A Day Trip to Pemaquid Point: Lighthouses, Tidepools, and Classic Maine Views
If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Maine’s rocky coastline, there’s a decent chance it was taken at Pemaquid Point. With its dramatic layered ledges, crashing surf, and classic white lighthouse perched above it all, this is one of the state’s most iconic — and photogenic — spots. The best part? It’s under an hour’s drive from Southport Island, making it a perfect half-day adventure.
Getting There
Drive time from Southport: About 50 minutes
Route: Head north through Boothbay, then west toward Damariscotta and down the Pemaquid Peninsula
Best for: Photographers, lighthouse lovers, low-key explorers
The route itself is lovely — small towns, winding roads, and glimpses of the Damariscotta River. There are a few country stores and seafood shacks along the way if you feel like making a few spontaneous stops.
What to Do at Pemaquid Point
Visit the Lighthouse
Built in 1835, Pemaquid Point Light is a true classic. You can walk right up to it, snap photos from every angle, and even go inside the tower on most summer days. It’s managed by the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department, and the small admission fee also covers the on-site museum.
The Fishermen’s Museum is housed in the old keeper’s house and gives a great glimpse into the area’s maritime history.
Hours: Typically open Memorial Day through Columbus Day
Fee (cash only, bring small bills): $4 adult entrance fee, $1 child entrance fee (age 5-11), $3 fee to climb the lighthouse tower
Explore the Rocks and Tidepools
The real draw here is the geology — long, slanting rock ledges that stretch into the sea like a frozen wave. At low tide, you’ll find tidepools full of seaweed, snails, and the occasional starfish.
Wear sneakers or sandals with grip — the rocks can be slick.
Supervise kids closely if you're exploring the ledges near the waterline.
Bring a small towel or picnic blanket if you want to linger. You’ll see artists sketching, kids clambering, and more than a few people just sitting and staring.
Where to Eat Nearby
There are a few excellent, unpretentious food spots within 10 minutes of the lighthouse:
Pemaquid Seafood: A casual shack right near the water. Fresh lobster rolls, clams, and a very local feel.
Cupboard Café: About 15 minutes away, a sweet breakfast-and-lunch spot with famously good cinnamon rolls.
If you packed a lunch, the park has benches and grassy areas that make a great picnic setup.
What to Bring
Good walking shoes
Layers (even on sunny days, it can be windy on the rocks)
Small bills for entry and local food spots
Water, snacks, sunscreen
A phone or camera (trust us, you’ll want it)
When to Go
Pemaquid is open year-round, but best enjoyed from late May through early October when the lighthouse is open and nearby eateries are running on summer hours.
Early morning or late afternoon are ideal if you want softer light and fewer people.
Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, especially in July and August.
Pemaquid Point offers something rare: a place that’s wildly beautiful but surprisingly accessible. You don’t have to hike in or ferry over. Just show up, walk out to the rocks, and take it all in. It’s an easy drive from Southport, but the landscape makes it feel like you’ve traveled much farther. Whether you spend an hour or an afternoon, this little corner of Maine delivers the kind of quiet awe that lingers — long after the seagulls and surf have faded into the background of your day.
Looking for more off-the-peninsula adventures? Check out our day trip guide to Monhegan Island →
Want to compare your options? Here's our round-up of easy day trips from Boothbay Harbor →