best seaside towns to visit in maine

17 BEST Coastal Towns in Maine to Visit

Looking for the best coastal towns in Maine ? Choose one of these for your next getaway!

Maine has over 3,500 miles of coastline stretching from the Canadian border in the north down to New Hampshire in the south. Along this coast are numerous quaint, charming villages and towns to explore.

Each coastal community has its own charm, attractions, and unique features. Whether you’re planning a road trip along the Maine coast or you’re looking for a place to vacation on the oceanfront, check out this list of the best coastal towns in Maine — listed from north to south.

If you’re up north — way north — you have to check out Lubec. It is the easternmost town in the United States, so close to Canada that you can see it in the distance from the shore.

Lubec Maine is the perfect town to visit if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a gorgeous coastline, natural beauty, and a peaceful rural landscape, it is a wonderful town to explore and unplug from technology.

Cutler is a sleepy coastal town with amazing ocean views and a tranquil setting. With nearly 5 miles of cliffs along the shoreline, the town offers impressive landscapes.

The cliffs and shoreline aren’t the only natural attractions in Cutler. There are blueberry barrens, forests to hike in, and wildlife to spot in numerous meadows. Bring a pair of binoculars and hiking gear to explore this lovely town.

Machiasport

Another small town along the Downeast coast, Machiasport prides itself on its fishing industry history. You’ll see fishing boats docked in the water because the industry is still alive and well.

Machiasport is a great stop for history lovers, featuring Fort O’Brien Historical Park , the Machiasport Historical Society , and Liberty Hall . Plus, stop by Jasper Beach , a stone and gravel beach that is a wonderful place to scour for unique rocks and listen to the pebbles tumble around in the gentle surf.

Jonesport Maine has been a thriving fishing and lobstering community since the early 19th century. This coastal town offers stunning water views, friendly locally-owned shops, delectable restaurants, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The town is a wonderful stop to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of a true fishing village.

Winter Harbor

Don’t let the winter part of this town’s name scare you off. Winter Harbor has a plethora of outdoor activities for visitors.

From lobster festivals to music and arts festivals, there’s always something fun happening in this quaint town. Activities like kayaking, bicycling, and hiking are all favorites for locals and tourists alike.

Sorrento is a town of fewer than 300 residents, but there’s no shortage of fun activities in this coastal gem.

There’s a nine-hole golf course that’s been active for over 100 years and plenty of water activities, like kayaking, canoeing, boating, fishing, and swimming. On land, you can enjoy hiking trails, bird-watching, and shoreline walks.

Bar Harbor is one of Maine’s most well-known coastal towns because it has lots of activities and is home to colleges and the famous Acadia National Park . Bar Harbor has numerous restaurants with something for every palate — from delightful breakfast diners to seafood to Italian.

The picturesque Bar Harbor downtown has family-run shops and ice cream stands. And, the town has long been a favorite of tourists because it’s the closest lodging option to Acadia National Park, featuring some enchanting bed and breakfasts and inns .

This coastal town is a bit more active and bustling than some of the other coastal towns, but it has the same quintessential Maine atmosphere.

If you’re looking for somewhere a bit quieter than Bar Harbor to set up your base camp for a visit to Acadia National Park, check out Tremont Maine.

Another active fishing and lobstering community, the town has a variety of activities — including hiking, kayaking, exploring nearby Mount Desert Island , and checking out small art galleries.

Trenton Maine is another great location for access to Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. This coastal town has a few well-maintained campgrounds to set up camp, including Wild Acadia Camping Resort , Narrows Too Campground , and Timberland Acres RV Park .

With stunning ocean and island views and a peaceful community feel, Trenton makes for the perfect getaway to explore Maine’s natural beauty.

Filled with historical buildings, sites, and monuments, history lovers will enjoy visiting Castine Maine . It’s said to be one of the oldest towns in the New England region, so there’s plenty of historical charm all around town.

Castine has incredible bay and ocean views with ships and boats swaying peacefully offshore. Seafood shanties, a lighthouse, charming shops, and markets give visitors the quintessential Downeast experience.

A visit to the coastal community of Belfast in Mid Coast Maine will take you back in time as you envision the vibrant old-time fishing community while you walk and take in the gorgeous brownstones by the harbor.

While it’s a small fishing village, Belfast has preserved its historical charm. There’s a vintage theater, quaint inns , antique shops, farmer’s markets, and diners and restaurants to check out. Belfast City Park is a nice spot to stop and relax while enjoying the small beach.

For those looking to enjoy coastal views but also do some shopping, Freeport Maine is the perfect destination for you. It is home to the L.L. Bean flagship store , and visitors come from far and wide to take pictures of the giant, iconic L.L. Bean boot.

Freeport also has shopping outlets and trendy cafes to indulge in. When you’re ready to take in some amazing views, swing by Winslow Memorial Park or Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park .

Old Orchard Beach

Looking for the ultimate family destination on the Maine coast? Old Orchard Beach is the place to be! It has a wonderful boardwalk bustling with activity from late April through early October. There’s even an arcade and rides for children at Palace Playland .

Stroll around town to discover cute souvenir shops, toy shops, and ice cream stands. Delicious beachside restaurants and takeout are perfect for families on the go. Finally, of course, you have to enjoy the miles of clean, soft sandy beach.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is one of the best coastal towns in Maine. Perfect for all ages, there’s something for everyone in your group to enjoy.

For children, check out the Seaside Trolley Museum or spend the day at one of the beautiful beaches. Adults will love visiting the local breweries and delicious diners and restaurants for lobster, chowder, or a slice of Maine blueberry pie.

Kennebunkport is so popular that it often hosts celebrities — it was a vacation destination for President George H.W. Bush’s family.

The town of Wells has dubbed itself The Friendliest Town in Maine, so it’s no wonder that tourists flock to this seaside destination. With numerous antique shops, mini-golf, a movie theater, and many top-notch dining options , there’s so much to do.

The beaches don’t disappoint — there are four to choose from, the largest being Wells Beach. Aside from sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water views, you can check out the Wells Reserve at Laudholm for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Ogunquit Maine is home to Ogunquit Beach, which Tripadvisor rated as one of the top 25 beaches in the United States. If you’re not looking to sunbathe or swim, Ogunquit Beach can be viewed from Marginal Way — a scenic waterfront walking trail.

Also, you may love meandering around Perkins Cove and seeing the Maine lobster and fishing boats come and go throughout the day.

On top of all of the oceanfront activity, Ogunquit has theaters, the Ogunquit Museum of American Art , the Ogunquit Heritage Museum , and many shops to explore.

Likely one of the most photographed coastal towns in Maine, York is home to Nubble Light (also known as Cape Neddick Light). This picturesque lighthouse has been attracting tourists looking to capture the perfect photograph on the cliffs for years.

Explore the seaside town with its shops, candy stores, arcade, bowling, and even a small zoo at York’s Wild Kingdom .

Both Long Sands and Short Sands Beaches are popular in the summertime for exploring tidal pools, swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Long Sands Beach offers stronger surf and larger waves, while Short Sands Beach has calmer waters.

Explore More Coastal Towns in Maine This Year

It’s hard to choose just one coastal town to explore because each one has its own uniqueness. Some feature fabulous beaches, while others have rocky cliff walks with little beachfront.

Yet, some towns have wonderful shops and restaurants to try, while others focus on the natural beauty of the shoreline and nature trails.

Whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation, or nature, there are coastal towns in Maine that will suit your road trip and vacation preferences. And, our list is only the tip of the iceberg. You can discover even more fantastic towns on a tour of the Maine Coast !

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

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Belfast is justly known for many things. Brownstones is NOT one of those.

In what town is Colby college and what are some nearby sites.

Trenton? Seriously? I agree with the others, but there is not decent public ocean access in Trenton. The businesses are lackluster at best.

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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

Fall foliage comes to Camden, Maine.

How 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

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

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 .

Delivered Daily: The Latest in Travel, Food, and Living in New England

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.

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

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 .

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.

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

A warm and cozy Down East community that retains the splendid historical architecture of its 18 th -century shipbuilding roots, Blue Hill’s harbor is a watery gateway to Acadia National Park. See more: From above, hiking Blue Hill Mountain .

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

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

Tracey Minkin

Tracey Minkin is the Travel Editor at Coastal Living Magazine. Her work has appeared in magazines and online, including Travel + Leisure, Coastal Living, Outside, and Men's Journal. Connect with Tracey Minkin on Instagram.

21 Stunning Beach Towns in Maine You MUST Visit!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: April 5, 2023

Categories North America

Okay, look. I know that “stunning beaches” may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you consider traveling to Maine. But, come on people, hear me out! Because this great state has a long (like 3,478 miles in total), rugged, ever-dynamic coastline that is brimming over with some of the absolute best beach towns in Maine that you ever did see. 

Charming little fishing villages with a series of wood plank docks where all the lobster boats sit, eagerly waiting to check the traps that are associated with their unique and colorful buoys. 

And while I personally wouldn’t go swimming here since the beaches of Maine can be hella rocky and the water can be super cold (like between 63°F to 68°F in the dead of summer), there are a ton of super charming coastal towns in Maine that you’ll DEFFO want to check out. 

A series of idyllic little villages where you can get the best lobster rolls, enjoy stellar panoramas of the nearby Atlantic Ocean, take a nifty little boat ride to one of the state’s many off-shore islands, and basically just live the luxe life…Maine style. 

Now, will some of the best beach towns in Maine be beyond obvious? Umm, yeah. I mean, they are popular for a reason (yes Bar Harbor, I’m looking at you). 

But, I’ve traveled to Maine so much (At least once or twice a year since I was born. And no, I’m not going to reveal how old I am.  Suffice it to say that I am well over twenty.) that I know all about some of the state’s most amazing hidden gems too. 

Super cool beach towns in Maine that are relatively devoid of crowds (crowd-free is the way to be) but that will still satiate your need for sand and surf. 

So, if you’re ready, let’s swan dive into this wicked awesome guide to 15 of the best coastal towns in Maine. 

Pro Tip: Again, I would not go swimming at any of these beautiful beaches. Unless, of course, you are a small child who is totally immune to the cold. Maine’s beaches are also notoriously rocky so pack water shoes if you want to swim.

Personally, though, I’d swim at Echo Lake if I was gonna swim anywhere. It’s near the towns of Fayette, Mount Vernon, and Readfield, and waters reach a balmy (note the sarcasm) 73°F in August. 

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

If you’re booking a trip right now then I IMPLORE you to get travel insurance – even if it’s not from me. 

After all, this past year has been a wild ride and I don’t want you to lose money because government regulations have changed. 

Truth be told though, I’ve never traveled without travel insurance and don’t think you should either – especially since I think we’ve all had plans drastically change because of the pandemic. 

Therefore, find an insurance agency that covers travel changes related to COVID-19, like my two all-time faves World Nomads and Safety Wing . You can also read more about which policy is right for you in my full review here .

1. Kennebunkport

Okay, yeah. Item one on this list of the best beach towns in Maine is pretty dang obvious and not exactly a state secret since it’s easily one of the best romantic getaways in Maine . 

But what this iconic coastal town in Maine lacks in secrecy, it more than makes up for in awesomeness since there is a TON to do here. 

However, let’s start with the beaches since, uh, hello, this post is all about the best beach towns in Maine. 

Well to start, Kennebunkport is home to a couple of different beaches, the most notable of which are:

• Colony Beach – This is a short stretch of rocky sand near the Kennebunk River is known for its small waves, You can venture out onto the breakwater rocks and see all of the boats gliding through the harbor. You can also do like the locals do and fish for stripers here. 
• Goose Rocks Beach – This is easily the area’s most beautiful beach since it sits outside town and is more secluded near Cape Porpoise. It also features soft sand (a rarity in Maine) and is a great place to go for a stroll and enjoy stellar views of Timber Island. You can also visit nearby Goat Island Light since it’s a super cool lighthouse that is still in use.  

You could also leave the comforts of land completely and join one of the many scenic boat tours that depart from Kennebunkport daily. 

Because depending on your interests, you could join a whale watching tour that will take you 17 miles offshore to Jeffrey’s Ledge to see (hopefully) whales or do a two-hour lobstering excursion to see what the life of a lobsterman is really like as you sail past Walkers Point where the Bush family has a summer home. 

However, if you’re not visiting during the summer, then you can always marvel at the historic mansions that line Summer Street and Ocean Avenue or learn about the area’s rich history at the Brick Store Museum, the Nott House, and the uber-famous  Seashore Trolley Museum.

And when you get hungry, head to Dock Square and enjoy a nice meal at Striper’s, the Clam Shack (get the lobster roll), Alissons,  Old Vines Wine Bar, and White Barn (it’s New England’s only five star, five-diamond restaurant and features a decadent, five-course price fixed menu.

Pro Tip: Try to visit in the off-season (read, not summer) since the crowds will be less intense and the hotel prices will be WAY cheaper. 

Where to Stay: Try The Tides Beach Club for a high-end stay (rooms start at $250 per night) or The Breakwater Inn and Spa for a nice but more reasonably priced stay (rooms start at $130 per night).  

Venture 130 miles north of Portland on route 1 and you’ll find one of the prettiest beach towns in Maine – a historic place that is small enough to feel off the beaten path but large enough for you to find tons of things to do. 

It sits at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary and is home to a ton of traditional (and grand) New England-style homes that date all the way back to 1796 when the town was first founded. 

So, when you’re not out admiring all of these jaw-droppingly beautiful private homes, stop by the Wilson Museum or the Castine Historical Society to discover the area’s rich history (the historical society sits inside a super cute former schoolhouse).

You could also check out the oldest continuously operating post office in the US (it’s a really pretty building and way cooler than it sounds), do an epic kayak tour with Castine Kayak’s, or stop by Dyce Head Lighthouse, which was first built in 1828.

Next, take a stroll along Wadsworth Cove Beach before heading back into town for some delightful baked goods from MarKel’s Bakehouse or some delicious lobster rolls from The Breeze & Castine Variety.

You’ll also definitely want to stop into the super quirky The Compass Rose Bookstore and Cafe since they have a version of Castine-opoly that you can totally play. I mean really, how cool is that?

Yup, just a super fun, quiet place that is easily one of the best coastal towns in Maine. 

Pro-Tip : If you can, try and stay at The Castine Inn . Not only is the service exceptional, but it overlooks Penobscot Bay and sits inside a wonderful, historic home that was first built in 1898. The Inn also has this awesome wraparound porch and a charming little garden for you to explore.

You can also get breakfast (not included) which is served in the light and bright dining room and get to stay in one of 21 individually decorated rooms that start at $120 per night in the off-season. 

Where to Stay: You could also book a room at the lovely, Pentagoet Inn. It sits inside a gorgeous Queen Anne-style home, with an amazing wraparound porch, that is just a 5-minute walk from the Castine Historical Society and a little over a mile away from Dyce Head Lighthouse.

Rooms are also pretty reasonable and start at $140 per night. 

3. Bar Harbor 

Yeah, this is another one of the best and not-so-secret beach towns in Maine since Bar Harbor is largely known as the gateway to everybody’s favorite…Acadia National Park. 

Therefore, if at all possible, avoid the busy summer season since the area is inundated with cruise ship patrons and selfie-stick wielding tourists of the slightly annoying variety. 

But once you actually get there, you’ll love it because this is one of those sweet coastal towns in Maine where there is a ton to do!

It’s all also a super gorg place since it’s right on the coast and is a perfect spot to sit and watch the uber-swank yachts and not-so-swank lobster boats roll on by the areas many islands.

If you can, get up early one morning (read, before sunrise) and take a leisurely stroll down the equal parts scenic and equal parts historic Shore Path. It was originally built in 1880, is about a 1/2 mile long, and starts at town pier and Agamont Park, taking you along the shore and past the Porcupine Islands.

Afterward, explore the Wild Gardens of Acadia (it’s in Acadia National Park itself), which is home to over 200 different species of plants, and the Abbe Museum – a Smithsonian institution focused on Native American culture and the history in Maine. 

Whatever you do though, you CANNOT leave without visiting the immortal, Acadia National Park.

Because during your time here, you can hike up to Cadillac Mountain for sunrise or drive along the park’s famous loop road and marvel at Thunder Hole, a small inlet where waves naturally crash into the rocks and push air/water out of the cavern – creating a water spout that can go up to forty feet in the air. 

Next, visit Jordan’s Pond House Restaurant (also in Acadia) and chow down (get it because it’s chow-der?) on some seafood chowdah a the lobstah roll before hitting up other local attractions in Bar Harbor like the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History, the College of the Atlantic Gardens, the Abbe Museum, and the Mount Desert Oceanarium. 

You could also stuff your face in epic food joints like The Barnacle (the cocktails, oysters, and pesto are all really good), Lunch Bar Harbor (go for the #2 Italian and thank me later), and CIAO Food/Drink (it’s small so you will probably have to wait to get in.

The portions are also small so order a few plates like the French Lobster Roll, the Pork Belly Tacos, and the fried cauliflower). 

And when you’re finally ready to call it a night, or a dozen, at The Inn on Mount Desert . it’s a lovely little family-run inn that offers modern, relaxed-feeling, reasonably priced (they start at $100 per night) rooms that come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, minifridges, and more.

While you’re here, you’ll also get access to a private balcony with either harborside or garden views and can sample their excellent complimentary breakfast too.

Where to Stay:  Try The Inn on Mount Desert for a moderately priced stay or the lovely Saltair Inn with rooms that start at $150 per night. 

4. Winter Harbor

A quiet but just as lovely option when visiting Acadia National Park is Winter Harbor. The fishing town is a classic Downeast village with all the beauty of the Acadia but with way fewer tourists. 

More parking and less traffic? Yes, please!

It may not have as many shops or inns as its neighbors but there are still tons of hiking and biking trails. Plus they have their own lobster festival in August and two lighthouses, the Winter Harbor Light and Egg Rock Light, which makes them one of the best beach towns in Maine for me. 

5. Boothbay Harbor

Who rocks the house? Boothbay Harbor rocks the house as one of the best beach towns in Maine. 

Now, is it a secret? Absolutely not since it sits along the mid-coast of Maine and gets inundated with a ton of tourists from Boston since it’s a mere three-hour drive away. 

But, I can’t really blame them since my family used to visit every single year and there is a TON to do here, like take a scenic cruise along the coast so that you can see the many islands here (like Monhegan Island and Damariscove Island), admire some local lighthouses, and even marvel at local seals and porpoises!

Yeah, you can easily do all this and more as part of a local kayak tour, a fishing trip. or a lobster boat experience. 

And if you’re not a fan of actually going out onto the water, well, then you can always visit a scenic lighthouse…or six since Burnt Island Lighthouse, Hendricks Head Lighthouse, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, Ram Island Lighthouse, Cuckolds Lighthouse, and Monhegan Light are all in the area and pretty accessible (FYI, some are on islands off the coast so you would need to take a boat to get there). 

You could also get back into nature with a stroll through Barrett Park, a visit to Hendrick’s Head Beach (the views from this small beach are stunning and you can see the lighthouse of the same name from here), or a stop at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens (it occupies an impressive, 250-acres). 

What, need even more fun things to do here? Then visit some local wildlife at the Maine State Aquarium, uncover the region’s fascinating past at the Boothbay Railway Village, or admire some unique local art pieces at the Abacus Gallery.

Because yes, there really is so much to do here and just not a lot of time. This means that you’ll also need a supremely nice place to stay, like the Spruce Point Inn , where you can relax and recharge your metaphorical batteries.   

It’s a modern, supremely chic hotel that features a ton of on-site amenities (think pools, tennis courts, hot tubs, etc.) and a selection of well-polished clapboard buildings that include private rooms and full-on townhouses.

All of the rooms here also feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, minifridges, and Keurig brand coffeemakers. Some premium suites even include private balconies, luxurious soaking tubs, and working fireplaces – making this the perfect place to stay while enjoying one of the best coastal towns in Maine. 

Where to Stay: The Spruce Point Inn is awesome and has rooms that start at $250 per night. But if you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, then try the enchanting Russell House Bed & Breakfast, where rooms start at just $139 per night. 

6. Damariscotta

Like most of the rest of the state, Damariscotta is one of those next-level gorg beach towns in Maine that is known for its seafood. 

Nope, not lobster. Instead, this thin slice of heaven is famous for its oysters, which many local chefs still cook up and serve fresh daily. You know, so they can tickle those divine little tastebuds of yours. 

So, if you want to try some of this beyond awesome local fare for yourself, then grab a pair of uber-stretchy elastic waist pants and check out King Eider’s Pub and Restaurant, the Shuck Station, Samovar Tea Shop & Tasting Room, the Newcastle Publick House, and Schooner Landing.

You could also sample a beer, or ten, at the Oxbow Brewing Company – a stunning local brewery that sits inside an old farmhouse in Newcastle and serves up some of the finest local brews in the area.

Oh, and if you’re really into all things oyster-rific, then definitely time your visit for the annual Damariscotta Oyster Celebration. It’s held early in the summer and allows you to do fun things like taste oysters, tour local oyster farms, and more!

Plus, if you want to learn more about the history of the region and the development of the oyster industry here, then pay a visit to the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site, where you can see mounds upon mounds of discarded oyster shells that used to be kept here way back in the day.

Additionally, you could always take a scenic drive through the area and marvel at the many historic mansions here before checking out the historic Lincoln Theater (first built in 1875), the iconic Renys Department Store, Skidompha Secondhand Book Shop (with 20,000+ books), and St. Patrick’s Church in nearby Newcastle.

Believe it or not, the building was actually first constructed in 1807 and is the oldest Roman Catholic church in all of New England. Yup, three cheers for fun facts. 

What? Want to do a bit of retail therapy while you’re here (best kind of therapy IMHO), then check out several fun and vibrant local shops like Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop, Alewives Fabrics, Weatherbird, and Damariscotta Pottery.

Afterward, take a scenic river cruise down the beautiful Damariscotta River or try your hand at kayaking with Midcoast Kayak (PSST…want to do something truly unique? Then visit in October for the annual Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta. People actually race through the harbor in boats that are carved out of giant pumpkins. LOL).

