Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Historic 1858 lighthouse on a rugged Maine coast, famous for dramatic sunsets and rocky shorelines.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime time for sunset views
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Best Time
Prime time for sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1858 lighthouse on a rugged Maine coast, famous for dramatic sunsets and rocky shorelines.
"Breathtaking sunset views make the parking hassle and rocky climb totally worth it!"
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The small lot fills fast! Aim for 1.5+ hours before sunset to guarantee a spot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky paths and stairs require good grip. Avoid sandals!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Sunset Views
Rocky coastline west of the parking lot
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a magical glow on the historic lighthouse.
Lighthouse Photography
Various vantage points
Capture stunning shots of the 1858 lighthouse against the rugged Maine coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Tide Pool Exploration
Rocky areas at low tide
Discover fascinating marine life in the natural tide pools formed along the rocky shore.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sunset
+1Navigate the Rocky Terrain
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The small lot fills fast! Aim for 1.5+ hours before sunset to guarantee a spot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky paths and stairs require good grip. Avoid sandals!
📸 Patience for Photos
Expect crowds at prime photo spots. Be patient or use editing software.
🚗 Consider Nearby Trails
If parking is full, Ship Harbor Trail offers similar views with fewer people.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The small lot fills fast! Aim for 1.5+ hours before sunset to guarantee a spot.
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocky paths and stairs require good grip. Avoid sandals!
📸 Patience for Photos
Expect crowds at prime photo spots. Be patient or use editing software.
🚗 Consider Nearby Trails
If parking is full, Ship Harbor Trail offers similar views with fewer people.
🚫 Respect Private Property
Be mindful of residents and avoid trespassing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse offers breathtaking sunset views and iconic photography opportunities, but its popularity leads to significant crowds and extremely limited parking. Visitors often praise the dramatic coastal scenery and the historic lighthouse itself, though some find the sheer number of people detracts from the experience. The rocky terrain for prime photos can be challenging for some.
"We visited on a late Sunday afternoon/evening in late June 2025.
There were a ton of people here but luckily we were able to get a spot as we drove in and our other family member did too but there were some cars that were waiting later and some even turned around.
There are 2 pit toilets in the parking lot area and trash cans. The lot does not fit more than 20 cars and it's a very popular spot especially around sunset. We were also pretty early in the season so I'd be scared to see what it's like mid-summer.
Facing the water if you go down the trail to the left you can climb out onto the roads to get the icon view and picture many people take here. There were so many people and everyone tries to get as close as possible. I found the only way to really get the shot was to climb out, which can be dangerous especially with little ones and then use software to just crap people out.
From the parking lot you can go to the right and that takes you to the lighthouse itself. There is someone who lives there so do not disturb the people in the house. But there is a nice view point and some historical old bells you can look at. I honestly think there are way better things to do in the park and just the sheer number of people kind of ruined the experience here for us. Go over to the Ship Harbor Trail just down the street and it's much less crowded and have a much better time exploring there. Just as epic views, minus the lighthouse."
David L.
"Great views particularly at sunset…but the small parking lot, which accommodates about 20 vehicles, can get full. During our visit, about 40 minutes before sunset mid-week in late August, we, along with about 4 other cars, patiently waited along Lighthouse Road while cars left in order to take their spots. It must have been good timing as about 5 cars left within about 10 minutes.
The path from the west of the parking lot, takes you down directly to the lighthouse.
The path to the east of the parking lot is very popular as you can take some stairs down to the rocky area which gives you some great views of the lighthouse set to the backdrop of the rising or setting sun.
Note that the west path is fairly easy to navigate, but the east path has stairs. You then have to climb onto (some uneven) rocks in order to get a clear view of the lighthouse. This may be difficult for mobility-impaired individuals or those with strollers.
Note that during our visit here we did NOT have to show any park pass to enter and park in this area."
Jemlnlx
"Great views. Does take some physical ability to climb up and down steep stairs if you want to see the lighthouse from the water. There's a ramp-like trail that is paved to see the lighthouse from the residence side, a slight incline but easy to do for those who are limited in mobility. There is VERY LITTLE parking! You will HAVE to be patient! It's worth the wait!!"
Dawn W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is located on Mount Desert Island within Acadia National Park. It's about a 30-minute drive from Bar Harbor. The most direct route involves driving to Bass Harbor and following signs for the lighthouse. Parking is extremely limited, so arriving early is crucial.
Yes, there is a small parking lot that accommodates approximately 20 vehicles. It fills up very quickly, especially around sunset. Be prepared for a wait or consider visiting during off-peak hours. +1
While the lighthouse is within Acadia National Park, the parking area itself has historically not required a park pass for entry, though this can change. It's always best to check the official Acadia National Park website for the most current information.
