The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – a Beautiful Trek into the Harbor

MidCoast Maine is my favorite part of the state, and the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is my favorite of the many lighthouses and light stations in this area. Something that has always been a fun part of visiting the Rockland Breakwater Light is the mile long granite causeway out from the beach below the Samoset Resort to the actual structure. This is a lot longer than it looks and because it’s so far, a lot of visitors don’t want to go all the way, keeping it from becoming crowded.

Have you done the trek out into the Rockland Harbor to visit the Breakwater Lighthouse? We’ve done it in summer and winter, fall and spring. Between the seal and birds and boats, there are always fun things to watch for. If you have any questions about this lighthouse or visiting Rockland, Maine please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re always happy to share more!

Highlights of the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse

So why should you make the trek across the mile long granite causeway out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse? Well, I like to check off all the Maine lighthouses from my list, so that’s one reason, but also, I think the experience of walking out across the water is fun and different. There are always harbor seals and interesting birds when we’re on the breakwater, so that in itself draws me there. Watching the ships go in and out of Rockland Harbor is also pretty cool, especially when the weather is nice and there are lots of sailboats of double masted ships. You may also see the Vinalhaven or Matinicus ferry boats heading out.

The actual lighthouse is interesting because it’s red brick and very much resembles a house… with a lantern tower. It’s not your standard lighthouse construction and is rather my dream house, but it needs some work. You can see the many years of winter storms on its walls, but that just adds to the beauty of the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.

Tips for Your Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse Visit

When you visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse keep in mind how long the trek across the granite causeway is. You have to walk from the parking area along the harbor and then out just over a mile to the lighthouse, which makes the walk over two miles round trip. This isn’t far if you’re use to walking and are dressed for the weather, but if you’ve got wobbly ankles and it seems like quite the distance, it may not be the right lighthouse for your to visit. The walkway out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is rough with uneven granite boulders you have to cross. We’ve done it many time so don’t think it’s too bad, but doing it with unsure footed folks and little kids that don’t listen well is not recommended.

The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is good to visit any time of day except for maybe directly at high noon. At golden hour it’s the prettiest as the red structure warms with the low light, but even first thing in the morning when there’s a soft fog on the harbor is great. Dress warmly though, even in summer, as the breeze on the water can be chilly.

For those staying at the Samoset Resort, they actually have a view of the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse and a trail that leads to the granite causeway. I love waking up here at the Samoset and looking out at the sunrise with the lighthouse. You don’t have to stay here to see it, but the setting is beautiful and it adds to the Maine experience. The 250 Main Hotel also has a view of the lighthouse from many rooms and from their rooftop deck.

Being Prepared for the Rockland Breakwater Light Trek

GOOD SHOES. The best way to be prepared for a visit to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is to wear sturdy shoes and pay attention to where you walk. You don’t want to ruin your visit to this beautiful Maine icon by slipping, stumbling or getting your foot stuck. I would also suggest a windbreaker or raincoat unless it’s a warm, calm summer day. There are windy days when walking out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is a soaking wet experience and I DON’T recommend that sort of visit. Do it when it’s calm.

You should bring a camera with you, for sure. This is a very unique lighthouse in comparison to others in MidCoast Maine or Portland. The Portland Head Lighthouse is an absolute icon with its white tower and detached, picturesque cottage, the Spring Point Ledge Light is unique as it looks like an oil drum sitting in the sea, and then the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse looks like the house of bricks made by the third little pig… but with a lantern tower attached. I love it. Also, on the walk across the breakwater you’ll be able to watch for harbor seals and cool birds, so if you like wildlife photography, this is a great spot.

Parking for the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse

On a summer afternoon, good luck. I mean it. The rest of the year parking for the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse isn’t bad at all. Park at the end of Samoset Road at Marie Reed Park and then start your walk. Pay attention to parking signs and DO NOT BLOCK the driveways on the west side of the street. If there isn’t parking, wait up the hill a bit until somebody leaves. Be kind and patient.

More Rockland Area Lighthouses to Visit

There are a few more lighthouses to visit here in the Rockland area if you’re into it, and there’s also the Maine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum in downtown Rockland. For more lighthouses to see in the area, check out Owls Head Light, Marshal Point Light (the Forrest Gump lighthouse), Tenants Harbor Light and the Two Bush Island Lighthouse (if you’re a kayaker).