A Lighthouse You Can Actually Visit
Burnt Island Lighthouse sits on a five-acre island at the western entrance to Boothbay Harbor, the second-oldest surviving lighthouse in Maine. The light was first exhibited in the summer of 1821, commissioned with funds appropriated by Congress that March. The original granite rubble tower, lined with brick, still stands, and the keeper’s house beside it has been restored to its 1950s appearance. What makes Burnt Island unusual among Maine’s lighthouses is that you can go there. A short boat ride from Boothbay Harbor brings you to the island, where a living history program brings the light station back to life.
Most of Maine’s lighthouses are viewable only from shore or from the water. Burnt Island is one of the rare exceptions where you can step onto the island, walk through the keeper’s house, climb the tower, and explore the grounds. The experience is managed by the Maine Department of Marine Resources, which took ownership of the island in 1998 through the Maine Lighthouse Program.
The Island and the Light Station
The island is small, just five acres of rock, spruce, and wildflowers perched between the open ocean and the protected harbor. Nature trails wind through the spruce and along the rocky shore, giving views of Boothbay Harbor, the outer islands, and the open water to the south. The trails are short and easy, suitable for all ages.
The 1821 rubble stone tower is the centerpiece. At 30 feet, it is not a tall lighthouse, but its position on the island gives it command of the harbor entrance. The light is still active and maintained by the Coast Guard. During visits, you can enter the tower and see the light mechanism up close.
The keeper’s house has been furnished and decorated to represent life on the island in the 1950s, when the last Coast Guard keepers lived here. Costumed interpreters tell the story of lighthouse keeping, the isolation of island life, and the daily routines of maintaining the light. The program is well done and especially engaging for children.
Getting There
Burnt Island is accessible only by boat. Several operators run tours from Boothbay Harbor:
Balmy Days Cruises departs from the harbor at 1:45pm, returning at 4:30pm. The fare is approximately $34 for adults and $24 for children (ages 3 to 11). Reservations are required. The boat ride takes about 15 minutes.
Maine Maritime Museum runs cruises from Bath that wind through the Sasanoa River and Hell Gates to Burnt Island. This is a longer trip and combines the lighthouse visit with a scenic coastal cruise.
Cap’n Fish’s Cruises offers lighthouse cruises that pass Burnt Island along with Ram Island and Cuckolds lighthouses, though not all include a landing.
Advance reservations are recommended for all tours, especially in July and August.
When to Go
Summer
Peak season with the living history program fully staffed. Boat tours run regularly. Warm weather for exploring the island. Book tours in advance.
Fall
Island is open through mid-October. Fewer visitors and beautiful coastal light. Boat tour schedules may be reduced after Labor Day.
Spring
Island opens mid-May. Tours may not be running yet. Check with operators for early-season availability.
Winter
Island and light station are closed. The lighthouse is visible from the water and from points along the Boothbay Harbor shoreline.
Practical Notes
If you have your own boat or kayak, you can land at Burnt Island during the open season (10am to 5pm, May 15 through October 15). There is no dock, so you need to anchor or beach a small boat. Kayaking from Boothbay Harbor to the island is a popular paddle, about a mile each way.
There are no services on the island beyond the museum and exhibits. Bring water and snacks. There are portable restrooms. Wear shoes suitable for walking on rocky ground and uneven trails.
Boothbay Harbor, the departure point for most tours, is a classic Maine harbor village with restaurants, shops, galleries, and waterfront walks. Plan to spend time in town before or after your island visit.
Dogs are not allowed on the island to protect the nesting seabirds and the living history environment.
FAQ
Can you go inside the lighthouse?
Yes. During the open season, visitors can enter the 1821 rubble stone tower and see the light mechanism. The keeper's house is also open with costumed interpreters.
How do you get to Burnt Island?
By boat. Balmy Days Cruises and other operators run scheduled tours from Boothbay Harbor from mid-June through mid-September. You can also reach the island by private boat or kayak.
How long should I plan for the visit?
The Balmy Days tour is about 2.5 hours including the boat ride. That is enough time to see the lighthouse, keeper's house, and walk the nature trails. Plan additional time for Boothbay Harbor itself.
Is Burnt Island good for kids?
Yes. The living history program is engaging for children, and the short island trails are easy to walk. The boat ride is part of the fun.
Is the lighthouse still active?
Yes. The light is maintained by the US Coast Guard and still guides vessels into Boothbay Harbor.
For more lighthouses in the Midcoast, see our guide to Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, about 30 minutes south.