The lighthouse area is generally accessible during daylight hours and for sunset. However, due to the limited parking and potential for congestion, it's advisable to check specific access times if planning a very late visit.
To avoid traffic and secure parking, aim to arrive well before sunset, ideally 1.5 to 2 hours in advance. Visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays can also help mitigate crowds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Typically, there is no separate entrance fee for Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse itself, as it's part of Acadia National Park. However, you will need an Acadia National Park entrance pass if you plan to visit other areas of the park on the same day.
The lighthouse grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours and for sunset viewing. The lighthouse structure itself is an active aid to navigation and is not typically open for interior tours.
No, tickets are not required or available for advance booking for Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
Visitors should be mindful of the limited parking and the delicate rocky terrain. Respect private property and avoid disturbing the lighthouse keeper's residence.
The lighthouse is beautiful year-round, but summer and early fall offer the best weather for exploring. Sunset is particularly popular, so be prepared for crowds during these times.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photos are taken from the rocky coastline west of the parking lot, accessible via stairs. This vantage point offers stunning views of the lighthouse against the ocean.
It can be challenging due to crowds and limited space on the rocks. Arriving very early is key to securing a good spot for sunset photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset shots to ensure stability and capture low-light conditions.
Drone usage is subject to National Park Service regulations. It's essential to check the official Acadia National Park website for current drone policies before flying.
Sunset is incredibly popular for its dramatic light. However, sunrise can also offer beautiful, less crowded photographic opportunities.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds, walk down to the rocky coastline for iconic views, and discover tide pools at low tide. The area offers a peaceful escape and stunning natural beauty.
The path to the lighthouse from the east side of the parking lot involves stairs and uneven rocks, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or strollers. The path on the west side is more accessible.
Allow at least 1-2 hours, especially if you plan to wait for sunset and explore the rocky areas. If parking is an issue, you might spend more time waiting.
Yes, there are pit toilets available in the parking lot area.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, and your camera. A flashlight can be helpful if staying for sunset.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The closest dining options are in the nearby town of Bass Harbor or the larger town of Bar Harbor, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops.
There are no designated picnic areas, but you can enjoy a picnic in your car or find a scenic spot nearby. Remember to pack out all trash.
Popular spots include Cafe This Way for breakfast, Jordan's for post-sunrise treats, and Mount Desert Baking Company for coffee and pastries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If the rocky scramble seems too daunting, the more accessible path on the west side of the parking lot still provides lovely views of the lighthouse. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the largest crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. 📸 Photographers
+1 A wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the lighthouse, coastline, and sky. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and sharp images during the golden hour. Be prepared for crowds and consider using editing techniques to enhance your photos or remove unwanted elements.
🚶♀️ Mobility-Challenged Visitors
While the iconic cliffside shots might be out of reach, the accessible path still allows visitors to appreciate the lighthouse's presence and the coastal scenery. It's advisable to check with the National Park Service for any specific accessibility updates or recommendations before your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Sunset
+3However, this popularity comes with a significant challenge: parking. The lighthouse's small parking lot, accommodating only about 20 vehicles, becomes a bottleneck as sunset approaches. Many travelers report arriving early, sometimes 1.5 to 2 hours before the sun dips below the horizon, just to secure a spot. Others mention waiting patiently along Lighthouse Road for cars to depart.
Despite the crowds and parking challenges, the consensus is that the sunset experience at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is worth the effort for many. The dramatic scenery and the iconic silhouette of the lighthouse make it a quintessential Maine coastal experience.
+1Navigating the Terrain for the Perfect Shot
This rocky scramble can be tricky, especially for those with mobility issues, young children, or those carrying heavy camera equipment. One Reddit user shared their experience of hiking down with a monorail and tripod, noting it was an 'experience' but ultimately worth it for the picture.
For those seeking an easier route, the path on the east side of the parking lot offers a more accessible, ramp-like trail with a slight incline. While this provides a good view of the lighthouse from the residence side, it doesn't offer the same dramatic cliffside perspective as the western path.
Beyond the Lighthouse: Exploring the Area
Just a short drive away, the Ship Harbor Trail offers a less crowded alternative with equally stunning coastal views and opportunities for exploring tide pools. This trail is often recommended for those seeking a more peaceful encounter with Maine's rugged coastline.
For those interested in lighthouses, Maine boasts many others, each with its own unique history and charm. While Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is iconic, venturing to other coastal points can offer a broader appreciation for these maritime sentinels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit