Marshall Point Lighthouse & Museum

Marshall Point Lighthouse – Port Clyde, Maine

Overview

Marshall Point Lighthouse is one of Maine’s most picturesque and iconic lighthouses, located at the entrance to Port Clyde Harbor on the state’s rugged Midcoast. Built in 1832, the lighthouse stands as a classic symbol of New England’s maritime heritage, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky shorelines, and passing lobster boats. Its white wooden walkway and charming keeper’s house have made it a favorite among photographers, travelers, and film lovers — most famously appearing in the movie Forrest Gump. Whether you’re here for history, scenery, or a quiet coastal escape, Marshall Point is an unforgettable stop along Maine’s lighthouse trail.

Why Visit

• Capture one of the most photogenic lighthouses in New England
• Walk the iconic wooden walkway featured in Forrest Gump
• Enjoy panoramic views of the rocky coastline and Penobscot Bay
• Learn about Maine’s maritime history at the small onsite museum
• Explore the charming fishing village of Port Clyde

Highlights

• White Wooden Walkway: Leading from the keeper’s house to the lighthouse tower, perfect for photos
• Lighthouse Museum: Exhibits about local shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers, and fishing heritage
• Scenic Setting: Dramatic ocean views and rocky tidal pools to explore
• Film History: The final leg of Forrest Gump’s cross-country run was filmed here

History & Cultural Significance

The first Marshall Point Lighthouse was built in 1832 to guide ships into Port Clyde Harbor, a key stop for vessels navigating the Maine coast. The current 31-foot tower, constructed in 1858, is made of granite and brick and is connected to the keeper’s house by its signature wooden walkway. Over the years, the lighthouse has survived powerful Atlantic storms, including the Hurricane of 1938. The light was automated in 1971, but the keeper’s house remains a historic museum operated by the St. George Historical Society. Today, it’s not just a navigational aid but a cherished landmark that reflects the resilience and beauty of Maine’s coastal communities.

Typical Costs & Tickets

Visiting Marshall Point Lighthouse is free, including access to the grounds and the museum (donations are welcome). The museum is generally open seasonally from late spring through early fall, while the outdoor grounds can be visited year-round. Parking is free but limited, especially during peak summer months.

Best Time to Visit

Marshall Point is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are late spring through early autumn. Summer offers warm weather and vibrant greenery, while fall brings stunning foliage as a backdrop to the white lighthouse. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical, casting golden light over the ocean and walkway. Winter visits are quieter and more dramatic, though be prepared for cold and windy conditions.

Nearby Experiences

While in Port Clyde, enjoy fresh seafood at a local dockside restaurant or take a ferry to Monhegan Island, known for its art community and hiking trails. The nearby towns of Tenants Harbor and Rockland offer art galleries, museums, and additional lighthouse-hopping opportunities, including the famous Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore Drift Inn Beach or take scenic drives along Route 131.

Travel Tips

• Arrive early during peak season to secure parking
• Wear sturdy shoes if exploring the rocky shoreline
• Bring a camera — this is one of Maine’s most photographed spots
• Check museum hours before your visit if you want to see the exhibits
• Be mindful of the tides if walking near the water

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• Marshall Point Lighthouse was featured in the final running scene of Forrest Gump (1994)
• The original 1832 lighthouse was replaced in 1858 after being deemed too small for effective navigation
• The site has withstood countless nor’easters and hurricane-force winds
• Local lore claims that ghostly footsteps have been heard in the keeper’s house late