Goat Island marks the northeast entrance to Cape Porpoise Harbor, a working harbor formed by an archipelago of low scrubby islands. Unlike other lighthouses in York County, the main structures on Goat Island have never been blown away. The original tower was torn down in 1860 when the present station was constructed of brick. The keepers house and several outbuildings are woodframe. The light can be seen for 12 nautical miles.
Goat Island has the distinction of being the last manned lighthouse in Maine.
In 1976 the Coast Guard had plans to automate the light. In 1978 the same storm than inundated Boon Island partially submerged Goat Island and did blow away a covered wooden walkway. The keeper s wife and two small children took refuge on the second floor of the house which was the most inland building on the island while the keeper kept watch. The family was offered a transfer shortly after the ordeal and automation seemed imminent. However, when George Bush came into office, the Coast Guard decided to use the island as a security station and another keeper and family were assigned.