 12-month calendars especially on my mom's desk so it was a little surreal to see something like this in person. This place is as beautiful as it looks at photos. It's very calming peaceful, and the lighthouse itself is beautiful. We got really lucky because we didn't have a hard time parking whatsoever, but I could imagine during peak season that parking could be pretty difficult. I would definitely recommend this place if you're heading to Maine as it's a must see tourist destination here.

Less than 20 minutes from Portland Maine this is a must see! Lots of parking and roads are easy to drive to the Portland Head Lighthouse. Parking is paid in most lots except there is free parking in the overflow parking lot. I sadly only had about 15 minutes at this beautiful park but with the proximity to the city this is definitely a choose your own adventure type of place. It would be the perfect space for a picnic, explore the trails, or just stop on a longer road trip!

This is a great little park. I suggest using the restroom before coming. The porta potties are not super clean. This is also a park that you have to haul your own trash out. They have problems with wild animals coming in. Great views. It is not hard to find people willing to take your picture if you are not good at selfies. If you come here, go up to the gun emplacement on the hill. It is a great place for pictures.

Nice place to visit in the area. We we driving through Portland and had to take a look at the iconic structure. Fort Williams, was once The Battery at Portland Head / Fort Preble and is now a scenic landmark great for families and picnicking. There's lots of parking, all of which you pay at the machine. Some might be close to the lighthouse, others might require a bit more walking. Bits of the historic fort still stand so it's neat to see that as well.

I wanted to visit at least one while in Maine, and Portland Head Light is the oldest in Maine. It is located within Fort Williams Park. Parking in the lot cost $5 for two hours. We sat at one of the few shaded picnic benches to enjoy our pastries before making our way to the lighthouse. Be aware that there are no trash cans. Afterward we walked around the lighthouse, but didn't go inside. It was picturesque with ocean views in the background. *National Register of Historic Places

JUST DO IT!! Stop here and pay the $5.00 for parking. Completed in 1791 after it was commissioned by George Washington and still going strong the lighthouse stands about 80 feet tall. My family and I parking in the lot by the Battery Blair (closest parking you'll find to the lighthouse) and checked out the battery area first. The kids had fun climbing around it. We then walked down to the lighthouse to take some closer pics as a family. My oldest son and I walked out onto the rocky cliffs for some better unobstructed photos. The view of the lighthouse with the rocky cliffs, waves crashing in and boats in the distance is just postcard perfect. There were food trucks, porta potties near the parking and a gift shop and small museum at the lighthouse. If you're headed to Maine make this a stop on your trip and if you're from the area don't take for granted that this beauty is so close to you!!!

Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth is a must see when in the Portland area. I visited with my brother who lives in the area. He knew just where to walk to get the best views of the lighthouse and the ocean. There were large crowds but we were able to find parking fairly easy. It's paid parking but very affordable. Portland Head light is the oldest and the most famous lighthouse in Maine.

Considered the most photographed lighthouse in Maine! For good reason as the views are amazing and this is one of the tallest and most accessible lighthouses in Maine! Several parking spaces, but you have to pay $5 for 2 hours. Easy 5 min walk to the lighthouse from the parking lot. Also a food truck by the parking lot serving lobster rolls, but at +$38, this was the most expensive lobster roll I had seen in all of Maine!

This lighthouse is the most photographed one in the state of Maine. I can see why from a distance, but up close, it was really nothing special to me. We visited this lighthouse as part of a tour during a cruise. We also saw another lighthouse in Halifax, which had better-maintained grounds and a shoreline full of unique rocks. The whole place was very touristy, with lots of tourist buses and cars everywhere. Despite that, it was definitely worth a stop if you're in the area.

This place is absolutely breathtaking! There's plenty of parking and it's only about $5/1 hour. It's a gorgeous walk down the rocks. The views were spectacular. My son and hubby decided to walk further out and down; I decided to wait. The lighthouse is just a bit further and is just as beautiful. Maine is usually breezy and cool this time of year, however, on this particular day, it was very warm. After walking around the entire property, we decided to indulge in the ice cream and lobster roll food trucks. I took so many unforgettable pictures. Amazing!!

