2 Best Sights in Penobscot Bay, Maine

First came the Rockland Breakwater, built in 1900 to protect ships in the harbor and structures on the shore from storm surge. But the breakwater itself was a navigational hazard, so the 25-foot-tall lighthouse was added to its far end in 1902. The mile-long breakwater offers an irresistible hike that's sometimes described as a walk into the sea without wet feet. Wear sensible shoes, though, and watch your step: there are gaps between the uneven granite blocks just waiting to trip you up. Stand beside the lighthouse for terrific views of passing windjammers and other marine traffic. (The lighthouse is not open to the public.)

To get to the landward end of the breakwater, go north on U.S. 1, turn right on Waldo Avenue, and right again on Samoset Road; go to the end of this short road.

Perched on an 80-foot promontory at the southern entrance to Rockland harbor, this white-brick tower built in 1852 provides broad views of Penobscot Bay. When volunteers are available, visitors may climb the tower to the small, glass-enclosed space at the top that houses the Fresnel lens, installed in 1856. In the 1930s, a light keeper's springer spaniel learned to pull the rope to ring the fog bell, and is said to have thereby saved vessels entering the harbor in poor visibility. A stone near the bell marks the dog's grave. In the small museum and gift shop, you can pick up a copy of a children's book that tells the story. The American Lighthouse Foundation is headquartered in the keeper's house.