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Wood Island Lighthouse

4.6
·491k reviews·Biddeford, United States

Historic Wood Island Lighthouse offers boat tours, island walks, and tower climbs with stunning coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
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getlstd_property_photo

Wood Island Lighthouse

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic Wood Island Lighthouse offers boat tours, island walks, and tower climbs with stunning coastal views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Climb to the top of a lighthouse with us! #Maine #woodislandlighthouse #summerinmaine"

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TIP

🎯 Book Tours Early

Tours for Wood Island Lighthouse are popular and sell out quickly. Book online via woodislandlighthouse.org.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on a boardwalk and climbing stairs in the lighthouse.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wood Island Lighthouse Tower

Wood Island Lighthouse Tower

Wood Island

Climb the historic 45-foot white tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Saco Bay.

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Keeper's House & Island Boardwalk

Keeper's House & Island Boardwalk

Wood Island

Explore the picturesque Dutch colonial keeper's house and enjoy a scenic 1/2-mile boardwalk through the island.

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Biddeford Pool Views

Biddeford Pool Views

Biddeford Pool

Experience stunning coastal scenery and iconic lighthouse views from the shores of Biddeford Pool.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tour in Advance

Tours to Wood Island Lighthouse are popular and often sell out. Booking your spot with the Friends of Wood Island Light well in advance is crucial, especially during peak season. Instagram+1

Island Access & Weather

Access to Wood Island is via boat, and tours are weather-dependent. Be prepared for potential cancellations and dress in layers, as coastal Maine weather can change rapidly. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, easier booking
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Was it worth the night of no sleep? 🌌🌟 By all reasonable logic, this image should have been impossible due to light pollution. Perhaps that is why it seems no one has tried it before. I received overnight access to the park and attempted a Milky Way stack over Portland Head Light. I had low expectations. but was blown away with the result. I could even see the band of the Milky Way with my naked e...
@jasondderrick
31.1K likes • 170.7K views

🎯 Book Tours Early

Tours for Wood Island Lighthouse are popular and sell out quickly. Book online via woodislandlighthouse.org. Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on a boardwalk and climbing stairs in the lighthouse. Instagram+1

POV: Lighthouse Local just dropped 90’s iced coffee buckets… and I’m living my best throwback life 🕶️📼☕ #newhampshire #IcedCoffeeBucket #CoffeeTok #SmallTownCafe #icedcoffee @lighthouselocal
@the.travelmama
6.4K likes • 116.8K views
One of the most underrated beaches in southern Maine is Biddeford Pool. This view of Wood Island lighthouse is one of my favorites. Comment below and I’ll send the details to your DMs!
birdiebopsaround
0 likes • 334 views

🧥 Dress in Layers

Coastal Maine weather is unpredictable; be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures. Instagram

📸 Bring Your Camera

Capture stunning views of the lighthouse and the surrounding coastline. Instagram+1

I can’t believe I have lived in Maine for so long and never took the haunted Wood Island Lighthouse tour. The boat ride to the island, the 1/2 mile boardwalk through the island and going to the top of the lighthouse just made my day. No ghosts today’s but I heard many stories. Save for your next trip to Maine! #lighthouses #lighthouse_lovers #lighthousesofnewengland #lighthousesofmaine #lighthouse...
maine_hiker_girl
412 likes • 2.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours Early

Tours for Wood Island Lighthouse are popular and sell out quickly. Book online via woodislandlighthouse.org. Instagram+1

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be walking on a boardwalk and climbing stairs in the lighthouse. Instagram+1

🧥 Dress in Layers

Coastal Maine weather is unpredictable; be prepared for sun, wind, and cooler temperatures. Instagram

📸 Bring Your Camera

Capture stunning views of the lighthouse and the surrounding coastline. Instagram+1

👻 Ask About Ghost Stories

The lighthouse is rumored to be haunted; inquire about local legends during your tour. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the stunning views and the unique experience of visiting Wood Island Lighthouse. The boat ride and the climb to the top are frequently highlighted as memorable parts of the tour. Some mention the 'haunted' aspect as an intriguing element. Occasional feedback points to the need for advance booking due to high demand and the weather-dependent nature of tours.

What People Like

Beautiful lighthouse views
Scenic boat ride
Historic keeper's house

What People Dislike

Tours sell out quickly
Weather cancellations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Access to Wood Island Lighthouse is exclusively by boat. Tours depart from the mainland and include a scenic boat ride to the island. Check woodislandlighthouse.org for departure points and schedules. Instagram+1

Parking availability can vary depending on the departure location. It's advisable to check the Friends of Wood Island Light website or contact them directly for specific parking information for your chosen tour. Instagram

No, access to Wood Island and the lighthouse is only permitted through scheduled tours organized by the Friends of Wood Island Light. Instagram+1

The boat ride is typically short and offers beautiful views of the coastline and the lighthouse as you approach the island. Instagram+1

Wood Island Lighthouse is located on an island and is not accessible by car. Access is solely by boat tour. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour pricing can vary. It's best to visit the official Friends of Wood Island Light website (woodislandlighthouse.org) for the most up-to-date ticket prices and booking information. Instagram+1

