Bear Island Light, Maritime lighthouse in Cranberry Isles, United States.
Description
Bear Island Light is a lighthouse positioned at the southern entrance to Somes Sound near Mount Desert Island. The brick tower stands about 31 feet (9 meters) tall on an 11-acre island surrounded entirely by water.
History
The original structure was built in 1839 following approval by President Martin Van Buren, though the current tower dates from a reconstruction in 1889. This rebuilding allowed the light to continue serving vessels navigating the rocky Maine coast.
Culture
The lighthouse served as a home for lighthouse keepers and their families across generations, shaping life on the isolated island. This continuous human presence created a unique community tied to maritime navigation and survival.
Practical
The lighthouse now serves as a private residence and is viewable from the water, though it can only be reached by boat from surrounding areas. Visitors typically observe it from the water rather than visiting the island itself, making a boat tour the best way to see it.
Did you know?
The structure sits on federal park land but operates under private lease, functioning as both a residence and a working navigation aid simultaneously. This unusual dual role makes it one of the few inhabited maritime structures that continues to serve its original purpose.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Cranberry Isles).
Cadillac Mountain
8.6 km
Bass Harbor Head Light
8.7 km
Asticou Inn
2.4 km
Blackwoods Campground
6 km
Abbe Museum
9.9 km
Otter Cliffs Radio Station
6.9 km
Baker Island Light
7.4 km
Carriage Paths, Bridges and Gatehouses
8.5 km
Highseas
10.6 km
Asticou Azalea Garden
2.6 km
Seawall Campground
5.5 km
Mira Monte Inn
12.4 km
St. Mary's-By-The-Sea
1.4 km
Islesford Historical Museum and Blue Duck Ships Store
3.4 km
Jesup Memorial Library
12.5 km
Ivy Manor Inn
12.7 km
33 Ledgelawn Avenue
12.4 km
Reverie Cove
12.7 km
Ellsworth City Hall
4.6 kmUnion Church of Northeast Harbor
2.1 km
Saint Jude's Episcopal Church
2.2 km
Bass Harbor Memorial Library
8.3 km
Abbe Museum
12.6 km
Bubble Pond Bridge
7.7 km
Beech Mountain Lookout Tower
6.7 km
Seawall Campground Ranger Station
5.5 km
Cobblestone Bridge
3.4 km
Deer Brook Bridge
6.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes