Introduction to Maine's Lighthouses
Stretching along more than 3,400 miles of rugged coastline, Maine is home to one of the largest collections of historic lighthouses in the United States. These iconic beacons, numbering more than 60 in total, have guided sailors through fog, storms, and rocky waters for centuries while helping shape the state's rich maritime heritage.
From dramatic cliffside towers to remote island lights, each lighthouse tells a story of dedication, danger, and resilience. Many were first lit in the nineteenth century and staffed by lighthouse keepers who maintained the lights around the clock, often in complete isolation. Today, while most are automated, they remain powerful symbols of Maine's coastal identity and continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Whether you are exploring them in person or learning about their history, Maine's lighthouses offer a unique window into the past where navigation, community, and the sea all come together.
Lighthouse Organizations of Maine
Maine Lighthouse Trust
The Maine Lighthouse Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and restoring lighthouses across the state. The organization supports local lighthouse groups through grants funded by Maine's lighthouse specialty license plate program and works to promote education and public awareness of lighthouse heritage.
American Lighthouse Foundation
The American Lighthouse Foundation is one of the leading lighthouse preservation groups in the United States. Based in Maine, the organization manages and maintains multiple historic lighthouse sites, offers tours and educational programs, and provides opportunities to stay overnight at certain lighthouse locations.
United States Lighthouse Society
The United States Lighthouse Society is a national nonprofit organization focused on lighthouse preservation, education, and research. While not specific to Maine, it plays an important role in supporting lighthouse conservation efforts across the country and offers resources, publications, and tours.