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Did you know that West Quoddy Head Lighthouse is the only “candy stripped” red and white lighthouse in the United States?
Located in the small town of Lubec, Maine in Quoddy Head State Park, this unique lighthouse is also famous for being the Easternmost point of the United States.
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The first lighthouse was built here in 1808 to help guide ships through the Quoddy Narrows. However, the one that is standing currently was built in 1858. It is now maintained by the US Coast Guard.
From the parking lot, it’s just a short walk to the lighthouse. Be sure to grab some fun photos of this picturesque spot.
After that, be sure to stop into the museum and gift shop to sign the guest registry. There are some really cool exhibits to check out! Plus, you can visit the art gallery for some beautiful Maine-inspired artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Tours to the top are generally only given on Saturdays in July and August.
Since the light is now automated, there is no longer a keeper living on site. The keeper’s home is now a Visitor’s Center. However, a park ranger sometimes occupies the second floor apartment.
The Native American Passamaquoddy named this place, which means “fertile and beautiful place.”
West Quoddy Head State Park
This beautiful state park includes 541 acres on a peninsula. There are over 5 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas and of course, the famous lighthouse.
Admission to the park is $3 per resident and $4 for non-residents for adults and children over 12. Note, you do not need to pay admission if you are only visiting the lighthouse.
More information on park passes and fees can be found on the Maine State Bureau of Parks and Lands website.
What lighthouses are in Maine?
Today, Maine is home to about 65 active lighthouses along it’s 5,000 miles of coastline. Some of the most well-known of these are:
- Bass Harbor Head Light in Acadia National Park
- Cape Neddick “The Nubble Light” in York Beach
- Portland Headlight in Cape Elizabeth
- Rockland Breakwater Light at Jameson Point in Rockland Harbor
- Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol
Maine Open Lighthouse Day
The US Coast Guard in partnership with the Maine Office of Tourism and American Lighthouse Foundation sponsors Maine Open Lighthouse Day. this year is is on September 14, 2019.
West Quoddy Head is part of this event, along with about two dozen others. It is a unique chance to experience some of the lighthouses not normally open to the public. Check the website above for more information.
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse
West Quoddy Head overlooks Quoddy Narrows, which separates the US from Campobello Island Canada.
There is a path and stairs leading down to the rocky beach. The view of the lighthouse is awesome from below, too. This was the best part according to our kids (ages 8 and 11). They loved scrambling over the rocks and comparing the unique pebbles.
Another path I’d recommend even for small children is the Bog Trail. It’s only .02 in length and an easy walk. Find more trails here.
Everywhere you look, you’ll find some natural beauty, so be sure to bring your camera with you!
West Quoddy Head Lighthouse Facts
This lighthouse was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Here are some more interesting facts from the American Lighthouse Foundation:
- Commissioned by: President Thomas Jefferson in 1806
- Originally Built: 1808
- Current Tower Built and Lit: 1858
- Automated: 1988
- Construction: brick
- Height: 49 feet
- Range: 18 nautical miles
Visiting West Quoddy Head
Please note: We strongly recommend that you double check the website or call for the more up-to-date information for this site.
- Address: 973 S Lubec Rd, Lubec, ME
- Cost: none
- Open: Memorial Day – September
- Hours: 10am-4pm
- Website: West Quoddy Lighthouse
- Phone: 207-733-2180
Things to Do
There are a few picnic tables available and the view is stunning. Parking is ample and there are a couple of restrooms. Here are some ideas for your visit:
- Have a picnic lunch
- Explore the rocky beach
- Visit the art gallery
- Hike one of the many trails
- Visit Roosevelt Campobello International Park
- Book a charter boat tour or whale watch
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