Curtis Island Light and schooner
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Curtis Island Light Camden Maine

4.4
·33 reviews·Camden, United States

A picturesque lighthouse guarding Camden Harbor, offering stunning coastal views accessible by boat or a short walk from shore.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, soft light

CrowdMedium
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Curtis Island Light and schooner

Curtis Island Light Camden Maine

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, soft light

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque lighthouse guarding Camden Harbor, offering stunning coastal views accessible by boat or a short walk from shore.

4.4
(33 reviews)

"Beautiful view! Only lighthouse I saw on the trip. Easy to view from shore."

Vertical photo
TIP

Boat Access is Key

For up-close views, book a boat tour or kayak trip from Camden Harbor.

Limited Parking Alert

Parking is scarce; look for roadside pullovers and a green sign.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Curtis Island Light

Curtis Island Light

Curtis Island, Camden Harbor

A picturesque lighthouse offering stunning views of Camden Harbor and the surrounding coastline. Accessible by boat or viewed from shore.

Camden Harbor Views

Camden Harbor Views

Camden Waterfront

Enjoy panoramic vistas of the harbor, sailboats, and the iconic Curtis Island Light from the charming town of Camden.

Island Overlook Path

Island Overlook Path

Roadside near Curtis Island Light

A short, easy walk from the roadside parking leads to a prime viewing spot of the lighthouse and keeper's house.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Curtis Island Light

Curtis Island Light is best viewed from a distance, as direct access to the island requires a boat. Many visitors enjoy the scenic views from the Camden waterfront or nearby shores. Plan for boat tours or kayaking for a closer perspective.

Best Viewing Spots & Parking

Limited parking is available on the roadside near the viewing path. Look for a green sign indicating the path. The short walk offers a beautiful overlook of the lighthouse and keeper's house across the channel. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters, soft light
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

More weekend please ☀️🦞 #maine #NewEngland #Mainetok #mainesummer #summer2024 #rockland #midcoastmaine #camdenmaine #lighthouse #rockport #NewEnglandTikTok
@jilldvln
370.9K likes • 2.1M views

Boat Access is Key

For up-close views, book a boat tour or kayak trip from Camden Harbor. Instagram

Limited Parking Alert

Parking is scarce; look for roadside pullovers and a green sign. Reddit

Maines midcoast is such a magical area 🦞✨ #maine #NewEngland #summer2024 #Mainetok #mainesummer #rockland #midcoastmaine #camdenmaine #lighthouse
@jilldvln
58.4K likes • 366.4K views
Ever been to Curtis Island Light? Accessible only by boat and right from Camden Harbor, you need to add this to your Maine adventures! Plus anytime out on the water in Camden Harbor, is a good time!! #mainebedandbreakfast #bedandbreakfast #maine #visitmaine #mainecoast #mainething #bedandbreakfastmaine #coastalmaine #midcoastmaine #mainelighthouse #lighthouse #mainecoast #exploremaine #mainesu...
camdenwindwardhouse
60 likes • 563 views

Short Walk to View

A brief, easy path leads to the best shore-based vantage point. :athletic_shoe:

Capture the Sunset

Golden hour offers magical light for photography. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Light Hearted episode 325 - Michael Skaling, Curtis Island, ME 🎧https://uslhs.org/podcast ... The first lighthouse on Curtis Island at the entrance to Camden, Maine, was established in 1836. For many years, the island served as a signal station for the large steamships that passed by. The 25-foot brick lighthouse tower that still stands was built in 1896, and the light was automated in 1972. ... T...
uslhs
17 likes • 360 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Boat Access is Key

For up-close views, book a boat tour or kayak trip from Camden Harbor. Instagram

Limited Parking Alert

Parking is scarce; look for roadside pullovers and a green sign. Reddit

Short Walk to View

A brief, easy path leads to the best shore-based vantage point. :athletic_shoe:

Capture the Sunset

Golden hour offers magical light for photography. :camerawithflash: Instagram

Camden Charm

Explore the quaint town of Camden before or after your lighthouse visit. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(33 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Curtis Island Light to be a beautiful and quaint attraction, offering lovely views of the lighthouse and Camden Harbor. While direct access to the island is limited, the easily accessible viewing path provides a rewarding experience. Parking is a common challenge, but the scenic beauty makes the visit worthwhile for most.

"Beautiful view! Only lighthouse I saw on the trip. Easy to view from shore"

Diane Runde

"Follow the directions to this lighthouse in a neighborhood. Take the 1 min walk off road to see it. Very quaint and worth the time in Camden, one of our favorite New England towns!"

Debra Stierwalt

"Definitely worth the drive over. The only parking is 2 single car areas on side of the road. The small path is a short easy walk to the overlook, but very well worth it. Place the this spot on your to do list."

Charlie Brown

What People Like

Beautiful lighthouse views
Charming harbor scenery
Easy viewing path

What People Dislike

Limited parking
No island access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Curtis Island Light is located on an island in Camden Harbor. Direct access to the island is typically by boat. Many visitors view the lighthouse from the Camden waterfront or a designated viewing path on the mainland. Boat tours and kayak rentals are available from Camden Harbor for a closer perspective. Instagram

Parking is very limited, usually consisting of a few roadside pullovers. Look for a green sign indicating the path to the viewing area. Arriving early, especially during peak season, is recommended. Reddit

Public transportation does not directly serve Curtis Island Light. Access is primarily via personal vehicle to the viewing area or by boat tours departing from Camden. TikTok

You cannot walk directly to Curtis Island Light as it is on an island. However, there is a short, easy walking path from the roadside parking area to a viewing point across the channel. Reddit

