25 Scenic and Picturesque New England Lighthouses That You Shouldn’t Miss

New England is a treasure trove of scenic landscapes and historic landmarks, and its lighthouses are no exception. For landscape and travel photographers, these beacons offer not only historical significance but also breathtaking views waiting to be captured.

Here’s a list of 25 picturesque New England lighthouses, complete with descriptions to help you find the perfect shot.

Maine

Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth

Portland Head Light is arguably Maine’s most iconic lighthouse. Perched on the rugged cliffs of Fort Williams Park, its white tower and red-roofed keeper’s house offer contrasting colors against the deep blue Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding parkland provides ample opportunities for varied compositions, from close-ups to panoramic shots, although the park can get quite crowded at times.

Bass Harbor Head Light, Tremont

Located within Acadia National Park, Bass Harbor Head Light sits atop a rocky coastline that’s particularly stunning at sunset. The lighthouse itself is a classic white structure with a black lantern, surrounded by lush greenery and the dramatic cliffs that make every shot a winner.

Pemaquid Point Light, Bristol

Pemaquid Point Light stands on a scenic promontory offering sweeping views of the Atlantic. Its octagonal tower and adjacent keeper’s house are framed by dramatic rock formations and tidal pools that attract photographers looking for dynamic foreground elements.

Cape Neddick (Nubble) Light, York

Cape Neddick Light, affectionately known as “Nubble Light,” is situated on a small island just off the coast of York. The picturesque setting features a classic red-roofed lighthouse and a charming keeper’s house, making it perfect for capturing postcard-worthy images, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Portland Breakwater Light, South Portland

Known as “Bug Light,” this diminutive lighthouse in South Portland features a unique, Greek-inspired design. Situated in a public park, it offers unobstructed views of Portland Harbor and the city skyline, ideal for both day and nighttime photography.

West Quoddy Head Light, Lubec

West Quoddy Head Light is instantly recognizable by its distinctive red-and-white striped tower. It is located at the easternmost point of the United States and provides stunning dawn light. The rugged coastal scenery and nearby cliffs offer additional composition opportunities.

Whaleback Lighthouse, Kittery

Whaleback Lighthouse stands on a rocky ledge off the coast of Kittery and can be best photographed from Fort Foster Park. Its remote location and rugged surroundings make it a compelling subject, especially during stormy weather when waves crash dramatically against its base.

Marshall Point Light, Port Clyde

Marshall Point Light, with its long wooden walkway leading to the lighthouse, presents a striking visual composition. Located at the entrance to Port Clyde Harbor, this lighthouse became famous after appearing in the movie “Forrest Gump.” The surrounding rocks and ocean views add further interest.

Doubling Point Light, Arrowsic

Doubling Point Light is a charming, small lighthouse located on the Kennebec River. Its distinctive white tower and red roof are set against tranquil waters, making it a serene subject for photography. The nearby marshlands and trees offer seasonal variation and additional points of interest.

New Hampshire

Portsmouth Harbor Light, New Castle

Portsmouth Harbor Light, located within the historic Fort Constitution, offers a fascinating blend of maritime history and scenic beauty. The white conical tower and adjacent ruins provide excellent subject matter, especially against the backdrop of a vivid sunrise or sunset over the harbor.

Massachusetts

Gay Head Light, Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard

Gay Head Light stands on the multicolored cliffs of Aquinnah on Martha’s Vineyard. The lighthouse’s brick tower contrasts beautifully with the striated clay cliffs and the endless blue of the Atlantic, making for dramatic and colorful photos.

Annisquam Lighthouse, Gloucester

Annisquam Lighthouse is a classic New England beacon located on a rocky point in Gloucester. Its white tower and quaint keeper’s house are surrounded by tidal pools and sandy beaches, offering a variety of compositional elements for photographers.

Nauset Beach Light, Eastham, Cape Cod

Famous for its red-and-white striped tower, Nauset Beach Light is a Cape Cod icon. Located near the pristine beaches of Eastham, it provides a perfect setting for capturing the interplay of light and shadow, especially during the golden hours.

Wood End Lighthouse, Provincetown

Wood End Lighthouse is situated on a remote sandbar accessible by foot or boat, providing a sense of isolation and tranquility. The white tower and surrounding dunes create a minimalist, almost surreal landscape that’s perfect for creative compositions.

Race Point Light, Provincetown, Cape Cod

Race Point Light is located at the tip of Cape Cod and offers a stunning combination of sand dunes, ocean views, and a historic lighthouse. The remote location and unspoiled surroundings make it a favorite for photographers seeking natural beauty and solitude.

Scituate Light, Scituate

Scituate Light is a charming lighthouse located on Cedar Point in Scituate. Its white tower and green lantern room overlook a rocky coastline and small beach, making it an ideal spot for capturing the essence of coastal New England.

Brant Point Light, Nantucket

Brant Point Light is one of the most accessible lighthouses on Nantucket, located just a short walk from the ferry terminal. Its short, squat tower and picturesque setting on the harbor make it a favorite for capturing quintessential island scenes.

Sankaty Lighthouse, Nantucket

Sankaty Lighthouse, with its bold red-and-white striped tower, stands on the eastern cliffs of Nantucket. The lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, offering dramatic views and excellent lighting conditions, especially during sunrise.

Highland Light, Cape Cod

Highland Light, also known as Cape Cod Light, is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod. Located in Truro, its white tower and classic design are complemented by rolling dunes and panoramic ocean views, making it a must-visit for photographers.

Rhode Island

Castle Hill Lighthouse, Newport

Castle Hill Lighthouse is perched on the rocky cliffs of Newport’s Castle Hill Inn, offering stunning views of Narragansett Bay. The lighthouse itself is a small, sturdy stone structure that looks especially beautiful during the golden hours around sunrise and sunset.

Point Judith Light, Narragansett

Point Judith Light stands at the entrance to Narragansett Bay and features a distinctive brown-and-white tower. The rocky shoreline and crashing waves provide dynamic elements for dramatic and powerful photographs.

Beavertail Light, Jamestown

Beavertail Light, located on the southern tip of Conanicut Island, offers panoramic views of Narragansett Bay. The lighthouse complex includes a museum and several outbuildings, providing plenty of photographic opportunities against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and wild waves.

Connecticut

Avery Point Lighthouse, Groton

Avery Point Lighthouse is a unique octagonal tower located on the campus of the University of Connecticut at Avery Point. The lighthouse’s charming design and scenic waterfront setting make it a delightful subject for photography, especially at dusk.

Black Rock Harbor Lighthouse (Fayerweather Island Light), Bridgeport

Fayerweather Island Light, also known as Black Rock Harbor Lighthouse, is located on a small island accessible by a breakwater. The lighthouse’s weathered stone tower and the surrounding seagrass provide a nostalgic and serene atmosphere for photographers.

Five Mile Point Light, New Haven

Five Mile Point Light, situated in New Haven’s Lighthouse Point Park, is a classic New England lighthouse with a white tower and black lantern room. The park’s sandy beaches, rocky shores, and nearby carousel pavilion offer a variety of picturesque settings.

Final Thoughts

New England’s lighthouses are more than just navigational aids; they are historic landmarks, architectural marvels, and stunning photographic subjects. Whether you’re a seasoned landscape photographer or a travel enthusiast looking to capture the essence of coastal New England, these lighthouses provide endless inspiration.