Tickets are primarily available for purchase online through the Friends of Wood Island Light website. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Instagram+1

Tours typically run during specific seasons, often from late spring through early fall. Check the woodislandlighthouse.org website for the current tour schedule and availability. Instagram

Information on potential discounts for groups, seniors, or children is usually found on the official booking website. It's worth checking for any available promotions. Instagram

If a tour is canceled due to weather, the Friends of Wood Island Light will typically offer a refund or the option to reschedule your tour for another available date. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore the historic keeper's house, walk the island boardwalk, and climb to the top of the lighthouse tower for stunning views. Instagram+1

A typical tour, including the boat ride, island exploration, and lighthouse climb, can last around 1.5 to 2 hours. Instagram

Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, but parents should supervise children, especially during the climb up the lighthouse stairs. Instagram

Restroom facilities may be limited on the island. It's advisable to use facilities on the mainland before your departure. Instagram

Absolutely! Wood Island Lighthouse and its surroundings offer numerous picturesque photo opportunities. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly stunning. TikTokInstagram

The approach by boat offers excellent perspectives, and from the island itself, the keeper's house and the lighthouse tower provide classic shots. The surrounding coastline also offers scenic backdrops. Instagram+1

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and any specific restrictions for Wood Island before flying a drone. Instagram

It's ideal for landscape, architectural, and historical photography. The combination of the lighthouse, ocean, and island scenery is very photogenic. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or large-scale shoots might require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wood Island Lighthouse offers an engaging adventure for families. The boat ride is exciting for children, and the 1/2-mile boardwalk provides a safe and scenic walk. Climbing the lighthouse tower offers a sense of accomplishment, though parents should supervise younger children closely on the stairs. Instagram+1

Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities on the island are limited. The historical aspect, combined with the natural beauty and the touch of 'haunted' lore, can make for a memorable and educational outing for the whole family. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Wood Island Lighthouse is a dream. The iconic lighthouse structure, the picturesque keeper's house, and the sweeping views of Saco Bay offer endless composition opportunities. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly stunning, creating dramatic skies and soft illumination. TikTokInstagram+1

Don't forget to capture the journey – the boat ride offers unique angles of the lighthouse from the water. The boardwalk provides a chance to photograph the island's natural coastal landscape. Be sure to check any drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial shots. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Active Explorers

The Wood Island Lighthouse tour is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of activity. The boat trip is invigorating, and the 1/2-mile walk along the boardwalk offers a pleasant way to explore the island. The highlight for many is the climb to the top of the lighthouse, which involves navigating stairs and provides a rewarding panoramic view. Instagram+2

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the climb. The combination of the boat ride, island walk, and lighthouse ascent makes for a fulfilling active experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Preservation of Wood Island Lighthouse

Completed in 1858, the Wood Island Lighthouse served as a crucial navigational aid for ships entering Saco Bay. Its 45-foot white tower and accompanying Dutch colonial keeper's house stand as a testament to maritime history on the southern coast of Maine. The lighthouse was automated in 1972 and decommissioned in 1986, facing potential neglect. Instagram

Fortunately, the Friends of Wood Island Light, a dedicated volunteer organization, has taken on the mission of preserving this historic landmark. Their efforts involve extensive restoration work and maintaining the lighthouse and its grounds. Tours are a primary way they fund these preservation efforts, allowing visitors to experience the lighthouse firsthand while contributing to its future. Instagram+1

This commitment to preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of Wood Island Lighthouse. The ongoing work is a labor of love, keeping the beacon's legacy alive. Instagram+1

Experiencing the Island and Boardwalk

The journey to Wood Island Lighthouse includes a delightful boat ride, offering scenic coastal views before you even set foot on the island. Once ashore, a well-maintained 1/2-mile boardwalk guides you through the island's natural beauty towards the lighthouse and keeper's house. This elevated walkway protects the island's delicate ecosystem while providing an enjoyable stroll. Instagram+1

Walking the boardwalk is an integral part of the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the island's coastal flora and fauna. It’s a peaceful transition from the sea to the historic structures, building anticipation for the lighthouse itself. The path is generally easy to navigate, making it accessible for most visitors. Instagram

Many visitors find the island walk to be a highlight, offering a sense of tranquility and natural beauty before delving into the history of the lighthouse. It’s a chance to breathe in the sea air and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Instagram+1

The 'Haunted' Reputation of Wood Island Lighthouse

Wood Island Lighthouse has garnered a reputation for being haunted, adding an intriguing layer to its historical appeal. Stories and local legends circulate about spectral sightings and unexplained occurrences within and around the lighthouse and keeper's house. Instagram

While the primary draw for most visitors is the history and the stunning views, the ghostly tales often add an element of mystery and excitement to the tour. Guides may share some of these local folklore during the visit, enhancing the atmospheric experience. Instagram

Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the 'haunted' aspect of Wood Island Lighthouse contributes to its unique character and makes for memorable conversations and stories to share after your visit. Instagram

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