Egg Rock Lighthouse
An iconic, if quirky, lighthouse offering stunning coastal views and abundant wildlife sightings on boat tours from Bar Harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light & wildlife
Egg Rock Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour light & wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic, if quirky, lighthouse offering stunning coastal views and abundant wildlife sightings on boat tours from Bar Harbor.
"Best way to see it is on a whale watch or lobster tour; you well get up close."
🎯 Book a Boat Tour
Essential for seeing the lighthouse up close & wildlife. Many options available! :boat:
🦭 Seal Spotting Tips
Visit during high tide for the best chance to see seals on the rocks. :seal:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Egg Rock Lighthouse
Off the coast of Bar Harbor, Maine
Iconic, though sometimes called 'ugly,' this lighthouse offers scenic views and is a focal point of boat tours.
Seal Colony on Egg Rock
Egg Rock Island
Witness numerous seals basking on the rocks, a popular wildlife sighting on boat tours.
Coastal Scenery & Wildlife
Frenchman Bay & surrounding islands
Enjoy picturesque coastlines, nesting birds, and potentially bald eagles during your boat excursion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Egg Rock Lighthouse
Best Viewing Times & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book a Boat Tour
Essential for seeing the lighthouse up close & wildlife. Many options available! :boat:
🦭 Seal Spotting Tips
Visit during high tide for the best chance to see seals on the rocks. :seal:
📸 Capture the Sunset
Evening cruises offer beautiful light for photos of the lighthouse and coast. :camera:
🦞 Lobster Tour Bonus
Some tours combine lighthouse views with lobster pot demonstrations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book a Boat Tour
Essential for seeing the lighthouse up close & wildlife. Many options available! :boat:
🦭 Seal Spotting Tips
Visit during high tide for the best chance to see seals on the rocks. :seal:
📸 Capture the Sunset
Evening cruises offer beautiful light for photos of the lighthouse and coast. :camera:
🦞 Lobster Tour Bonus
Some tours combine lighthouse views with lobster pot demonstrations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find Egg Rock Lighthouse to be an interesting historical site and a pleasant addition to boat tours around Bar Harbor. While the lighthouse itself might not be conventionally beautiful, the surrounding scenery, abundant seals, and birdlife make the excursions highly enjoyable. Many recommend specific lobster tours for a closer view and engaging experience.
"Somewhat interesting history and well known site in Bay Harbor and Acadia area. Best way to see it is on a whale watch of lobster tour. Recommend LuLu' lobster tour as you well get up close, where as whale watch will just point it out from a. Fair distance."
Don Dude
"You cannot visit without a permit but many cruises will bring you close by for pictures and observation of the historic light. We came by in June and observed seals and pups on the rocks sunning combine that with the views and it's well worth a drive by."
Corey
"Beautiful scenery and history. The scenic boat tour took us by it. Loved the wildlife."
D Hask
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Egg Rock Lighthouse is located offshore and is best accessed via boat tours departing from Bar Harbor, Maine. You cannot visit the island directly without a permit.
Many companies offer tours, including Acadian Boat Tours and Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. Look for nature cruises or lobster tours that specifically mention Egg Rock Lighthouse as a stop.
No, Egg Rock Lighthouse is situated on an island and is not accessible by car. Boat tours are the only way to see it.
While primarily viewed from Bar Harbor, some tours from areas like Schoodic Peninsula might offer distant views.
Tours typically range from two to three hours, offering ample time for sightseeing and wildlife viewing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need separate tickets for the lighthouse itself, but you do need to book a boat tour that includes it in its itinerary.
Landing on Egg Rock Island requires a permit and is generally not part of standard tourist boat tours.
Prices vary by tour operator and duration, but expect to pay around $50-$100 per person for a typical 2-3 hour tour.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season (summer). Sunset tours are very popular.
Most boat tours are family-friendly, but it's always best to check with the specific tour operator regarding any age or health restrictions.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset cruises offer beautiful golden hour lighting. Early morning can also provide good light with fewer crowds.
You'll get scenic shots of the lighthouse from the water, as well as opportunities to photograph seals, birds, and the coastline.
It can be challenging due to movement, but stabilization and a good zoom lens can help. Focus on capturing the overall scene and wildlife.
Tours often circle the island, providing various angles. The classic view is from the approach side of the lighthouse.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks and around protected wildlife areas. Always check local regulations before flying.
🎫 🦭 Wildlife Viewing
You can commonly see seals basking on the rocks, various seabirds, and sometimes bald eagles. 
Seals are often more active and visible during high tide.
While whale watching tours focus on whales, many also pass by Egg Rock and offer opportunities to see seals and other coastal wildlife.
Yes, some tours, like those on the Miss Samantha, demonstrate lobster pot retrieval and explain the industry.
Puffins are typically found on more remote islands further offshore. While you might see other seabirds, puffins are less common on Egg Rock tours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Bring binoculars for the kids to get a better view of the seals and birds. Also, pack snacks and drinks, as not all tours provide them. Ensure everyone has a jacket, as it can get breezy on the water.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider: A telephoto lens will be invaluable for capturing details of the lighthouse and wildlife from the boat. Be prepared for movement on the water, and consider a camera strap for security.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Lovers
Best bet: Opt for a nature cruise that focuses on wildlife observation. Visiting during high tide can increase your chances of seeing seals actively basking on the rocks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of Egg Rock Lighthouse
While its aesthetic might be debated, the lighthouse stands as a testament to maritime history. It's a popular subject for photographers and a key point of interest on many scenic boat tours. The island itself is a protected area, home to a significant seabird colony and a popular haul-out spot for seals, making the surrounding waters a rich environment for wildlife observation.
Many visitors find the lighthouse's history and its role in the local maritime landscape fascinating. It's a piece of coastal heritage that, despite its looks, holds a special place in the hearts of those who navigate these waters. The fact that it's often pointed out on tours, even if just briefly, underscores its importance as a navigational aid and a local icon.
Experiencing Egg Rock Lighthouse via Boat Tour
+1During these tours, you can expect to get relatively close to the lighthouse, allowing for excellent photo opportunities. Many tours also highlight the island's role as a sanctuary for seals, which can often be seen lounging on the rocks. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of seabirds nesting on Egg Rock. Some tours even include demonstrations of lobster fishing, adding an educational and interactive element to the experience.
When choosing a tour, consider what you want to prioritize. If wildlife is your main interest, look for tours that emphasize seal sightings and birdwatching. If you're keen on understanding the local industry, a lobster tour might be more appealing. Regardless of the specific focus, a boat trip to Egg Rock Lighthouse promises scenic beauty, a glimpse into maritime history, and a chance to connect with Maine's coastal ecosystem.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit