Rising dramatically from a barren granite outcrop six miles off York, Maine, Boon Island Light has guided mariners since 1811. At 133 feet, it stands as Maine’s tallest lighthouse—a solitary gray sentinel against the Atlantic’s fury. The island gained notoriety from a 1710 shipwreck that left survivors stranded for weeks in brutal conditions, later inspiring a novel by Kenneth Roberts.

The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation but is closed to public access due to its remote, wave-swept location. Photographers capture stunning images from York’s Long Sands Beach or via charter boats, with golden hour and stormy skies offering the most dramatic shots.

Nearby, explore York’s historic Nubble Light, sandy beaches, and charming village center.

Explore Nearby

• Fort McClary State Historic Site — State Park in Maine
• Fort Constitution State Historic Site — State Park in New Hampshire
• Kancamagus Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
• White Mountain National Forest — National Forest in New Hampshire, Maine
• White Mountain Trail — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire