Yes, this is the famous lighthouse on the Maine state quarter: the Nubble Lighthouse. It’s actually officially called the Cape Nedick Lighthouse, but everyone just calls it the Nubble Light. Known for being lit up with lights during the holidays, the Nubble Light is one of the Maine lighthouses that you can visit… but you can’t visit. You can go to the point at Cape Nedick and see the lighthouse but as a civilian you cannot actually go to its island. That doesn’t make it any less interesting or charming; if anything it adds some character.
Do you think the Nubble Lighthouse is worth the drive to visit? I do, and I would love to get to go over to the island and see what life is like out there, but that’s not been in the cards for me yet. If you have any questions about visiting the Nubble Lighthouse at Cape Nedick or need suggestions for other things to do in the area, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more and help you plan a wonderful trip exploring Maine.
Why You Should Visit the Nubble Lighthouse
It’s funny how popular and famous the Nubble Lighthouse is for being one that you cannot even visit. Yes, you can see it very well and it’s a beautiful sight, for sure, but you cannot even access the grounds around it. Visiting the Nubble Lighthouse is a short visit, but it’s pretty. There are plenty of benches and rocks to sit on and take in the mist from the Atlantic Ocean, but one of the coolest things is actually watching the resident bald eagles. Year after year the eagles keep their nest on the island with the Nubble Lighthouse. You’ll see them flying about, swooping, and even landing on the lighthouse. It’s pretty cool and unique. Even without the eagles, the Nubble Light is great to sit and enjoy from the shore.
Nearby there is also a small museum/gift shop. It’s much more of a gift shop than museum, but there are some photos and placards talking about Cape Neddick and the Nubble Lighthouse, as well as Sohier Park (where all of this is located). I will say, of all the nautical shops and lighthouse spots we’ve visited through the years, the Nubble Light gift shop has some of the best memorabilia, lighthouse art, and Maine souvenirs.
Tips for Visiting Cape Neddick and the Nubble Light
For me, a visit to Cape Neddick and the Nubble Lighthouse is more of a birdwatching trip than a lighthouse visit. If you’re going to the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in New Harbor near Damariscotta, you have the keepers quarters, a museum, and the lighthouse tower to check out, and you can actually go up that one. At the Nubble Lighthouse it’s out on a small island (Cape Neddick) so being inaccessible except by the keeper’s cable cart, it’s kind of like a small wildlife refuge. Seabirds, including the bald eagles I mentioned, are all around the rocks and island. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy the coastal Maine wildlife.
You don’t need a ton of time here at Cape Neddick, but should plan to be here for a half hour or so. If you want to grab a bite at Fox’s Lobster House, it’s just off Sohier Park, so you can add that to your visit. Grab a lobster roll and a view of the lighthouse and you have the perfect Maine day trip.
Being Prepared for Birding at Cape Neddick
Since you can’t go out onto the island at Cape Neddick, you won’t need to worry much about having rain gear for a long visit or something, but if you’re here for the birding, rain gear may be helpful. There’s usually enough of a breeze or gusts of wind that an umbrella isn’t going to be very helpful in the rain, but a good raincoat might be a winner if the weather is bad.
Being a photographer myself, I am always prepared with my camera. Visiting the Nubble Lighthouse and watching wildlife around Cape Neddick is best with a nice camera and a telephoto, especially if the bald eagles are around. Because you are on stationary land here, unlike the whale watching from Boothbay Harbor or the puffin boat tour from Port Clyde, you can really get set up for solid, clear bird photography. Bring a tripod or monopod to support your birding and you’ll be set!
Parking at the Nubble Lighthouse
Parking is free at Cape Neddick and Saheir Park. The Nubble Lighthouse is just off the point, so you may score a parking spot with a view (great if it’s raining) or you’ll have to get out for the view and birdwatching. There’s not a ton of parking though, so since the Nubble Lighthouse is so popular, if you’re visiting on a weekend you may have to be patient or come back later. The morning is the easiest time to visit, but the late afternoon is the best time for the best light on the lighthouse and Cape Neddick.
More Things to Do in Portland and Southern Maine
Portland, Maine is a great city to explore, especially with kids. Yes, we love the lighthouses all around the coast, but in Portland you’ll find some great museums, fun bookstores, lots of good food and plenty of tours to get you out on the water. This is a very historic city that’s seen big changes as the world of industry evolves.
Southern Maine has more wonderful towns that are also easy to visit, as everything is surprisingly close to Portland. Ogunquit, Saco, Kennebunkport, Old Orchard Beach and more are all within a 45 minute drive of Portland, making it a no-brainer to add to your trip if you want. Also, heading out towards Sebago Lake, you’ll find more beautiful small towns and awesome state parks and the like to enjoy. If you weren’t planning on spending much time in Portland or Southern Maine during your trip, think again and see about adding some of these fun activities to your itinerary.
Portland Ideas:
- do a whale watching trip
- walk around the historic seaport area
- visit the Portland Art Museum
- check out the three lighthouses in Portland: Portland Head, Spring Point Ledge and Bug Light
- eat whoopie pies and lobster rolls
- visit the Museum of Cryptozoology
- check out one of the several historic cemeteries
- rent bikes to explore the Portland area
Southern Maine Activities and Destinations:
- do a day trip up to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
- visit Old Orchard Beach and the midway style boardwalk
- hike at the Saco Heath Preserve
- spend a day or two in Maine’s beautiful LGBTQ+ hub of Ogunquit
- day trip out to Sebago Lake State Park (the best picnic spot in Maine)
- trek to the Nubble Lighthouse
- explore the many natural preserves and estuaries for hiking and kayaking
Check out these great options:
Where to Stay in Portland or Southern Maine
I like staying in downtown Portland because there are lots of great places to eat all through the historic area and business district. There are walkable sights like the State Theater, the Longfellow House and the whole waterfront/port area. You’ll find both unique and national brand hotels in downtown Portland, so if you like to travel with point or earn loyalty, you can do that.
If you venture beyond the city to places like Cape Elizabeth or Freeport you’ll have even more options, especially for places to stay that are quintessential Maine. One of our favorites will always be the Harasseeket Inn in Freeport or a glamping trip to the Desert of Maine. We love unique, boutique stays!
When you’re looking at going further south to Kennebunkport, Ogunquit or Old Orchard Beach, you’ll find TONS of options. For these areas I would recommend finding a hotel or inn that’s walking distance to the main activities you’re planning. If you have the option to be ON the beach, do it!
Check out some of our favorite picks for where to stay in Southern Maine:
I hope you’ll consider making the trip out to Cape Neddick to visit the Nubble Lighthouse and enjoy some birdwatching. Visiting this part of Maine is really special in any season. If you have any additional questions or need some recommendations for something else, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re happy to share more and help YOU have a wonderful trip as you explore Maine!