Where to Stay: For charming but comfortable rooms and exceptional service, try booking a room at the Oak Gables Bed and Breakfast . Rooms start at $120 per night and include a delicious daily breakfast. 

7. New Harbor

If you plan to go see the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, then make New Harbor your homebase so you could also visit Colonial-era Pemaquid’s historical Fort William Henry and board a puffin cruise to see the adorable seabirds on Eastern Rock Island. 

Aside from winning the “Nicest Place in Maine Award” by Reader’s Digest, the coastal village was also where some scenes of the movie Message in a Bottle were filmed. 

The Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve is great to visit during low tide to walk between the tidal pools and see the different sea life described in the book, The Edge of the Sea. 

8. Stonington on Deer Isle

Just a hop skip and jump away from mainland Maine is Stonington, one of those quiet coastal towns in Maine that is brimming over with rustic, New England charm and that sits along the southern end of Deer Isle. 

And while it is a relatively quiet and secluded place, it’s still easy to get to since you can just drive over a series of bridges to experience all that Stonington has to offer. 

Plus, added awesomeness? Stonington routinely catches the largest number of lobsters in the entire state.

So, there will easily be more than enough left over for you to sample a delicious lobster dinner at a variety of local eateries like Aragosta, Stonecutters Kitchen, Harbor Cafe, The Cockatoo Portuguese Restaurant, 44 North Coffe, and more.

And when you’re not stuffing your face with all of this delicious foodie goodness, stroll through the beautiful 88 acres of red spruce forests in Crockett Cove Woods Preserve (the Barred Island Preserve is incredibly lovely too).

You can also do a day trip to Acadia with Isle au Boat Services, tour the Haystack School of Crafts in the summer (the Turtle Gallery and Nervous Nellies are super cool art galleries too), or visit the local opera house and enjoy various local performances. 

Now, for an exceptional stay on the island, try the Inn on the Harbor . All of the beautiful rooms here sit inside a yellow, 19th-century building that overlooks Stonington Harbor.

It’s also located just two minutes away from the Stonington Fish Pier and the Opera House and features a wealth of individually decorated rooms with spacious sitting areas, free WIFI, flat-screen TVs, and a complimentary breakfast buffet that is served daily in the on-site cafe.

Where to Stay: The Inn on the Harbor since service is great, rooms are nice, and rates start at $110 per night in the low season. 

Oh, hello, Camden – one of just many delightful little beach towns in Maine. And although it may not be a closely held state secret (don’t expect to have this place all to yourself in the busy summer months), it is regarded as a haven of sorts for shoppers, outdoor lovers, and beachgoers of every variety. 

So, during your stay, be sure to hike through Camden Hills State Park (Enjoy a marvelous sunset over Penobscot Bay from atop Mt. Battie. And don’t worry, you can drive up)), take a daily sailing cruise through Penobscot Bay aboard a historic Windjammer, and relax on the beach at Barret’s Cove on Megunticook Lake (it’s less crowded than other beaches and the water is warmer since it’s on a lake). 

You could also take a stroll along Laite Memorial Beach, go skiing at Camden Snow Bowl in the winter, take a day trip to one of the lighthouses on Camden’s outlying islands (like Curtis Island Lighthouse), check out the historic local library, take the kids to Aldermere Farm, grab a coffee at the Owl and Turtle Bookcshop Cafe, or pop into the Camden Opera House. 

And when you get more than a little hungry along the way, stop by Mount Battie for an informal (but delicious) lobster roll, sample some fresh blueberry pancakes at Mariner’s Restaurant (it’s like a little diner), or enjoy an upscale feast while admiring stellar views of the harbor at Natalie’s.  

Finally, replenish some of your well-spent energy at either the Inn at Sunrise Point (in the center of town), or splurge on a luxurious stay at The Camden Harbour Inn .

The former of these two amazing hotels sits right on the water and is a modern, boutique hotel with a wealth of old-world charm that oozes out of this historic building with its vintage-inspired furnishings.

So, stop by and choose from one of several grand suites and luxury suites that all include a complimentary daily breakfast from their vast menu of a la carte items. 

Pro Tio : If you want to stay on land but still want to see some gorgeous local lighthouses, then you could head to Curtis Lighthouse overlook or go down to the Marshal Point Lighthouse. 

Where to Stay: If you have the budget for it, go for The Camden Harbour Inn since the hotel is absolutely worth its $200 per night. 

10. Blue Hill

Okay, so technically speaking Blue Hill Bay is a region and not just a single town. But, the area is so quiet, that it’s just easier to lump everything together and refer to it as one of the best coastal villages in Maine. 

Now, what can you expect from a visit here? Well, it’s an incredibly peaceful peninsula that is filled with local residents who enjoy their solitude and who like to picnic at Bluehill Falls, which features some of the most impressive coastal views in the region (I’ve also heard that the views from Caterpillar Hill are pretty awe-inspiring too).

You can also enjoy a scenic drive along the seemingly neverending network of quiet backroads here that wind along the coast and offer stellar views of nearby Penobscot Bay.

Because this regiond? Well, it has an old-world charm that is beautiful to behold. So much so that no less than E.B. White himself actually bought a farm here. 

And if you have time, also check out Castine (mentioned above) and Blue Hill since they are brimming over with enchanting boatyards, vast artist communities, local farmers markets, and quaint little shops that are well worth your time. 

Where to Stay: See above section on Castine

11. Rockport

This laidback fishing village along Maine’s mid-coast is located near Camden and is a whole of hell of a lot quieter – something that I for one love since this tiny town was also named one of America’s prettiest towns by Forbes Magazine. 

I mean, beautiful and not inundated with hordes of tourists? Seriously, what more could you want from one of the best beach towns in Maine?

More than that though, this awesome village is well located (about halfway between Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport) and a place where you can take a day trip to Camden or Rockland (home to the Wyeth artist family and the Farmsworth Museum).

You can also enjoy a sunset dinner cruise aboard a local schooner through Penobscot Bay, rent a kayak and do a bit of sea kayaking, admire views of Indian Island Lighthouse from Rockport Marine Park (FYI, it’s not open to the public), and see how a real farm works at Aldemere Farm. 

Finally, spend the night at the stunning, Samoset Resort. It sits on 230 sprawling acres of land that overlook the water and is home to 178 luxury guest rooms that are only a few miles away from the center of town and the lovely Owl’s Head Lighthouse.

So, step inside and you’ll find a wealth of light and airy modern rooms with private balconies that feature exquisite furnishings, plush beds, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, Keurig coffeemakers, iPod docks, and minifridges.

There’s also an 18-hole golf course on-site, in addition to an Italian restaurant, a casual grill, a wine bar. a chic spa, a beach-like entry pool with a bar, and a kids club – easily making this one of the absolute best places to stay in Rockport, or in all of Maine for that matter.

Where to Stay : Samoset Resort is definitely THE place to stay in the area and has rooms that start at just $195 per night, which is not too bad when you think of all the features that are included with your room.   

Hello, and welcome to the pure awesomeness that is Cutler, Maine. A quiet little fishing village that was first founded in 1826 along the rocky shores of Machias. 

Initially, home to an expansive plantation, the area is now known for a series of dynamic hiking trails that take you all along the rugged and awe-inspiring Atlantic coast. 

And while there are tons of amazing things to do here, it’s still one of those quiet beach towns in Maine that is renowned for its natural beauty. 

That’s why, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast of even the smallest measure, then Cutler is the perfect place for you. 

So, feel free to hike (or bike) your way through the Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land and camp out at one of the remote campsites that you’ll discover here. 

Because this 12,334-acre natural area is filled with an array of blueberry barrens, woodlands, and peatlands that culminate with gobsmacking, cliffside views of the legendary Bay of Fundy.

Afterward, go on a beautiful walk to the Little River Lighthouse and take a guided tour of the facility. And if you really fall in love, you can even spend the night here and savor the scenic beauty all around you

Next, visit the Bold Coast Charter Company and take a boat out to Machias Seal Island, where you can see the largest puffin colony on the coast of Maine. Trust me, it’s even cooler than it sounds. 

And while there aren’t too many places to eat here (you may want to head to Jonesboro and Machias for some grub), you can definitely try some local fare at Heen’s Restaurant before spending the night at The Bluebird Motel in East Machias. 

Yeah, there are a distinct lack of options here when it comes to accommodations but the price is right (rooms start at $89 per night) and the motel is well-reviewed by everyone who has stayed there. 

Pro Tip: Want to go on some even more awesome hikes? Then check out Bog Brook Cove, trek along Cutler Bold Coast Trail (it’s an amazing hidden gem that is probably one of the best trails in Maine), and explore the Western Head Preserve. 

Where to Stay: The Bluebird Motel is nice and really the only place to stay that’s actually close to Cutler. It also has everything you need for a comfortable stay and features rooms that start at just $89 per night. 

Lubec is the easternmost town of the country and it sits right on the Canadian border. It is the first place where the sun rises first in the US. Head over to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse f or a view of the iconic red and white striped lighthouse and an epic sunrise.

The town was once the smoked-herring capital of the US and the McCurdy Smokehouse Museum is one of the last places where you can go to learn about the process and its connection to the town.

Remember to bring your passport so you can drive to Campobello Island in Canada, the only international national park in the world. It is also home to Theodore Roosevelt’s summer home which is now a museum that lets visitors see how life was in the 1920s. 

14. Freeport

Again, this is one of those uber-obvious coastal towns in Maine. But come on! You can’t realy make a list of the most awesome beach towns in Maine and not put Freeport on it! Now can you? 

Good, I’m glad we agree. Because I mean, hello, Freeport is basically a Maine institution.

Now, is it hella touristy? Heck yeah, it is!

I mean, if you walk along the mile stretch of US-1 that goes through this iconic town, you’ll discover at least 200 different retail stores that sell basically anything and everything you could ever imagine.

And because local laws forbid builder’s from actually destroying any historic buildings, many of these posh outlets and boutiques are actually hidden away inside these stunning,1850s era, Greek Revival homes that make my history-loving heart swoon.

So yeah, it’s kind of like this mini-shoppers paradise that was all started nearly a century ago, when a man by the name of Leon Leonwood Bean opened up a shop that sold outdoor gear to intrepid travelers heading into Northern Maine.

And thus, the first ever LL Bean store was born. It’s also a place you should 100% visit since it’s way more than just a store and has super cool fish ponds for you to check out and rock climbing walls for you to explore. 

 However, if you’re not really into retail therapy, then you could always learn about the area’s local history at the Freeport Historical Society (it sits inside the beautiful Harrington House), explore Pettengill Farm (a unique salt-water farm from the 19th-century), visit Casco Castle (it’s in Winslow Park so you can walk the many trails here and enjoy the stellar views), or hike through Wolfe Neck Woods State Park. 

Afterward, enjoy some local brew at The Maine Beer Company or sample some traditional Cider at Porterfield Cider. The drinks are super tasty (as is the food) and it sits inside a charming farmhouse from 1890. 

But for real food, like hello lobster, head to the Harraseeket Inn (Try The Real Maine Meal which is a cup of lobster stew, a lobster roll, and a 12-ounce Maine microbrew beer for $25), Azure Cafe (a fine dining restaurant that has nice seafood cakes), Derosier’s Market (they have good hot sandwiches), and Petrillo’s (They serve good Italian food and it’s less crowded than a lot of places here). 

And since you’re gonna dine here anyway, you should probably spend the night at the Harraseeket Inn too! Not only is the hotel well-located, but most of the rooms inside this family-owned, luxury inn also feature an ensuite fireplace,

Additionally, they have an indoor heated pool that you can use all year-round, as well as a delicious complimentary breakfast that is included with the price of your stay.

Pro Tip: I’ve been to Freeport well over twenty times and I’m not gonna lie, The Desert of Maine is kind of a tourist trap. It’s fine for small kids but is otherwise not really worth your time. Instead, take a scenic boat cruise, hike through Bradbury Mountain State Park, or explore the Maine Audubon. 

Where to Stay: The Harraseeket Inn is the best since it’s well located, features a ton of amenities, and is well-priced at $144 per night. 

15. Harpswell

For one of the quietest and best beach towns in Maine, Harpswell won’t disappoint! The area is made up of peninsulas with long, winding roads connecting them to the mainland and 200 islands, most of which can only be visited by boat.

Obviously, the sunset is gorgeous here so please make sure to snap a couple of photos. There is plenty of hiking, kayaking, or simply driving around to be done. You’ll get to see another side of Maine’s rugged coast.

BUT there are lobster and fish shacks on stilts plus candy shops so you’ll still get the full Maine experience.

16. York Beach (Part of York City)

Founded in 1624 by European settlers, York is actually the second oldest city in the entire state (after Kittery) and is easily one of the prettiest beach towns in Maine – a fact that you could probably easily discern from the stunning photo above.

It’s also made up of four distinct villages that are known as York Beach, York Harbor, York Village, and Cape Neddick respectively, with York Beach probably being the prettiest of the bunch. 

So, if you’d like to visit one of the best coastal towns in Maine for yourself, then be sure to visit Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse (it’s super photogenic and sits on a small rocky island), soak up some rays on Long Sand Beach (it’s a big, quiet, sandy family beach.

So although it’s popular, it shouldn’t feel too crowded), and hike to the top of Mount Agamenticus (The climb is pretty short but the views from the top are stunning and parking is free). 

And if you have even more time (and are feeling extra ambitious) you could also sample some local beers during a four-hour Granite State Growler Tour (a shuttle bus will take your group to several different breweries in York).

Don’t forget to devour some local artisan bread at When Pigs Fly bakery (they have twenty-five different all-natural breads, among other things), admire some local art at George Marshall Store Gallery, or take some culinary greatness home with you at Stonewall Kitchen.

No seriously. Stonewall Kitchen is like this awesome cafe/grocery store where you can sample foods, take a cooking class, or just shop for souvenirs And FYI, the desserts here are EPIC.  

However, if you can’t really wait until you get home to eat ALL of your feelings, then you could head to York 54 for some handcrafted pizza, sample some decadent local seafood at the York River Landing

(Spoiler Alert: They have 36 different local craft beers on tap), or try one of the epic entrees at The Central Restaurant and Bar (this place is popular so relax at The Central Bean and Bakery while you wait). 

Afterward, enjoy a relaxing night at the luxurious Stage Neck Inn, a fantastic hotel that has Individually decorated, British Colonial-style rooms with private balconies that overlook the harbor.

Sure, it’s not cheap. But, a stay here is definitely worth the splurge if you want to make your very Maine vacay feel extra special. 

Where to Stay : My top pick would be Stage Neck Inn, where rooms start at $240. However, if you’re looking for a moderately priced hotel (that is still super lovely), then try the York Harbor Inn instead. 

Just a hop, skip, and jump away from Kennebunkport in southern Maine is Saco – one of those stunning beach towns in Maine that home to a mere 20,000 people and that is known for being the oldest recorded permanent settlement in the state.

However, what’s a girl (or boy) to do when they finally do arrive in one of the best coastal villages in Maine?

Well, I’m so glad you asked (even if you actually didn’t). Because contrary to what I first thought, there’s actually a ton of super cool stuff to do in Saco. 

So, rock your most fabulous beach attire and head on over to Ferry Beach State Park for oceanside views, sandy beaches (just don’t go swimming since it’s hella cold), picturesque hiking trails, and a cute little nature center.

There’s even a resident Tupelo here, which is a type of black gum tree that is not normally found this far north. Yup, feel free to be duly impressed. 

What, want a beach that is a little closer to town? Then check out the ever-popular, seven-mile-long, Old Orchard Beach with its signature pier. Just be sure to dress warmly since it’s cold, even in the summer (FYI, Pine Point Beach is another thin slice of sandy awesomeness in the area). 

If you want, you could also hike the 8-mile long, Eastern Trail, that connects Saco with Scarborough, and then stop at Old Orchard Beach along the way.

It’s a really nice hike that is home to some amazing local wildlife and that will take you through the single largest salt marsh in Maine.

And if you love history almost as much as I do, then stop by the Saco Museum to brush up on your local history before picking up some fresh produce and decadent delights from the Saco River Market and then having a fresh bowl of “chowdah” from Huot’s Seafood Restaurant. 

Because yes, no trip to Maine could ever really be complete without at least one sumptuous seafood feast. 

However, after all that food, you’ll probably need to head back to your room and nurse that glorious food baby of yours. Welp, there’s no better place to do this than at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel . 

Individually decorated rooms here start at $134 per night, include all the usual amenities (in addition to designer toiletries), and even feature stunning, riverside views. 

Pro Tip: I’m not a fan but if you have kids, you may want to check out Funtown Splashtown USA (an amusement park) and Aquaboggan Water Park. You could also visit the exterior of the Bush compound in Kennebunkport or hike the Cascade Falls Trail for impressive views of a local waterfall. 

Where to Stay: I’d stay at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel since it’s lovely and reasonably priced at $134 per night. Otherwise, you could always luxe life it up and stay at the Tides Beach Club for $250 per night. 

18. Ogunquit

Is Ogunquit one of those secret beach towns in Maine? Absolutely not. But, it’s so dang beautiful that you’ll probably one mind the hordes of tourists who flock here every summer. 

No really. This place is so pretty that Ogunquit literally means “beautiful place by the sea” in Native American, Abenaki. So yeah, this coastal town in Maine clearly has a lot going for it. 

However, to really “savor the flavor” as it were, you should head to the cute little fishing village of Perkins Cove (It’s so adorbs there’s a manually operated drawbridge) and walk along the beautiful Marginal Way (a 3-mile pedestrian path along the water) from here. 

Afterward, check out Ogunquit Beach or the slightly less popular Footbridge Beach if you want to at least attempt to get away from the crowds.

Finally, admire some of the 3,000 different local art pieces on display at Ogunquit Museum of Art before sipping on some delicious craft cocktails at either That Place or Beachfire! bars. 

And if you get a bit hungry along the way, you can always stop to enjoy a bit of local seafood at places like Barnacle Billy’s, Lobster Shack and Bintliff’s, before catching an awesome performance at Ogunquit’s Playhouse. The shows are high-quality, off-broadway performances that take place inside an old barn from that dates back to 1933. 

Now, once you’ve sightseed (yup, just made that word up), until you can sightsee no more, then spend a relaxing night at The Cliff House Resort .

It’s an uber-posh hotel where you can have a seaside cocktail in a two-story glass lounge, get a luxurious spa treatment, wile away the hours in a spacious outdoor hot tub, and admire the stellar views from Bald Head Cliff (You’ll see Boone Island Light and Nubble Light off in the distance).

Pro-Tip : Want to enjoy a bit of live music? Then head on over to the Front Porch piano bar. Trust me, it’s the place to go for a fun night out on the town. 

Where to Stay: I’d personally stay at The Cliff House Resort in nearby Cape Neddick, Maine. Yes, rooms are a hefty $269 per night but’s it so worth it for all the amenities and luxury that you get. Otherwise, you could always stay at the well-reviewed Juniper Hill Inn instead where rooms are just $107 per night. 

19. Spruce Head

What? Looking for another one of the best beach towns in Maine?

If so then haul your cutie booty to Spruce Head. It sits a mere 15 minutes away from Rockland and is a perfect place to visit if you’re into the great outdoors. 

To start, check out Clark Island. It’s connected to the mainland by a giant causeway (Get it? Like Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland? Yup, I crack myself up) and is a nice place to find a secret beach or to go hiking on one of the area’s many nature trails.

Afterward, visit a popular local swimming hole at the old island quarry and have a picnic amidst the huge rocks that overlook the stunning blue-green water here.

Next, visit the picturesque Marshall Point Lighthouse in Port Clyde, which was made famous by its guest appearance in the iconic film, Forrest Gump .

Finally, hop aboard a local ferry and take it to nearby Mohegan Island, where you can walk among the island’s many seaside gardens and visit the uber-famous artistic community here.

And if you’re looking for a great place to stay near Spruce Head, try the Craignair Inn . They offer a selection of individually decorated rooms that feature luxurious bedding and plush robes.

Homemade breakfast is also served in their restaurant daily and features stunning, panoramic views of the ocean.

Where to Stay:  Honestly, The Craignar Inn is just awesome and pretty reasonably priced at $130 per night. However, you could always try the nearby and well-reviewed Rockland Harbor Hotel , where rooms start at $129 per night. 

20. York Harbor

If you are looking for some offbeat beach towns in Maine, then consider heading to York Harbor. It is part of York city and you can easily combine it with a trip to York beach so it isn’t really too out of the way.

York Harbor is incredibly scenic with some rugged terrain. Head out on the Cliff walk. This path isn’t paved all the way but definitely navigable. Walking the path with sneakers will definitely make it more comfortable.

The trail winds behind many of the homes and gives you a gorgeous view of the Maine coast. The Cliff Walk ends at a street so you don’t have to walk backwards but if the weather is good and you are having fun, you can circle back too!

The Wiggly Bridge is another cool and easy walk. Plus you can dip your toes in the water or just sit and watch the water laps on the beach.

If you are feeling adventurous head out on a charter boat and get some fishing done too!

Where To Stay: The Dockside Guest Quarters is an amazing place to stay. Not only do the rooms come with their own private balconies and a view of the water, the property is immaculately maintained and even has a game room!

Wells is one of the best beach towns in Maine. Not only does it have a number of gorgeous beaches, Wells is also known for forest reserves, antiques and pretty little cafes. 

I highly recommend heading to Wells beach. I know that this is one of the most visited spots in the city but it is popular for a good reason. From soft sand to small tidal pools for young kids, this place is a haven for families with both young and old kids.

Other great beaches are Drakes Island beach, Moody beach and Ogunquit beach. If you want to enjoy some green scenery then head to the Wells Reserves at Laudholm.

Heading to the farms in the area is another great way to enjoy the day. Some of my top recommendations include Spiller Farm and Chase farms.

Where To Stay: If you are in Wells, I highly recommend staying at Elmere House Bed & Breakfast . It is an old farmhouse that has been restored and provides some amazing rooms. It also offers a great breakfast!

Beach Towns in Maine FAQ

What is the cheapest coastal town in maine.

Lubec is without doubt one of the cheapest coastal towns in Maine. This is largely because of the lower tourist footfall that is there throughout the year. I think the only thing that deters people from visiting Lubec is that it is a bit hard to reach but it is well worth the effort. 

Not only does it have the small town vibe, it also has some dramatic views. Plus since it is relatively cheaper than the other beach towns in Maine, you can stay here for longer without burning a hole in your wallet.

Where Is The Prettiest Beach In Maine?

If you are looking to indulge in Maine’s gorgeous coastline, you will find that there are loads of amazing coastal towns to stay in. Pinpointing just one beach is pretty hard but if I was hard pressed to decide on the prettiest beach in Maine, I would say head to Popham Beach State Park.

It is a 3 mile long stretch of sandy goodness. In fact, it is situated right at the mouth of Kennebec river. 

Are There Swimmable Beaches In Maine?

There certainly are swimmable beaches in Maine. If you are looking for one of the prettiest and safest beaches for swimming, I highly recommend Birch Point State Park. Not only does this beach have much calmer waters, you will find that the sand is really soft.

This beach is also popular with anglers too. You just need to bring your own gear along. 

A Map of Some of the Best Beach Towns in Maine!

Additional Resources You Will Love

• 15 Amazing Romantic Getaways in Maine
• 10 of the Most Awe-Inspiring Scenic Drives in Maine
• The Absolute Best Time to Visit Maine
• 13 of the Best Hikes in Maine
• 12 of the Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
• 7 Best Lighthouses in Portland Maine

Well, you lover of all things Maine you, that just about wraps up this wicked awesome post about 15 of the best beach towns in Maine. 

Tell me, did your favorite oasis of oceanic bliss make the cut if not then let me know all about some of your favorite coastal towns in maine in the comments below, and if you found this post to be super helpful, then definitely pin this now so that you can read it again later. come on…you know you want to.

Saturday 6th of March 2021

This is a great post! My husband and I are planning to visit Maine this fall, so we will have to add some of these spots to our list. I've heard of Kennebunkport & Bar Harbor, but most other spots were new to me!

girlwiththepassport

Monday 8th of March 2021

Oh awesome! Fall is the perfect time to visit Maine too so you're going to have an amazing time. Thanks so much for reading and so glad I could introduce you to some new places to visit.

The region looks so so nice ! I love all these little sea sides towns and beaches.

Me too. It's such a pretty area.

This is seriously stunning. We just love Maine, but I did not know that it had so many beautiful beach towns. The Little river Lighthouse and Marshall lighthouse look amazing. Reading this wants me to get back to Maine.

Agreed. Same here. When writing this I was like so wait, when can I return? Because now would be great,

I have always wanted to visit the NE coastal towns. These are just beautiful. Oh, and I am well over 20 as well ;)

Haha. Glad I'm not the only one who is well over 20 years old.

I love Maine! It is such a beautiful state. When I visited Portland almost four years ago, I got to visit Biddeford Pool, Kennebunkport and Old Orchard Beach. All were amazing. I need to revisit and go up to Bar Harbor and explore Acadia! :)

Yes! There is so much to see and the coastline is really long there.

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10 Best Coastal Towns In Maine To Visit In 2024

Maine’s rugged coastline is adorned with picturesque towns that encapsulate the essence of coastal New England charm. From quaint fishing villages to historic harbors, each town boasts unique attractions, scenic landscapes, and a rich maritime heritage. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the 10 prettiest coastal towns in Maine, each offering its own blend of beauty and coastal allure.

Bar Harbor: A Gateway to Acadia National Park

Nestled on Mount Desert Island along the Atlantic Ocean, Bar Harbor is a quintessential coastal town renowned for its seamless blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Serving as the gateway to Acadia National Park, this charming town is enveloped by rugged coastline, pristine forests, and granite peaks. The allure of Bar Harbor lies in its captivating scenery, historic charm, and the promise of both relaxation and exploration.

Must-Visit Attractions:

• Acadia National Park: A crown jewel, offering 49,000 acres of hiking trails, carriage roads, and panoramic vistas from Cadillac Mountain.
• Bar Harbor Shore Path: A scenic stroll along the rocky shoreline, providing breathtaking views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands.
• Jordan Pond: Known for its crystal-clear waters and the iconic Jordan Pond House, where visitors indulge in popovers with strawberry jam.
• Cadillac Mountain: The highest peak along the North Atlantic seaboard, providing unparalleled sunrise and sunset views.
• Bar Harbor Historical Society: Delve into the town’s maritime past through exhibits and artifacts showcasing its rich history.

Fact : Bar Harbor was once the summer playground for America’s elite, including the Rockefellers and Astors.

Location : Located on Mount Desert Island, Hancock County, Maine, USA.

Transport Guide:

• Nearest major airport: Bangor International Airport (BGR).
• Transportation: Car rentals or shuttle services are available for the approximately 50-mile journey to Bar Harbor.

Dining Options:

• Jordan Pond House: Famous for its popovers and stunning views.
• Thurston’s Lobster Pound: A quintessential Maine seafood experience on the waterfront.

Extra Information: Explore the vibrant downtown area with its boutique shops, art galleries, and lively waterfront.

Camden: Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Camden, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Coast,” graces the Penobscot Bay with its maritime elegance and captivating landscapes. This postcard-perfect town is framed by the Camden Hills, providing a stunning backdrop for its historic architecture, classic schooners, and a bustling harbor. Camden’s blend of outdoor adventure, nautical charm, and a vibrant arts scene makes it a perennial favorite among visitors.

• Camden Hills State Park: A haven for hikers, offering panoramic views from Mount Battie and Mount Megunticook.
• Camden Harbor Park and Amphitheatre: A beautifully landscaped park with an amphitheater hosting concerts and events.
• Windjammer Cruises: Sail on classic windjammers to explore the scenic beauty of Penobscot Bay.
• Camden Opera House: An iconic venue hosting cultural events, including concerts, theater productions, and lectures.
• Laite Memorial Beach: A family-friendly spot for picnics, swimming, and enjoying views of Camden Harbor.

Fact : Camden is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Maine Coast” due to its stunning natural beauty.

Location : Located in Knox County, Maine, USA.

• Nearest major airport: Knox County Regional Airport (RKD).
• Transportation: Camden is easily accessible by car, approximately 80 miles from Portland.
• Natalie’s at the Camden Harbour Inn: A fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.
• Cappy’s Chowder House: A waterfront eatery known for its seafood chowder.

Extra Information: Explore the picturesque Megunticook Lake and take a stroll along Camden Harbor Park and Amphitheatre.

Kennebunkport: Quintessential Coastal Elegance

Kennebunkport, epitomizing New England’s coastal charm, is an idyllic retreat where history and sophistication meet the sea. This seaside town, situated on the Gulf of Maine, has evolved from a shipbuilding center to a summer haven for the well-heeled. With its historic architecture, charming boutiques, and a working harbor, Kennebunkport exudes timeless elegance against a backdrop of crashing waves and salt-kissed air.

• Walker’s Point: The summer home of the Bush family, offering scenic views and a glimpse into presidential retreats.
• Dock Square: The heart of Kennebunkport’s shopping and dining scene, adorned with unique boutiques and seafood restaurants.
• Goose Rocks Beach: A pristine stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for a relaxing day by the Atlantic.
• Cape Porpoise: A charming fishing village with a scenic harbor, lobster shacks, and the iconic Goat Island Lighthouse.
• Rugosa Lobster Tours: Embark on a lobstering adventure to witness firsthand the traditions of Maine’s lobster industry.

Fact: The town’s name, Kennebunkport, is of Native American origin and means “long cut bank.”

Location: Located in York County, Maine, USA.

• Nearest major airport: Portland International Jetport (PWM).
• Transportation: Kennebunkport is accessible by car, approximately 30 minutes from Portland.
• The Clam Shack: A local institution serving classic Maine seafood.
• Mabel’s Lobster Claw: Known for its lobster rolls and waterfront dining.

Extra Information: Take a scenic cruise along the Kennebunk River and explore Dock Square for shopping and dining.

Ogunquit: Beautiful Margins

Nestled on the Southern Maine coast, Ogunquit, meaning “beautiful place by the sea” in the indigenous Abenaki language, lives up to its name. This artistic seaside village has been a magnet for artists and nature enthusiasts alike. Ogunquit boasts a dramatic coastline, with sandy beaches, rocky shores, and a vibrant arts scene that has inspired generations of creatives.

• Marginal Way: A scenic cliffside path offering captivating views of the Atlantic coastline.
• Ogunquit Museum of American Art: Showcasing a diverse collection of American art, set against the backdrop of the coast.
• Ogunquit Beach: A pristine, three-mile stretch of sand ideal for sunbathing, beachcombing, and refreshing ocean dips.
• Perkins Cove: A picturesque harbor featuring charming shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.
• Dunaway Center: A hub for cultural events, including theater productions and art exhibitions.

Fact : Ogunquit has been an artist colony since the late 19th century, attracting painters inspired by its coastal landscapes.

Location : Located in York County, Maine, USA.

• Transportation: Ogunquit is accessible by car, approximately 70 miles from Portland.
• The Front Porch: A charming restaurant serving coastal-inspired cuisine.
• Barnacle Billy’s: A classic seafood spot with a waterfront view.

Extra Information: Attend a performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse, one of the oldest continuously operating summer theaters in the United States.

Also Read: 5 Stunning Beaches Closest To Arkansas

Portland: Culinary Delights by the Sea

Portland, Maine’s largest city, stands as a vibrant coastal hub where historic charm converges with a thriving culinary scene. Nestled along the Casco Bay, Portland boasts a working waterfront, cobblestone streets, and a lively arts community. Beyond its maritime allure, this city has earned a reputation as a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse array of eateries showcasing the best of Maine’s culinary treasures.

• Old Port District: A historic district with brick-lined streets, boutique shops, and a plethora of seafood restaurants.
• Portland Head Light: One of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S., offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
• Eastern Promenade: A waterfront park with walking trails and a sandy beach, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
• Victoria Mansion: A stunning example of pre-Civil War architecture, featuring lavishly decorated rooms and period furnishings.
• Portland Museum of Art: Showcasing a diverse collection of visual arts, including pieces by Maine’s renowned artists.

Fact: Portland is known as one of the best food cities in the United States, celebrated for its diverse culinary scene.

Location : Located in Cumberland County, Maine, USA.

• Transportation: Portland is easily walkable, but rental cars and local transportation options are available.
• Fore Street: A renowned restaurant highlighting local, seasonal ingredients.
• Eventide Oyster Co.: Famous for its innovative approach to seafood, especially its brown butter lobster roll.

Extra Information: Portland hosts the annual Maine Lobster Festival, a celebration of the state’s iconic seafood, attracting visitors from around the world.

Rockland: Harbor of the Arts

Rockland, nestled on Penobscot Bay, is a coastal gem that seamlessly blends its maritime heritage with a thriving arts and culture scene. This vibrant town has evolved from a bustling seaport to a cultural hub, attracting visitors with its historic architecture, scenic harbor, and a renowned collection of museums and galleries.

• Maine Lighthouse Museum: Celebrating the state’s maritime history with exhibits on lighthouses, shipbuilding, and seafaring.
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse: Accessible via a picturesque breakwater, this lighthouse offers stunning views of the bay and beyond.
• Farnsworth Art Museum: Showcasing a diverse collection of American art, including works by Andrew Wyeth and other Maine artists.
• Maine Maritime Museum: Located nearby in Bath, this museum explores the state’s maritime history with interactive exhibits and historic vessels.
• Schooner J&E Riggin Cruises: Embark on a sailing adventure aboard a historic schooner, exploring the scenic beauty of Penobscot Bay.

Fact : Rockland hosts the annual Maine Lobster Festival, drawing crowds with its seafood-centric festivities.

Transport Guide :

• Transportation: Rockland is accessible by car and is approximately 80 miles from Portland.

Dining Options :

• Primo: A farm-to-table restaurant offering creative dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
• Cafe Miranda: Known for its eclectic menu featuring global flavors.

Extra Information : Take a scenic cruise from Rockland to the nearby islands of Vinalhaven and North Haven.

York: Seaside Heritage

York, located on the southern coast of Maine, is a town that seamlessly blends seaside splendor with historic riches. From its picturesque beaches and iconic lighthouses to its well-preserved colonial architecture, York offers a delightful mix of coastal beauty and cultural heritage.

• Nubble Lighthouse: Perched on a rocky island, this iconic lighthouse provides panoramic views and a quintessential New England coastal scene.
• Long Sands Beach: A scenic sandy beach, popular for sunbathing, beach games, and long walks along the shore.
• York Village: Explore the historic district with its colonial-era buildings, charming shops, and the Old Gaol museum.
• York Harbor Beach: A serene beach with tidal pools, perfect for quiet relaxation and family-friendly outings.
• Cape Neddick Country Club: Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at this picturesque course with views of the coastline.
• York is home to one of the oldest public buildings in America, the Old Gaol (Jail), dating back to 1719.
• Located in York County, Maine, USA.
• Transportation: York is easily accessible by car, approximately 45 miles from Portland.
• The York River Landing: A waterfront restaurant with scenic views and a menu featuring fresh seafood.
• The Goldenrod: Famous for its saltwater taffy and classic American fare.

Extra Information:

• Spend a day at Long Sands Beach, known for its long stretch of soft sand and gentle waves.

Belfast: Artistic Harbor Haven

Belfast, nestled along the shores of Penobscot Bay, is a hidden gem celebrated for its artistic community, maritime heritage, and welcoming atmosphere. This coastal town offers a tranquil escape with a touch of creative flair.

Best Attractions:

• Belfast Harbor Walk: Stroll along the scenic harbor, adorned with art installations and picturesque views.
• Colonial Theatre: A historic venue showcasing films, performances, and community events.

Fact : Belfast has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and public art displays.

Location : Located in Waldo County, Maine, USA.

• Transportation: Belfast is accessible by car, approximately 40 miles from Bangor.
• Young’s Lobster Pound: A waterfront eatery known for its lobster rolls and scenic views.
• Delvino’s Grill and Pasta House: A popular spot for Italian cuisine with a coastal twist.

Extra Information: Belfast hosts the annual Maine Celtic Celebration, a festival celebrating Celtic music, dance, and culture.

Wiscasset: A Taste of Maritime History

Wiscasset, perched on the Sheepscot River, is a town that offers a delightful blend of maritime history and culinary delights. Known for its antique shops, historic architecture, and lobster shacks, Wiscasset invites visitors to savor the flavors of the past and present.

• Wiscasset Historic District: Wander through the charming streets lined with 18th and 19th-century architecture.
• Red’s Eats: Indulge in a classic Maine lobster roll from this iconic roadside stand.

Fact : Wiscasset claims to be the “prettiest village in Maine,” and its historic charm certainly supports the claim.

Location : Located in Lincoln County, Maine, USA.

• Transportation: Wiscasset is accessible by car, approximately 47 miles from Portland.
• Water Street Kitchen & Bar: A waterfront restaurant offering a diverse menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
• Treats: Indulge in homemade pastries and desserts at this popular bakery.

Extra Information: Don’t miss the iconic Red’s Eats, known for serving one of the best lobster rolls in the state.

Boothbay Harbor: A Maritime Haven

Nestled along the mid-coast of Maine, Boothbay Harbor stands as a maritime haven, captivating visitors with its scenic beauty, vibrant waterfront, and nautical charm. This coastal gem seamlessly blends coastal sophistication with the tranquility of a classic New England fishing village.

• Boothbay Harbor Marina: A bustling hub where sailboats and lobster boats coexist, offering a postcard-perfect scene for strolling and sightseeing.
• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: Delight in the beauty of meticulously curated gardens, showcasing indigenous flora against the backdrop of the Atlantic.
• Boothbay Railway Village: A living history museum featuring a vintage steam train, historic buildings, and exhibits on Maine’s railroad history.
• Barrett Park: A waterfront park offering stunning views of the harbor, perfect for picnics and relaxation.
• Burnt Island Lighthouse: Accessible via boat tours, this historic lighthouse provides insights into maritime life in the 19th century.
• Boothbay Harbor is renowned for its shipbuilding history, once a key player in the construction of wooden sailing vessels.
• The town’s annual Windjammer Days festival celebrates its maritime heritage with boat parades and waterfront festivities.

Location: Situated in Lincoln County, Boothbay Harbor graces the western edge of the peninsula, inviting visitors to explore its coastal wonders.

• Nearest major airport: Portland International Jetport (PWM), approximately 60 miles away.
• From Portland, follow US Route 1 North to reach Boothbay Harbor. Alternatively, a scenic drive from Boston takes around 3 hours.
• Boathouse Bistro Tapas Lounge & Restaurant: A waterfront spot offering a diverse menu of seafood and tapas.
• McSeagull’s Restaurant: Known for its seafood dishes, this restaurant provides stunning views of the harbor.

Extra Information: Boothbay Harbor Fest: Held annually, this festival showcases the town’s maritime heritage with events like a fisherman’s pie contest and a tugboat parade.

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Coastal Towns and Villages

Up and down the coast, along sandy beaches or tucked in rocky inlets, discover picturesque villages and thriving coastal towns, all beckoning to be admired and enjoyed.

In the southern region of the state charmingly situated between beaches are the towns of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport , both of which frequently top the list of best coastal towns to visit in Maine. Each have a rich maritime history, delightful shopping and award-winning dining. Ogunquit is just down the road and this seaside village is complete with an adorable cove full of moored boats. Marginal Way, a mile-plus long path edging the sea, is ideal for taking in the ocean views.

MidCoast Maine is fantastic for finding charming coastal towns. Along Route 1 are communities so picture-perfect, you will want to move to Maine just to live in any one of them. Fortunately, these towns have many hotels and bed & breakfasts so you can at least spend a weekend pretending you are a Mainer. Rockland has long lured fans of seaside towns with its popular Maine Lobster Festival, Farnsworth Art Museum and vibrant arts and culture scene. Next up the road are Rockport and Camden . Rockport was home to the once-famous Andre the Seal, who spent his winters at the New England Aquarium in Boston and his summers wild and free in Rockport Harbor. His statue can be found in the park. In Camden, windjammers are waiting to be boarded and Camden Hills State Park’s many trails offer unparalleled views of area.

Take a scenic drive off Route 1 and you’ll find villages like Harpswell and Georgetown . These coastal delights specialize in the quiet life. Situated on islands, once you cross the bridge you know you’re someplace special. On the hunt for a lobster roll? These coastal villages are home to some of the state’s best lobster shacks including Five Islands Lobster Company.

Penobscot Bay has many of the cutest coastal towns. Castine and Blue Hill are considered two of the prettiest villages in Maine, and the scenic drive to Stonington is breathtaking. Once you arrive, you can get your fill of music, theater and more at the Opera House .

Bar Harbor is epically charming and frequently tops the lists of best coastal towns in the country.

Farther DownEast Maine, (which is north-east if you want to get technical) Winter Harbor and Lubec are appealingly cozy. Winter Harbor is cute enough to have two lighthouses in its harbor.

Explore the Places To Go tab above for coastal Maine town maps and itinerary ideas to explore more of Maine’s wonderful coastal towns and villages.

Businesses & Organizations

Thompson ice house.

The Thompson Ice House is a working museum dedicated to the methods of traditional ice harvesting in...

Phone: (207) 644-8808

Website: www.thompsonicehouse.com

Address: 12 miles south on Rte 129 , South Bristol

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce

The Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce is dedicated and committed to promoting, educating and advocating for business prosperity and regional economic improvement.

Phone: (207) 873-3315

Website: www.midmainechamber.com

Address: 50 Elm Street , Waterville

Beth Ellis Cove Gallery

Fine arts gallery featuring original paintings and fine art reproductions by Beth Ellis. The gallery...

Phone: (860) 657-4253

Website: www.bellisart.com

Address: P.O. Box 1176 , Ogunquit

Paul Rulli Reproductions at the Captain B.B. Park House

Hand made Period Reproduction and Custom Furniture.

Phone: 508-612-8742

Website: paulrullireproductions.com

Address: 308 East Main Street , Searsport

The City Theater

The City Theater is a 122 year old former Opera House in beautiful downtown Biddeford, Maine. This historic performance venue is maintained and operated by the City Theater Associates, Inc. Don't miss seeing this gorgeous space!

Phone: 207-282-0849

Website: www.citytheater.org

Address: 205 Main Street , Biddeford

St. Saviours Episcopal Church

Take a free tour of our historic church and see the 42 famous stained glass windows. offered July...

Phone: 207-288-4215

Website: ellsworthme.org

Address: 41 Mt. Desert St. , Bar Harbor

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10 Best Coastal Towns In Maine To Visit

• by Jonny Duncan
• October 18, 2023 October 18, 2023

These coastal towns in Maine, the northeastern gem of the United States, boasts a coastline as rugged as it is enchanting and along its approximately 3,500 miles of craggy shoreline, one can discover an array of charming coastal towns that evoke the quintessential New England experience.

From the rocky cliffs of Bar Harbor to the picturesque lighthouses of Portland and the serene harbors of Camden, Maine’s coastal towns offer a delightful blend of natural beauty, maritime history, and small-town charm.

Coastal Towns In Maine

With a rich seafaring heritage, delicious seafood cuisine, and a vibrant arts scene, these coastal towns in Maine invite you to immerse yourself in the maritime spirit and experience the timeless allure of Maine’s coast.

Camden is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque beauty and New England charm which offers a quintessential Maine experience.

Camden is famous for its stunning harbor, which is often filled with sailboats and fishing vessels. You can take a leisurely stroll along the harbor, watch the boats, and enjoy the scenic views of Penobscot Bay.

Camden Hills State Park offers numerous hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the town of Camden, Penobscot Bay, and the distant mountains. The most popular trail is the Mount Battie Trail, which leads to the summit of Mount Battie.

The town is nestled in the Camden Hills, which are part of the Megunticook Mountain range. These hills provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and birdwatching.

The downtown Camden area is filled with charming shops, boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s a great place to explore and enjoy local cuisine and is easily one of the best coastal towns in Maine to visit.

Nestled on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is a gateway to Acadia National Park, one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States.

Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park , one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park encompasses a diverse landscape, including mountains, forests, lakes, and coastlines.

Bar Harbor Shore Path is a picturesque path that runs along the coastline, offering stunning views of Frenchman Bay, Porcupine Islands, and the Bar Harbor waterfront. It’s a peaceful place to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the scenery.

Located in the center of town, Village Green is a gathering place with lush lawns, gardens, and benches. It often hosts events, concerts, and is surrounded by shops and restaurants.

Bar Harbor is a popular departure point for whale-watching tours, where you can see a variety of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and seabirds.

At low tide, a natural sandbar emerges, allowing visitors to walk across to Bar Island from Bar Harbor. It’s a unique experience, but be sure to check the tide schedule to avoid getting stranded on the island.

In addition to hiking, Acadia National Park provides opportunities for biking, rock climbing, and water-based activities like kayaking and sailing.

Bar Harbor is a beloved destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a tranquil seaside escape and one of the best coastal towns in Maine.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is one of the best coastal towns in Maine known for its scenic beauty and historic charm.

Kennebunkport boasts beautiful coastal vistas, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and scenic harbor views. You can take a leisurely stroll along Ocean Avenue to admire the coastline.

The area around Kennebunkport has several lovely beaches, such as Goose Rocks Beach, Colony Beach, and Gooch’s Beach, which are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

Dock Square in the bustling central area of Kennebunkport is lined with shops, boutiques, galleries, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, and enjoying the waterfront views.

A small village within Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise is known for its working fishing harbor, lobster shacks, and the iconic Goat Island Light.

In addition to beach activities, Kennebunkport provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and exploring nearby nature reserves.

Kennebunkport is known for its seafood restaurants, and you can savor fresh lobster, clams, and other seafood delicacies. The town offers a range of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants.

Kennebunkport is a delightful destination for visitors looking to experience a quintessential New England coastal town.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a picturesque coastal town located in Lincoln County and is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, charming harbor, and maritime heritage.

The town is situated along the rugged coastline of Maine and features a scenic harbor filled with fishing boats, sailboats, and yachts. It’s a great place for visitors to take in the coastal views and watch the comings and goings of boats.

Boothbay Harbor is a haven for boating and sailing enthusiasts. Visitors can rent boats or take boat tours to explore the harbor and nearby islands.

The town has a rich maritime history, and you can explore this heritage at places like the Boothbay Harbor Maritime Museum. The museum showcases exhibits related to the area’s shipbuilding and fishing history.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, located in Boothbay Harbor, is a beautiful 295-acre attraction featuring diverse gardens, walking trails, and horticultural displays. It’s a serene place to explore.

Boothbay Harbor is a great place to savor fresh seafood, particularly lobster. You’ll find many restaurants serving delicious lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other seafood dishes.

The town has a variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and craft stores, making it a pleasant place for shopping and browsing unique, locally made items.

Whether you’re interested in maritime history, enjoying fresh seafood, or simply taking in the scenic beauty, Boothbay Harbor has something to offer.

Castine is a historic and picturesque town located on a peninsula in Hancock County. It is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, maritime heritage, and beautiful waterfront setting.

Castine is home to many well-preserved historic buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. You can take leisurely walks along tree-lined streets to admire the Federal and Greek Revival-style homes and buildings.

Fort George is a historic military fort that dates back to the colonial era. It played a significant role in various conflicts, including the American Revolution. Today, it’s a popular historical site that you can explore.

Castine has a rich maritime history, and this heritage is reflected in the town’s culture and architecture. The Maine Maritime Academy is located in Castine, further emphasizing the town’s connection to the sea.

The Wilson Museum is a local institution that showcases Castine’s history through exhibits on Native American artifacts, early settlers, maritime history, and more.

Castine’s waterfront offers stunning views of Penobscot Bay. You can take leisurely strolls along the waterfront, watch boats go by, and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

The surrounding area provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and kayaking. Witherle Woods, a nature preserve, is a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

Castine has a vibrant arts and cultural scene with art galleries, music events, and local festivals.

Castine is a hidden gem and one of the best coastal towns in Maine with a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

Ogunquit is one of the best coastal towns in Maine known for its stunning natural beauty, long sandy beaches, and vibrant arts scene.

Perkins Cove is a charming harbor and fishing village in Ogunquit. You can explore the quaint shops, art galleries, and enjoy fresh seafood at the many restaurants overlooking the water.

Ogunquit Beach is one of the town’s most iconic features. It’s a long, beautiful sandy beach that stretches along the coastline, offering excellent opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and scenic walks.

Marginal Way is a scenic walking path that runs along the rocky coastline, providing breathtaking ocean views. It’s a popular spot for strolling and taking in the natural beauty of the area.

Ogunquit is a hub for outdoor activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking. The nearby Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is a prime destination for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.

Ogunquit is known for its vibrant summer season, attracting visitors who come to enjoy the beach, arts, and outdoor activities.

Often called the “prettiest coastal village in Maine,” Wiscasset is known for its well-preserved architecture, maritime heritage, and its scenic location on the Sheepscot River.

Wiscasset boasts a charming and historic downtown area with well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. The town center features classic New England-style buildings and cobblestone streets.

One of Wiscasset’s most famous landmarks is Red’s Eats, a renowned lobster shack known for its delicious lobster rolls. It’s a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.

As a town on the Sheepscot River, Wiscasset has a strong maritime history. You can learn more about this heritage at the Lincoln County Museum, which includes maritime exhibits.

The Sheepscot River offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and sailing. It’s a great place to enjoy the water and scenic views.

Wiscasset has a thriving arts and cultural scene, with art galleries, local theater productions, and live music events.

Wiscasset is home to several historic sites and cemeteries, offering insight into the town’s past. The Nickels-Sortwell House is a notable historic house museum.

Eastport offers a unique coastal experience. It’s known for its tidal range, cultural festivals, and rich maritime history.

Eastport is a picturesque coastal city located in Washington County, Maine, USA. It is known for its rich maritime history, beautiful scenery, and unique cultural heritage. Here are some key features and attractions of Eastport:

Eastport is situated on Moose Island, and its waterfront area is a hub of activity. You can take in stunning views of Passamaquoddy Bay and explore the harbor, watching fishing boats and sailboats.

The area is famous for its lobster and seafood. You can savor fresh lobster and other seafood dishes at local restaurants.

Eastport is known for having some of the most extreme tides in the world. The reversing falls and the phenomenon of the Old Sow whirlpool, which is the largest tidal whirlpool in the Western Hemisphere, are natural attractions for those interested in tidal patterns.

Located near Eastport, Quoddy Head State Park offers hiking trails, a lighthouse, and dramatic coastal scenery. It’s a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

Eastport is a gateway to several nearby islands, including Campobello Island in Canada, where you can visit the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, which was the summer home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The region is a great place for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. You may spot various bird species, seals, and even whales in the waters around Eastport.

Ok, Portland is not a town but is the largest city in Maine and is known for its beautiful waterfront, vibrant cultural scene, and historic charm. That’s why it was added to this list.

The Old Port is a historic district with cobblestone streets, charming brick buildings, and a wide variety of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. It’s a popular area for shopping and dining.

The Portland Head Light, located in nearby Cape Elizabeth, is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States and a popular tourist attraction.

Portland’s waterfront along Casco Bay is a major attraction. You can take in scenic views, watch boats come and go, and explore attractions like the Portland Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city.

Portland has a thriving arts and cultural scene. You can visit the Portland Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of artwork, and the Space Gallery for contemporary art exhibitions.

Casco Bay is dotted with several islands that can be reached by ferry. Peaks Island, for example, is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and enjoying a slower pace of life.

Portland is often called “Beer City, USA” because it has a thriving craft beer scene. You can tour local breweries and enjoy a variety of craft beers.

Portland hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Maine Lobster Festival, the Portland International Film Festival, and the Old Port Festival.

Portland, Maine, offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty along the picturesque coast of Maine

These coastal towns in Maine each have their own distinctive character and offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and maritime traditions of this captivating state.

Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing by the sea, Maine’s coastal towns have something for everyone.

For more travel in Maine take a look at these 8 castles in Maine to visit .

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The Most Charming Towns to Visit on the Maine Coast

Explore These 10 Picture-Perfect Coastal Escapes

Corbis via Getty Images/Getty Images

Nearly 3,500 miles long if it were stretched out, Maine’s irregular shoreline has a wealth of coves, cliffs, and charming towns to visit. Whatever appeals to you on vacation — inspiring scenery, wide beaches, lighthouses and historic sites, arts and antiques — you’re likely to find it in one or more of these distinctive coastal destinations, featured from north to south.

Lobster Capital: Rockland

Savor Maine’s signature seafood in the self-proclaimed lobster capital of the world. Tons of the shellfish are hauled in during the season, and true obsessives can attend the annual Maine Lobster Festival or opt for a special package at the Berry Manor Inn that includes going out with a lobsterman, setting the traps, and touring a lobster pound back at the wharf. Those who are happy simply eating a lobster roll may still want to get out on the water. Hop on the Maine State Ferry to Vinalhaven , explore, and then sail back amidst the painterly views of lighthouses dotting Penobscot Bay. Art aficionados should make time to visit the Farnsworth Art Museum , which includes works by N.C. Wyeth and Louise Nevelson in its collection.

Preserving History: Owls Head

 Courtesy of the Maine Office of Tourism

Lighthouse fans coming to Maine would be remiss to skip visiting the historic Owls Head Light , which was first erected in 1825 to help boats navigate Penobscot Bay and was rebuilt a generation later. It stands 100 feet above Rockland Harbor, and from Memorial Day through the second Monday in October, visitors can climb all the way up to the lantern room. The light keeper’s home has been converted to an interpretive center, where you can learn more about this navigational aid and the life of a lighthouse keeper. While in this charming Maine town, also check out the Owls Head Transportation Museum , which collects and exhibits planes, motorcycles, bikes, horse carriages, automobiles, and more built before World War II.

Mariners’ Mecca: Boothbay Harbor

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Come down to the bustling harbor and climb aboard: Known by some as the boating capital of New England, Boothbay offers sea-loving travelers a bounty of ways to catch a wave. Boat excursions leave multiple times during summer days, offering passengers opportunities to see whales, seals and puffins up close. Go kayaking on one of the many calm inlets and rivers, catch a ride and help hoist a sail on a windjammer, ogle mega-yachts, or romantically celebrate day’s end on a sunset schooner. Learn more about what lives under the sea at the Maine State Aquarium , which boasts a rainbow collection of lobsters and a “touch tank” where you can practically shake hands with a squid.

Surf City: Georgetown

Kim Knox Beckius

On an island of the same name that lies 10 minutes south of Bath and 45 minutes from Portland , the town of Georgetown has 82 miles of jagged shoreline jutting into Casco Bay. Easy to reach, the town is connected to the mainland by bridges. Its 770-acre  Reid State Park contains long, wide, sandy beaches and was rated #1 in New England for surfing by The Boston Globe. For sustenance, stop by Five Islands Lobster Co. for fresh, local fried clams, mussels, lobster and other fruits of the sea. Overnight guests can stay at a bed and breakfast, historic inn, Airbnb, or even have the unique sensation of being rocked to sleep on a houseboat moored in Riggs Cove at Derecktor Robinhood Marina.

Far From the Madding Crowd: Chebeague Island

 ​Kim Knox Beckius

Ten miles from Portland (although you'll need to hop a ferry to reach it, and that ride takes at least an hour), Chebeague Island is a true getaway-from-it-all destination. Once you arrive on the island, which measures just 24 square miles, follow the circular route around the perimeter on foot or a bike. Summer is the time to visit, as the weather is best and blueberry bushes are in bloom. The road leads past some stately Greek Revival homes; the circa-1920 Great Chebeague Golf Club , which has water views from its nine holes; and the Museum of Chebeague History , which reveals the island’s heritage of fishing, farming and shipbuilding. Stop for lunch or drinks at the restored Chebeague Island Inn , which is nearly a century old. The work of local artists enhances guest rooms, and wicker chairs on the wide veranda invite visitors to admire the sparkling waters of Casco Bay.

Foodie Favorite: Kennebunkport

Less than 30 miles from Portland, Kennebunkport is small and walkable, although you can tour this maritime town the old-fashioned way via trolley or horse-and-carriage ride . At restaurants around town, an array of Maine treasures are sure to tempt: lobster in all its scrumptious forms; oysters; cheddar cheese; blueberry pancakes, pie, and smoothies; corn and clam chowders; and more. Sophisticates can have their palates pleased by creative concoctions such as tuna poké in the round at the Tides Beach Club . Layered with avocado, seaweed, soy, wasabi aioli, and topped with crisp fried wonton slices. Be sure to stay a while: Kennebunkport features a diverse selection of accommodations that range from historic houses to ocean-view inns to luxurious bungalows nestled in the forest.

Nature Made: Wells

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Named one of the best little beach towns in Maine by Coastal Living, Wells is the third-oldest town in the state. Swimmers, sun worshippers, shoppers and nature lovers will all find ample places to explore. The town boasts three public beaches that stretch for miles. Antiques shops and bookstores will have visitors scouting rare treasures. Birders who visit the 9,125-acre Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge  are likely to spy flocks of migratory birds, and endangered piping plovers nest on nearby beaches. Miles of trails along the coast and into the woods at the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve at Laudholm are open year-round for hiking. 

Picturesque Peninsula: Ogunquit

Called “beautiful place by the sea” by the Abenaki tribe, its original natives, LBGTQ-friendly Ogunquit draws visitors thanks to its 3-mile-long, peninsular beach that lies between the Atlantic Ocean and Ogunquit River. Those who find the water soothing ought to stroll along the Marginal Way , a cliff walk with benches for pausing and taking in the view of the town’s magnificent coast. The beauty still inspires today’s professional and developing artists; Impressionist Charles H. Woodbury established a summer painting school here in 1898 that found new life in the 21st century as the Ogunquit Summer School of Art . Cornerstone restaurant is the place to savor your first fig pizza.

Beaches and Beyond: York

One of the state's prettiest seaside resorts, York (comprised of Old York, York Beach, York Harbor, and Cape Neddick) in southern Maine is only 8 miles beyond Portsmouth in New Hampshire, 45 minutes south of Portland, and 55 miles north of Boston. Nubble Light , said by some to be the most beautiful lighthouse in America, separates the popular Short Sands and Long Sands beaches. (Beachgoers in search of greater seclusion can put towels down on Cape Neddick and Harbor Beaches.) Dried off and dressed, stop in for "kisses" (saltwater taffy) or a mix-and-match box of chocolate treats at The Goldenrod in York Beach. The candy store/restaurant also features a dining room serving comfort-food classics at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can also spend a day in York whale watching, canoeing, biking or hiking.

Bargains Bonanza: Kittery

Yes, you can combine a search for bucolic sea views and exhilarating adventures with a hunt for deep discounts. Right across the New Hampshire border, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Piscataqua River, Kittery has more than a half-dozen different multi-outlet centers strung along Route 1. They feature a plethora of brands to outfit yourself and your family from head to toe. Once decked out in sailing gear, head for the harbor to take a ferry tour of the southern Maine shoreline. For a swinging time, visit Take Flight’s Aerial Adventure Challenge Course , which features more than 65 gravity-defying activities.

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• 11 Best Coastal Towns In Maine

From craggy cliffs and wild forests to sandy beaches, the US State of Maine's coast is a paradise for all pursuits. These towns come bountiful with seafood and endless water vistas as the most-demanded scenic escapes in Maine.

The historic resort town is ideally situated between the untouched wilderness of Acadia National Park and the craggy straits of Mt. Desert Narrows. Many artists and outdoorsy people, who settled there for endless adventures and diverse sighs, are happy to advise that explorations must start at the low tide across the bridge, with a panoramic view from the Bar Island. Perched on Mount Desert Island , the town has various water-bound restaurants for views to accompany the freshly-caught seafood dinner, prepared with a down-east twist. Set as the façade of the Cadillac Mountain, the downtown area resonates with unmatched Victorian splendor, alongside the beautiful selection of souvenir stands and local artists for a lasting memory of the destination that must be experienced to be believed. For more adventures, one can take the National Park Tour via a catamaran, making a slight detour to see the Lighthouse. 

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a picture-perfect getaway known for the tranquil seaside horizon dotted by islands, coves, and rocky shores. The authentic Mid-coast feel of New England’s boating capital resonates in its lighthouses and thriving shipyards that also present a paradise for the adventurous photographers. The active rejoices in fishing, sailing, yachting, and kayaking the bountiful waters, while the nature fans love sighting puffins, whales, seals, and migratory birds. Rooted in the British Colonial era, Boothbay Harbor became centrally industrious in the 19th century with seafood harvests and quickly spanned out into tourism as it is known today. The inviting coast is brimful of shops, attractions, and waterfront dining, while the stroll-worthy Main Street is aligned with historic buildings. There’s also the Maine State Aquarium and the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, with 295 tidal acres snaked by nature trails.

Although Maine’s best-kept secret, Camden gets busy with those who know about its heaven for shopping, outdoor pursuits, and diversified beach fun. Following a hike through the Hills State Park, one must end it on a “high” note from the Mt. Battie viewing point for the sunset over the marvelous Penobscot Bay. One can also take a sailing cruise through the bay aboard a historic Windjammer, followed by some beach time at the Barret’s Cove on Megunticook Lake. The stroll-worthy Highstreet historic district features mesmerizing homes from the 1800s, such as the Camden Public Library (1796) with a park and an amphitheater next door. After checking out the beautiful Camden Opera House, which opened in 1894 at 29 Elm Street, one will be right in the heart of town to pop into one of the many eateries for a refreshing drink and bite. For more scenic adventures, there’s the Camden Snow Bowl, Curtis Island, Merryspring Nature Center, and hiking trails at the Mount Megunticook, while June in Camden comes with a Jazz festival and the  Windjammer .

Cape Elizabeth

A short drive out of Portland , Cape Elizabeth offers some of the most stunning views in Southern Maine to explore by bike. The charming coastal town appears frozen in time while housing an array of attractions and modern amenities for a wholesome getaway. Overlooking the Casco Bay, there are expansive rocky shores, ocean-side parks, beaches, and the notable lighthouses serving as striking statements on water and reflection of the region's proud maritime history. Maine's oldest and nation's most photographed lighthouse, the Portland Head Light , is set at Fort Williams' 19th-century military installation-border of Portland Harbor. The Crescent Beach State Park comes with a dense forest-bounded sandy shore, while the Two Lights State Park offers an ocean-side picnic area. The endless historic sites and majestic coastal views include more lighthouses, such as the Cape Elizabeth Light. With many sea-side shacks offering quick bites, one can snack on lobster and other sea treasures any time of day. The many green islands around call the restless adventurers.

About 130 miles north of Portland, Castine is one of the prettiest towns in Maine. Set at the mouth of the Penobscot River, the historic beach getaway offers a unique combination of a quaint environment with a varied choice of pursuits. Home to many traditionally grand New England-style buildings, one can stroll to admire the beauties dating back to 1796, when the town was founded. The Wilson Museum and the Castine Historical Society, set inside a cute schoolhouse, provide more details on the area's rich history. In town, one will find the nation's second-oldest post office, along with a delightful bakery, the  Markel's Bakehouse , seafood at  The Breeze & Castine Variety , and the quirky The Compass Rose Bookstore and Café. The water fans can take an epic kayak tour, stroll along, and stop by the Wadsworth Cove Beach while making sure to sight the Dyce Head Lighthouse dating back to 1828.

Damariscotta

Accessed via a scenic drive, one better hope there's battery life left to capture all the historic mansions in this heaven for oyster-lovers. There's the Lincoln Theater from 1875, the iconic Renys Department Store, Skidompha Secondhand Book Shop with over 20,000 books, along with the St. Patrick's Church in Newcastle from 1807. One can learn about the region's primary industry at the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site, featuring "mounds of mounds" of discarded oyster shells. The best eateries include the  King Eider's Pub and Restauran t, the  Shuck Station , and the  Schooner Landing , while the  Oxbow Brewing Company  is a must-visit local brewery inside an old farmhouse in Newcastle. For some fun in-town, there's the Sherman's Maine Coast Book Shop and Damariscotta Pottery, along with touring the local oyster farms during the epic Damariscotta Oyster Celebration in early summer. The beautiful Damariscotta River is great for cruising and kayaking, while October brings about the quintessential Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta, with races through the harbor in boats carved out of pumpkins. 

Kennebunkport

Incorporated in July 1653, the charming fishing village of 3,500 people exudes New England charm with quaint waterfront shops, captain's homes, and ports. The nation's popular beach destination since the 19th century, Kennebunkport got international recognition following George H.W. Bush's family summers spent at the Walker's Point Estate, known as the Bush Compound. Set on the southern coast of Maine, the vibrant town is also known for beautiful galleries, cute bed and breakfasts, schooner attractions, and a seafood-galore of restaurants. The beachgoers head to the Gooch's Beach, the Arundel Beach, or the Colony Beach. One must also check out the Goat Island Lighthouse, stroll along the atmospheric Ocean Avenue, and visit the sea-side beauty of St. Ann's Episcopal Church. 

Set on the border with Canada in the surroundings of true wilderness, Lubec feels like the edge of the earth as the acclaimed easternmost point in the United States. Known as one of Maine's most affordable coastal towns, the remote locale is a must-visit for scenic views and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Lubec brims with authenticity in the moored lobster boats, the bay, and the picturesque Quoddy Head Lighthouse, while the stunning coastal trails combine the sea-mist with the briny air of the forest. The beaches come with the traditional water fun, along with treasure-hunting for the strewn sea glass and spotting Atlantic puffins. The small dockside eateries in-town offer atmospheric dining in the fog at sunset and drinks as the night descends. 

Living up to its name, which translates from the native Algonquin Indians' language as the "beautiful place by the sea," the town is known for spectacular rocky cliffs and miles of sandy beaches. Founded in 1980 within a short drive from Boston, it packs big guns in every department for the best getaway, including beautiful architecture and excellent art studios. The beaches lined with accommodations include the Ogunquit Beach, the Footbridge Beach, and the Moody Beach. Hikers find their respite on the Marginal Way's winding path from the downtown to the Perkins Cove, while the foodies indulge in the locally-caught fresh seafood and ice cream at Barnacle Billy's.  Families with kids must check out the Wonder Mountain Fun Park for some wholesome time. 

One of the most scenic towns in the northeast, Rockport is a short drive southwest of the state's capital of Augusta. The town, with breathtaking scenery of schooners and the tranquility-bobbing fishing boats, has been attracting many artists and other creative minds over centuries to comprise a proper art colony. The hidden gem in Maine's mid-coast region also has the best crowd-less beaches. Set halfway between Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport, Rockport is perched on the Penobscot Bay for unforgettable sunset views and dinner cruises aboard a local schooner. Aside from hitting the hiking trails along the coast, there's kayaking to see the Indian Island Lighthouse and the lovely Owl's Head Lighthouse. One must stop by the local artisan shops along the shores, with many local eateries in between, to indulge in some freshly-caught seafood.

Stonington-Deer Isle

Stonington is a proud Down East tiny town on the spectacular granite Deer Isle, set miles from Route 1 and Down-east Maine's extensive coastline for the best-unspoiled environment. It is also one of the highest lobster-producing harbors in Maine, with over 300 boats perched, ready to depart for prey. The scenic drive to the wildly beautiful yet grounded and homey town begins along the winding backcountry roads with the impressive Deer Isle Bridge towers looming in the view. The thin causeway over the water opens up a few miles before the town, where adventures and drama continue. Aside from lobstering, the Deer Isle is known for granite that is in high demand from sculptors and architects across the country. The incredible wilderness and endless miles of marvelous sea views surround the town-full of popular galleries and great restaurants. Cute mail boat rides offer a different perspective of the townscape from the Isle au Haut. 

These towns offer the best scenery in the state for photographers, view-chasers, and anyone wishing to get a respite from the city. The homely atmosphere encased in the true wilderness will awe even the most-weathered travelers. 

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Best places to visit in maine.

Maine's unmatched landscape, enviable seafood scene and laid-back atmosphere have made the state a must-visit destination among New Englanders. But with one of the country's most-visited national parks and inarguably the best lobster in the United States, Maine is worth a trip for those farther afield, too. To help you find the state's most satisfying destinations, U.S. News evaluated Maine's top sights, adventurous pursuits and value, among other factors. From outdoor hot spots to cool coastal towns and culture-packed cities, these are the best places to visit in Maine. Vote for your favorites below to help us determine next year's list.

Baxter State Park

Acadia national park, portland, me, brunswick, me, belfast, me, sugarloaf mountain, kennebunkport.

Bar Harbor is small-town Maine at its finest. This adorable town, widely known as the gateway to Acadia National Park, offers a village-like atmosphere and a picturesque waterfront setting worth writing home about. While here, take things slow and stroll the scenic Shore Path to check out luxurious yachts and seaside parks. You can also meander down charming Main Street, where you'll find a bevy of fresh seafood, specialty shops and small art galleries. To see Bar Harbor from a new perspective, opt for a trolley tour, a cruise around Mount Desert Island or a whale watching excursion .

While Maine's coastline draws the biggest crowds, head inland to Baxter State Park in north-central Maine if you're looking for pure solitude. With narrow dirt roads, no cellphone reception and no amenities to speak of, aside from the occasional outhouse, Baxter State Park attracts explorers who don't mind roughing it. The park's lack of frills only enhances the beauty of its rugged wilderness, including more than 200,000 acres of scenic vistas, tranquil ponds and prime wildlife viewing opportunities (think: moose, black bears and white-tailed deer). If you're extra adventurous, take on Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine, on a hike that can take up to 12 hours round trip. 

For truly breathtaking marine terrain, complete with rocky coastlines and lush forests, travel to Acadia National Park. Acadia is home to plenty of stunning scenery, with trails that bring you to the highest point on the North Atlantic Seaboard: Cadillac Mountain. Climb the granite cliffs on the popular Precipice Trail, and for unforgettable views of the Atlantic Ocean, head to Schoodic Point. If you're not in the mood to hike, go for a drive on the 27-mile Park Loop Road, which offers scenic views and pull-off points. Since parking is limited at popular attractions like Jordan Pond, consider taking the free shuttle or biking if you're planning to make a lot of stops.

Overlooking Penobscot Bay, Camden is small but full of charm (think: cozy bed-and-breakfast accommodations and picturesque shops). The harbor is always bustling with boats bringing fishermen to and from shore each day. To check out the area's best lighthouses and lobster habitats, sign up for a harbor cruise. Then, get a taste of Camden's fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant. No visit would be complete without trekking the trails in nearby Camden Hills State Park. The park's paths bring you to overlooks with stunning vistas of the area's bay and islands.

Maine's biggest city (by population) is the state's cultural hub, offering plenty in the way of art, history and food. Start your vacation with a lobster roll (don't ask us to choose our favorite) before exploring popular attractions like the historic Old Port neighborhood, the Portland Museum of Art and the city's ever-evolving brewery scene. If the weather's right, do as the locals do and travel to the nearby Casco Bay Islands for tucked away beaches and evergreen woodlands. If you visit Portland in winter, snowshoe on the surrounding trails or admire the area's famous lighthouses.

Rockland is the sleepy, coastal town of your dreams. Located about 80 miles northeast of Portland, Rockland features lighthouses, beautiful boats swaying in the harbor and compact streets lined with traditional brick and shingled buildings. Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Center for Maine Contemporary Art to add a dose of culture to your vacation. Or, if you're looking for something more active, hike through Beech Hill Preserve's blueberry fields to Beech Nut, a sod-roofed stone hut built in the early 1900s, for striking panoramas of Penobscot Bay. The view from Owls Head Lighthouse is also worth the short climb.

Bowdoin College is the focal point of Brunswick, giving this town on Maine's MidCoast a unique bustle. In addition to the college, which was founded in 1794, sights like Skolfield-Whittier House, Pejepscot History Center and Harriet Beecher Stowe House allow visitors to glimpse into various stages of the past. Those looking to get outdoors can head to the Androscoggin River, which runs through town, for fishing, canoeing and biking opportunities. Meanwhile, Brunswick's Maine Street, with its bakeries, bookshops, antique shops, breweries and top-notch restaurants, has all the quaintness expected of small-town New England.

Vibrant and inviting, Ogunquit on the southern coast is perfect for the casual traveler. Artists and beach bums alike flock to this tiny town (it takes up just 4 square miles) for its picturesque coastline. Head to Footbridge Beach for smaller crowds or Main Beach for gear rental and a shallow river ideal for kids. After a day of sun and sand, check out the restaurants on Main Street and Shore Road, which serve everything from lobster dishes to farm-to-table fare. Because of its accepting atmosphere and many gay-friendly bars, Ogunquit is a popular vacation destination for members of the LGBTQ community.

If you're looking for a carefree vacation spot and a low-key agenda, consider Belfast, which sits about 60 miles west of Bar Harbor. Belfast emerged as a maritime hub in the 1800s, and today, you can stroll along the Belfast Harbor Walk to watch the ships come and go and catch a glimpse of a working shipyard. Beyond the port, support local farms and artisans at the United Farmers Market of Maine (open year-round), take in river views along the Belfast Rail Trail or hop on the Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad, which offers train rides with varying themes, ranging from lobster rolls to fall foliage.

No matter the season, Sugarloaf Mountain is the perfect backdrop for your next vacation. In winter, skiers will revel in Sugarloaf's many shred-worthy options , from traditional downhill skiing to more adventurous cat skiing on rugged terrain. Fat biking, dog sledding and ice skating are also popular winter activities. Meanwhile, summertime is ideal for zip lining, kayaking, hiking and scenic lift rides, among other adventures. The mountain is surrounded by a wide variety of restaurants and stores, so you can explore the great outdoors without leaving behind the conveniences of home.

If you're looking for the perfect beach vacation in Maine, you'll find comfort in Kennebunkport. This southern coastal town offers long, flat shorelines atypical to the craggy coastal spots you'll find along Maine's other shores. Lay out or rent a boat on Gooch's Beach (a traveler favorite). Or, if you're looking to stay dry, take a nice long walk along leafy Walker's Point, preferably at sunset, for a glimpse of the Bush family compound. A popular haven for celebrities and politicians, Kennebunkport has its fair share of chic boutiques and art galleries to explore, especially in the charming Dock Square area.

York offers something for every member of the family to enjoy. Parents can relax on the 1.5-mile stretch of Long Sands Beach while children play in the surf before grabbing lunch at a nearby restaurant. Souvenir shops, boutiques and a plethora of ice cream parlors are sprinkled around the downtown area. Arcades, bowling alleys, amusement park rides and mini-golf courses also abound here, so kids will never get bored. Plus, visitors will have their pick of lodging options, including budget hotels and quaint cottages.

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Augusta, ME

Moosehead Lake

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The Wild Trek

15 Quaint Small Towns in Maine to Visit

Looking to visit some of the most quaint small towns in Maine? Today we’ve rounded up our can’t-miss Maine towns for the quintessential New England experience!

Maine, with its rugged coastline, picturesque lighthouses, and breathtaking natural beauty, has long been a beloved destination for travelers seeking an escape from bustling city life.

While the state is famous for its larger cities like Portland and Bangor, it is in the smaller towns that you’ll find a unique charm and a genuine sense of community. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey to discover some of the most quaint small towns in Maine, where time seems to stand still and a warm welcome awaits.

Here’s a quick guide to visiting these small towns in Maine during each season:

Best small towns in Maine during spring: Bar Harbor, Camden, Greenville

Best small towns in Maine during summer: Boothbay Harbor, Old Orchard Beach, York

Best small towns in Maine during fall: Kennebunkport, Camden, Bar Harbor

Best small towns in Maine during winter: Camden, Kennebunkport, Old Orchard Beach

Read on to learn more about these Maine towns and what makes them so special!

14. Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a quintessential coastal small town in Maine with a bustling waterfront, charming shops, and a vibrant maritime culture. Visitors can enjoy scenic boat tours, explore picturesque lighthouses, and indulge in fresh seafood.

I t is one of the most beautiful seaside towns you can imagine , and it is in the south of Maine, on the coast of Lincoln County, and has just over 2,000 people. 

In addition, it is well-known for its maritime heritage and as a port for lobster boats, commercial ships, and several luxury yachts.

There are a lot of day trips to choose from out of Boothbay Harbor, like scenic cruises, whale-watching trips, deep-sea fishing, and even the chance to watch a working lobster boat in action . You can even rent boats and yachts, and the conditions are great for sea kayaking.

On the other hand, the Boothbay Railway Village and Maine State Aquarium are both excellent options for people traveling with kids. The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden also has a children’s garden and a magical fairy village with tiny houses, perfect if you are with kids. Plus, this fantastic 270-acre area of carefully cared-for plants is also home to native and exotic plants. It has themed gardens showing off a collection of artworks.

The town is also home to many art galleries, the Carousel Music Theater, an Opera House, and several cultural events that happen all summer long. It means that there are a variety of excellent restaurants and a wide range of unique shops.

This picturesque fishing village on the mid-coast of Maine has a distinctive atmosphere that captures the essence of a quintessential New England town.

13. Greenville

Greenville is a cute town in Piscataquis County, the gateway to the well-known wilderness in the state’s far north. It is also on the southern side of Moosehead Lake, one of Maine’s most famous lakes.

This town has a lot of the practical charm that Maine boasts. Whether you want to play on the lake or look around the area, you’ll find many fun things to do.

The attraction of this town on a lake is, of course, water-based. You can go boating or fishing on the peaceful waters of Moosehead Lake. But there’s also hiking, wildlife excursions, museums, and cute shops and restaurants to check out.

Want to go shopping? Northern Maine Minerals is a popular place to buy rocks, gems, jewelry, and fossils. You could also go to Mud Puddle Mercantile, a unique gift shop that sells clothes, accessories, memorabilia, and more.

Visit the Moosehead Maritime Museum to learn more about the area’s long history. Here, you can see a wide range of nautical relics from the long past of Moosehead Lake. The museum is also home to the iconic Steamboat Katahdin. You can cruise on the lake every day from late June to mid-October.

Greenville, Maine, offers a unique vibe that revolves around its stunning natural surroundings and its reputation as the gateway to the wilderness. If you want to experience Maine small towns that feel ultra-natural then Greenville is your spot!

Nestled on the coast, Camden is famous for its picturesque harbor and stunning views of Penobscot Bay. The town boasts tree-lined streets, white steepled churches, and a vibrant downtown area filled with boutique shops and excellent dining options.

Camden is one of the most well-known small towns in Maine for a reason! It’s just one of the cutest towns I’ve ever seen.

The Penobscot Nation used to live here, and they called it Megunticook. In 1791, the town’s name changed to honor Charles Pratt, 1st Earl Camden, a member of the British Parliament.

Camden has a gorgeous beach, but Camden Hills State Park is its most well-known natural attraction. More than 30 miles of hiking trails are in the park, and one of the best is the trail to Maiden’s Cliff, which gives you a great view of Megunticook Lake below.

You can also drive to the summit of Mount Battie to get a great view without having to hike. From the top, you can see Penobscot Bay and the mountains around it.

In addition, the park has a campground that is good for families, places to have picnics, and a wonderful freshwater seaside at Barrett’s Cove on Megunticook Lake.

On the other hand, Camden’s up-scale downtown area is bursting with restaurants, museums, and shops, making it a great place to invest in afternoon discovery and shopping. During the summer, there are a lot of cultural events and performances, so there’s always something fun to do.

Lastly, you can take day trips to outlying islands and see the quaint elegance of the town from out in the bay, along with the beauty of the coast and its many islands.

Camden truly has the quintessential New England vibe, which is why it’s one of the most famous Maine towns!

10. Kingfield

Kingfield is in the western mountains of Maine, about a half hour north of Farmington. It is home to cultural and natural attractions and is especially gorgeous in the fall!

While it may not be as well-known as some of the more touristy destinations, Kingfield captures the essence of a classic New England town in its own way.

Kingfield features a charming downtown area with historic buildings that reflect New England’s architectural heritage. The town’s Main Street is lined with well-preserved 19th-century buildings, creating a nostalgic atmosphere.

Nestled in the foothills of the western Maine mountains , Kingfield offers breathtaking natural beauty. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and nearby mountain ranges. The vibrant fall foliage adds to the scenic charm of the area.

Kingfield is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s located near Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the premier ski resorts in the region. In addition to skiing and snowboarding in winter, the area offers hiking, biking, fishing, and other outdoor activities during the warmer months, allowing visitors to experience the natural wonders of New England.

You will also want to stop at the Ski Museum of Maine in Kingfield to learn more about the sport. The museum is devoted to preserving the past of Maine’s efforts at the sport of skiing by displaying several early ski equipment, souvenirs, ski areas of the past and present, and more.

In addition, Kingsfield is home to The Stanley Museum, which tells the story of the people who made the “Stanley Steamer,” the first car that ran on steam. Y ou can also see some of the Stanley family’s history and artifacts, like airbrush canvases, pictures, violins, and even more Stanley steam cars.

But truly, we love Kingfield because it’s just so cute. This is one of our favorite Maine towns to visit for that welcoming New England vibe!

9. Allagash

Allagash is renowned for its pristine wilderness, beautiful landscapes, and outdoor adventure opportunities. While it may not fit the traditional image of a quintessential New England town, it holds its own unique charm.

Typically, Allagash is one of the small towns in Maine visited because of its rugged history.

In the early 1800s, Acadian pioneers living by logging moved to this small town . Their successors still reside in the city today. Community events, buildings, and even the community museum all clearly show the heritage.

This town is your spot if you want to find peace. There are all kinds of artists in the area, including quilters, painters, sculptors, musicians, and other creative people. Their work is on display all over town; you can see it for free.

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a great place to camp in a canoe. Rangers keep remote campsites in good shape, and waterway staff patrols the area often, making visitors feel safe. However, the river is 92 miles long, and most canoe trips on the Allagash only see other people at the main access points. So, if you’re going on a long paddling trip, you should be ready and packed!

Alternatively, you can hike up Allagash Mountain. The trailhead is way out in the middle of nowhere, but it has stunning views of all the lakes and ponds nearby. You also have to be able to reach the Ranger’s Cabin at the southern end of Allagash Lake to get there. It is worth it, though, because the hike is short and gives you a great outlook of Allagash Lake and the other lakes and ponds nearby.

The journey to Allagash is part of the experience. Traveling along scenic roads like the Allagash Wilderness Waterway Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and mountains. The picturesque drives showcase the rugged beauty of northern Maine.

If you’re looking for untouched wilderness then Allagash is one of the Maine towns you’ll love.

8. Rockland

Do you love lobster? Then you can’t miss going to Rockland, Maine, or the “Lobster Capital of the World.”

The seafront town of Rockland is about halfway up Maine’s shore, about 80 miles to the north of Portland, and two hours drive from Boston. Rockland, Maine, is a vibrant coastal town that embodies many quintessential New England qualities.

Rockland is now famous for tourism and is among Maine’s most desirable destinations. This Maine town is known for its scenic harbor, which is lined with fishing boats, sailboats, and lobster traps. The harbor provides a picturesque backdrop for the town and showcases its strong connection to the sea.

Every summer, people come from all over the world to the 4-day Maine Lobster Festival to see live music, play games, and, of course, eat lobster.

There are many places to stay in Rockland, but the Samoset Resort in Rockport is just a few miles up the road. It’s a beautiful seaside resort that’s the ideal place to stay near cute Rockland.

7. Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach, also known as “OOB,” is a beach town in Maine that is so cute you simply must visit. It looks and feels like a classic New England beach!

Here, you’ll find seven miles of lovely beach where you can splash around in the cool ocean water or relax in the sun on the sand.

Even though Old Orchard Beach is a popular place for families to have fun in the summer, it is still a small town. It’s clear from the fact that the town’s sights, from the traditional Ferris wheel with a view of the ocean to the old-fashioned carousel, have a sense of the past.

The Old Orchard Beach Pier and boardwalk are iconic features that evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflect the seaside charm of many New England coastal towns. The pier is lined with shops, eateries, and amusement attractions, providing a lively and vibrant atmosphere.

Throughout Old Orchard Beach, you’ll find a mix of charming beachfront cottages, Victorian-style homes, and historic buildings. The architectural style is often associated with classic New England aesthetics, adding to the town’s character and charm.

Old Orchard Beach, located in Maine, certainly exudes a quintessential New England coastal town atmosphere . We recommend visiting this Maine town in the summer if possible!

Next on this list is York, a small town on the coast of Southern Maine known for its amazing beaches, which are great for taking pictures.

York is the second oldest town in Maine. It has a great location on the Gulf of Maine, right next to the Atlantic Ocean. Further, it has long been a favorite summer vacation spot for people all along the East Coast.

To start your adventure, head to York Harbor, which boasts beautiful water views. Short Sands Beach and Long Sands Beach are two beaches in York that you must go to if you want to have fun in the sun.

Also, Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is a must-see because it is among the most well-known lighthouses on the east coast. The public can’t go inside, but it makes a beautiful photo in any season!

Aside from those, York Village is the historic downtown, where you can explore cute shops, restaurants, cafes, and historical buildings. This is where you’ll find your quintessential New England vibes.

Old Gaol was built in 1656 and was the first prison in Maine. It’s a great place to go if you wish to learn more about the town’s history.

If you’re hungry, go to the Dockside restaurant right away. Since it opened in 1952, it has been one of York’s best-kept secrets. 

The York Beach Boardwalk is a lively and family-friendly area with arcades, shops, and eateries. Enjoy an ice cream cone, play games, or take a ride on the carousel while soaking up the coastal ambiance.

Overall, York is one of the best small towns in Maine to visit if you want that New England vibe, especially in the summer.

Castine, Maine is a hidden gem nestled along the stunning coast of Penobscot Bay.

Castine boasts a fascinating history dating back to the early colonial period. The town has seen the presence of Native Americans, French settlers, British forces, and American patriots. Visitors can explore this history through its well-preserved architecture, historic landmarks, and museums.

Don’t miss Fort George , a fortification dating back to the Revolutionary War, or the Wilson Museum , which showcases the region’s heritage. Immerse yourself in the stories of Castine’s past and gain a deeper understanding of its significance in American history.

Castine’s small-town charm is a magnet for visitors seeking a tranquil and picturesque getaway. Meander through its tree-lined streets, adorned with colonial homes and blooming gardens. Spend your days exploring the rocky coastline, relaxing on secluded beaches, or embarking on scenic hikes along the nearby trails.

Despite its small size, Castine boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to Maine Maritime Academy , an esteemed institution for maritime education. You can visit the Maine Maritime Academy Museum and learn about the rich maritime history of the region.

Additionally, Castine hosts various events, including art exhibits, concerts, and theater performances throughout the year. Engage with the local community and immerse yourself in the arts and culture that thrive in this charming coastal town.

If you like cute coastal towns, you should put Bath on your list of Maine towns to check out.

Bath has a rich maritime heritage that can be traced back to its shipbuilding roots. As the home of Bath Iron Works, one of the country’s largest shipbuilding facilities, the town has a deep connection to the sea.

Explore the Maine Maritime Museum, located on the banks of the Kennebec River, where you can delve into the region’s maritime history, see exhibits on shipbuilding, and even take a boat tour to witness the shipbuilding process firsthand.

Bath’s downtown area is a treasure trove of well-preserved historic architecture and charming streets . Stroll along Front Street, lined with Victorian-era storefronts and boutique shops.

Explore the many art galleries, antique shops, and specialty stores that showcase local craftsmanship and creativity.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful Bath City Hall and the renowned chocolate shop, Wilbur’s of Maine. Bath’s downtown exudes an inviting atmosphere that beckons visitors to slow down, enjoy the quaint surroundings, and indulge in the town’s unique offerings.

3. Ogunquit

With a motto like “Beautiful Place by the Sea,” it’s easy to see why Ogunquit is among the most delightful small towns in Maine.

Ogunquit is on the southern coast of Maine. It is known for having one of the best beaches in Maine with calm, warm, shallow water.

The town is also a nice place to visit on its own , with a variety of things to do in the main village and Perkins Cove, a small fishing village just over a mile from the town center.

Both village centers have restaurants, ice cream shops, and bars. The Marginal Way, a beautiful walking path along the water, links the two villages. We highly recommend doing this walk!