I collect state quarters, so I was very excited to come here to see the lighthouse in person. As expected, it was such a beautiful scenery of the lighthouse on top of the rocky cliffs, huge waves, and the Atlantic Ocean. The lighthouse parking was not bad, maybe because there weren't a lot of people, and it was a weekday when I went. The walk to the lighthouse from the parking lot is extremely short and doable for all age groups. However, it was VERY cold. I thought I was prepared with my outfit, but the chilling winds were insufferable. It was difficult to take pictures, and we lost our patience and just wanted to go back inside the car, so definitely prepare for the temperature! Gloves, scarves, and beanies are highly recommended. There isn't much else to do out here besides the lighthouse and a few picnic bench areas. On a great weather day, picnics would be very nice here!

Nice spot and a great lighthouse in Portland Maine. On a lark we decided to visit on our way back to the airport in Manchester to kill some time. It's a short ride from downtown Portland and there is plenty of parking. There is a surrounding park with trails and you can walk out on the rock outcropping which juts out into the bay. It's a really scenic area, enjoy!

Cute light house! I went as part of a light house tour. Very scenic and not crowded. Beautiful pictures

The place is beautiful. Great for sight seeing, joggers, picnics, kite flying, get togethers, you get the picture.. They have plenty of parking. There's also a fantastic Lobster roll truck just up the hill when you drive in, a bit pricey, but it'll be the best lobster roll you've ever had in you entire life. Bring your camera, bring the family, and spend the day.

This is beautiful place for a picnic or a food truck meal! Plenty of picnic tables and a walking trail by the water. Not just the historic lighthouse here - a great place to spend a couple of hours!

This is what lighthouse photos are made of. This lives up to all the hype promised in reviews, photos, and more. A MUST visit to give you a truly Maine experience

Amazing. Incredible. Breathtaking. Do not miss it. Parking is 5 dollars for 2 hours but worth it. There is a small amount of walking to different views but all easily accessible. There is TONS of parking but if you go at 9am during the week it's super close. Be sure to check Kris the painter in the vendors area. His paintings are beautiful.

You can find the Portland Headlight at Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth Maine 04107. There's little to no parking at the lighthouse - there is a road for drop-off and plenty of nearby park parking. You approach the lighthouse via the lightkeeper's house - I don't believe the lighthouse itself if normally open for ascent - we visited on "Lighthouse Day" but even so couldn't ascend as there were more waiting than time. The building exterior features the "classic" look of a lighthouse - quite beautiful, as were the views from the elevated shoreline location. The gift shop is worth visiting as is/was the lightkeeper's house. Once you've had your fill visit the native garden for a short hike.

Portland Head Light situated in Fort Williams Park is one of my favorite places to visit. The park and lighthouse are spectacular anytime of the year and I would recommend visiting outside of tourist season to avoid the crowds. While there are no entry fees to get into the park, they now charge for parking in some of the areas. Although I have been here many times, this was my first time visiting the museum housed in the former keeper's quarters. Entrance fee is $2 ( you cannot go into the lighthouse tower) and the small, well organized space is filled with lighthouse models, photos, exhibits, artifacts and fascinating information about the lighthouse, it's keepers, and the history of the area. Definitely worth a stop in. The grounds are beautiful to walk around, with an easy short trail with spectacular views of the water and rocky coast. Bring a picnic lunch and soak in the views.

