10 Prettiest Coastal Towns In Maine
The Maine coast is home to some of the most beautiful spots in America, including our list of the 10 prettiest coastal towns in Maine.
By Tracey Minkin|Feb 22 2022|
Coffee By Design | Portland, Maine
Photo Credit : Katherine KeenanHow can one stretch of coastline be home to so many beautiful towns? Here, we celebrate ten of the prettiest coastal towns in Maine. All are especially beautiful in summer, but are well worth a visit any time of the year.
10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in Maine
Photo Credit : Courtesy of Cynthia Boyer
Castine
Leave Route 1’s hurly-burly behind to discover this historic little town at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary. No wonder Castine has been drawing artists for 150 years—there’s even a 3-day plein air art festival in July. See more: From water level with Castine Kayak’s daily summer tours.
LEARN MORE: Castine, Maine | A Historic Midcoast Maine Town
Photo Credit : iStock.com/edella
Kennebunkport
The Kennebunk River adds even more waterline charm to the small shops, elegant ship captains’ homes, and fishing ports of this vibrant Southern Maine town of 3,474. We think it’s one of the most well-deserved Maine vacation spots around, especially when you factor in a visit to The Clam Shack. Stay in one of Kennebunkport’s many inns or embrace the outdoors with an upscale “glamping” experience at Sandy Pines Campground. See more: From the river and harbor on Rugosa Lobster Tours.
Photo Credit : iStock.com/PictureLake
Bar Harbor
Some Maine destinations have to be experienced to be believed. Perched on Mount Desert Island at the gateway to Acadia National Park, this historic resort town still resonates with the Victorian splendor of bygone days, not to mention the backdrop of Cadillac Mountain. See more: Lighthouse and National Park Tour via catamaran.
Photo Credit : Courtesy of Tom Burns
Boothbay Harbor
Surrounded by islands and lighthouses, Boothbay Harbor is a Mid Coast magnet for fishing, sailing and cruising. So much so, the town seems half-boats, half-buildings. Don’t miss a visit to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens or a stroll across the Boothbay Footbridge (including the famous Boothbay Harbor Bridge House). It’s the longest wooden footbridge in the country. See more: From the water aboard the Schooner Lazy Jack.
LEARN MORE: Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Photo Credit : iStock.com/AnkNet
Damariscotta
An all-American small town with shipbuilding roots, Damariscotta sits colorfully on the tidal Damariscotta River and hums with shops, restaurants, a community theatre and the state’s first Reny’s Department Store. See more: From the river, aboard the bright-red River Tripper at Damariscotta River Cruises.
Photo Credit : Courtesy of Henry Teverow
Stonington
One of Maine’s proudest and highest-producing lobstering harbors with more than 300 boats, this Down East town perched on spectacular, granite Deer Isle, shares its beauty with tourists but retains a solid, hometown feel. See more: Take the mail boat to tiny Isle au Haut for a true Down East experience.
Photo Credit : Mark Fleming
Camden
The self-dubbed “Jewel of the Coast” is a well-deserved moniker, and this Mid-Coast harbor town of 4,823 on Penobscot Bay is tucked where mountains reach down to the sea. It’s one of our favorite places to visit in Maine in winter, too, thanks to its many wonderful inns and restaurants. See more: From the water, on the Schooner Surprise.
LEARN MORE: Rockport & Camden | Two Miles of Coastal Beauty
Photo Credit : Aimee Seavey
Blue Hill
A warm and cozy Down East community that retains the splendid historical architecture of its 18th-century shipbuilding roots, Blue Hill’s harbor is a watery gateway to Acadia National Park. See more: From above, hiking Blue Hill Mountain.
Photo Credit : Benggriff via Wikimedia Commons
Rockport
The harbor of this tiny coastal town is considered the most picturesque one in Maine… and that is high praise indeed. Further, it’s bounded by a lovely verdant park, complete with a resident seal (in marble). We’re talking about Andre the Seal, of course. See more: From the harbor aboard the Schooner Yacht Heron.
LEARN MORE: Rockport, Maine | A Charming, Historic Harbor Town
Photo Credit : iStock.com/HarryCollins
Cutler
Pure, Down East, and unspoiled. No gift shops, no tourist traps. Here, there’s a daily view of lobster boats in the small harbor, with Canada’s Grand Manan Island in the distance. A nearby colony of puffins and a working lighthouse (where you can spend the night) make this tiny, far-flung town a true beauty. Few coastal Maine towns can deliver such an authentic experience. See more: Check out those puffins with Bold Coast Charter Company.
Do you love the Maine coast as much as we do? What are your picks for the prettiest coastal towns in Maine? Towns with the best beaches in Maine? The best lobster rolls in Maine? Let us know!