On the other hand, people on bikes or in cars can use Shore Road, and the town’s open-air Trolley connects the two, which is especially helpful after a day of shopping.

Ogunquit is famous for its art scene which includes galleries, local artists, live performances, and the famous Ogunquit Playhouse. Plus, it is home to the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, which has yearly exhibits and a permanent collection that includes works by famous artists like Peggy Bacon, Marsden Hartley, and Carl Walters.

2. Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport embodies the classic New England coastal town with its charming streets, historic buildings, and picturesque harbor. Its scenic beauty, lobster boats, and quaint shops make it a popular destination for visitors seeking an authentic New England experience.

Kennebunkport, in York County, is a popular vacation destination and among the most charming small town in Maine.

Shipbuilding brought in a lot of money at first in this town, but tourism soon took over once people in cities in the northeast saw how beautiful this stretch of coast was.

Kennebunkport is fantastic throughout the year, so if you are in Maine, you must stop in, even just for the weekend.

When it’s warm, you can watch whales, go to caves, ride horses, ride bikes around town, fish for lobster, kayak to nearby islands, and more . Even George W. Bush had a vacation property here during the summer!

When it gets cooler, you can go shopping at Cape Porpoise, take a guided tour, go to the Goat Island Lighthouse, and gather seashells.

Dock Square, the site of many pictures of the 41st head of state, is a fantastic destination. If you want to see an incredible lighthouse, take a boat trip to Goat Island. 

There are also  tons of delicious restaurants in Kennebunkport.

The Earth at Hidden Pond is one of our favorite destinations , and its beautiful interior is brimming with natural elements that go well with its organic menu. You can choose from great dishes such as local seafood paella and short ribs.

This cute Maine town has a lot of cool places to stay too! Your best bet for glamping is the Sandy Pines Campground . Otherwise, stay at the gorgeous Boathouse Waterfront Hotel .

Visit Kennebunkport during Christmas if possible – the Christmas Prelude is just so adorable!

1. Bar Harbor

The renowned gateway to Acadia National Park tops our list of adorable small towns in Maine!

Bar Harbor is on Mount Desert Island, off the coast of Maine. It is known for its active arts scene, great shopping, and excellent restaurants.

Like most seaside areas, it is an excellent destination for sightseeing cruises. Many tour operators in town offer tours on land, such as haunted tours and food tours.

Nature lovers often think of Bar Harbor in connection with the neighboring Acadia National Park. This 47,000-acre area, with its wooded areas, rocky beaches, and granite peaks shaped by glaciers, is a must-see near town. 

On the other hand, the Abbe Museum, which is proud of being Maine’s sole Smithsonian affiliate museum, is Bar Harbor’s most important cultural attraction. The Abbe started as a trailside museum in Acadia National Park and grew to include a space in the business district Bar Harbor. Here, you can learn about the People of the First Light, who lived on this land before Europeans came. The culture is present through artifacts and interactive media in the exhibits.

Overall, Bar Harbor, Maine, is a charming coastal town known for its picturesque beauty and relaxed atmosphere. We recommend visiting this Maine small town in the summer if at all possible!

There you have it: our list of the 15 super cute small towns in Maine to visit!

The Pine Tree State is truly a magnificent destination with all it offers. It is evident in its many small towns, whether inland gems or coastal resort communities. Each is unique and provides everything you hope for an unforgettable getaway.

So what are you waiting for? Ready your bags and gather your travel buddies! A magnificent Maine road trip awaits!

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With over 3,500 miles of coastline, it’s no wonder Maine is known for its stunning beaches, coves, and bays. Sparkling seas, white sands, kayaking and boating, fishing and whale watching, these idyllic coastal Maine towns are top-tier. Whether you’re looking to relocate to Maine or one of the many Mainers looking for a beachside property, you have lots of towns to choose from.

But if you’re not sure what beach towns in Maine to check out, we’ve got you covered. To help you find the right coastal area, Redfin has put together a list of 12 coastal Maine towns from Bar Harbor to Portland . Let’s explore some of the state’s top beaches, listed in alphabetical order, and you might just be tempted to move there.

#1: Bar Harbor

Median home price: $1,300,000  Bar Harbor, ME homes for sale Bar Harbor, ME apartments for rent

To begin our list is Bar Harbor, located on Mt. Desert Island. There are plenty of beaches to explore living in Bar Harbor such as Bar Beach, Boulder Beach, and Sand Beach. Living in this town of 5,500 people, you can explore the Wild Gardens of Acadia, hike Cadillac North Ridge, and explore downtown Bar Harbor.

Your future home is just a tap away

Median home price: $246,000  Belfast, ME homes for sale Belfast, ME apartments for rent

Another one of Maine’s great beach towns to consider buying a home in is Belfast, home to 7,000 people. You’ll find lots of beachfront parks, oceanfront lookouts, and picturesque views of the water throughout town. You can also hike the Belfast Rail Trail and explore the local spots in downtown Belfast.

Median home price: $473,000  Camden, ME homes for sale Camden, ME apartments for rent

Next up is Camden. Even with 4,900 residents, there are many beaches to explore on a sunny Maine day like Barrett’s Cove and Laite Memorial Beach. If you find yourself moving to Camden, explore Bald Mountain Preserve, hike the Mt. Battie Trail up to the historic Mt. Battie Tower, and have a meal along the waterfront. 

#4: Cape Elizabeth

Median home price: $885,000  Cape Elizabeth, ME homes for sale Cape Elizabeth, ME apartments for rent

Home to beautiful beaches like Cliff House Beach and Crescent Beach, there are countless places to spend a beach day in Cape Elizabeth. About 9,300 people live in Cape Elizabeth, where you can also explore the landmarks at Fort Williams Park, check out the many lighthouses, and stroll through the quaint streets.

#5: Castine

Median home price: $535,000  Castine, ME homes for sale Castine, ME apartments for rent

The picturesque beach town of Castine has about 810 residents, making it a great place to consider moving to. You’ll find a few beautiful beaches such as Wadsworth Cove Beach. In Castine, you can check out some of the museums and quaint downtown.

#6: Kennebunkport

Median home price: $1,100,000  Kennebunkport, ME homes for sale Kennebunkport, ME apartments for rent

With roughly 3,600 people calling Kennebunkport home, it’s a great beach town to consider renting or buying a home in. Some beaches you can visit are Cape Porpoise, Colony Beach, and Goose Rocks Beach. Whether you hike along the Edwin L. Smith Preserve, have a meal at a waterfront spot, or visit Cape Porpoise Stage Island State Park, there’s many activities to do and see in this coastal Maine town. 

#7: Ogunquit

Ogunquit, ME homes for sale Ogunquit, ME apartments for rent

With a population of about 930, Ogunquit is an awesome coastal area to live in. There are plenty of beaches to explore, like Footbridge Beach and Little Beach Ogunquit Beach. If you find yourself moving to this quiet coastal Maine town make sure to visit one of the museums like the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, check out one of the quaint cafes, and stop by the Lobster Point Lighthouse.

#8: Old Orchard Beach

Median home price: $525,000  Old Orchard Beach, ME homes for sale Old Orchard Beach, ME apartments for rent

There are plenty of beautiful beaches in Old Orchard Beach such as Old Orchard Beach and Surfside Beach, perfect for a picnic. Make sure to explore the waterfront shops and Old Orchard Pier, spend the day at Palace Playland, and go camping once living in Old Orchard Beach. 

#9: Portland

Median home price: $570,000  Portland, ME homes for sale Portland, ME apartments for rent

Just about 68,300 people live in Portland where you’ll find beaches like East End Beach. Other attractions in Portland include checking out the historic sites and museums like the Victoria Mansion and the Portland Museum of Art, strolling along Back Cove, and visiting Presumpscot River Preserve.

#10: Rockport

Rockport, ME homes for sale Rockport, ME apartments for rent

This seaside town has a population of 3,400 and there are lots of beaches to spend the day at. In Rockport, you can visit Back Beach Landing, Cape Hedge Beach, Front Beach, Long Beach, and Old Garden Beach. You’ll also have plenty of activities to explore during your free time, like exploring Beech Hill Preserve, hiking along Aldermere Farm Trail, and stopping by the Andre the Seal Statue.

Wells, ME homes for sale Wells, ME apartments for rent

In Wells there are plenty of beach spots you’ll want to spend time at if you decide to move to this cozy oceanfront town. Some of these beaches include Crescent Beach, Drakes Island Beach, Moody Beach, and Wells Beach. Wells is home to 9,600 people and you’ll find lots of other activities like checking out Wells Harbor Park, exploring the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, and having a meal at a local restaurant.

Thinking about moving to the area?

York, ME homes for sale York, ME apartments for rent

York has plenty of beaches to choose from, perfect for a beachside picnic. Some famous spots are Cape Neddick Beach, Long Sands Beach, Short Sands Beach, and York Harbor Beach. Looking for something to do in town? Make sure to explore the Highland Farm Preserve, check out the views at Nubble Lighthouse, and camp by the beach. In addition to these beach towns, there are plenty of  affordable places to live in Maine .

Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in Maine. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau .

Alison is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about housing affordability and home interior design ideas. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.

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15 Cutest Small Towns in Maine

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When it comes to cute small towns in Maine, there are plenty of them! Maine ’s unbridled natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for pretty spots across the state, but some towns really go above and beyond to crank up that charm factor!

From the beautiful islands and gorgeous beaches of the coast to the unspoiled landscapes and striking waterfalls of the interior, there are lovely little communities situated all around Maine. It was hard to narrow it down, but we think we’ve picked out the best of the best, the most charming of all the charming, the very sweetest spots in the entire state. If you’re looking to visit a town that is photogenically fabulous and full of small-town appeal, then you should consider a visit to one of the cutest small towns in Maine!

Oh, and if you’re looking for small town Maine fun this weekend or what’s happening in small town Maine today, be sure to check out this Maine events calendar to see if there are any festivals, fairs, or other fun Maine things to do while you’re visiting!

Table of Contents

Cutest Small Towns in Maine

Rockland me.

One of the best small towns Maine has to offer is Rockland , known for its vibrant art scene and the beautiful Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse . There are plenty of great things to do in Rockland, but if you’re not checking out some of the local art in this darling little town, you’re missing out! There’s Farnsworth Art Museum, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art,   and several other opportunities for seeing Maine-made art around Rockland.

Every summer, people travel from all around for the 4-day Maine Lobster Festival for live entertainment, games, and of course, some fresh-caught, extra yummy lobstah! You can also get out on the water with a Maine Windjammer Cruise , a great way to experience maritime culture for yourself. There are also plenty of options for where to stay while in Rockland, but just a few miles up the road is the Samoset Resort in Rockport, a gorgeous seaside resort that is the perfect place to stay near adorable Rockland.

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Next up is the little coastal town of York , situated on the Southern Maine coast and known for its beautiful beaches. Dubbed “The Yorks,” there’s York Village, York Harbor, York Beach, and Cape Neddick, each with its own distinctive charm.

York Village is the historic downtown where you will find adorable shops, restaurants, cafes, and carefully preserved historical buildings to explore like the Old Gaol, Maine’s first prison that was originally built in 1656. York Harbor offers spectacular water views as you stay in style at the York Harbor Inn . Long Sands Beach and Short Sands Beach are must-visit York beaches, and  Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse is a definite must-see as one of the most famous lighthouses on the east coast; while there is no public access, it makes for a stunning photograph in any season. York has coastal Maine small-town charm everywhere you turn… all in the very best ways!

This lovely little Midcoast town is actually one of the oldest towns in New England, so it’s had plenty of time to perfect its small town charm! Its downtown is as cute as a button, featuring only a few small shops like Compass Rose Books with its cozy, welcoming bookstore/cafe vibe. Historical architecture is really the main focus in this cute Maine town, so a visit to the Castine Historical Society will give you a good lay of the land as for where to go and what to see, and you might even be able to hop on a historical walking tour.

Castine is a scenic town on Penobscot Bay, so there are great places to walk and take in the view, and when it comes time to book a room, check out the Pentagoet Inn and Wine Bar , a gorgeous B&B in a beautifully kept Queen Anne Victorian that seems to offer eye candy everywhere you turn! Plus, there’s a wine bar, need we say more?

Old Orchard Beach ME

Affectionately dubbed “OOB,” Old Orchard Beach is an absolutely adorable beach town in Maine that gives off all the classic New England beach vibes! Seven miles of beautiful beach await you, whether you’re interested in splashing around in the bracing ocean water, soaking in the sun on the sandy shore, or checking out the The Pier , the distinctive 500-foot wooden pier that houses restaurants, food vendors, souvenir shops, and a nightclub with a phenomenal view of the Atlantic!

OOB is also home to New England’s last surviving beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland , featuring several rides and attractions, including the 20,000 sq ft+ arcade that houses vintage and modern arcade games. When looking for where to stay, check out Alouette Beach Resort for options that range between comfort economy and deluxe luxury suites that offer stellar ocean views and top-of-the-line amenities. Old Orchard Beach is a classic New England beach community to visit in Maine.

Monhegan Island ME

This tiny little island in Maine is only about a square mile in total area, so this entire island is the town! Monhegan has long been known as an artists’ escape, and in addition to all the beautiful scenery that inspires artists in need of some aesthetic inspiration, you’ll also find art studios, a crafts co-op, and the Monhegan Museum of Art and History.

There are a few little shops and places to eat on Monhegan Island , but don’t expect a large selection like you see in tourist towns in Maine. If you’d like to stay in a beautiful vacation rental that features spectacular ocean views, check out this Monhegan Island Retreat that can sleep up to 10!

Rangeley ME

Moving inland, the Rangeley Lakes region is home to Rangeley, full of non-fussy Maine charm . This popular vacation destination is one of the best places to visit in Maine (and one of the best places in the state to spot a moose !) and is all about the outdoors, with activities that include canoeing, boating, and hiking in the warmer months, and snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing in the winter; Maine’s well-known for its awesome winter activities , and Rangeley is the perfect place to experience them!

The Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway is also one of Maine’s most scenic routes . There are plenty of great places to eat in this cute little town, but if you happen to stay at The Rangeley Inn , you’ll also be conveniently located to eat at the historic onsite tavern.

Greenville ME

This cute Maine town is located on the southern end of Moosehead Lake, one of the most popular lakes in all of Maine , and Greenville has a lot of that pragmatic Maine charm to offer visitors whether they’re there to play on the lake or explore the area around.

Of course, the lake tends to be center stage, but there’s also hiking, wildlife tours, museums, and cute little shops and restaurants to explore in Greenville , too! If you’re looking for a cute place to grab a bite in Greenville, check out the Stress Free Moose Pub for delicious pub food, live music, and a full bar in a welcoming atmosphere. Oh, and if you’re looking for a cool place to stay in Greenville, check out the lovely Lodge at Moosehead Lake ! The views onsite are fantastic.

Bar Harbor ME

Beautiful Bar Harbor has so much to do in and near this cute Maine town , with great Acadia National Park fun, incredible natural attractions , and awesome hikes . Downtown Bar Harbor has a great selection of shops and restaurants to choose from, and the local winery, Bar Harbor Cellars, even made it on this list of must-visit New England wineries.

As for where to stay, you have some excellent options , including some pretty neat Airbnbs in Bar Harbor and Acadia; The Inn on Mount Desert is adorable and easily walkable to all kinds of Bar Harbor attractions. A visit to this cute Maine town is absolutely lovely however you plan it, but feel free to follow this ready-made 3-day itinerary for Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park if you’d like something that’s already all set up for you.

Brunswick ME

Beautiful Brunswick is one of the coolest towns in Maine! Home to Bowdoin College, it’s got that great college town energy, and plenty of great things to see and do, while still retaining that small town charm. You can hike at Bradbury Mountain State Park, hang at Thomas Point Beach, or just stroll downtown Brunswick , checking out the cute shops, restaurants, and art galleries that make this downtown so fun!

If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Brunswick Maine, check out The Brunswick Hotel ! This Midcoast Maine boutique hotel conveniently lands you in downtown Brunswick within easy reach of all kinds of Brunswick sights, and it’s a gorgeous place to stay in this cute Maine town.

Ogunquit ME

With a town motto like “Beautiful Place by the Sea,” Ogunquit is an easy pick for one of the cutest small towns in Maine! With 3.5 miles of soft sand beaches and a lovely downtown area with shopping , art galleries , and great restaurants ! If it’s live entertainment you’re in the mood for, check out the Ogunquit Playhouse , one of the essential must-dos in this Maine travel guide !

Being a resort town, Ogunquit has plenty of phenomenal options for where to stay , but if you’re looking for something that radiates seaside village charm, is an easy walk to both downtown and the beach, and has plenty of practical and luxurious amenities, The Admiral’s Inn might just be the perfect spot for you! Pools (and a poolside patio bar!), hot tubs, dry sauna, and an on-site massage therapist await to take your visit in gorgeous Ogunquit from very good to very great!

Boothbay Harbor ME

Another small town gem on Maine’s stunning coast, Boothbay Harbor draws people in from far and wide that want to experience the charms of this protected harbor town. There are several awesome things to do in Boothbay Harbor , but one of its keystone events is the Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days festival that celebrates and honors the region’s rich maritime history with fun festivities like live musical entertainment, an antique boat parade, fireworks over the harbor, and delicious local food favorites. You can even take a Puffins Cruise out of Boothbay Harbor with Cap’n Fish’s Cruises to see where wild puffins nest (Maine is the only state in the US where you can see this!) or take a combo whale watching/puffins tour.

Downtown you’ll find shopping , museums, wonderful inns and hotels (Harbour Town Inn on the Waterfront is a beautiful place to stay!) , and plenty of fabulous restaurants to choose from. In fact, at Boothbay Lobster Wharf, you can watch as the fishermen pull in and unload their daily lobster take, choose which lobster you want for yourself, and the people at Boothbay Lobster Wharf will cook it up for you! Doesn’t get any fresher than that, does it?

Back inland and tucked away on the edge of the White Mountain National Forest, is a darling little town that is situated on one of the most scenic driving routes in Maine : Bethel . This quaint mountain village in Maine is the perfect blend of peaceful tranquility and active lifestyle, with people traveling to Bethel all times of the year to enjoy the magnificent scenery and participate in the outdoor activities that are available during different seasons like hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the warmer months and winter fun, playing in the snow at Sunday River Ski Resort ! Nearby Grafton Notch State Park is also a great outdoors destination with waterfalls to ooh and ahh over and excellent hiking trails to explore.

There are unique shops and galleries in this cute mountain resort town, like Elements Art Gallery, where you can go to peruse local art and craftsmanship (everything in the store is made in Maine!) and pick up a souvenir or three to take a little piece of Bethel home with you. When it comes to restaurants in town, you have your pick, but Sunday River Brewing Company needs to be in the mix somewhere; with artisan-fired pizzas and donuts that are made fresh daily, and inventive craft brews on tap. As far as where to stay in Bethel, options are aplenty there in this adorable mountain village, but The Bethel Inn Resort is always a great choice.

Stonington ME

If you want to talk about hidden gem towns in Maine, we’ve got to talk about Stonington ! This quaint Maine town is linked by a bridge to the mainland, and this village has long been an important part of Maine’s lobster industry. Today, you’ll feel like you’re quite removed from the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities in this tiny Maine village, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be bored.

Hike along the shore or take a kayak tour to get out in the water yourself and breathe deep that refreshing sea  air before grabbing a bite to eat at one of the waterfront restaurants in Stonington like Fin & Fern . For a great place to stay in Stonington, check out the understated Boyces Motel , beautifully situated right in the heart of this little Maine village! Oh, and don’t forget to check the schedule at the Stonington Opera House to see what’s happening during your visit.

Damariscotta ME

A part of the slower-paced area of the coast referred to as the Damariscotta Region, the darling little town of Damariscotta is an idyllic respite from some of the more crowded coastal favorites. This lovely Maine village has not one, but TWO annual oyster festivals that pay homage to the oyster industry that has kept Damariscotta prosperous over many generations, and the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site offers an interesting up-close look at a massive midden, or oyster shell heap, left behind from the Native people of this area hundreds of years ago. You can also tour the glistening Damariscotta River on a Sunset Cruise, cocktail in hand as the sun sets slowly in the Maine sky, or perhaps an Oyster and Wine Tasting Cruise so you can taste the fresh oysters that this region is so proud of!

Damariscotta has a quaint yet vibrant downtown area that offers a peek into simplistic Maine style without the kitschy vibe of some of the busier resort towns, with great shops like Maine Coast Book Shop and Café and Sheepscot River Pottery for you to explore. There are many excellent options for where to eat while in the Damariscotta region, but just about 10 minutes up the road is the little town of Wiscasset, where you can find a lobster roll at popular Red’s Eats. If you’d like a quaint B&B experience, consider booking a room at lovely Hawks House Inn .

Kennebunkport ME

Kennebunkport absolutely had to be on our list of cutest small towns in Maine because, well, it’s probably one of the cutest small towns in the entire United States, period! Quaint, adorable, lovely, independent, charming, basically all of the things that come to mind when thinking about small-town charm! This sweet little seaside town has so much to offer: beautiful beaches, boutique shopping downtown, a fabulous selection of year-round restaurants and charming inns, B&Bs, and hotels , and plenty to do and see in Kennebunkport .

While Kennebunkport is perhaps most well-known for being home to the Bush family’s summer estate, this coastal town is welcoming and friendly to all, with a variety of natural attractions, tours (some of the best whale-watching in Maine ), and man-made sights to look into- check out the Wedding Cake House , it’s adorable!- one thing that isn’t likely to happen in Kennebunkport is boredom. There are several cool places to stay in this cute Maine town, whether you end up glamping at Sandy Pines Campground or staying at the beautiful Boathouse Waterfront Hotel !

Whether it’s one of the coastal resort communities or the inland gems, Maine is full of adorable little towns to visit. We’ve done our best here to pull together the cutest small towns in Maine so you can choose for yourself which spot is calling your name for your next Maine getaway.

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9 Scenic Waterfront Small Towns In Maine

From Rockland to Castine, these scenic waterfront towns in Maine offer a lovely new place to live (or serve as gorgeous New England vacation spots).

