Don't get in too much of a hurry to get to the lighthouse. The path to this lighthouse is like no other.
Took a walk out to the lighthouse during a dreary, damp foggy day...it was quite eerie, but all the more exciting! The walk was refreshing and a must do in any weather! Just be careful!
The granite pier is 7/8 of a mile long of uneven boulders with gaps in between. Some of the gaps can easily swallow a leg. It makes for an interesting walk, with the destination being the lighthouse at the end. Along the way there are lobster boats, and the Vinylhaven ferry to observe, as well as sea gulls, eiders, loons and other wildlife. There is no access to the lighthouse, but some benches to sit on. A fun, healthy activity. The uneven surface makes this a great exercise, but also means it is tricky for those with balance issues. I'm not sure a wheelchair could get across. On this day the snowy section on shore was the trickiest place to walk, later in winter that might not be the case.
It was too rough a walk for my Husband but I did it. I watched many younger people sailing right along but for me the very uneven path often with bits of metal or rebar sticking up and some wide gaps between stones was somewhat disconcerting and I had to proceed carefully. However I was very pleased when I successfully negotiated my way to the light and back. It certainly is an impressive view at the end.
It was suggested by a family member that we go to the Breakwater Lighthouse, so we did. High tide is amazing as you walk the 3/4 mile walk along the stone wall to get to the lighthouse with the waves crashing all around you. It is truly a sight to see. The lighthouse was closed and we couldn't see inside the windows, but it was a great walk and a beautiful way to get closer to the ocean.
This is really something is my view. You can walk nearly a mile out into the bay over the massive granite slab path. Remember to look up as you walk and not just at your feet like I did for the first bit! It's really windy so maybe take a scarf or a hoodie to cover your ears as the wind can really numb them. I think high tide in the wind could be interesting- we went a couple of hours before high tide and it was fine.
To get a flavor for Rockland's lobstering community, walk along the breakwater past Samoset resort to the lighthouse. You'll see lobstermen hauling lobsters from their traps, measuring and keeping/returning their catch. It's a nice, level walk as well, across massive granite blocks which form the breakwater.
We knew we were in Maine just by looking out over the water to see hundreds of Lobsta buoys. The walk is nice in the morning, just don't forget the coffee.
While In Maine, We took a ferry ride right by it to take a picture. I could live there. it is so pretty. Built just like a home but on the water.
On a nice day with a little breeze you get to see a variety of boats up close and personal. Be careful with little children as many of the stones are uneven with considerable cracks - DON'T LET THEM RUN!