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    Nubble Lighthouse

    4.8 (202 reviews)
    Closed 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

    Nubble Lighthouse Photos

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    Reviews With Photos - Nubble Lighthouse

    Veronica R.

    The Nubble Lighthouse is an absolute gem and a must-see when visiting the southern coast of Maine. Perched on its own little island just off the rocky shoreline, it's as picturesque as a postcard. I visited around sunset, and the view was simply breathtaking--the sky lit up in shades of pink, orange, and gold, perfectly framing the lighthouse. It's easy to see why this is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the area. The surrounding area is peaceful, with plenty of spots to sit and take in the ocean breeze, listen to the waves, and just enjoy the moment. Parking is convenient, and it's a great stop whether you're on a day trip or passing through York County, ME. If you're in Maine, don't miss this beautiful landmark--especially at sunset. It's one of those magical sights that stays with you long after you leave.

    Ocean View
    Terry L.

    The Nubble lighthouse9-6-25 This Nubble lighthouse is beautiful. The surrounding water and land that it sits on is just spectacular. This light house was built in 1897 and it looks like it was just put-up last week. It is in very good shape for its age. You cannot walk up to the Lighthouse as it sits on a small island. You get a very good view from the surrounding rocks. They do have some benches so you can sit and take in the views. This is a must see if you're into lighthouses you won't be sorry you did. There is a Welcome Center with restrooms plus a gift shop right near this and a fantastic Lobster restaurant called The Fox's Lobster House all within walking distance. The parking lot gets filled quickly and you may have to wait until someone leaves to get a spot but it's well worth it. I must give this Lighthouse a 5 out of 5 stars. Follow Me For More Reviews & Fun. Gulf Coast Terry

    Beth Ann M.

    I LOVE Maine. I hadn't been up here in years. Such a beautiful area to just sit and enjoy nature. There are plenty of benches scattered around to sit on and take in the gorgeous scenery. Also plenty of rocks to explore and walk around on. There is no direct access to the Light House. During the warmer months, there is a gift shop to peruse. There is also a restaurant at the area that was open and had a unique lobster trap Christmas Tree going up. You can also bring your own chairs to sit out or just sit on the rock and have a picnic. Perfect spot to just relax. Hope to get back again sooner than later.

    Caleb M.

    This may not be the first lighthouse when you think of a Maine lighthouse. Despite that I believe all the lighthouses have their own charm/speciality that make them worth checking out. Due to its location and minimal parking spots I would avoid it during summer aka peak tourist season. That's exactly what my wife and I did by showing up in February. Although we weren't the only ones with this brilliant idea, as the lot was roughly half full. The ocean breeze made it chilly but was worth it getting views of the snow covered Island and lighthouse. Bundle up depending on when you visit. Good opportunity for bird watching as well! Despite the fact there is water between you and the lighthouse and you can't get up close as some other lighthouses this is worth it for lighthouse lovers to add to their bucket list! One of the many beautiful coastal Maine spots for photography.

    Nubble light house
    Doc L.

    This is a beautiful sight to see along the Maine coast. We love going by here and spending time relaxing and taking in the view. It's especially good to visit on days with bad weather because it's not crazy packed with people and it's still beautiful... On nice days it's over crowded....

    Joe G.

    Fantastic views and great folks that work in and around there. If you're looking for photo ops.. I would go early in the morning because the crowds are there in the afternoon but that aside, in the morning it's near deserted and absolutely beautiful.

    Diving rules
    Katherine A.

    I was beyond thrilled to see the iconic Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick in Maine. We were able to see the lighthouse from the shores of Sohier Park. The lighthouse, keepers quarters and several outbuildings sit on a beautiful little island off the coast. The lighthouse was built in 1879, making it close to 150 years old! Waves crash up against huge boulders that surround the island. A suspended cable trolly system that sends goods to the keeper, can be seen. It lis relaxing to sit (or stand) and watch the movement of the Atlantic Ocean and the lovely lighthouse. There are a number of benches to sit. Parking is free at the park, but spaces fill quickly. There are restroom facilities at the Welcome Center in the park. The ocean breeze is a little chilly, so bring a jacket.

    Alex Z.

    When in Maine you need to check out a lighthouse. Doesn't get much more quintessential then nubble. Great little park right on the cliff with excellent views. Went on a misty foggy morning which was all the better.

    Aaron S.

    I'm from Oklahoma, so we don't get to see this type of scenery--let alone snow. What a beautiful place Nubble Lighthouse is, along with the surrounding coastal areas! It's definitely a must-see spot if you're a lighthouse lover.

    Nubble Lighthouse in York, Maine
    Kerri L.

    Gorgeous lighthouse! While you are able to drive pretty close to it, there is no access to the public at this time. The stunning view from the lookout offers the best perspective for picture taking since it captures it sitting regally on the island surrounded by the ocean crashing on its rocky shoreline.

    Vicki M.

    If you are in York, Maine I recommend a stop at Nubble Lighthouse. Signs point the way. There was plenty of parking on the Thursday before Memorial Day but I bet it gets real busy in the summer. The view of the lighthouse is good from the parking lot and there are several benches along rocks. You can't actually get to/in the lighthouse or the island it's on. However, you can purchase a $10 raffle ticket at the gift shop for a chance for a half day visit with five friends and a picnic lunch to the lighthouse. They draw a winner every 1000 tickets. It is a great place to walk on the large rocks as well as take a lot of photos. Diving is permitted under certain rules. I recommend a stop to Nubble Lighthouse when in York, Maine for some fresh ocean air and scenic views

    Valerie W.

    What a wonderful visit, even on a cold, rainy fall day!! We only had a quick stop and go tour, but what we saw was BEAUTIFUL and left us (me, at least...) wanting to come back and explore more!! Will post pics SOON... CROWDED parking lot, but we were lucky to find a space. As much as I enjoyed taking in the sights with my wonderful host and group of friends, I might have secretly wished for a bit more time to fully take in and appreciate this beautiful, historic spot. Well, I'll add it to my list for the NEXT time I'm up there... DEFINITELY worth a visit, no matter the weather, if you're in the area!! Be sure to give it PLENTY of time!!

    Heather F.

    The Nubble is a MUST see when in or around York. It is insanely packed with tourists in the warmer months, almost impossible to find a parking space unless you're there super early or late in the evening. It's a great photo op area, and a nice place to sit on the rocks and enjoy the ocean.

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    Loved this little lighthouse. It was a nice place to visit explore along the rocks and walk your dogs around.

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    1 year ago

    Well worth the stop. Beautiful view to take some pictures along the way. The visitor center has clean bathrooms and cute souvenirs

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    Ask the Community - Nubble Lighthouse

    Are there picnic benches?

    There are some tables/benches over by the bar & grill, but not really anything that is 'public'. The seating by the rocks are park benches at best, and not very many of them. But there is a small grassy area where you could spread out a picnic… 

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    Review Highlights - Nubble Lighthouse

    We were told this is the most photographed lighthouse, not sure how this is calculated, but it is stunning.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

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    Prescott Park

    Prescott Park

    4.3
    (41 reviews)
    10.2 mi

    I absolutely looooooove this park! Having formerly lived a stone's throw from here on Mechanic…read moreStreet, I would frequent this park on the daily back in the day. It is a staple in Strawbery Banke and Portsmouth. It is always so super clean, there are bathrooms available, there is street parking nearby, and it is actually quite large and has a lot to offer. In the summertime they offer plays on their stage that are free to the public, as well as other shows for a small fee. Several musicians play here too (Ani DiFranco, anyone?!), and people usually bring their chairs or blankets and camp out on the grass to watch the entertainment. There is plenty of green space, but there are also walkways, and benches scattered throughout. Toward the front end of the park, there is a wildflower garden with a fountain that operates during the summer months. There is a vegetable and herb garden that is within the center of the park as well that members of the park can pay into if they wish to do so. There is also a composting station toward the back end of the park too. This park is very green friendly, no pun intended! My favorite part of the park though are the docks that jut out into the Piscataqua River. There are three if I'm not mistaken, and there are benches on each for your sitting and viewing pleasure. It is a very tranquil, relaxing, and quiet park off the beaten path right on the outskirts of the downtown area heading into Strawbery Banke. River boats also depart from here, and you can buy your tickets on the Prescott Park website. Overall, this is one of my favorite parks, not only for what it offers, but for what it symbolizes for me, which is pure happiness and nostalgia. I come here every time I'm down town, and it really never gets old. Keep up the good work, Portsmouth :)

    It's romantic. Lots to see and happy kids. It's got a great view and I always find it enjoyable to…read moretake a stroll on through and people-watch.

    Photos
    "Legally Blonde" ... cute show! Save a couple microphone glitches
    "Legally Blonde" ... cute show! Save a couple microphone glitches
    Sheafe warehouse - an 18th century waterfront architecture
    Sheafe warehouse - an 18th century waterfront architecture
    Prescott Park

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    Fort McClary Picnic Area

    Fort McClary Picnic Area

    4.3
    (3 reviews)
    8.1 mi

    If you're in southern Maine in the summer or fall and want to get away from the heavily trafficked…read morebeach hotspots, then grab your picnic stuff and come here. There's decent parking, and a handicapped spot nearest the picnic pavilion (this covered structure can be rented for large groups). And rest rooms. Speaking of potties--because Ms. Tiny Bladder knows there are people who care about this info--there's one typical park open-air bathroom. It's large and you could fit a wheelchair in, but there are no grab bars. There's a small building, closer to the woods, with a handicapped sign, so there is a designated bathroom for those of us with mobility issues. (I wasn't needing my cane nor wheelchair on this occasion.) There are picnic tables grouped to the right side of the grassy area, and a covered pavilion that can be rented for groups (though we ate in there one cloudy day & the whole place was empty). There are more picnic tables scattered about the other sides of the property, and a playground to the far left. Back at the entrance/exit, there is a small pond covered in water lilies and cattails. There's a little deck/overlook (seems a little sloped and close to the water, but it felt solid) and there's a bench nearby. No sitting on the bench or standing around this summer ('21), as there were fire ants living somewhere near the bench. A sign warned visitors ahead of time. Back on the picnic area side, there are many trails leading to Barters Creek, a picturesque spot with several places to stop and enjoy the water scene. There's one spot that's almost a little island (except it's probably by definition a peninsula? Maybe?). I've seen people swimming around there--teens to grammas--and it's just nice to also sit there and look out at the flora and fauna. We love this picnic area and always return every trip to York. Go check it out!

    this is a nice spot overall. some water views down a short trail. would recommend stopping by…read moreespecially if at the fort across the street.

    Photos
    Fort McClary Picnic Area
    Barter's Creek
    Barter's Creek
    I actually don't recall of this is at this Fort or Vaughan woods. Hmmm

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    I actually don't recall of this is at this Fort or Vaughan woods. Hmmm
    Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park

    Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park

    4.6
    (9 reviews)
    11.4 mi

    We revisited Vaughan Woods at a different time of the year, and it's still such a cool spot (though…read morefar busier than it was when we came in autumn a few years ago). It's a state park that's open year long -- during the shoulder season, you can park outside the closed gates and walk in. This time we came when the gates were open; but, there was no attendant to check our state parks pass. It looks like payment is on the honor system (please pay so we can preserve beautiful trails like this!). I'll reiterate what I said in my previous review: It's located along Salmon Falls River (which separates Maine and New Hampshire). And with 3+ miles of hiking trails, it's easy to choose-your-own-adventure. So, whether you're looking to walk a lot or little, spend the day here or just a quick half hour, or if you're a local looking for a new running trail, be sure to explore the "old growth forest" (I saw this used elsewhere and looked into it: did you know this is a term that essentially means it's an ancient woodland, or a natural place that has aged without disruption?)! And it's accessible too: the extremely well groomed, well marked, mostly widened walking paths are easy to navigate (there are some hilly areas; and if it's not winter you're DEFINITELY going to want to bring bug spray). Also, from here you can access the grounds of the restored Hamilton House (built by merchant Jonathan Hamilton in the late eighteenth century) which sits on a stunning grassy knoll among cleared open green space overlooking the river (we actually saw a beaver this most recent time!) on one side and a beautifully maintained garden on the other side.

