Marshall Point Lighthouse & Museum
4.8(1.5K)google
4.6(28)yelp
Scenic LookoutFamilyOutdoorPhoto SpotOcean ViewFreeMust-SeeHistoric BuildingCoastFilmHollywood
Overview
Marshall Point Light Station is a lighthouse at the entrance of Port Clyde Harbor in Port Clyde, Maine. The light station was established in 1832.
Practical Info
Mon12:00 – 4:00 PM
Tue10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wed10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thu10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Fri10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sat10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sun12:00 – 4:00 PM
Suggested Duration1-2 hours
Best TimeImmortalized globally as the oceanic turning point of Forrest Gump's epic cross-country run, this shoreline station is open year-round. The definitive magic window is sunset from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM between June and September. The dying sun dramatically illuminates the long, white wooden catwalk elevated over dark granite ledges, casting striking silhouettes perfect for replicating the cinema shot.
Getting TherePerched dramatically at the craggy southern tip of the St. George peninsula in Port Clyde. Driving is the exclusive means of transit: from Rockland, take US-1 South, make a sharp left onto ME-131 South, and drive south for a long 14 miles into Port Clyde village, making a final left onto Marshall Point Road straight to the dead end; a small, free municipal parking field flanks the lawn. No buses reach this cape.
Travel Tips
- Made legendary as the terminal run point in Forrest Gump, the white wooden runway leading to the stone beacon features narrow dimensions and zero upper netting; peak gusts exceeding 35 mph or heavy easterly storm surges prompt immediate safety lockdowns.
- The tiny direct pull-off lot fits only ~15 vehicles and terminates in a strict, high-congestion dead-end neck on the St. George Peninsula; commercial wheel-chassis and extended towed trailers exceeding 22 feet are legally barred from the approach.
- The historical museum dwelling enforces a strict seasonal operating ledger from late May through mid-October, shuttering completely for winter; the raw granite headlands develop intense salt-spray slickness, making rigid non-slip footwear mandatory.
Reviews
Positive
- The famous light station from the movie Forrest Gump! The long, white wooden runway bridge extending over the rocky sea is visually iconic.
- Completely free to the public with no admission required. As a top-tier cinematic pilgrimage landmark on the coast, its value and savings are unbeatable.
- The keeper's house is now a cozy museum run by sweet volunteers; service is heartwarming, and unique souvenirs are reasonably priced.
- Great location with smooth driving access. It provides a compact, clean free lot and neat resting lawns in an incredibly quiet, historic vibe.
Heads up
- Due to its fame, the tiny parking lot fills up instantly on sunny summer weekends, and the narrow peninsula lane faces brief traffic jams.
- The runway boardwalk bridge ends in steep stone steps up to the light tower base, which is closed to climbing year-round; limited accessibility.
- The rocky shoreline is rugged and treacherous with zero safety guardrails; parents must monitor toddlers closely to prevent slips and falls.
- Public infrastructure is basic, lacking a permanent indoor restroom; it relies on portable chemical potties that can smell bad on hot days.
Filming Locations
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