This post was first published in 2015 and has been updated.
SEE MORE:
10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in New England
25 Best Beach Towns in New England
10 Best Seaside Inns in New England
Why doesn’t anyone in Magazines nor on Chronicle etc. mention the Hidden Gems of the coast in Maine
Like PINE POINT SCARBOROUGH MAINE – Beautiful Coastal Quiet Community for Families !!!
Always the same ole: OOB, Kenneybunkport, Wells, Ogunquit etc.
Getting a lil Blah ???
Venture out all – Lots more to observe and experience ??
Thank You and Happy Veterans Day to you All.
My wife and I are planning a New England RV trip in September. We don’t particularly enjoy the normal tourist towns but we rather like to see the “off the beaten path”, quaint communities. We love antiques and history. I would very much appreciate your opinion of where we should visit.
Thanks
Not sure if you have found your hearts desire yet, or even the price range your looking for, but there’s one of many fishing villages along the coast called Owls Head. Close to many things it is where I grew up every summer of my life, where I was blest to carry on that experience to my children and grandchildren and at 58 if I were not wheelchair bound and disabled by MS I would be living out my days! Close by (+/- 5 miles) is Rockland , a bit north the rather commercial Camden (Mel Gibson Man without a face was filmed there). It’s pure heaven!!
Try Round Pond, Maine
It’s Reny’s. Not Remy’s.
Hi Martha,
Thanks so much for catching that!
I would agree with what Leanne mentioned: Old Orchard Beach, Ogunquit etc.
I heartily agree that Stonington is beautiful at any time of day, and it is the real deal. Treat yourself to a trip there to experience an authentic lobstering town and a production at the Opera House!
I am looking to move to Maine within the next year. Would love any info any can give on picking out a small friendly town to call home!! (That would be close to area jobs.)
Thank you
How could u forget Harpswell??
what about Belfast? beautiful up there
We live in Surry – right on the Union River Bay. We moved here 13 years ago from the New York Area. We love it here, We are in short distance of so many lovely drives. I will never move from here. Very beautiful and private and in minutes we are in Ellsworth or Blue Hill. Occasionally we drive to Belfast or Camden.
BELFAST – the town begs your attention!! Scenic, foodie, working the trades, arts & music that takes first place …. And home of The Maine Wienerfest
I believe the Village of Belgrade Maine is truly Beautiful…Its between two lakes with the most beautiful sunsets behind Day’s store…it is a hidden gem!
I’m from Castine & live in Atlanta. Every time I go home Iove hanging out in Cape Elizabeth’s w/my good friends from college (40yrs ago). It’s a stones throw from Portland, where there are available jobs. Cape is 1of my favorite places & if I move back to Maine i ll live there.
I agree!!! I love Maine and Cape Elizabeth is one of the most beautiful places. I fell in love with it about 20 years ago and I try to make a yearly visit there every year. If we leave early enough (we’re on the South shore e Boston) we can do a day trip. I love Two Lights State Park!!! If I could do it I would be in Maine tomorrow.
We live in Milton, GA and are hoping to move to Maine.Would love to talk to you about the area and we are going in two weeks to look for a home! Thank you for any information you can give me.
one our favorite things to do in Maine is attend church , community and organization suppers. Ham and bean , spaghetti, pot luck. The people are always friendly and welcoming. It gives us a real insiders view of the community.
Hi Dawn – my husband and I are also looking into moving to Maine and have been encouraged to look at Yarmouth as it’s got the small town community as well as access to Portland.
We lived in Yarmouth for 22 years — just moved out recently, only because work took me away. It’s the nicest place I’ve ever lived, and I’ve lived in 7 states and traveled to most of the others. Yarmouth is picturesque, quiet, safe and has a great school system. Once a year, the town comes to life for the Yarmouth Clam Festival, but otherwise it’s peaceful and quiet. Just 17 minutes from downtown Yarmouth to downtown Portland, which is one of America’s most wonderful cities. We hated leaving Yarmouth, so I can only imagine that you would greatly enjoy living there. It has everything money can’t buy — and doesn’t have a lot of things that you’d prefer not to have in your hometown.
I fell in love with Maine on a painting Trip to Walpole about 12 years ago. Tides, fog, light, seals. It changed my life. We have an opportunity to move to Maine through my husbands work that would be based in Bangor. What seaside/waterside communities are in a reasonable commute distance to Bangor?
Move to Wiscasset! We moved here 3 years ago and love the little town. Great people, friendly, super little yacht club, good local restaurants, and a lively community spirit.
Ellesworth is 30 min, Belfast is 45 mins, both towns have great access to bangor. Bucksport is a great little town their paper mill just shut down a few months ago property values are low but the road to bangor can be a bit rough in the winter. Be forewarned property taxes can get ridiculous in maine. Some of the lake areas like pushaw or any of the hundreds of small ponds with homes on them may be a much better value.
Yes, these are all fantastic seaside destinations. But, I agree with earlier comments that with the exception of one or two of the towns mentioned, this list reflects the choices of most every other list that publishes articles about Maine coastal towns. An unimaginative and limited selection of choices.
Also it notes the listed towns being from Down East to Midcoast…The Kennebunks are in Southern Maine, two hours from the Midcoast and over three hours from Bar Harbor.
The title talks about prettiest coastal towns, but of the seven photos, only 2 had views of a town. The rest were boats. Show me the towns. I know what boats look like.
I’m thinking of moving to Maine this year and have been looking at homes in Boothbay and Camden. Since your there now, what’s the winter/snow situation really like?
Thanks!
I live in Boothbay and the weather in the winter is nothing but Ice, ice and more ice. If you live near the ocean the wind cuts thru your body like a knife. The summer is miserable as it rains pretty much constantly. I’d check out Camden if I were you.
I live in Central NH, and love to take a ride over to Maine. Do not forget Pompham beach! New England IS a wonderful place to live (lived here for 64 years) but we know our winters are cold and sometimes hard…but still quite beautiful, and quiet.
I love your beautiful coast of Maine!!! A trip you defiantly should take. One suggestion, in your articles, show a small picture of Maine and an arrow pointing to the town location you are talking about.
Winter Harbor, Hancock County. A true coastal haven year round and so close to Schoodic Point, the best of Acadia in my opinion!
I fell in love with the Schoodic peninsula from reading The Peninsula by Louise Dickinson Rich many years ago. It’s a magical place.
I like Eastport, Machiasport and Lubec too. They were close to where I grew up.
I am an artist/ innkeeper and moved to Maine 30 years ago. I fell in love with this state when I was in grad school 55 years ago. I live in Naples, the Western Lakes Region, which is one of the most beautiful areas in Maine. Bridgton, the next town, is a charming NE small town which sits on Highland Lake. Naples sits on Long Lake and boats can go from Long Lake to Sebago Lake, a real gem and Maine’s second largest lake. Not all the beauty of this state is on the coast. We are also 25 miles from NH and the Mountains. Beautiful in all seasons, except maybe mud season. Fall is spectacular!
What, no Ogunquit? Really?!
Although all the cities you mentioned are pretty, my favorite is Ogunquit. It is epitome of a New England town – beautiful beach, quaint shops, fantastic restaurants at every turn, a two mile walk along the coast which shows off the amazing builders the water crashes onto and beautiful inns. It is the only place where I truly exhale.
All of these are absolutely pretty towns. I’d add Wiscasset to the mix though.
By far … Eastport, Maine!!!
I have to agree that Eastport is a beautiful little city. My Mother was born and raised there. We spent summers visiting my grandparents in Eastport. I spent endless hours sitting on the breakwater watching the sea. It never gets old for me. Eastport is a beautiful place that has a special hold on my heart and always will. It is well worth the time to visit this little city.
I’ve visited 7 of them and can’t say which is the prettiest
I still vote for New Harbor
I loved reading about everyone’s point of view on the towns they love in Maine. I live in CA and would love to find a small beach house to escape to and write. I am looking for a quaint waterfront town with nice boutiques, great coffee, and very walkable area. I have looked at Nantucket, Newport R.I, Rockport MA, but keep coming back to Maine! I am trying to narrow my search down to three places to visit that would fit my criteria, any suggestions? Thanks for your responses.
All the small towns South of Portland, ME and on the coast such as Kenneybunkport, Wells, Ogunquit etc.. All of Maine’s coastal towns are beautiful. We love towns on Cosco Bay. You can’t go wrong on the whole coast of Maine even if you are camping, but super fresh shellfish is a great attraction.
Look into Cape Elizabeth. Close to in town Portland. Beautiful area, loved living there. My family resides in beautiful Scarborough. Good Luck and God Bless.
Perhaps Rockport, Maine or Thomaston, Maine or Freeport, Maine.
One of the best places to body surf is Scarborough’s Higgins Beach. A real refresher I would add.
You missed Houlton Maine, the pretty Shiretown of Aroostook County! Go inland, north to see all of Vacationland!
went to bar harbor in sept for my birthday enjoyed the town and acadia national park will return sept 2017 on a cruise
We did the Canada New England cruise from New York on Norwegian Dawn. Best cruise ever
I’ve been to so many coastal towns & I (we) loved every one of them!! Our favorite vacations!!
Wiscasset should be on the list.
Been to them all. I pick Ogunquit!