    Want to get away from the sweating masses over-crowding the beach? Not up for sitting on your buns,…read morebaking in the summer sun? Want some peace & quiet instead of screaming tots and squeaky playground swings? I did. Not that there's anything wrong with the typical midsummer Maine beach experience. It just was NOT my vibe for this getaway. And so we sought out land trusts and mountains and parks, including one of our favorite spots to hit some pretty trails: Vaughan Woods. First, even in the middle of the summer and several cars in the lots, we barely saw another person. On the river trail--which I particularly love for all the scenic views of the river and benches to sit and rest--we had two couples cross our path. Very quick, smiley "hellos" and off they went. So peaceful! I'm mobility-challenged but I had a recent treatment and felt a little more mobile and stable. I took my time and my husband was a great helper. I'd say the river trail can get a bit challenging for anyone with a knee/ankle/foot/balance issue. But if conditions aren't wet, you go slow, and rest at the benches, you might be able to do it! The toilet stall is a wooden structure that is open to the air at the top of the walls before the roof begins. It's a toilet set over a pit, and you could definitely get a wheelchair in, but I don't recall seeing any grab bars. There was plenty of toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Like other places (parks, beach), we noticed it was "carry in, carry out." There are several picnic tables surrounding the parking lot, and we enjoyed a post-hike snack. This place is worth the drive out to South Berwick. Give it a go!

    Photos
    The Vaughan Woods sign!
    The Vaughan Woods sign!
    Perfect late summer Saturday
    Perfect late summer Saturday
    Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park

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    Seacoast Science Center

    Seacoast Science Center

    4.3
    (61 reviews)
    10.4 mi

    Totally love this seacoast museum. My grandchildren love the hands on touch tanks, the pretend…read morefishing boat, the live seahorses and the sand play area. We also enjoy the huge playground and tide pools. We bring a picnic lunch and make a day of the experiences. We love it there so much we became members! I highly recommend!

    Odiorne Point State Park is a public recreation area that opened in Rye, New Hampshire in July…read more1972. It is administered by the New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation. The park is located along the Atlantic seacoast in Rye, not far from Portsmouth. The area is the site of the Pannaway Plantation: the first European settlement in New Hampshire. Settled in 1622, the plantation was completely abandoned by the 1630s when the settlers moved to nearby Strawberry Banke. The land was settled in the mid-1660s by the Odiorne Family, whom the park is now named after. From 1942 to 1947, the park was the home of Fort Dearborn. The ruins of the deactivated World War II-era fort can still be seen today. Today the park is home to hiking trails, bike paths, a playground, picnic areas, pavilions, and a Seacoast Science Center which opened in 1992. My family and I visited Odiorne Point State Park this summer while we were heading to Maine for a summer getaway. We had some time to kill before we could check in to our AirBnb, so we decided to stop at the park. We had fun exploring the grounds and my two sons especially enjoyed playing on the nautical-themed playground. The highlight of the park is the Seacoast Science Center. There are all sorts of exhibits devoted to the conservation of marine and coastal environments. My two sons loved learning about whales, local shellfish populations, the local fishing industry, the fight against ocean pollution, and underwater exploration. There was even a cool gift shop where we picked up a few things. Whether you live in the area or you're just passing through like us, Odiorne Point State Park is a fun place for the whole family!

    Photos
    Seacoast Science Center
    Seacoast Science Center
    Seacoast Science Center

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    Nubble Lighthouse - landmarks - Updated August 2026

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