• Rockland offers a vibrant coastal ambiance with art, culture, and seafood eateries, plus a reasonable cost of living.
• Belfast enchants with its suburban feel, water activities, and historic charm, making it a picturesque coastal gem to explore.
• Camden's panoramic water views, outdoor adventures, and cultural events make it a must-visit coastal town in Maine.

In the enchanting coastal landscapes of New England, travelers, visitors, and potential residents alike can find a number of charming small towns in Maine, most of them perfect to retire in or move to with the family (or else to enjoy a beautiful vacation). However, not all of Maine's towns are by the water; for those seeking a coastal, riverside, or lake escape, these scenic waterfront Maine towns are where New England's stunning shores merge seamlessly with the allure of small-town living.

With quaint harbors, picturesque beaches, historic lighthouses, and the chance to indulge in freshly caught seafood delicacies, every moment in these small coastal towns in Maine is sure to charm. For those seeking a peaceful and fulfilling retreat or even a brand-new place to call home, these small and often underrated towns in Maine by the water promise a haven for those looking for waterfront locations in New England.

10 Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In Maine

9 rockland (penobscot bay), population: 6,977 / cost of living score: 92.

Nestled along Penobscot Bay, Rockland offers a lively ambiance downtown with artistic spots like the Farnsworth Art Museum, unique shops, and seafood eateries. Rockland Harbor Park invites visitors with a waterfront promenade and marina offering mesmerizing bay views.

Originally a shipbuilding and limestone quarrying hub, Rockland's heritage now complements its vibrant arts scene with frequent exhibitions and events.

Living here offers small-town charm with cosmopolitan amenities, with median home prices currently just under $330,000 , a 61.9% homeownership rate , above-average public schools , and a tight-knit community.

This coastal gem seamlessly blends art, culture, and maritime history for an enriching experience either as a vacation spot or as a new town to move to.

8 Belfast (Penobscot Bay)

Population: 6,890 / cost of living score: 88.7.

Belfast offers residents a sparse suburban feel while providing ample outdoor activities in Waldo County. With its idyllic setting where the Passagassawakeag River meets Penobscot Bay, this coastal town in Maine truly enchants.

A riverfront lined with charming shops, local eateries, and galleries unveils breathtaking vistas of the bay and nearby islands.

Once a shipbuilding and trading hub, Belfast's maritime legacy now complements its boundless outdoor adventures - from sailing and kayaking to exploring scenic trails at the Belfast Rail Trail and Moose Point State Park.

This New England gem surrounds visitors with nature's splendor while retaining its captivating small-town essence.

12 Unique Attractions That Prove That Maine Is The Most Underrated State In America

7 camden (penobscot bay), population: 3,713 / cost of living score: 92.

Gracing Penobscot Bay's shores, Camden is another one of the many beautiful waterfront small towns in Maine, with panoramic water views and a vibrant downtown harbor district.

Its exceptionally walkable village invites leisurely strolls, complemented by the scenic Camden Riverwalk comprising the Tannery Section following the river from Rawson Avenue to Washington Street, and the wooded Seabright Section tracing the waterway to Seabright Dam.

Beyond the maritime allure lies Camden Hills State Park, a haven with breathtaking vistas on its trails. Once a bustling shipping hub, Camden's rich heritage now harmoniously blends with its present draw - its population more than triples during summer months due to an influx of tourists and seasonal residents.

From sailing and kayaking to exploring nearby islands and lighthouses to cultural events at the Camden Opera House, there's plenty to do and see in the coastal town of Camden .

6 Bar Harbor (Frenchman Bay)

Population: 2,018 / cost of living score: 95.7.

Overlooking Mount Desert Island's picturesque coastline, the enchanting town of Bar Harbor offers lots to do and see . This beautiful coastal town boasts sweeping panoramic vistas embracing Frenchman Bay and the nearby Porcupine Islands.

Its vibrant downtown district offers visitors curated boutiques, exceptional seafood, and art galleries exuding New England charm.

Yet, Bar Harbor's crowning glory lies in its privileged proximity to the activity-rich Acadia National Park , where outdoor enthusiasts can have a blast. Acadia offers incredible hiking trails , from coastal trails to mountain hikes, and even scenic drives.

Once a flourishing maritime hub for shipbuilding and fishing, Bar Harbor harmoniously integrates its nautical heritage with modern appeal by offering whale-watching excursions, island explorations, and unforgettable sailing adventures.

Why Kennebunkport, Maine Is Considered One Of The Most Beautiful Towns To Visit During Christmas

5 kennebunkport (atlantic ocean), population: 1,402 / cost of living score: 109.9.

Embraced by the Atlantic shoreline, the coastal town of Kennebunkport boasts plenty to do , along with views of the roaring waves and captivating sunsets.

Known for its world-class beaches like the long, sandy Goose Rocks Beach and smaller Arundel Beach , this charming waterfront town in Maine beckons exploration of its vibrant Dock Square, dotted with colorful buildings housing curated shops, art galleries, and an excellent variety of dining experiences.

In recent years, the town's nightlife scene has blossomed with the introduction of new speakeasy lounges, where patrons can enjoy distinctive cocktails and live musical performances.

Despite holding a cost of living score 13.3% higher than the Maine average , Kennebunkport offers an upscale yet quintessentially New England experience.

4 Wiscasset (Sheepscot River)

Population: 1,318 / cost of living score: 93.6.

Wiscasset boasts one of the state's most vibrant working waterfronts, a bustling hub alive with the timeless rhythms of lobster fishing, sport fishing, and the cherished tradition of clam and worm digging, earning the esteemed title of the “Worm Capital of the World” by National Geographic .

With a heritage dating back to the 17th century, the town wears its history with grace, each cobblestone street and colonial facade whispering tales of bygone eras. The majestic Nickels-Sortwell House stands as a testament to Wiscasset's enduring legacy.

Alongside this town's historic tapestry, visitors find themselves enveloped in the warmth of genuine Maine hospitality and can enjoy a vibrant waterfront, a storied past, and culinary delights, making Wiscasset an unforgettable gem along the East Coast.

These Are The 12 Most Beautiful Towns In Maine You Should Visit

3 damariscotta (damariscotta river), population: 1,314 / cost of living sore: 93.6.

The endearing town of Damariscotta is the premier destination for oysters in New England. It sits gracefully alongside the meandering Damariscotta River , twelve miles from the Atlantic Ocean.

This riverside gem unveils breathtaking waterfront scenery and a spirited downtown district filled with indie shops and bars.

Nature lovers can find their haven here, reveling in outdoor pursuits offered by the Damariscotta River Association, such as kayaking and canoeing excursions to intimately explore the local wildlife. The town's agricultural heritage takes center stage during the celebrated Damariscotta Pumpkinfest , a quirky tradition paying homage to the humble but mighty pumpkin.

Landmarks like the historic Schooner Landing Restaurant & Marina and the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site add depth to Damariscotta's distinctive character.

2 Boothbay Harbor (Atlantic Ocean)

Population: 1,103 / cost of living score: 93.6.

Tucked between the meandering Damariscotta and Sheepscot rivers, just a scenic 60-mile drive east-northeast from Portland, the enchanting waterfront town of Boothbay Harbor warmly welcomes guests to its captivating shoreline.

For residents, this maritime haven offers a quintessential coastal Maine lifestyle, with a tight-knit community enjoying a relaxed pace, ample outdoor pursuits like sailing, swimming, and paddleboarding, and a vibrant cultural scene.

A surge of 10.0% in median housing prices over the past year signals heightened interest in this coveted corner of the East Coast, where picturesque backdrops beckon for wandering through quaint shops, indulging in fresh seafood delicacies, and perusing local galleries.

Meanwhile, breathtaking floral arrangements at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens capture the eye, and the Maine State Aquarium showcases the diverse aquatic ecosystem that awaits beyond the shoreline.

1 Castine (Penobscot Bay)

Population: 814 / cost of living score: 95.7.

Perched upon a peninsula jutting into the waters of Penobscot Bay, the historic town of Castine captivates with its timeless charm and cultural significance, its waterfront adorned with meticulously preserved 18th and 19th-century structures.

Unique attractions like the Castine Historical Society and Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory entice visitors into the area's rich heritage, while the town's maritime academy adds a distinct nautical flair.

For potential residents, Castine promises a tranquil escape with a tight-knit community, an affordable cost of living with median home prices currently $413,300 , and proximity to outdoor pursuits like sailing and hiking.

Despite its small-town allure, it's conveniently an hour from Bangor, offering urban amenities while maintaining coastal seclusion. With historical elegance, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace, Castine provides a truly enchanting coastal experience.

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5 Beautiful Stops On The Perfect Coastal Maine Road Trip

• Destinations
• United States

“Vacationland” is the name given to the state of Maine. Most vacationers to the Northeastern state gravitate to its beautiful, rocky coast when they plan their visit, stringing together several small towns to create the perfect road trip.

But it wasn’t just as a vacation destination that Maine garnered its fame. The Maine coast mesmerized painters like Andrew Wyeth, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper. Their paintings depict a mix of a steadfast, bucolic lifestyle with the harshness of seafaring.

Of the many beautiful spots along Maine’s coast, I’ve selected ones starting from the north along popular Route 1 and heading south to portray the breadth of the state’s natural and historical attractions.

1. Monhegan Island 

Mystical Monhegan Island has been the vacation home of the Wyeth family since the late 1950s. Reachable only by boat, and for most visitors only by mailboat , Monhegan has no paved roads and no cars. In the evening, there are no lights. Covering less than 1 square mile in area, Monhegan is a special place where artists, fishermen, and visitors have come for what we now call social distancing.

You can’t get seafood any fresher than what you’ll find on the island. Lobster and clams are brought to your picnic table on the sand, just steps from the ocean where they were plucked. You’d best “capture the Maine spirit,” as they say, and order an ice-cold Moxie to wash it all down. An acquired taste, Moxie is the local soft drink favorite likened by many to a mix of Dr. Pepper and cough syrup. I love it.

Monhegan Island accommodations are about as quaint as they come. There’s an inn with rocking chairs on the porch, a couple of rooming houses, and not much more. Island artists live in weathered shingle dwellings scattered on the island. 

If you’re looking for air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and turndown service, you’ve come to the wrong place. You could visit Monhegan as a day trip only, but, for the full experience, disconnecting and booking a room to listen to the sounds of silence in the evening is better than any kind of meditation I’ve tried.

Pro Tips: The hills and hiking trails along the coast can be quite taxing. If you’re up for it, the reward is Maine’s famed coastal views and a lighthouse and museum with maritime art. For a less challenging walk, you can sit on the sloping lawn in front of The Island Inn and take in the harbor with its lobster boats, bobbing buoys, and maybe even some jumping fish. To reach the island, park your car in Port Clyde, a short drive off Route 1 or Route 295 (use your GPS), and check in at the souvenir shop for your “ferry” ticket.

2. MidCoast: Camden, Rockland, And Owl’s Head 

The area known as the MidCoast offers a taste of easygoing coastal Maine along Penobscot Bay. Art galleries and shops, bed and breakfasts, and waterside charm appeal to visitors looking to enjoy harbor views and a lobster “in the rough.” Both Rockport and Camden have working harbors — guaranteeing fresh seafood daily — and make for some stunning photos.

Plan to spend a day of varied activities in this area. Hike in Camden Hills State Park or get a dose of indoor culture at three notable museums. The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland showcases the work of the Wyeth family. Steps away, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art is a striking building filled with current-day oeuvres by Maine residents. Owl’s Head has a museum with a different type of appeal, the Owl’s Head Transportation Museum . The museum’s bi-planes can sometimes be seen flying over the harbor. 

Overnight on a Maine windjammer to explore the bay and the local islands, or stay in a charming bed and breakfast on the shore. Whatever you do, make sure you have a lobster: many consider this to be “lobster central.”

Pro Tip: On this 200 th anniversary of the birth of acclaimed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame), note the small town park in Camden, another of his firm’s design gems. 

3. Portland And Cape Elizabeth

I’d be remiss if I didn’t encourage you to spend some time in Portland. Portland is a beautiful, historic Maine city with a lively small-town vibe. Architecture ranges from Federal-style buildings to Victorian mansions, with restaurants and bars housed in traditional buildings or on the docks. 

Since parking is extremely difficult in the city, you might have to resolve yourself to a drive-through to see the Old Port, cruise the shopping area with its cobblestones and brick sidewalks, and gaze at the tonier side of the city along the Casco Bay-facing Eastern Promenade and the Western Promenade where Victorian residences stand in multi-color glory. 

If you can park, head to Congress Square to the Portland Museum of Art , a repository of paintings by international and Maine-connected artists including Wyeth, Hopper, and Homer. For dinner, choose from one of this foodie city’s many lauded restaurants like Street and Co. , Scales , or Fore Street , touted as among the best U.S. eateries by Food and Wine .

Across the bridge, Cape Elizabeth seems worlds apart from busy Portland. There are only a few restaurants and shops, but your main reason to stay here is for an essentially self-contained Maine holiday experience and access to the headlands and water views from Two Lights State Park and the adjacent Lobster Shack . 

Check in to the Inn by the Sea , one of Maine’s premier resorts, and sign out one of their bikes to see the iconic lighthouses. Revive after your exertion (the roads are hilly) with a swim at the inn’s beach or with an outdoor spa treatment before enjoying a cocktail and s’mores around the fire pit.

Pro Tips: Don’t be dismayed when you see the line at the Lobster Shack — it moves quicker than you might think. Order a lobster roll, fried clams, and onion rings — all Maine favorites — and finish with another New England treat, a Whoopie pie, a chocolate cake-like concoction with a cream center. If you’re a pet lover, the Inn by the Sea has an endearing pet adoption program: you can test out a pup for an afternoon walk. If you fall in love, you have a new friend to take home.

4. The Kennebunks: Kennebunkport And Kennebunk 

The two towns comprising the Kennebunks are all about the Maine seafaring lifestyle. Side-by-side along the shores of several rivers, the towns overlap in some ways but have distinct personalities in others. You can easily combine both in a day or even a few hours of exploring.

The home base for shipbuilding and seafaring, Kennebunk boasts a main street lined with stately homes originally built for sea captains. There you’ll find Federal-style buildings along with frilly and even gothic-looking Victorian homes, many converted into inns for today’s visitors. There’s a patrician feel to the town which blurs with Kennebunkport’s combination seaside and souvenir-shop vibe.

The Clam Shack , a takeout landmark on the bridge separating Kennebunk’s Lower Village and Kennebunkport’s Dock Square, repeatedly wins the award for having Maine’s best lobster roll. Unadulterated lobster, with no unseemly add-ins like tarragon or Old Bay Seasoning, that’s what the Clam Shack’s lobster roll is all about. You decide whether you want it with butter, or with mayonnaise — or go for it and have both. Different from other lobster rolls you might have had even in Maine, the mayo is not already mixed in and celery is nowhere in sight. The flavor is pure, the lobster is warm, and the briny-sweet flavor is at its best. If you prefer a sit-down experience, Nunan’s Lobster Hut in nearby Cape Porpoise offers indoor and outdoor table service with a lobster bake experience of lobster in the shell, steamers, and corn on the cob.

The Kennebunks invite you to dip your toes into Maine’s notoriously chilly water. Beautiful Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, uncrowded due to limited sidewalk parking, is a lovely spot for exploring Maine’s fascinating tidal pools. If you’re as enchanted as I was here, you’ll want to stay at the Tides Beach Club , an atmospheric inn set directly across the street. Sit on the inn’s front porch and rock for a while as you sip a cosmopolitan and watch the sun go down.

Pro Tip: For a glimpse of American history, follow the road out to Ocean Avenue towards Walker’s Point, the site of the “compound” where former President George H.W. Bush summered with his family. Drive by and take a photo — the Secret Service will probably not let you get very close.

5. Ogunquit, Perkins Cove, And The Marginal Way  

South of the Kennebunks lies traffic-snarled Ogunquit, a magnet for art lovers and beach fans thanks to its many lodgings and cultural opportunities. There are plenty of shops to keep you busy, or you might want to see a show at one of the country’s last summer stock theaters, the Ogunquit Playhouse . The line-up features original and touring musicals for both adults and children and runs through December. The stunning Ogunquit Museum of American Art is a small art museum with a sculpture park with 18 gardens.

If parking in Ogunquit proper is an impossibility, drive south to one of Maine’s coastal gems, Perkins Cove. Fortunately, there are parking lots here to help ease the pain. And that’s good for you, too, for herein lies a quintessential Maine eatery, Barnacle Billy’s , your go-to for a lobster and Maine’s state dessert, blueberry pie made with Maine’s tiny wild berries. This is also where you can sample Maine ice cream in typical New England flavors like butter pecan, rum raisin, peppermint stick, and black raspberry. Use the local vernacular and ask for “jimmies” on top.

Walk down the cove, stopping to admire jewelry made from sea glass, t-shirts with witty sayings, and some serious art. Then turn north to enter the Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile paved cliff walk above the rocky Maine coast. The flower-adorned path has some gently sloping areas as it winds its way towards the heart of Ogunquit, with beautiful homes on the left and crashing waves to the right. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can do a bit of rock scrambling, taking note of slippery areas from the salt water. For a rest, there are 39 thoughtfully placed benches along the route.

Pro Tip: Allow enough time to do the return trip to retrieve your parked car. You’ll get a different perspective as your head south this time.

For more ideas and inspiration on Maine , explore these articles:

• 12 Amazing Maine Vacation Rentals On The Water
• The Kennebunkport Resort The Whole Family Will Love
• How To Spend A Perfect Day In Coastal Belfast, Maine

A Board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, Meryl shares her finds in a myriad of travel publications. She is the author of Fodor’s Family: New York City with Kids , a restaurant reviewer for Gayot.com, and a yogini and classical pianist. Follow Meryl's journeys via Instagram and across social media.

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10 Best Small Towns in Maine, According to a Local

Beautiful coastal views included.

Maine is full of small-town charm that often gets overlooked when visitors flock to the southernmost parts of the state. As a Mainer, I always encourage tourists to save time for all the magic that lies north of Portland .

My advice often invites the question, "Oh, you mean Acadia National Park ?" While Acadia should not be missed, I'm talking about the in-between towns — the places with convenience stores that sell a mishmash of groceries, antiques, and lawn ornaments; places where your server is probably also the owner, and where "ayuh" is used instead of "yes."

Here are some of the best small towns in Maine.

Most know Ellsworth as a place to drive through en route to Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island . But there are a few reasons you should do more than stretch your legs here. For starters, you can buy cheesecake on the honor system. Momo's Cheesecakes offers its treats from a garage that has been renovated to keep up with the demand.

On the other end of Main Street, 86 This! calls itself "a classy, punk-rock burrito shop." A wide variety of creative wraps are perfect for your picnic basket. Meanwhile, yogis will delight in Steamy Buddha 's offerings. And just past the Ellsworth line, there's a Maine experience like no other: Timber Tina's Great Maine Lumberjack Show . Watch the show or try your hand at log rolling.

Where to Stay: Under Canvas Acadia , a luxury glamping experience, is a short distance away in Surry.

Moosehead Lake is Maine's largest lake, but it's not as frequented as its southern counterpart — Sebago Lake. Greenville is a 1.5-hour scenic drive from Bangor International Airport and Moosehead is certainly the focal point of the town. One way to take in the lake's beauty is by booking a seaplane ride — ideal for both the summer and fall.

Steamboat Katahdin has been around for 100 years and outlived what used to be a competitive market of vessels. Visitors can also join a Registered Maine Guide for a unique moose safari . And road trippers will love Lily Bay State Park for its sandy beach, campsites, playground, and picnic areas.

Where to Stay: Rent a camp . "Camp" is a term Mainers use in place of lake house, cottage, cabin, and more.

Swan's Island

If you've dreamed of staying in a Maine town that's only accessible by ferry service , Swan's Island is the place to go for lazy days at the beach with a view that has no end. Its charm lies in its simplicity: one store, lighthouse, museum, and library. While swimming is available at four public beaches, the "quarry pond" gives visitors the option of a freshwater dip. A variety of trails, boat charters, and eco tours are also available for travelers wanting some activity. If you're already planning a trip to Acadia National Park, don't miss this nearby treasure.

Where to Stay: Vacation rentals may be your best bet here. Since the ferry leaves from Bass Harbor, staying at The Claremont is often preferred.

When I attended the University of Maine, Orono seemed like a college town. Now as a mother of two, Orono feels like a family destination. Those seemingly contradictory vibes boil down to the fact that no one is an outsider here. You'll never feel like a tourist (unless you want to).

After grabbing coffee and an acai bowl from Nest , cross the street to the Stillwater River Trail, which is just short of four miles out and back. For something more outdoorsy, Maine Bound Adventure Center at the university offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals (along with rooftop kits for transport). Locals also love Pat's Pizza (or the fish tacos at Woodman's). And in true college town fashion, there are plenty of places to enjoy a beverage, with Orono Brewing having the most extensive selection of craft brews.

Where to Stay: Away from downtown, a part of Orono is located on Pushaw Lake, where this quaint cottage is located.

Maine's Mid-Coast is lined with charming, can't-miss towns, like Camden. While the downtown area is chock-full of shops, restaurants, and cafes, don't forget to find some elevation by hiking or climbing Mount Battie at Camden Hills State Park. For a unique way to see Maine's coast while capturing its beauty, check out a photography workshop excursion on board the Moon Dog .

Where to Stay: 16 Bay View overlooks the harbor and is centrally located to dozens of shops and restaurants.

Home to the Maine Maritime Academy, Castine is one of the state's most overlooked destinations and also one of the oldest, with more than 100 historic markers throughout town, which landed it on the National Register of Historic Places. To get a sense of its charm, join a walking tour or catch up with the local crowd at the newly renovated Dennett's Wharf, which has been a staple in the community for 50 years.

Where to Stay: Check into the Pentagoet Inn & Wine Bar , a historic bed-and-breakfast with an on-site pub and quaint woodland garden with views of Penobscot Bay.

