Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick Light)
Iconic 1879 lighthouse on a rocky island, offering breathtaking ocean views from Sohier Park. A must-see Maine landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick Light)
Best Time
Golden hour light is magical
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1879 lighthouse on a rocky island, offering breathtaking ocean views from Sohier Park. A must-see Maine landmark.
"One of the most photogenic lighthouses in the world, with amazing views from the park!"
🚗 Parking Patience
Sohier Park parking fills up fast! Arrive early or be prepared to circle.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The light at sunrise and sunset is incredible for photos. Don't miss it!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nubble Lighthouse
Cape Neddick, York, Maine
Iconic 1879 lighthouse perched on a rocky island, offering breathtaking ocean panoramas.
Sohier Park Views
Adjacent to the lighthouse
The prime spot for unobstructed, postcard-perfect views of the lighthouse and the Atlantic.
Rocky Coastline Exploration
Around Sohier Park
Climb on the rocks for unique perspectives and to feel the ocean spray. Be mindful of slippery surfaces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Views & Access
Photography Hotspot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Sohier Park parking fills up fast! Arrive early or be prepared to circle.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The light at sunrise and sunset is incredible for photos. Don't miss it!
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain around the lighthouse.
🌊 Embrace the Spray
On windy days, you might get a little wet from the ocean spray. It's part of the experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Sohier Park parking fills up fast! Arrive early or be prepared to circle.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
The light at sunrise and sunset is incredible for photos. Don't miss it!
👟 Sturdy Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rocky terrain around the lighthouse.
🌊 Embrace the Spray
On windy days, you might get a little wet from the ocean spray. It's part of the experience!
💡 History Buffs Rejoice
Learn about the lighthouse's history; it's even on the Voyager Golden Record!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nubble Lighthouse for its iconic beauty and stunning ocean views, making it a quintessential Maine experience. While the inability to enter the lighthouse is a common point, the picturesque setting and accessibility from Sohier Park are major draws. It's a highly recommended, easily accessible stop for most travelers.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nubble Lighthouse is located in York, Maine, at the end of Cape Neddick. The easiest way to access it is by car, heading to Sohier Park. There's a parking lot right there, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. 
Public transportation options directly to Nubble Lighthouse are limited. It's best to drive or consider ride-sharing services if you're not bringing a car.
Simply use 'Sohier Park' or 'Nubble Lighthouse' in your GPS. You'll find it at the very end of Cape Neddick, a picturesque drive.
While possible, it's a significant walk (several miles). Driving to Sohier Park is the most practical option for most visitors.
Yes, the charming town of York offers beaches, shops, and restaurants. The lighthouse is a great starting point for exploring the wider York area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Nubble Lighthouse and Sohier Park are free to visit. You can enjoy the views and the grounds without any admission fee.
Unfortunately, you cannot go inside Nubble Lighthouse. It is an active aid to navigation and is not open to the public for tours.
Sohier Park is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. The lighthouse itself is always visible from the shore.
No, there is no entrance fee for Sohier Park. It's a public park offering fantastic views of the lighthouse.
Visiting on a weekday morning, especially outside of summer holidays, will offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds and easier parking.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing stunning images of the lighthouse and the ocean.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse with its surroundings, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions during sunrise/sunset.
Sohier Park offers numerous vantage points. Exploring the rocky areas adjacent to the park can yield unique angles, but be cautious of slippery surfaces.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and local ordinances before flying a drone in the area.
Its picturesque setting on a small island, combined with the rugged Maine coastline and the classic lighthouse design, makes it one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main activity is enjoying the stunning views of the lighthouse and the Atlantic Ocean from Sohier Park. You can also explore the rocky shoreline and take photos.
Sohier Park has paved areas that are generally accessible. However, exploring the rocky coastline may be challenging.
Restroom facilities are typically available at Sohier Park, especially during the main tourist season.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Sohier Park. Enjoy your meal with a beautiful ocean view.
Most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour enjoying the views and taking photos. If you plan to explore the rocks or have a picnic, allow more time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚗 Day-Trippers from Boston
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Nubble Lighthouse
While visitors cannot access the island or the lighthouse itself due to its active status and the treacherous waters surrounding it, the views from Sohier Park on the mainland are spectacular. This accessible park provides the perfect vantage point for photography and simply soaking in the atmosphere of this historic beacon. The surrounding rocky coastline offers a chance to explore and appreciate the raw beauty of the Atlantic.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips for Nubble Lighthouse
When composing your shots, consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the lighthouse, the island, and the expansive ocean backdrop. For more intimate details or to isolate the lighthouse against the sky, a telephoto lens can be effective. Don't be afraid to explore the rocky shoreline adjacent to Sohier Park for unique perspectives, but always exercise caution as the rocks can be slippery. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light photography during dawn and dusk to ensure sharp, clear images.
Many visitors find the views from Sohier Park to be unparalleled. The park offers a clear, unobstructed line of sight to the lighthouse. For those seeking a more adventurous angle, carefully navigating the rocks can provide interesting foreground elements. Remember to check local regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial shots.
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