Burnt Island Light
Historic lighthouse on a scenic island, accessible by boat or kayak, offering coastal trails and tower climbs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Keeper's buildings open
Burnt Island Light
Best Time
Keeper's buildings open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic lighthouse on a scenic island, accessible by boat or kayak, offering coastal trails and tower climbs.
"The views from the lighthouse tower are breathtaking, offering a sweeping panorama of the harbor and islands."
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Tours to Burnt Island Light, especially those from the Maine Maritime Museum, fill up quickly. Book ahead!
Kayak for a Unique View
Kayaking offers an intimate approach to the lighthouse and stunning harbor views. Allow ample time.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Burnt Island Light Tower
Burnt Island
Climb to the top of Maine's second oldest lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and surrounding islands.
Island Hiking Trails
Burnt Island
Explore the 5-acre island's wooded paths and coastal trails, offering a peaceful escape and scenic vistas.
Historical Keeper's Buildings
Burnt Island
Step back in time by touring the preserved keeper's quarters, offering a glimpse into lighthouse life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Burnt Island Light
Timing Your Visit for Keeper's Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Tours to Burnt Island Light, especially those from the Maine Maritime Museum, fill up quickly. Book ahead!
Kayak for a Unique View
Kayaking offers an intimate approach to the lighthouse and stunning harbor views. Allow ample time.
Check Keeper's Building Hours
Access to the keeper's buildings is limited. Verify opening days/times before your visit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on island trails and potentially climbing stairs, so sturdy footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours in Advance
Tours to Burnt Island Light, especially those from the Maine Maritime Museum, fill up quickly. Book ahead!
Kayak for a Unique View
Kayaking offers an intimate approach to the lighthouse and stunning harbor views. Allow ample time.
Check Keeper's Building Hours
Access to the keeper's buildings is limited. Verify opening days/times before your visit.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on island trails and potentially climbing stairs, so sturdy footwear is a must.
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view! There are picnic tables available on the island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Burnt Island Light for its scenic beauty and the unique experience of reaching it by boat or kayak. The lighthouse itself is a picturesque focal point, and the island offers pleasant trails. However, some visitors express disappointment regarding the limited access to the keeper's buildings, which are only open on specific days and for short periods.
"We took a long driving tour of the New
England coastal area all the way to Maine. We made many overnight stops including Camden where we took a cruise on the Appledore. This was a great cruise with beautiful views including Burnt Island Light. Highly recommended."
THE EXPLORER
"I am sorry to say not much access to the lighthouse. Appears to be private land. Your best view would be on a boat tour. These pictures show the area you have access. The views are amazing to a Floridian."
Starlight Lifter
"Beautiful island and views! We kayaked to the lighthouse through a kayak rental location in Boothbay Harbor. It took about 45 minutes to get out there and the same on the way back. We got there to see the grounds open to the public. However, the keepers buildings are ONLY open on Saturdays and Sundays for two hours each day. It would’ve been nice to know beforehand since the website didn’t disclose that info. Either way, we did enjoy our time on the island."
Gina Moore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burnt Island Light is accessible primarily by boat or kayak. Tours depart from the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, or you can arrange kayak rentals and guided tours from Boothbay Harbor. Direct access from Capitol Island is not recommended.
The Maine Maritime Museum offers a 4-hour tour that includes a journey through scenic waterways to Burnt Island Light. Kayak outfitters in Boothbay Harbor also provide tours or rentals for a more independent experience.
No, Burnt Island Light is located on an island and is not accessible by car. Access is exclusively via watercraft.
Parking is generally available at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath and at kayak rental locations in Boothbay Harbor. It's advisable to check specific parking availability and fees with your chosen tour operator.
Travel time varies depending on the mode of transport. Boat tours from Bath can take around 4 hours round trip, while kayaking from Boothbay Harbor might take about 45 minutes each way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need to book a tour or arrange boat access to visit Burnt Island Light. The Maine Maritime Museum offers specific tours, and kayak rentals/tours are also available.
The island grounds are generally accessible, but the keeper's buildings are typically only open on Saturdays and Sundays for a limited time each day. It's crucial to check the official schedule as this can vary.
Costs vary depending on your chosen method of access. Boat tours will have a set fee, and kayak rentals or guided tours will also have associated costs. Check with your tour provider for current pricing.
Yes, tours often include the opportunity to climb the lighthouse tower for spectacular views. This is a highlight for many visitors.
While there isn't a separate admission fee for the island itself, you must have a confirmed booking for a tour or boat trip to reach it, which will have its own cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the island's hiking trails, visit the lighthouse tower (on tours), and tour the historical keeper's buildings (on specific days). Enjoy the coastal scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, there are public restrooms and picnic tables available on Burnt Island, making it a pleasant spot for a day trip.
Many visitors find seeing Burnt Island Light from a boat tour or by kayaking offers the most comprehensive and scenic experience.
Absolutely! Burnt Island Light is a picturesque subject, and the surrounding coastal scenery provides ample opportunities for stunning photography.
While not guaranteed, keep an eye out for local marine life and seabirds common to the Maine coast.
📸 📸 Photography
The view from the top of the lighthouse tower offers incredible panoramic shots. The island's coastline and the lighthouse itself from various angles are also prime photography locations. 
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for photographing the lighthouse and the surrounding seascape. Midday can be bright but offers clear views.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected areas before flying. Always prioritize safety and respect for the environment.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water colors.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and the historical site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Climbing the lighthouse tower, if included in your tour, can be a thrilling experience, though supervision is essential. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited, and check the keeper's building access for weekend visits to add an extra layer of historical discovery. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capturing it from different angles, especially from the water during a boat tour or kayak trip, provides dynamic perspectives. The panoramic views from the top of the lighthouse tower are unparalleled, showcasing the rugged Maine coastline and surrounding islands. Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting, and don't forget to bring a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the seascape. 🛶 Kayakers and Adventurers
This offers a more intimate connection with the environment and a sense of accomplishment. Remember to check tide and weather conditions before setting out, and ensure you have appropriate safety gear. The journey itself, passing through harbors and along the coast, is as rewarding as reaching the destination. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Burnt Island Light
It's important to note that direct access from land-based locations like Capitol Island is not feasible, and maps may be inaccurate in suggesting otherwise. When planning your trip, consider the timing. While the island's grounds are generally open, the keeper's buildings have restricted access, typically only open on Saturdays and Sundays for a few hours each day.
For a truly immersive experience, combining a boat tour with a kayak excursion can offer different perspectives. Some visitors opt for a boat tour to reach the island and then explore the surrounding waters by kayak. Regardless of your chosen method, remember to book in advance, especially during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly.
Experiencing the Island and Lighthouse
The island provides a peaceful escape, perfect for those looking to disconnect and recharge. The main attraction, of course, is the Burnt Island Light itself. Tours often include the opportunity to climb the tower, offering sweeping views over Boothbay Harbor and the outer islands.
This climb is a highlight for many visitors, providing a unique vantage point. Additionally, the historical keeper's buildings offer a tangible link to the past, allowing you to imagine life as a lighthouse keeper. Practical amenities on the island include public restrooms and picnic tables, making it a great spot for a leisurely lunch or snack amidst the beautiful scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit