Climb To The Top Of This Little Known Lighthouse In Maine For A Fun Family Outing
By Catherine Armstrong|Published August 15, 2019
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Maine is well-known for its lighthouses, and people come from all over the country to see them. With 65 historical lighthouses all across the state, it could take you quite awhile to feast your eyes on all of them, but there’s one in particular that you should put on your list to visit soon. You can take a tour of Burnt Island, then climb right up to the top of the lighthouse!
Perched on a tiny island, the Burnt Island lighthouse is a charming piece of history that's well worth a visit. It's located mid-coast, near Southport.
Burnt Island covers just five acres, but it's a pretty little island, covered with trees. The only way to reach it is by boat. The island is accessible seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Novelty departs every Monday and Thursday July 9th through August 29th. It leaves the pier at 1:45 p.m. and returns at 4:45 p.m. Fare for adults is $28; children ages 3-11 pay $18. Call Balmy Day Cruises to reserve your seat at (207) 633-2284.
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The 15- minute cruise to Burnt Island is enjoyable, but make sure to layer up because it can get chilly out on the water. Bring your camera, too...
...because you'll definitely want to capture the lighthouse the moment you first see it from the water. It stands 30 feet tall on the rocky shoreline, and it's simply lovely to behold.
The Burnt Island Light is the second oldest in Maine. Built in 1821, it was first home to lighthouse keeper Joshua B. Cushing, who lit the lamps for the first time on November 9, 1821.
When you arrive at the island, you'll be treated to a living history tour. You'll see the lighthouse and surrounding buildings, including the keeper's cottage, which was rebuilt in 1857, and still stands today.
The tour is conducted by docents who portray Keeper Joseph Musie, his wife Annie, and their children. Each family member will tell you about what it was like to live on the island in the 1930s and 40s.
Take the island trail to see the beautiful, natural foliage on the island, then climb the little spiral staircase inside the lighthouse to the lantern room.