For the most immersive experience, consider a boat tour or kayaking trip from Camden Harbor. Alternatively, the roadside viewing path offers excellent photo opportunities. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No tickets are required to view Curtis Island Light from the designated shore-based viewing area. If you opt for a boat tour, separate ticket prices will apply. Instagram

Curtis Island Light itself does not have set opening hours as it is an active aid to navigation. The viewing path is accessible during daylight hours. Instagram

There is no entrance fee for the public viewing area of Curtis Island Light. Parking is also free, though spots are limited. Reddit

The lighthouse keeper's house is part of the view from the mainland, but it is not typically open for public tours as it is on the island. Instagram

Visiting on a weekday during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) will generally result in fewer crowds. Summer mornings can also be less crowded than afternoons. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset provides beautiful golden hour light, perfect for capturing the lighthouse. Sunrise can also offer stunning, serene views. Drone photography is popular here. Instagram+1

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse with its harbor surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for details if viewing from a distance. A drone offers unique aerial perspectives. Instagram

Drone usage is permitted, and many photographers capture aerial shots of the lighthouse and harbor. Always be mindful of local regulations and privacy. Instagram+1

The classic view from the designated path across the channel is very popular. Boat tours offer unique perspectives from the water, and aerial shots provide a comprehensive view. Instagram+1

While the lighthouse is an active aid to navigation and will be lit, the viewing path may not be ideal or safe for night photography due to limited lighting and accessibility. Instagram

🎫 ⛵ Activities & Experiences

Besides viewing the lighthouse, you can enjoy sailing, kayaking, and exploring the charming town of Camden. Boat tours often pass by the lighthouse. Instagram+1

Yes, several boat tours operate from Camden Harbor and often include views of Curtis Island Light. Some may even circle the island. Instagram+1

Kayaking offers a more intimate experience and allows you to get closer to the island. Ensure you have experience with open water and check weather conditions. Instagram

Camden offers a picturesque harbor, boutique shops, art galleries, and access to hiking trails, including Mount Battie for panoramic views. TikTokInstagram

Curtis Island Light offers a beautiful and romantic setting for a proposal, especially with the harbor views. Consider a private boat trip for a more intimate moment. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Curtis Island Light is a great spot for families, offering a relatively easy viewing experience. The short walk from the parking area to the overlook is manageable for most children. The sight of a lighthouse and the harbor with boats can be captivating for younger visitors. Reddit

Consider a boat tour as a family activity; many offer scenic harbor cruises that pass by the lighthouse, providing entertainment and educational opportunities about local maritime history. Pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited at the viewing site. Instagram

💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Curtis Island Light provides a picturesque and romantic backdrop, making it an ideal spot for couples. The serene harbor views and the iconic lighthouse create a charming atmosphere. Reddit

For a truly special occasion, consider a sunset boat tour that circles the island or a private sailing trip. The quiet beauty of the location is perfect for proposals or simply enjoying a romantic moment together. InstagramReddit

📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts

Curtis Island Light is a highly sought-after subject for photographers and artists. The lighthouse's classic New England aesthetic, combined with the stunning coastal scenery, offers endless creative possibilities. Instagram+1

Experiment with different times of day, especially sunrise and sunset, for optimal lighting. Drone photography is popular here for unique aerial shots. Many artists, like Diane Beem, have been inspired by its beauty, creating pointillist and Fauvist-inspired paintings. Instagram+2

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Curtis Island Light

The first lighthouse on Curtis Island, situated at the entrance to Camden Harbor, was established in 1836. For many years, the island served as a crucial signal station for the large steamships that frequented the area. The current 25-foot brick lighthouse tower, which still stands today, was constructed in 1896. Instagram

Curtis Island Light, also known as the Camden Harbor Light, has a rich maritime history tied to the bustling port of Camden. Its presence ensured safe passage for vessels navigating the often-foggy Maine coast. The lighthouse and its keeper's house are iconic symbols of Maine's coastal heritage. Instagram

While the island itself is not accessible for public exploration without a boat, the lighthouse remains a beloved landmark. Its picturesque setting and historical significance make it a popular subject for artists and photographers alike. Instagram+1

Experiencing Curtis Island Light from the Water

For many visitors, the most memorable way to experience Curtis Island Light is from the water. Boat tours departing from Camden Harbor offer a unique perspective, allowing you to get closer to the lighthouse and appreciate its scale against the backdrop of the ocean. These tours often provide historical insights and stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Kayaking is another excellent option for those seeking a more personal encounter with the lighthouse. Paddling around Curtis Island allows for intimate views and a sense of adventure. It's important to be aware of tidal conditions and weather forecasts if you choose this method of exploration. Instagram

Sailing past Curtis Island Light, as experienced by some travelers, offers a serene and classic Maine coastal experience. Whether on a chartered sailboat or a private vessel, the sight of the lighthouse from the water is a quintessential part of a Maine maritime adventure. Instagram

Photography Tips for Curtis Island Light

Curtis Island Light is a photographer's dream, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The warm light casts a beautiful glow on the lighthouse and the surrounding harbor, creating dramatic and memorable images. Instagram+1

When shooting from the shore, utilize the designated viewing path for the classic postcard view. Experiment with different focal lengths; a wide-angle lens can capture the lighthouse in its environment, while a telephoto lens can isolate details. Drone photography offers a unique aerial perspective, showcasing the island's layout and its relationship to Camden Harbor. Instagram

Consider the weather; a slightly overcast day can provide soft, diffused light, while a clear day offers sharp contrasts. Capturing the lighthouse with sailboats in the foreground or background adds to the maritime charm of the scene. Instagram

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