My Dad’s late 1st cousin lived in Rockport Maine, and co-wrote a book called “Andre” about a harbor seal that he had a very special relationship with. There is a statue of Andre in the town. There was a kids movie made about it called ‘Andre’ as well.
Andre was delightful! In the mid to late 1980’s, my mother, my 2 daughters & I drove to see Andre w/ the fisherman he loved as they interacted together! What a great thing to see! It wasn’t a show, it was almost like two buddies having fun together!
OLD ORCHARD BEACH is the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Love Ogunquit. Been going there over 25 years and still going back.
Love Belfast. Great shops and food & not so touristy.
I believe Saco should be on the list. Beautiful Main St, short distance to the ocean, beautiful Saco River, top school (Thornton Academy) Route 95 easy in and out of city going north or south.
Ok, so I am an outsider that is truly in love with Maine. My favorite spot as a home base in summer is Biddeford Maine. I then do day trips to many of these spots you discuss in the article. Portland Jetport is easy to get to and nice manageable airport, and head to the beach. Fortunes rocks is great for swimming walking and surf, granite point is a pretty quiet cove, the UNE is not far on Hills Beach with the Bufflehead restaurant – could do on forever. Did I say I love Maine ? !!!
My Dad was born on deer island and grew up in Rockport. I spent summer vacations til i was 14 in Rockport. They are some of my most cherished memories. We would row out to Indian Head light and pick wild strawberries
How about Wiscasset, Rockland, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport?
The traffic in Wiscasett in the summer is terrible, at times, bumper to bumper from 6 to 8 miles.
Tennets harbor is lovely, quiet, convenient to many day trips. Marshall point lighthouse is a must.
Keep driving from there to the end of the peninsula at Port Clyde and pick up lunch in the general store great fresh made seafood lunch try the best lobster stew or clam chowder.
Looking to relocate to a small town in Maine. A quiet, laid back place, that I can call home.
I lived in a small town outside of Bangor, named Hermon. I bought a renovated camp on Herman Pond, great location, quiet, small town but only minutes to Bangor. I used to drive to Ellsworth and then on to Bar Harbor (only an hour) Drive. Took two hrs to drive to Portland. Penobscot River is there and plenty of shops, both old and new. Check it out.
There is something to be said for Georgetown
What do you like about it? Would love to hear your thoughts. Seems lovely. We were just there for a little while this week. It was raining pretty hard.
Camden is great. Take the Surprise cruise well worth it great captain.
I was born, schooled, married and had 3 children. There are so many quaint towns and it is not surprising with the longest jagged coastline when stretched out the miles are as long as Maine to California. I love all 4 seasons even at age 80 I love the fresh clean snow fall, autumn foliage, spring with all the live theaters, summer boating on lakes and coast with many islands to rummage through some having only wild life. Winter snow mobile, tobogganing, cross country and down hill skiing. Wiscaset has the best Maine lobster rolls in my opinion. If any one likes what I have shared they are sure to love Maine as much as I do. God Bless.
I simply love New England. Born and brought up in Vt..married to Bob (now deceased) and he was Air Force – was stationed in Texas so here we stayed in TX after retirement. I go to Wells Maine to see his cousin every other summer to get my fill of family and lobster — which I dearly love. Just cannot get that delicacy here in this state. Family are elderly and I’m getting there (77) although I do not admit it yet. I’m too active — thinking of next summer renting a cottage or something in Maine. Summers here are brutal. You take care and be in good health. Laurel
I loved what you wrote I have been in Maine over 20 years but recently I had surgery and was out of work for 6 weeks I went to the beaches and walked but every weekend I drove down to Massachusetts to be with family it was very lonely here as much as the summer and other 3 seasons are nice I realized how much I miss my home town and family I Massachusetts I would move Back but the rents are outraged thanks for you thoughts I enjoyed reading it one more week before I go back to work. God bless you
Am a native New Englander (Conn.), but had cousins and an aunt and uncle that lived in Wiscasset. They are both gone now, but have also visited Camden–sat on an overlook gazing down on that lovely village. I now live outside Wilmington, NC. Quite a change from New England. The winters are easier here, but would still love to return to the northeast one day. Maybe one day.
Don’t wait, Just do it, Move as soon as you can. There will never be a perfect time. The perfect time is now, Just do it, Life is to short to put it off.
Excellent advice. I hope s/he takes you up on it.
We are a couple in our late 40’s looking to move to a small family town in Maine toward the coast, but we need to work, and would love to buy a place. Can anyone recommend a small town that’s cheap to live and buy, but close enough to find plenty of work? Thanks!
Try Machais. Its on coastal rt.1. Good luck!
We have been going to Maine every summer for the last ten years. We purchased land (not far from Machias) on a lake and are in the process of building a cabin. It’s very rural, but the college town of Machias makes it not so isolated as you can fulfill most daily needs. I would highly recommend it. You are close to the ocean, and it has many beautiful places to camp, hike, and eat (they even have a Whole Foods).
When growing up in Hampstead NH in the 1960’s and early 70’s my family purchased a lot and built a cottage in York Beach ME. This small town with 2 wonderful beaches (Short and Lond Sands); Plus The most photographed Lighthouse in ME Nubble Light makes this one of the greatest places not only to visit but to live. My sister still lives in that cottage from about April until Oct. Some of the greatest times of my life were spent there and it is and always will be most beautiful small beach towns in ME all of New England !!!!!!
How to get to Brunswick from Boston? Any trips to small towns other than car
Born in Maine and lived there most of my life. I strongly suggest to those of you wanting to move there to spend a winter there befor you buy a place. I know many who couldn’t take the long cold winters
Please help! I would like to see a lot of Maine’s Lighthouses and whale watch too. Where Oh Where should i stay to see the most of what I would love?
If you are an artist, visit Monhegan Island. Take the mail boat from Port Clyde and enjoy an island with no cars, not much power,and lovely views.
Port Clyde is an untouched lobster fishing village that is lovely to visit. It has become a haven for artists. You can take the mail boat out to Mohegan Island for a visual treat of the rocky coast, pure nature.
no one mentioned Brunswick, sweet college town near the coast and Harpswell. Downtown looks like a Norman Rockwell painting ck us out also!
We are a family with a 11 & 13 year Old. We have never been to Maine before & we’d like to come for 10 days this summer & stay in 2 towns at the most but visit a few more. Things we like: all seafood, especially lobster & clams, kayaking, fishing, going to the beach, boogie boarding, shopping in cute small towns. Can you recommend some places for us? We’ll be coming in August. Thanks!
Having been stationed in NH just down the road ,,I highly recommend York Maine, For the 11,and 13 year old they will love York beach, Wild animal park, Amusements, and for the older Adults there’s shopping ,shopping and more shopping in and around York area, along with the restaurants galore. Enjoy
I want to visit maine Spend a few days exploring and eating lobster. Would like a waterfront place that doesnt cost a fortune. Any suggestions? Things to see? Places to eat?
One of my favorite towns in Maine is Bar Harbor. We always stay at the Acadia Inn. It is not pricey. It has beautiful water views. You can see the cruise ships going by. They also have a tour bus that stops there for pick up and takes you into town. It is great. Down town has the best ice cream parlor. The only one. They have the best, creamy, so many flavors. Awesome. You can get lobster on every corner. This is a great place. Enjoy
My husband and I are celebrating our 30 year anniversary this year. We are in our 50’s. Where is the best place in Maine for us to visit? We love to look at mountains, lakes, and lighthouses! We want a nice, quiet vacation in June.
Hi Becky,
My husband and I live in Maine (lucky us!), and our favorite place to visit is the Camden area. For years we have been spending a few days in that area each fall and lately also in spring. We like it on the quiet side too–hikes, scenic walks, exploring the shops, restaurants, harbor, gardens, natural beauty of the area, and admiring the varied architecture of the gorgeous homes. We always stay at the same place, The Mount Battie Motel in Lincolnville (just north of Camden and not quite so pricey). This is the perfect location, as it is between Camden and Belfast (another great town to explore–funkier, artsy, with many shops, galleries, and creative restaurants, a nice harbor walk, a food co-op, a recently completed railroad trail, and much more). Just south of the motel is Camden Hills State Park. Here you can drive your car to the top of Mt. Battie or you can hike up (about a mile) or hike the park’s other trails. Atop Mt. Battie you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of the ocean and many, many islands that you can see from this point. From the center of Camden, walk down Bayview St. about 1/2 mile, and you will come to a little point where you will have a wonderful view of Curtis Island and its lighthouse. Personally, my favorite walk is one street over, along Chestnut St. where each home (that I will never be able to afford) is more charming than the next one. Lincolnville has its own small sandy beach and a winery. From this town you can take a day trip to Castine, Bar Harbor, Rockport (charming, quaint small fishing town), and Rockland (working busy waterfront city with shops, art museums, restaurants, ferry service to many points, and a harbor trail and jetty walk which will take you right up to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse). There are quite a few other lighthouses in this general area. We always discover some new delight each time we visit this part of Maine. In years past my husband and I stayed at some other accommodations (with disappointing results), but now we just go to our home away from home, the Mt. Battie Motel. Christine, one of the 2 owners, is well known for her extensive home-baked breakfasts (enjoyed by guests on the porch which overlooks the ocean). She prides herself in helping guests to plan their visit. Just tell her what your interests are, and she will be full of suggestions. The grounds are lovely, the rooms are spotless and green-cleaned, the beds are really comfy, and the decor is pleasant (though not up-to-the-minute). If you decide to stay here you will save money by going earlier in June, rather than later, when rates go up. Also, I would suggest you call them directly (instead of going through 1 of the travel services), and ask them about what specials they are offering. And no, I am not related to the owners, nor am I a personal friend, though I feel like we have become friends just because of how friendly they are and how well they have treated us during our visits over the years. There you have it: mountains, lighthouses, and much more. Have a wonderful anniversary trip.