It is the oldest lighthouse in Maine and as per some articles- the most photographed lighthouse in America ( i am not sure though). Completed in 1791, and acquired from the U.S. Coast Guard by the Town of Cape Elizabeth in 1993, Portland Head Light is located adjacent to Fort Williams Park. We were coming back from Acadia and my wife suggested this, it was just 30 minutes detour and man was I glad! thanks to my wife - I am so fascinated by lighthouses and I just loved this one. Portland Head Light is a prized landmark for its historical significance, but also for the adjacent 90-acre park that is its home, with stunning ocean views, hiking and walking paths dotted with viewing lenses, and other historic structures. Here, you'll find artifacts, documents, navigational aids, Fresnel lenses, models, and photographs that detail the history and timeline of the lighthouse and Fort Williams. The lighthouse, museum, and Fort Williams Park itself make an enjoyable family outing spot with its many opportunities for exploring. There are also no permanent restrooms within the park. The Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.

Must stop when you are visiting Portland. Tons of walking trails, easy parking and dog friendly!

Colleagues and I decided to venture out to Portland, Maine. We walked around almost day and then decided to stop at the lighthouse just outside the downtown area. The coast of Maine with the lighthouse was quite beautiful. I had created a painting of the Portland Head Light years ago when a former colleague at a previous company showed me pictures from her trip there. I forgot which lighthouse it was until I was taking a picture at almost the exact same spot. Then the image clicked with me. It's a good place to enjoy some light walking trails, climbing the coastal rocks during low tide. If you make it Maine it's worth the trip although I don't think they let people into the lighthouse.

We got there around 7 pm on a Sunday. It was a nice and scenic spot. I would recommend visiting as it was free and great for photos. There were also some rocks to climb for more photo and video opportunities. We went to Bite into Maine for lobster rolls before visiting.

Such a beautiful place for natural and man-made scenery... I've always loved lighthouses, and this one takes the cake!

I stopped in one breezy afternoon for a visit during a vacation to Maine. I visited the week before Halloween - so I was surprised to see so many other tourists during a weekday. It was a relatively warm day for the end of October in Main - about 65 degrees out. As I walked from the parking lot to the lighthouse - suddenly the wind really picked up - and I'm pretty sure the temperature was 20 degrees colder out there with the wind! Because of the time of the year I was visiting - the lighthouse itself was closed to tours. #PortlandHeadLight

When in the area, make sure to stop by the Portland Head Light. You'll be sure to get some of the best views in the area. There's even a few small trails you can take for a change in scenery. We only spent about an hour hear but could have made a day out of it picnicking and people watching.

This is the most photographed lighthouse in the United States and the oldest lighthouse in Maine. The lighthouse is situated along the shores of Fort Williams park. I was visiting Portland in September for the first time and definitely this attraction was on my list. There is plenty of parking available. From April 1 - November 15 there is a fee for parking in premium spaces in the park. Free parking is available in the Overflow Lot. When we walked to the lighthouse from parking, I was mesmerized by the view of the lighthouse and the waves crashing against the rocks of the cliff. It was picturesque. There is also a museum and gift shop. There are some food vendors in the park, Gorgeous Gelato has great ice cream and do try the lobster roll at Bite into Maine There is no admission fee for visiting the park. I highly recommend visiting this park if you are in Portland.

Though I wasn't able to go inside the lighthouse, I thought that my visit here was worth it for the amazing views outside the lighthouse and along the coast. If you're travelling alone, there are plenty of helpful tourists who will volunteer to help take your picture in return for your help in taking theirs. There is also a museum with a very reasonable $2 admission price with plenty of high quality displays and history. This is nearby a gift shop with reasonably priced souvenirs that you can buy. Down the road nearby are several food trucks. Make sure to grab a delicious Maine Roll at Cousin's Maine Lobster to complete your adventure here.

I'm in love with this park. The view, the scenery, the lighthouse, the coast... it's simply breathtaking. Arrive just after 5pm, surprised that the parking lot was almost empty. By the time we left around 6:30 there was nowhere to park ( soccer game next door) Lots of machine to pay for parking, 2/hr and 10/day. Lighthouse museum was unfortunately close but the ground is so big there's so much to explore. On the south side of the lighthouse if you follow the fence there is an access down to the rocky beach. You can also do a lot of leisurely hikes on short trails cliff side. Lots of picnic tables scattered around the park. Bring your own food but don't forget the carry in carry out policy. No public trash cans available. Food truck next to the tower was close, Porta potty next to the closest parking lot if need to go #1/2. One can easily spend an entire day exploring the park. It's a photographer's haven so bring the pro camera and prepare to be in awe.

