Maine Best Bargains 2011

THE LIGHT STUFF
Wood Island Light, Biddeford
Cruise to Wood Island, tour the 1809 beacon guarding the mouth of the Saco River, perhaps even climb the tower. A mere $10-per-person donation to the Friends of Wood Island Light covers everything and benefits future restoration efforts. 207-286-3229; woodislandlighthouse.org

WALK-ON WATER
L.L. Bean Walk-on Adventures, Freeport
C’mon, you always wanted to try sea kayaking, right? This program makes it easy, offering introductions to kayaking, canoeing, fly-fishing, archery, or clay shooting for $20, including equipment, shuttles, and instruction. 95 Main St. 800-441-5713, 888-552-3261; llbean.com/adventures

TIDE WATCHING
Cobscook Bay State Park, Edmunds Township
At this Down East gem, watch tides ebb and flow 24 to 28 feet, hike 3.5 miles of nature trails, or add to your life list from more than 200 identified bird species, including the state’s highest concentration of bald eagles. Campsite rates: $14-$24. 24 South Edmunds Road. 207-726-4412; maine.gov/doc/parks

STARGAZING
Maynard F. Jordan Planetarium, Orono
Orion never looked better. Catch a classic or Omnidome star show for $3 or gaze at the real deal during free public hours at this observatory on the UMaine campus. 5781 Wingate Hall (off College Ave.). 207-581-1341; galaxymaine.com