The lighthouse on Nubble Island has been warning ships away from the coast since 1879, and in the years since, it’s become a favorite on postcards, calendars, and posters. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, the Nubble lighthouse is a favorite destination for travelers visiting nearby York and Kittery. It’s also an included stop on some tours of Maine, from group tours to private outings. On these tours, a lighthouse visit is generally combined with nearby activities such as the Kittery Premium Outlets, Hampton Beach State Park, and Stonewall Kitchen.
The viewing area, Sohier Park, is located on Sohier Park Road in York, a 5-minute drive from the shops and restaurants on Long Sands Beach. Free parking for 60 vehicles is available on-site; on the busiest summer weekends, these sites can fill up.
Dawn and dusk often draw a crowd of photographers, as these are the best times to take pictures of the lighthouse. For the most detailed photos, plan to come at dusk, since the lighthouse is backlit at sunrise. Another beautiful time to photograph Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse is during the holiday season, when the buildings are decorated with white lights.
In the summer months, York’s Long Sands Beach is among the most popular hangouts, with a family-friendly atmosphere and surfboards for rent. Another top stop is the 1720 Old Gaol, a one-time colonial prison that’s part of a self-guided tour offered by the York Historical Society (the tour also features Remick Barn and Jefferd’s Tavern). To stretch your legs, head up the coast to Ogunquit, where the 1.25-mile (2-kilometer) Marginal Way coastal footpath follows cliffs with gorgeous views.