I've been told this was the most photographed lighthouse in the world. This definitely needs to be on your bucket list if you go to Maine. The view is beautiful and you can explore and climb on the rocks around the area.

Breathtaking views and beautiful photo opportunities. We were there in November so the museum wasn't open. There was lots of parking available but could see how it would fill up in busy season. There is also a picnic and beach area .

As you complete your bucket list of Maine-stays, Head Light is an iconic, rotating star among them. Get ready for everybody else who had the same idea to be there with you if it's during the summer months. And by summer I mean 64 and cloudy, with a 65% chance of rain. Come early for the least crowds, or better yet on a weekday morning in late-September. You could get lucky and share the space with a lone retired couple like the first time we visited. Those were the days. No such luck this time. But even in busy times you can venture down the hill toward the rocks on the left for a less-busy stroll and still nice lighthouse photo ops. If hungry you can partake in the not-cheap portable food stands to give sustenance for the uphill trek since all the close parking was taken long ago. But enjoy the view on the stroll as the oceanic backdrop comes with the package. Also down the hill, some portable restrooms, on the way to the really old stone mansion facade (Goddard Mansion) you can enter like you own the place. Leave happy, knowing if you ever float up toward Cape Cottage at night, Portland Head Light has you covered.

Historic lighthouse located in a huge park with walking trails. There were three spots right by the lighthouse that were free parking, while the other lots were paid parking (via a parking app). Came here on a Wednesday and it was raining so there weren't too many other people there. The museum wasn't open when we went, but it was still cool to see the lighthouse from various angles. It's a very picturesque spot. If you walk along the trail (compact dirt track), you'll come across a mansion as well as another area where you could picnic. There were also portapotties by the picnic area. The beach is rocky so wear comfy shoes if you're planning on talking a stroll. There are benches along the trail if you want to sit and have a main character moment. Overall, a great sight for first-timers and tourists.

Bottom Line: Historic and iconic lighthouse in Fort Williams Park. Portland Head Light is probably the most famous lighthouse in Maine and it's one of the most photographed lighthouses in the US. The 231 year old lighthouse was commissioned by President George Washington and is now owned and managed by the town of Cape Elizabeth. When I visited the lighthouse neither the museum nor gift shop were open but my husband and I still enjoyed walking around the lighthouse and admiring the architecture and surrounding scenery. We walked the Cliff Trail to admire the lighthouse from various angles. We also got to see the lighthouse from the water the day before. The museum and gift shop are open Memorial Day to mid-October. The museum is $2. Portland Head Light is part of the Fort Williams Park. Parking in the park's overflow lot is free but we parked closer to the lighthouse and paid $5 for two hours.

My friend from Cape Elizabeth told me to stop at Fort Williams Park when I asked for recommendations for the area. I parked outside of the park for free. The gate leading to the park was locked, but someone inside opened it for me. The park and the lighthouse were beautiful! If you're looking for picturesque views of Maine, look no further. There is also a cute little gift shop and a museum, the latter of which I didn't go to.

What can I say about the Portland Headlight that has not been said before? The rock formation that the structure sits on and is surrounded by is more ancient than the Atlantic Ocean itself. Don't make the mistake of missing the incredible rocks and beaches making up this fearsome landscape. It's easy to miss though because there isn't any signs (that we saw) dedicated to this park's geology. But, if there's anything else I can contribute to what's known about this Maine attraction, it's that. Oh, there is no wrong view of the Headlight. Anywhere in the park would be incredible. Enjoy this beautiful area that's so characteristically Maine.