Hi Jammie
My partner and I are interested visiting Maine during the (Canadian) long week-end of Victoria Day.
From your review, Camden looks like a very nice area. As we would like to indulge ourselves during the lobster season, is Camden a recommendable spot? (we were originally thinking about the area of Portland). Also, it seems that Camden offers a good range of possible activities, am I right?
Thanks in advance for your reply. Hotel Mount Battie would definitively be a place to look at if we decide to visit Camden.
Kind regards
Stephane
We are planning a trip to Maine late June early July and for about 6 days and have no idea where to go. We are traveling from NJ. We like good seafood , and a variety of things to do. We are in our early 60:s and would like some suggestions. Looked at all the things to do and were overwhelmed. Please help!
Definitely come to Brunswick, Bath and Harpswell. Bowdoin College and lots of maritime history, 2 beautiful beaches to walk and lots of seafood. Small town charm with shops and lots of friendly people.
Have fun!
Don’t forget Bodoin College and the swinging bridge in Brunswick and L.L.Bean just 15 minutes down the road in Freeport.
I want to take my daughter to Maine. She is 12. Which town would be the best for her ?..thank you .. we live in Florida
I agree. If you want to see Maine go into the very small towns. They are awesome. The country and the people are the neatest you will ever see. Take the side roads. You will not be disappointed. I have been fortunate enough to visit every U.S. state and Maine is my absolute favorite. Venture out you will love it.
My wife and cousin and I will be visiting part of Maine early this October. Will be going from Montreal through Bethel Maine to Acadia National Park and then down the coast toward Massachusetts. Then back up to Saxtons River, Vermont Lake Placid and return to Montreal. Will you be publishing a fall foliage drive article by late summer?
My wife and I are flying in to Portland Maine and driving to Boston..Where should we stop along the way…thanks
My brother and sister in law will be visiting Maine in August 2018. Here’s the problem. Both have much difficulty walking (no stairs) walking no more than 5 minute intervals …… What can we do when we visit Maine??? We will have beautifully scenery to look at and delicious lobster dinners by the water, but what else can we do considering my relative’s disabilities? I’ve already asked my husband and won’t use those scooters to get around! I NEED HELP!!!! Thank you!!!!
Rockport – charming harbor with interesting history and easy parking. Camden – visit the library and enjoy the splendid view of the harbor. Check out the stone benches outside the library’s lower entrance – fun and they can sit! Beautiful gardens too. There are benches across the street to sit and admire the harbor. Pick up some lobster rolls across from the entrance and drive to the top of Mt. Battie -you can see for miles. Further along the coast, pack a picnic and drive to the top of the mountain in Acadia National Park. Good handicapped paths. Go to Asticou Inn where you can sit outside overlooking a charming harbor and eat popovers and the best lobster stew. Check out the Tiffany windows in the Episcopal Church in Bar Harbor and hear the stories of the robber baron families who competed with each other in building the church.
Hiw could I forget? Also recommend the libster boat tour of lighthouses out of Camden, and the Wyeth boat tour of sites painted out of Port Clyde.
Port Clyde lovely rustic lobster harbor and still unspoiled by tourist raps.
Kittery is very lovely “along the water” and I know it also has good lobster rolls “available at “dock restaurants””, and beaches and I really enjoy driving “the back roads” to Nubble Light, which I really adore and have since I first went there as a student at UNH, which is very close to that area. I had a car and an apartment, so I really took advantage of “enjoying that entire area immensely”, Ogunquit, Wells, York, Kennebunk, Prout’s Neck, etc., etc., etc..
Why did you delete my comments? I really don’t have time to waste today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Are you ok? ?
Sorry, I guess I didn’t give you “enough time”!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This definitely is not a waste of my time helping your readers enjoy “all the wonderful state of Maine has to offer”. My father was born there, in Farmingdale, and lived there with his wonderful relatives, including his Aunt Rose who owned Victorian Hotel Vespa at Old Orchard Beach, scene of “obsene” spoiling by Dads’ Dad, “Grampy” and Aunt Rose…until he graduated from Hebron Academy in Hebron, ME.
