The Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick in York, Maine, is one of my mom’s favorite places in the world. It’s her birthday today, so we are highlighting this gorgeous, historical place along with some other eye candy later today.

What makes this area so picturesque and relaxing is the same thing that required a lighthouse to be built here in 1879: the tip of Cape Neddick is surrounded by rocks, making it treacherous location for early voyagers.

“Beware the savage rocks,” is a quote from English navigator Captain Bartholomew Gosnold, etched into an informational plaque here.

The lighthouse bell (which was replaced by an automated fog horn in 1987) was activated during times of heavy fog and could be heard from more than a mile away.

The lighthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Cape Neddick is also a destination for students in the robust scientific diving program at the University of New Hampshire. Students, faculty and staff scuba dive to conduct underwater research experiments.

“Researchers from many institutions along the Gulf of Maine have used the Nubble waters because of the ease of shore diving, and high diversity of marine life under the surface,” says an information sign at the site.

Finally, the area provides a stunning view of other magnificent cliffside properties.