I may have grown up east coast but have never been up and personal with a lighthouse before! Portland Head Light gave us the chance to! One kid wanted to check it out, the other did not. I made them both accompany me to check it out. Walking from the lot out front toward the lighthouse you could just see how beautiful the landscape here is. Flowers, greenery, flag blowing, sun shining and an interesting structure to take in. Can you go into the lighthouse? No- that disappointed the three of us. We did pop into the museum. A little mature for the little ones, and requires more time than we had but my daughter did sign the guest book inside and enjoyed looking at where other travelers are from. Just an FYI: We ran in/ran out on a Friday around 10am. Did not pay for parking as my husband stayed in the car with our toddler who was napping. We spent about 30 minutes here and it was just enough to fill our curiosity. And this included a few minutes in the gift shop. Parents- super cute 'memory' mason jars for $3.95 here. These kids loved them and had big plans to fill them over our long weekend in Maine. As we left the park, both kids said they were glad we stopped. I will take the Mom win!

One of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world. Definitely worth visiting whenever in the Portland Maine area.

There are many things that one may imagine when thinking of Maine, which may include seafood, the sea and lighthouses. If you wish to see the oldest light house in Maine, there Portland Head Light is the lighthouse for you (although there are numerous of beautiful lighthouses in Maine, all of which have different styles). Portland Head Light is the most photographed lighthouse in the US, and looking at these photos from my fellow yelp members (some are exceptionally talented), you can easily see why. This lighthouse has been in operation since 1791. But is not available for visitors to go inside. This particular lighthouse was frequent by the famous poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (he wrote Paul Revere's Ride) during his younger days. It is believed that his famous poem The Lighthouse was most likely the inspiration. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born in Portland (in case you were wondering). This beautiful lighthouse can be found at Fort Williams Park, set against the backdrop of Casco Bay in Cape Elizabeth. Park is only $1.50 for 2 hours but if you are lucky, you may be able to find very limited (and free) parking right by the lighthouse. Just take the road directly to the lighthouse and you will find it, in addition to a few (free) handicap parking spots (but there are maybe 4 parking spots? Good luck).

Iconic and beautiful lighthouse; ample parking, clean well maintained park makes for picturesque views no matter the weather or season. The museum inside is informative too.

we went to see this beautiful light house yesterday. if you are into light houses, this is a good place to go. they do have a little museum there. very little. i wasnt to impressed with it. but its only two dollars to get in.

Amazing place to visit if visiting near Portland Maine. Cape Elizabeth is only 20 Min away. So much to see and the views are amazing. Also, try Bite of Maine food truck!

This is the most photographed lighthouse in the state of Maine, but definitely not the most beautiful. We thought that it was kind of mediocre after seeing half a dozen light houses. This lighthouse was one of the last ones we saw on our recent trip to Maine. The whole place was super touristy, and overflowing with tourist buses and cars everywhere. It was definitely off putting. The history of the lighthouse and the surrounding structures and area is super cool. There are several points of interest in the complex including an old fortress near there. You have to pay for parking don't forget. There are meter maids waiting to ticket you if you don't pay.

I'm sure the views are spectacular, BUT brig a credit card. Cash is not accepted to park.

A must see! Overall, this place blew our expectation. We headed there for the lighthouse, but we ended up enjoying the open fields, the walking path, climbing down the rocks to reach the water and waves. Wear sneakers and bring water, we stayed later than planned. Plenty of parking, the Overflow parking lot was free, which was only a VERY short walk from the paid lots. If you want to enjoy an ice coffee or gelato - the food truck accepts cash only.

This was our first lighthouse of the day to search for. It has a small store. And local artists selling pictures. Very nice site.

This is a must if you are visiting Portland! The views are absolutely breathtaking in person. I happened to be doing a New England road trip and this was one of the stops. Plenty of great spots to take photos and enjoy the scenery! I was actually surprised at how crowded it was. Definitely try and go as early as possible. Parking also is hard if your coming at peak times. Luckily this wasn't an issue for us!