Oy…?
it all started in the south at Kittery 1623 and rolled up the coast over decades…there are some beautiful landscapes from Kittery, Kittery Point, York Village, Long Sands ,the Nubble Light and Short Sands headed north that should have been posted, aerial photos taken from the ocean looking towards land would give you a better perspective, they can be found online…
You forgot Harpswell but maybe that is good:-)
Why did you say “maybe that.s good
Why did you say maybe forgetting
HARPSWELL is good. just curious !
Probably to keep it quiet
Hi. I am planning to retire to Maine & Florida. I love Maine but I need a less expensive option where I can keep a place near the ocean during the warm months & still maintain a similar type in Florida. Any advice?
We faced that, too. 7 months in The Villages, FL and 5 at Bears Den Park in Wells, where we have a park model with full Florida room. Our year-round rent in Maine is $3500 a year.
We live in California and found a coastal Maine home last year. We took out a map and starting in Portland, followed the coastline North until we found a place where oceanfront was reasonably priced and amenities were close – Milbridge
I,M FROM B.B.H.MAINE…NO PLACE ON EARTH IS MORE BEAUTIFUL,,,,,,THE SUMMERS DO GET A LOT OF RAIN..I,M NOT SURE WHY..AND I LOVE DAMARISCOTTA
I’ve never been to Maine! I have Friday thru Sunday from Boston airport and back. I want to go to the prettiest Coastal city there is!!!
I’ve been to just about every town by sailboat over the years many times. The number one choice hands down MONHEGAN ISLAND. I would put Ogunquit next. But quite frankly there are many that are comparable to thise listed.
We are planning a week long trip to Maine in June 2020. We love great seafood and of course the ocean and beaches. Looking for some help with places to visit and places to stay. Appreciate any and all advice anyone is willing to give.
We stayed in Damariscotta several years ago and from there the day trips are endless. Pemaquid, Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, Camden, Rockport, Christmas Cove, Bailey’s Island I love the mid coast. Pemaquid Lighthouse is a favorite! Have fun!
I have owned a home in Southwest Harbor for 30 some years. I love Maine and have traveled all over the state. Nobody ever says any thing about Southwest Harbor but I love that little town.
I’ve never been to Maine, but feel inexplicably drawn to the idea of, not only visiting, but living there. For years, I’ve carried this place I’ve never been, in my heart and mind. As if I belong there. I do subscribe to a set of beliefs that support the possibility of my living there in another lifetime. A previous lifetime. Not to be hokey (too late?) Tell me—Where is your favorite place to see the ocean crashing against cliffs?
I absolutely feel the same. I am intrigued to find another who so compelled
Me too. Am planning on a June visit to check out some coastal towns and then plan to move from PA once my house sells.
I always thought I wanted to move to Wyoming or Colorado when I was growing up. Then I discovered Maine in 2013, thanks to very dear friends of ours. I immediately felt like I was “home.” Haven’t been able to move there but visit whenever we can, going different places each trip. My soul is there. I hope to be there one day as well. It’s a different world and I still marvel at how much I’m naturally drawn there. Boothbay and Camden are beautiful but I love the smaller working harbors as well. And some say that Red’s Eats is touristy but they have, hands-down, theee best Lobster Roll. And I have waited 2 hours for my turn in line. Petty much every time a storm rolls through then it’s gone. We’ve stayed at the Hawthorn Inn in Camden in a Cottage Room. Ted and Lisa are wonderful and the breakfasts are delicious. Nautilus in Belfast has some great food as well. So fresh. Hallowell is a cute little town so if you visit there be sure to have a lunch or dinner at The Liberal Cup. You’ll have to stop at Scrummy After’s if you have a sweet tooth! There are so many places to visit that you really don’t have to leave the state. The coast is my favorite spot, though. We go to Pemaquid Point almost every trip – were there as the hurricane moved up the coast last fall. We were lucky enough to get out on the rocks before the safety patrol made everyone clear out as the tide came in. Made for awesome pics and video! Acadia is a must, too. Take your bike. Cadillac Mountain in the morning…gorgeous. You need a few days there. Not fans of Bar Harbor – the epitome of tourism. Ellsworth is a cute little town and if it’s still there, try lunch at 86 This! So many places and not enough time. I get depressed every time we leave. I plan on being there permanently one day. You’ll enjoy whatever you do …. just go and be.
Loved your review. Thank you! We are visiting in August for a week, can’t wait!
The Two Lights park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, has walking trails and ocean splashing and/or crashing on the ledges in an endless variety of sights and sounds of the waves.
