Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Bug Light, Spring Point Ledge & Portland Head Light


Bug Light
Bug Light

Bug Light, Spring Point Light and Portland Head Light are the three lighthouses we went searching for yesterday.


Bug Light has a flat, grassy park that was perfect yesterday for kite-flying and general lolling around in the sun! There is an outdoor museum there dedicated to the Portland shipbuilders whose efforts in the 1940's launched dozens of Liberty Ships bound for the war theaters of WWII.

There is a walking trail around the outer edge of the park and you can walk right out to Bug Light and enjoy the brisk breezes and great vantage point to watch ships and pleasure boats in the Casco Bay.


To get to Spring Point Light you drive right through the campus of Southern Maine Community Technical College. Parking is limited on the waterfront. Handicap parking is available.

Walking along the grounds of Fort Preble we came to the entrance to Willard Beach. Looks as if you could climb across the rocks to get to the sandy beach area but only at low tide. It's an easy enough drive around to the beach from the fort.

It is possible to walk along the granite block breakwater out to Spring Point Light. Great spot for relaxing and taking photos. From Mid June thru Oct 11, Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is open on Saturdays for tours (weather permitting). Hours are 11 AM to 3 PM. $5 entry fee supports the lighthouse preservation trust.
Portland Head Light
Portland Head

After Spring Point we headed to Cape Elizabeth and the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park. On a clear day you can see out to Ram Island Light as well. Great trails in the park and, of course, great photo ops of the lighthouse and incoming ships. Cruise liners are frequent visitors to Portland and photographing one of those coming in alongside the lighthouse is a great opportunity.

Ram Island Ledge
Ram Island Ledge Light


We headed back to Freeport and stopped along Commercial Street at Becky's Diner for a late lunch. I'd been wanting lobster roll all day and opted for that selection on the menu, along with curly fries. The lobster roll comes with cole slaw and pickles and a toasted bun. The lobster meat was plentiful and lunch really hit the spot.

We recommend this 'lighthouse tour' for a great day out. Take a picnic lunch (great sandwiches available at the Olde World Deli in Freeport), your camera and a Casco Bay map and make a day of it!

White Cedar Inn Bed and Breakfast 178 Main Street Freeport, Maine 04032