Rockport is on the shore of Penobscot Bay between Rockland and Camden. In addition to the Rockland Breakwater, two close attractions are the Rockport Marine Park and an overlook for the Curtis Island Lighthouse.
Rockport Marine Park
This is a small park with free 2-hour parking. A walking path along the shoreline treats you to views of the harbor and boats within. Multiple benches face the water to soak up the sights.
Historic Limestone Kilns
In the 1800s, Rockport had an active lime manufacturing trade. The park has several old limekilns on the waterfront. Next to the kilns is an information board with drawings explaining their function.
André the Seal Statue
André was an abandoned harbor seal pup found by a scuba diver in 1961. Raised in Rockport, he learned some tricks but was eventually moved to the New England Aquarium (in Boston) during the winters. When he was released in the spring, he surprised people by swimming 150 miles north back to Rockport. This became a yearly occurrence. The statue was dedicated in 1978 and André passed away in 1986.
Indian Island Lighthouse
Indian Island is visible on the east side of the harbor. You will likely need binoculars or a zoom lens to see the lighthouse. We spied it between sailboats.
Indian Island Lighthouse, sometimes called Beauchamp Point Lighthouse, is privately owned and not open for visitors. It was discontinued in 1859 along with two others because they were so close to the Curtis Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse was reestablished in 1874 due to increasing lime shipments from Rockport. Indian Island Lighthouse was finally discontinued and sold in 1934.
Visitors can also enjoy sailing cruises in the harbor or picnicking in the park.
Curtis Island Lighthouse Overlook
The overlook is free to visit. There are two small pull-offs on the side of Bay View Street (each fitting 2 cars). The start of the short trail is across the road. Look for a wooden overlook sign posted to a tree.
A break in the trees at the water’s edge gives you stunning views of Camden Harbor and Curtis Island. Curtis Island acts as a breakwater for the harbor from ocean storms.
The lighthouse is on the southeastern end of the 5-acre island. It is an active light station owned by the town of Camden.
The 25-foot lighthouse is a cylindrical, white brick tower. This newer tower was built in 1896. Andrew Jackson ordered the original tower in 1835.
There is a bench at the overlook if you want to sit and relax here.
Curtis Island is a public park, but the lighthouse is not open to the public. The island is only accessible by boat.