I am originally from Maine.My favorite place to watch the surf crash on the rocks is Pemaquid Point Light. It’s not quite as well known as many of the other places mentioned, but it’s ‘home’ to me.Get off Route 1 and go through Damariscotta and proceed on Rt. 130 all the way to the’point’. When you get to Pemaquid, you’ll be on Bristol Rd. much of the way .You’ll go through New Harbor, a sweet little town with ‘Riley’s General Store’ to the left. Pro ceed on to ‘The Point’.I’m biased, but it’s beautiful!
I know this is an older thread but it spoke to me.I have always felt this way and for my honeymoon came very close to Maine.Really it just calls me and when I think of it it feels like I belong.Its so weirs I know but being out that way was so calming and I felt so happy.
Sad that Ogunquit didn’t make the cut 🙁 one of my favorite places in Maine. My husband and I always go there for our anniversary.
I am surprised too! It is a beautiful place and has so much to do.
I agree. It is beautiful! Been there a couple years ago and can’t wait to go back soon!
York Beach with Nubble Light in the background is absolutely beautiful!
beautiful place, I love outdoors.
I love my home state,but am glad I don’t live there during the winter.
I heard that from all the natives when I visited. Comments like “Snow so deep it has to be kept swept or shoveled off roofs”. “Bitter cold. Better be stocked up with provisions by October”.
My husband and I took a month off and traveled by car. We went from California to Maine and back. When we arrived in Bar Harbor I didn’t want to leave. To me it was the most beautiful place on earth. We spent days there dreading when we had to leave. So now we are retiring in 6 month and moving to that most beautiful place on earth. Can’t wait…..
I agree. I move to Maine in 1982. Military USCG husband. We now own a Lakefront home and enjoy loons calling every day.
I agree Bar Harbor is absolutely beautiful and easily one of the most beautiful places not only in New England but anywhere in this fabulous world. Enjoy
Cutler is lovely BUT you have to ignore the 20+ giant towers of the Naval base right across the harbor. Really ruins the effect. I don’t know who wrote this article and called “unspoiled”.
If anyone is serious about moving to Maine, now is the time to be looking for property. There are lots of homes and pieces of land on the market at great prices. If you’re fortunate enough to move here, you won’t regret it. It’s a piece of heaven on earth.
Where can I find a place to retire in Maine that isn’t political? Right now I’m in Florida and there are Trump flags everywhere, five months after the election. They won’t let it go. I’m afraid to wear a surgical mask in my own car on the way to the store. People in THEIR cars holler at me “Democrat!” Even old women make excuses when they haven’t taken off their masks the second they leave a store. They must protest the store forced them, or they curse maskwearing aloud for anyone nearby to hear. Like they are afraid to be seen in one. Maine votes Republican, that’s fine. But is this nuttiness in every red state?
Which town in Florida? I am from Maine, but live in Florida now 7 months a year.
You are right, Marcia. Time for you to leave Florida for someplace you can live in apathy.
I live in Venice, Fl. and find no problems there with wearing masks. No commercial shops or restaurants downtown which is unique. Although there are Trumpeters there. In Maine I go to Boothbay Harbor every summer that I can get there. Stay at family owned Brown’s Wharf where every room has a balcony where you can sit out in the morning with your cup of coffee and watch the lobster boats come in to get their crates and go out. Great shops downtown. Piano lady
You sound very political…
Oh get a life Marcia!
Chris, you’re definitely a trumpet. You should get a life buddy
You left out Friendship, Me. My fav!!
What about jobs? I would love to move to Maine?
Have been all over Maine having lived and/vacationed in in both Southern Main and Down East. Really depends on what your after — scenic views, isolation, culture, good roads, mountains, lakes, 24/7 lobster, east coast liberalism, rural populism, tourist revenues, open sky, the perfect natural light to inspire your painting …. Wildlife or nightlife….to me the single prettiest place in Maine is the Blue Hill peninsula. Take an hours drive around the loop from Blue Hill south to Brooklin swinging north through Sedgwick and taking a left off Caterpillar Hill to check out Brooksville and if you have more time head out of Brooksville heading north back into Sedgwick on up to Penobscot and find a place to eat and have a drink in Castine to decide if you can which town was truly the prettiest. They all are winners. I left my heart in Sargentville, home to the Sedgwick country store and not much more.
Been visiting Maine & the New England Coast for many years now (from the Finger Lakes Region NY), doesn’t matter if it’s the old school kitsch of Old Orchard or the wide open vistas of being on Cadillac Mntn, once you see that mix of sand & rocky coast lobster boats, a lighthouse, it does something to your soul and you can relax & breath a little easier. We love the gulf coast of Fla (usually Sanibel if we have the $$$ lol) in the winter for a week or so and it’s a great break from the harsh Central New York winters, but something special about New England & especially the Maine coast. We’ll see you around Columbus Day weekend!
No one ever mentions FALMOUTH FORESIDE! It is a stunning community!