September‎ 25‎, ‎2023 – Rockland, Maine

Difficulty: Easy

Length: Approximately 2 miles

Parking: Samoset Rd, Rockland, ME 04841

Parking is available at near the end of Samoset Rd.

Grounds are open sunrise to sunset. Lighthouse tours are volunteer dependent, please visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse Facebook page for any announcements. All tours are weather permitting.

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Overview:

The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse sits at the end of a 7/8-mile granite breakwater that stretches 4,346 feet into Rockland Harbor. It is an active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation. The property is owned by the City of Rockland and managed by Friends of Rockland Harbor Lights, a chapter of the American Lighthouse Foundation.

A favorite destination for locals, it has also been a popular tourist attraction for years. The Rockland Breakwater and Lighthouse is a good choice for an interesting walk while providing a different kind of outdoor experience. The breakwater is just under a mile long and is a beautiful and scenic walk on sunny days. During bad weather, waves often crash over the granite breakwater which can make the walk a very wet one and possibly hazardous. Along the way, there are stunning views of Rockland, Rockland Harbor and Penobscot Bay.

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History:

• Rockland Breakwater~

A breakwater is a barrier that is built out into a body of water to help “break the water,” protecting a coast or harbor from strong waves. The Rockland Breakwater was built between 1881 and 1899 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Almost a mile long, it was built to help protect Rockland Harbor. The Bodwell Granite Company used around 700,000 tons of granite for the project, which cost more than three quarters of a million dollars. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

The Rockland Breakwater is a 4,346 long granite structure that stretches across the mouth of the broad Rockland Harbor south from Jameson Point. At its southern terminus the breakwater supports the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.

Since its completion, the Rockland Breakwater has drawn the attention of visitors and local residents alike. Throughout its history it has been a popular spot for walking, boating, fishing, swimming and picnicking. Although designed to ensure the safety of the vessels and businesses that relied on Rockland Harbor it has become a community landmark and resource.

• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse~

The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse was established in 1902, about two years after completion of the breakwater. The complex consists of the lighthouse itself, a fog-signal building, and a Keeper’s house, all constructed on a rectangular platform of dressed granite. All of these elements are attached to each other, and the lighthouse tower rises from the roof of the fog signal building. In 1964 the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse was automated by the Coast Guard. The Lighthouse was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on March 20, 1981.

Today, the Rockland Breakwater and its historic lighthouse that stands sentinel at the south end of the granite structure are well-known and beloved icons of Midcoast Maine. The breakwater continues to serve as a harbor of refuge along Penobscot Bay, with thousands of people walking the nearly mile-long stretch each year. This enjoyable walk allows visitors to admire panoramic seascapes, historic schooners, and marine life before reaching the end of their destination at the lighthouse.

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Visiting Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse:

There are roughly 35 or so parking spots along Samoset Road. Park in the pull-offs on the left-side of the road in front of the golf course. Once on foot, walk down Samoset Road to where it ends and the Breakwater Path begins. This path along the beach takes you to the beginning of the Rockland Breakwater.

When walking the breakwater to the Lighthouse, it is important to keep several things in mind. As you set out on this scenic walk, treat it like you would a hike through the woods.

• There is no running water at the lighthouse, which means no bathrooms. This also means that you need to bring water for yourself just like any other hike.
• This walk is about 2 miles round trip.
• You will need appropriate footwear with good gripping soles.
• Granite can become very slick when it gets wet, so pay attention.
• There are also some gaps between the blocks that can trip you up if you are not paying attention.
• Finally, you should always dress for cooler weather because there is always a cool breeze on the breakwater. There is also a noticeable decrease in temperature as you approach the lighthouse because it is nearly a mile out into the bay.

There is a small park near the beginning of the breakwater, the Marie H. Reed Breakwater Park. The lighthouse is also part of the 5.5-mile Rockland Harbor Trail that also takes hikers through the city and some of its open spaces.

Once you are ready to go, walk down towards the water and turn left on the Breakwater Path. This short dirt path connects Samoset Road to the Rockland Breakwater.

Proceed ahead on the breakwater and head towards the lighthouse. Please watch your step to keep from tripping or slipping (if it is wet).

You probably won’t be alone while walking the breakwater, especially if it’s a nice day.

The best views for photographing the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse are from the water itself. If you do not want to travel on any of the boats and schooners that frequent the harbor, there are daily ferries from Rockland to Vinalhaven and to North Haven that pass close by. The ferries run hourly during the day from the Maine State ferry terminal located in Rockland Harbor nearby. The image below was taken from the floating dock which was added in 2003.

At the base of the flagpole.

Carved into the granite at the end of the breakwater: “BRW – 4347 FEET LONG.” Records have the Rockland Breakwater listed at 4,346 feet long.

View southeast from the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.

The steps are on the right side and can be used to walk around the lighthouse.

Looking south.

Looking north.

You may want to take a break here to relax and enjoy the views.

A look back the way you came.

The floating dock and boat ramp which was added in 2003, is the best spot to photograph the lighthouse. Just watch your step if you decide to walk on it, especially if the water is a little rough.

View over Penobscot Bay and the majestic hills rising beyond.

When you are ready to return to the mainland, retrace your steps along the breakwater, and back to the parking area, where the hike began.

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Review:

A very cool experience that was quite enjoyable. I would definitely recommend visiting this historic breakwater and lighthouse if you are able.

Pros:

Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, Rockland Breakwater, panoramic views, scenic seascape.

Cons:

Can get crowded during warm weather.

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Sources:

• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse History
• Tour Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
• Rockland Breakwater
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – US Coast Guard
• Rockland Breakwater – National Register off Historic Places (PDF)
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – National Register off Historic Places (PDF)

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