Don't go to Two Lights State Park expecting to see the lighthouses; they aren't there and the park is just poorly named (actually, I didn't go to the park and am glad I did enough research to know better). From the aerial photo, it looks like there are even two large circles of concrete in the park; however, these don't mark the former locations of the lighthouses. These are actually the barbette mountings of 6-inch guns that were deemed unnecessary by the time they were completed [Battery Construction Number (BCN) 201].
The individual lights are marked correctly on the map, it's just that the name of the park is confusing. There is no entrance fee to see the lights, so if your goal is to see the lighthouses, skip the park. Don't be confused by the name of the park, you can only see the ocean there and no lighthouses.
Most of the photos attached to this location on Google Maps are not exactly from this location. To see the lighthouses, drive over to the end of Two LIghts Rd, 2 Lights Terrace, and back on Beacon Ln. The views are spectacular... even with the encroachment of all the wealthy enclaves! Answer to "response from the owner" below:
Because the park is poorly named and charges an entry fee. Unsuspecting tourists could be tricked by the name, and I wanted to be sure to draw attention to this fact with the one star. You should change the name of the park. How about Unnecessary...
Read moreTwo Lights State Park is a popular point of destination for Maine residents and the many visitors who enjoy the state's legendary rocky coast. Opened in 1961, the park encompasses 41-acres of rocky headlands. Standing high above the rocky coast and rolling surf, visitors have sweeping views of Casco Bay and the open Atlantic.
The park's name originated from the twin lighthouses located nearby at the end of Two Lights Road. Built in 1828, these were the first twin lighthouses on the coast of Maine. Although not open to the public, the eastern light is an active, automated light station, visible 17 miles at sea. The western light ceased operation in 1924 and is now a private home. One of these towers was the subject of Edward Hopper's famous painting "Lighthouse at Two Lights."
Picnic tables situated on the hills facing the ocean afford visitors spectacular views of the ocean while enjoying an afternoon barbecue or clambake. Strollers and hikers can enjoy the refreshing sea breezes along shoreline trails and watch ships sailing into and out of Portland Harbor. Remember, ocean breezes can cool off a summer afternoon, so bring warm clothing to ensure an enjoyable visit. When walking along the rocks by the ocean, stand at least 20 feet back from the surf and keep a close eye on children who are...
Read moreAnother jewel in the Maine State Parks system. There is an entry fee to enter the park, consult the maine.gov website for schedule. The site was used as a naval gun position in WW II. The bunkers are all still there discreetly built into the hillside. The bluff the park resides on presents a commanding view of the Atlantic. On a clear day the curvature of the earth can be seen. The walking path along the rim of the bluff is sprinkled with picnic tables each equipped with a charcoal grill and benches to sit on to take in the view. Its common to see lobster boats plying their trade along the shore and commercial shipping traffic in and out of Portland harbor can be seen as well. Access to the rocky shore can be had in various places along the path. Parking is plentiful and most of the path is handicap accessible. Bathrooms are adjacent to the parking lot as is a playground. There is drinking water available from a fountain, but no other consessions are available in the park. So pack some food and make...
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