Lubec, Maine

The Easternmost Town in the USA

Overview

Lubec is the easternmost point in the contiguous United States. It is a place of dramatic tides, swirling fogs, and rugged beauty. The town is connected by the FDR Memorial Bridge to Campobello Island, New Brunswick, the beloved summer home of Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Key Facts

Population 1,237

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Washington

Founded 1811

Nearest City Calais (45 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Lubec Is Known For

Lubec Local Highlights

West Quoddy Head Light

The famous red-and-white striped lighthouse at the easternmost point of the US.

Gateway to Campobello

Connected by the FDR Memorial Bridge to Campobello Island, Canada.

Bold Coast

Features rugged coastal hiking trails with dramatic cliffs and crashing waves.

Smoked Herring

Historically famous for its herring smokehouses.

Things to Do

Visit West Quoddy Head State Park

Photograph the lighthouse and hike the coastal trail.

Cross the bridge to Campobello Island

Tour FDR's summer home and enjoy 'Tea with Eleanor' (passport required).

Hike the Bold Coast trails

Experience the wild beauty of the Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land nearby.

Visit the Lubec Brewing Company

Enjoy local craft beer and food in town.

Look for whales

Spot whales in the channel from the shore or a boat.

Living in Lubec

Lubec is quiet, affordable, and remote. It attracts artists, writers, and those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool and foggy, 60-70°F

winter

Cold and windy, 15-30°F

spring

Cool, 40-50°F

fall

Crisp, 45-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Minke Whales Finback Whales Bald Eagles Seals

How to Get There

Lubec is far Downeast. It is about 2 hours east of Ellsworth and Bar Harbor via Route 1 and 189.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Lubec outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Lubec

5-7 Days

The Ultimate Route 1 Road Trip: NH Border to Canada

A classic Maine road trip from the New Hampshire border to the Canadian border, hitting iconic lighthouses, lobster shacks, and coastal villages along the legendary coastal highway.

8 Stops View Plan

3 Days

The Bold Coast Adventure: Maine's Wild Edge

Go beyond Acadia to the rugged, foggy cliffs near the Canadian border. Lighthouses, puffins, and solitude await at the easternmost point of the United States.

7 Stops View Plan

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Lighthouse Touring

Year-round (Best: June - Oct)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport?

Yes, if you plan to cross the bridge to visit Campobello Island (which is in Canada). You do not need one to stay in Lubec.

Why is the lighthouse striped?

The red and white stripes of West Quoddy Head Light are distinct daymarks to help mariners identify it against the snow or fog.