In the winter months, Kingfield comes alive as a ski town of sorts, situated next door to the famed Sugarloaf Mountain. But to only know Kingfield as a place to rest your head between trips to the slopes would be missing out on a different type of beauty that blossoms during the summer and early fall. Outdoor enthusiasts bring their bikes and hiking shoes to hop on the 80-mile network of groomed paths known as Maine Huts & Trails . If your goal is to cover as much of the Maine woods as possible, booking a "hut" to sleep in between hikes is a great way to meet local adventurers.

Where to Stay: Check out this adorable A-frame cabin on Airbnb .

Located on Deer Isle, Stonington has everything a visitor could want from a historic fishing village. A working waterfront gives tourists a glimpse into how their famed lobster dinner was made possible. The town is nestled into a hillside, with sweeping views of the bay. You can get lost in nature, busy yourself with art galleries, or take in a show at the Stonington Opera House . Of course, it wouldn't be a trip to the island without stopping at Nervous Nellie's Jams and Jellies . Eclectic sculptures and goods made by Maine artisans accompany the treats.

Where to Stay: Aragosta at Goose Cove not only offers dreamy oceanfront lodging in cottages and suites, but the fine-dining restaurant serves creative culinary delights from a renowned chef who works directly with local fishermen and farmers to curate the freshest cuisine.

A former mill town, Buckport sits on the banks of the Penobscot River and is home to a thriving waterfront with picturesque views of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Fort Knox. The paved walkway stretches for almost a mile, and visitors can find a bench and enjoy some fried clams from nearby Crosby's Drive-In. Friars' Brewhouse Tap Room serves local beer and is a great place to stop in between browsing shops on Main Street.

Where to Stay: Check out this quiet waterfront Airbnb .

Maine's Lakes and Mountains region in the western part of the state is home to several idyllic towns, including Naples, which is nestled between Sebago Lake and Long Lake (with another 50 lakes nearby). Learn how to water ski or wakeboard, or take it easy with a pontoon rental. Dining options are plentiful, too, with many waterfront restaurants and eateries (think: all the seafood and blueberry desserts you can eat).

Where to Stay: Lakeview Inn is a bed-and-breakfast where you can expect ukulele concerts and weekend barbecues.

12 Most Beautiful Towns In Maine You Should Visit

• Camden: Experience ocean views, sunset cruises, and charming shops and eateries in this beautiful mid-coast town in Maine.
• Greenville: Surround yourself with forests, mountains, and lakes while hiking, wildlife watching, and taking scenic cruises in this picturesque town.
• Swan's Island: Accessible by ferry, this beach town offers outdoor activities, historical sites, and breathtaking views of the sky and wetlands.

Maine welcomes travelers for jagged peaks and cliff-lined shores, seaside villages and tranquil forests, lobsters and lighthouses, or let each one decide their favorite element here. While the charming towns of Maine are abundant in beauty, it is a place with exemplary culinary scenes, bustling art and culture from the indigenous tribes, plenty of outdoors, beach piers, and good nightlife. Here are some towns in Maine that are undeniably and breathtakingly beautiful.

UPDATE: 2023/09/27 06:04 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

12 Of The Most Beautiful Towns In Maine

The small towns in Maine, grossly underrated and overlooked, offer an authentic New England vacation rarely experienced in the bigger, more famous destinations. This updated article lists additional charming towns in Maine where vacationers can enjoy fun coastal escapades and get a feel for the fascinating fall foliage.

Related: 10 Most Scenic Fall Drives In Maine For Leaf Peepers

A self-proclaimed jewel of Maine , Camden beckons ocean lovers, foodies, shopaholics, and adventure lovers. Located in Knox County in Maine’s mid-coast, Camden caters to every traveler's palette. A “Camden Harbor Cruise” allows visitors to witness beautiful boats and lighthouses; meanwhile, the “Schooner Tour” gets them alongside the incredible sunset, coastline, and wildlife. Downtown Camden is a delightful place brimming with cafes, antique shops, seafood eateries, and souvenir binge.

• Things to do: Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe, Smiling Cow, Camden Hills State Park, French & Brawn Market Place, and Owl and Turtle Bookshop
• Where to eat: The Waterfront Restaurant, The Jack, Franny's Bistro, Wolfpeach
• Where to sleep: Glenmoor By The Sea, The Belmont Inn, Camden Maine Stay Inn

Located on Moosehead Lakes, the state’s largest lake, Greenville is exactly in the core of Maine Highlands. Enveloped by ceaseless forests, mountains, and lakes, travelers have plenty of opportunities to hike and experience the beauty of Maine's fall foliage. Be it witnessing a light-colored volcanic rock comprising one of the world’s largest masses of rhyolite or hiking up Mount Kineo, experiencing the moose safari and other wildlife, or opting for various cruises such as Sugar Island Cruise, Moose Cruise, Head of The Lake Cruise, there is so much to explore in the town.

• Things to do: Currier Aviation Museum, Inc., Lily Bay State Park, Big Moose Mountain Ski Area, Moosehead Lake Fireworks Cruise
• Where to eat: Stress-Free Moose Pub, Kelly's Landing, Dockside Inn & Tavern
• Where to sleep: The Lodge at Moosehead Lake, Kineo View Lodge, Moosehead Hills Cabins

Related: 10 Most Charming Fishing Towns In America

Swan’s Island

Accessible by sheer ferry service, Swan’s Island is Maine’s town with a beach and never-ending view of the sky. With its quaint charm, this locale primarily has rich wildlife, recreational activities, and history. Mountain biking down the road, camping, hiking, renting a kayak or canoe, this place has small wetlands and open fields. An island town in Hancock County, it is famous for camping overnight. There are almost 10 campsites overlooking Little Swan Island and the Kennebec River, albeit they can be reached via a ferry leaving from Bass Harbor.

• Things to do: Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, Hockamock Head, Fine Sand Beach
• Where to eat: Quietside Snacks, Coffee Love, Lunt's Dockside Deli, Thurston's Lobster Pound
• Where to sleep: Harbor Watch Inn, Keeper's House Inn, Best Western Arcadia Park Inn

If anyone is touring the Maine coast, Ellsworth is the perfect stop to explore. It is a historical town en route to Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. The high street in the Downtown area is considered prominent for shopping in Hancock County. Woodlawn Museum has a tour of historic houses and snowmobile trails for winter recreation; meanwhile, the Telephone Museum and Historic Grand Auditorium have concerts and musical plays that should not be missed. At dusk, the neon lights of Grand’s Marquee in downtown Ellsworth, Maine, add to the vibe.

• Things to do: Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary, Old Creamery Antique Mall, Black House Museum at Woodlawn, L.L Bean
• Where to eat: Provender Kitchen + Bar, Union River Lobster Pot, Helen's Restaurant of Ellsworth
• Where to sleep: Hampton Inn Ellsworth, Colonial Inn Ellsworth, Ramada by Wyndham Ellsworth

One of the oldest towns in Maine , Castine still retains its historic charm. Steeped in culture and surrounded by scenic views, it is located on a peninsula in Penobscot Bay. Be it historical inns or the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, which is the world’s tallest bridge observatory, navigating through Wilson Museum or Castine Historical Society, visiting Dice Head Lighthouse, Fort Madison, or Fort George, there are many destinations that can be added to the itinerary.

• Things to do: Wilson Museum, Gallery B, Dyce Head Lighthouse, Castine Touring Company, Compass Rose Books
• Where to eat: Margaret's, Pentagoet Inn Wine Bar, Angler's Restaurant, Danny Murphy's Pub
• Where to sleep: The Castine Inn, The Manor Inn, Castine Cottages,

Kingfield is a town in Maine surrounded by the Longfellow Mountain Range at the confluence of the West Branch and Carrabassett Rivers. Encircled by mountains and valleys, it is a ski resort primarily. Nature lovers will have a gala time as they have plenty of activities to choose from, be it hiking, walking, or cross-country skiing. Fishing is quite popular in summer on the Carrabassett River. Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel and Hostel Of Maine are two resorts for the scenic slopeside stay. In the midst, fine dining at Rack BBQ, grabbing a burrito at Rolling Fatties, or a breakfast meal at Kingsfield Woodsman should be a cherry on the cake.

• Things to do: Stanley Museum, Ira Mountain, Maine Ski & Snowboard Museum, Sugarloaf Mountain
• Where to eat: Rack BBQ, Kingsfield Woodsman, Longfellow's Restaurant, Rolling Fatties
• Where to sleep: Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, Hostel Of Maine, The Inn on Winter's Hill

Related: Good Evening: 10 Serene Night Hiking Trails In The U.S.

Bucksport has notched the place of #1 Seaside Small Town (2021) by USA Today . With gorgeous views of the Penobscot River, Fort Knox, and the impressive Penobscot Narrows Bridge, this town has plenty of attractions and activities. Stubborn Cow Glass, a historical building displaying products from local artisans such as jewelry, lamps, glasses, and bowls; Bucksport Golf and Country Club, a nine-hole course, Camden Hill State Park, famous for fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking, Fort Knox State Park, a historic site, Mount Waldo, highly revered for scenic views, Verona Island with its quaint charm, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, a heaven for hikers are few of the prime attractions of this town. Don't forget to grab some local beer from Friars' Brewhouse Tap Room. Apart from this, there are a few not to be missed food outlets in Bucksport .

• Things to do: Camden Hill State Park, Bucksport Golf and Country Club, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, Mount Waldo
• Where to eat: Friars' Brewhouse Tap Room, MacLeaod's Restaurant, Carrier's Mainely Lobster
• Where to sleep: Bucksport Inn, Fort Know Park Inn, Ramada by Wyndham Bangor

A town in Cumberland County, Naples, is enveloped by lakes, ponds, mountains, and forests. Thus, ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, camping, and swimming are quite popular here. Also, visitors can opt for a cruise to Long Lake on the Songo River Queen 2, accompanied by food and cocktails, or a halt by Sebago Lake State Park, a prime spot for fishing, boating, and camping. Witnessing festivals such as Maine’s Blue Festival and Blue Cruise on Songo Lake will let one experience a vibe. On the other hand, Seaplane Adventure Flight will let one experience adventure.

• Things to do: Sebago Lake State Park Campground, Carousel Horse Farm, Naples Causeway, Naples Marina
• Where to eat: Black Bear Cafe, an Irish pub, Fisherman’s Catch, Freedom’s Cafe,
• Where to sleep: Romah Motor Inn Naples, Lakeview Inn, Augustus Bove House

Boothbay Harbor

Located on hilly terrain, Boothbay Harbor has the charm of a quaint town. Having a working waterfront, Boothbay is surrounded by islands and lighthouses. Thus, it is inevitably popular for kayaking, sailing, and yachting. It also has breweries, quaint shops, and galore eateries. The Lincoln Arts Festival and the Pythian Opera House feature regular exhibits and performances. History buffs can head towards Boothbay Region Historical Museum.

• Things to do: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, Burnt Island Light, Penny Lake Preserve
• Where to eat: Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Boothbay Lobster Wharf, Kaler's Restaurant
• Where to sleep: Boothbay Harbor Inn, Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort, Brown's Wharf Inn

A picturesque small town, Wiscasset's historic charm can be seen in its ancient buildings, quaint homes, and beautiful churches. A stroll through Fort Edgecomb State Historic Site, visiting the historic mansion, Nickels-Sortwell House in downtown Wiscasset, touring the Castle Trucker, living house of a shipping magnate, Richard Trucker, dropping by Marston House Wiscasset, a shop with French antiques as well as serving bed and breakfast or Peter Eaton Antiques, specifically known for artsy home decor antiques are few the to-do things on the list for roaming around Wiscasset.

• Things to do: Monkey C Monkey Do, Castle Tucker, Fort Edgecomb State Historic Site, Wiscasset Speedway
• Where to eat: Red's Eat, Water Street Kitchen and Bar, Sparague's Lobster
• Where to sleep: Wiscasset Woods Lodge, The Marston House Wiscasset, Residence Inn by Marriott Bath Brunswick Area

This charming Hancock County town lies on the rugged coastline south of Deer Isle, overlooking the picturesque Penobscot Bay. Once famous as a granite mining town, Stonington is revered for its solitude and slow pace of life. However, it's never a dull time in the town, thanks to diverse attractions tailored to impress all types of travelers. The Lighthouse Trail is a popular option for explorers in town, while history buffs can uncover ancient gems at the local Historical Society.

• Things to do : Settlement Quarry, Opera House Arts, Art By Katy Gallery, Stonington Paddle
• Where to eat: Harbor Cafe, The Cockatoo Portuguese Restaurant, North Coffee, Fairway Cafe
• Where to sleep : Boyce's Motel, Inn on the Harbor, Greenlaw's RV Park

One of the most beautiful towns in Maine, Blue Hill comes to its own in the fall, when the charming shades of red, yellow, and orange culminate in a storybook setting. It is an excellent destination for the outdoorsy tourist, surrounded by lush scenery, unspoiled mountain trails, and sparkling water bodies. Those who want to trade the hustle and bustle of the big city for the laid-back vibe of a small town with endless outdoor adventures will feel at home in Blue Hill.

• Things to do: Jud Hartmann Gallery, Blue Hill Historical Society, Jonathan Fisher House, The Activity Shop, Blue Hill Wine Shop
• Where to eat: Arbovine, Fish Net, Sandy's Blue Hill Cafe, Marlintini's
• Where to sleep: Blue Hill Inn, The Farmhouse Inn, Barncastle Hotel & Restaurant

13 Prettiest Coastal Towns to Visit in Maine in Autumn-[Surprising Beautiful] Seaside 

Categories Travel , Beach Travel , Towns

Spectacular Beauty Of Maine Fall Foliage – Experience Autumn In A Coastal Town In Maine

The leaves are changing color and falling to the ground. This time of year is when we begin to reflect on our lives and how far we’ve come. We look back at where we started and realize that we’ve become better versions of ourselves. Maine is a beautiful state to visit in the fall, thanks to its stunning foliage. And what better way to enjoy the autumn leaves than by visiting one of Maine’s many coastal towns ? That makes me wonder, what are the coastal towns to visit in Maine in autumn?

What Are the Best Coastal Towns to Visit in Maine?

So, what are the coastal towns to visit in Maine in Autumn? From the top of the State (north) are Machiasport, Winter Harbor, Castine, Vinalhaven, Camden, Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, Harpswell, Freeport, Cape Elizabeth, Old Orchard Beach, Ogunquit, and York.

There are lots of reasons to visit Maine coastal towns in the fall. The leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold. Also, the ocean turns different colors depending on the time of day and the weather, so it’s beautiful to view from shore or a boat.

• The Maine coast is beautiful in the Autumn.
• The coastal towns in Maine are also quieter
• The tourist season is over , so fewer people are out and about.
• The water is still warm enough to swim in , so it’s a good time to go to the beach .

Table of Contents

I’ll take a look at many coastal Maine towns , describe how they look in the autumn, and also what activities you can do. Let’s dive in. Keep on reading, you won’t want to miss it!

What Are the Prettiest Coastal Towns in Maine?

The most beautiful towns in Maine are located along the coast. These places are known for their natural beauty and breathtaking views, especially in autumn. If you love nature, these towns are perfect for you.

There are many reasons why these towns are considered among the prettiest coastal towns in Maine. Some of them include the fact that there are lots of beaches here. There are also plenty of parks where you can go hiking and enjoy the fresh air.

Another reason why these towns are considered pretty is because of the amazing scenery. Many of these towns are surrounded by mountains and forests. This means you will find yourself surrounded by greenery while walking around town .

These towns are also home to various festivals throughout the year. One such festival is the Lobster Festival held each spring. You can listen to live music and enjoy delicious lobster dishes during this time.

These towns are also famous for their arts and culture. You can attend events like the Maine International Film Festival and the Maine Maritime Museum.

Best Coastal Towns- Coastal Villages – in Maine

Here’s a list of the 13 best coastal towns with beautiful autumn colors, enhancing the beauty of the coastal village.

#1-Machiasport Coastal Town

Machiasport is a small coastal town located in Washington County, Maine. The town has beautiful beaches , some of which have sandy bottoms and smooth rocks. Visitors to the town also like that there are several shops and parks to spend time relaxing after a day of swimming or sunbathing on the beach .

In the autumn and winter months, visitors have the chance to see sights such as lighthouses in Machiasport. The beautiful foliage is also visible from the restaurants and shops in town, making this an ideal place to visit in the off-season.

#2 -Winter Harbor Coastal Town

Winter Harbor is a small coastal community located on the coast of Maine. It could be one of the best places to visit in Maine in the fall which is out of the way and quietly beautiful. It is surrounded by the scenic and beautiful Acadia National Park with Mount Desert Island as its centerpiece. Visitors can enjoy hiking, sea kayaking, whale watching, swimming, fishing, camping, and various beaches.

During autumn, you may also choose to take advantage of the seasonal activities at Acadia National Park.

#3 -Castine Coastal Town

Though the town’s small size belies its historical importance, Castine remains a seaside treasure worth visiting. History buffs love exploring the Maine Maritime Museum, the Castine Historical Society, and the town cemetery.

The natural beauty of Castine Coastal Town , Maine is matched only by the vibrant community of artists, writers, and poets who call it home.

In the autumn and winter, there are additional activities to take part in such as hikes along the coast and whale watching.

#4 -Vinalhaven Coastal Town

Vinalhaven is a small coastal community located on a peninsula that juts into Penobscot Bay in Knox County, Maine. Home to less than 700 year-round residents, the town is otherwise occupied by summer residents and tourists that visit the islands. The community’s location makes fishing, boating, and sailing ideal.

The autumn colors and a visit to the Vinalhaven Coastal Museum make this the perfect town to visit during this time of year.

#5 -Camden Coastal Town

Camden Harbor is between Belfast and Rockland on Penobscot Bay in Coastal Maine and one of the suggested places to visit in Maine in the fall. Camden is well known for its authentic New England charm, maritime history, and natural beauty. The area is home to numerous art galleries, restaurants, antique shops, an active waterfront, and a harbor.

Autumn time is a perfect time to visit Camden Town , Maine. With mild temperatures and scenic foliage, it’s perfect for spending a day wandering around the harbor or browsing the quaint shops.

#6 -Boothbay Harbor Coastal Town

Boothbay Harbor is a small coastal town located on the shores of the Piscataqua River in the state of Maine. The harbor has been around for hundreds of years and is now a popular tourist attraction. The waterfront features many shops and restaurants and is also home to a baseball team.

Autumn colors are prevalent during the autumn months in Boothbay Harbor Coastal Town, Maine, and provide a fantastic backdrop for pictures.

#7 -Wiscasset Coastal Town

Wiscasset is a wonderful coastal village located along the southern coast of Maine. The village sits on the confluence of two rivers, the Saco and the Sheepscot. Wiscasset is steeped in history. It was once a prosperous shipbuilding center, and even today, you can still find several boats in Wiscasset’s harbors.

In autumn, the town’s quiet New England charm is amplified by the changing colors of the leaves in the fall season.

#8 -Harpswell Coastal Town

Harpswell is a small town with beautiful beaches on the coast of Maine. It has several beaches and has the best beaches in Maine and is one of the best seaside towns in Maine. Harpswell is a great place to relax on the beach or kayak along the coastline of Maine.

During the fall months, the colors that you see are spectacular. There is a wonderful mix of inland forests and the rugged beaches of Maine. You can take a nice walk through the woods and enjoy the colors.

#9 -Freeport Coastal Town

Freeport is a coastal community in northern Maine along Penobscot Bay and the Penobscot River. The Penobscot Narrows Bridge connects the town to the mainland. The area is home to several parks, including Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, where visitors can enjoy walking, hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, and kayaking.

Autumn is the perfect time to visit the area. Outdoor activities abound, and the area offers several beautiful paths for walking and hiking.

#10 -Cape Elizabeth Coastal Town

Cape Elizabeth is a small coastal town in Maine’s Casco Bay. Cape Elizabeth is home to Casco Bay Lines ferry service between Portland and Yarmouth, Maine. It is also home to Maine State Pier, which is a departure point for whale watching tours.

Autumn is a wonderful time to tour the harbor area here on Cape Elizabeth Coastal Town, Maine. The foliage is spectacular and so beautiful this time of year. You can take a ferry ride along the coast with the autumn foliage in the background.

#11-Old Orchard Beach Coastal Town

Old Orchard Beach is a seaside resort town in southern Maine and is famous for its 11-mile-long beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean and one of the best Maine coastal towns to explore. The beach comprises four sections: a pier section, a north section, a south section, and a sandy section. The pier section features many restaurants, arcades, and shops, while the sandy section is more secluded and ideal for families. The North and south sections feature various shops and arcades as well.

Old Orchard Beach is a popular vacation destination among families thanks to its large variety of attractions and beaches. That goes for autumn time as well because the foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for families taking pictures and is also great for sightseeing.

Old Orchard Beach coastal Maine is a family beach vacation destination known for its wide sandy beach, amusement parks, arcades, mini golf, restaurants, gift shops, and great fishing.

#12 -Ogunquit Coastal Town

Ogunquit is one of the most popular beaches in Maine. It draws visitors from all around with its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes . Ogunquit Beach is half a mile long with a magnificent ocean view. Tourists are amazed by the sight of the sandy beaches and rocky cliffs. Ogunquit has many activities like swimming, fishing, boating, and surfing.

Visiting during the autumn can take you on a breathtaking view as the foliage changes from green to yellow to orange and finally to red. Fall is an ideal season for visitors as the beach is still busy, but the crowds are smaller.

#13 -York Coastal Town

The city of York sits along the coastline of Penobscot Bay in Maine. There are many beaches around York, and most of them are sandy and perfect for swimming. York’s beaches are rocky and windy, which makes them the perfect people for kiting or windsurfing and could be one of the best towns in Maine to visit in the fall if you are active with sports.

In autumn, the foliage adds a beautiful backdrop to the coastline of York, Maine. There are many places along the shore where you can go fishing and enjoy nature. Some places to see in York are York Harbor State Park, Fort William, and York Beach State Park .

Maine in The Fall – Beautiful Foliage – of Coastal Maine Beach Towns

Maine is a beautiful state to visit in the fall, thanks to its stunning foliage. And what better way to enjoy the autumn leaves than by visiting one of Maine’s many coastal towns ? From quaint fishing villages to bustling seaside resorts, there’s a perfect Maine beach town for everyone.

What Are the Best Things to Do in These Towns?

Here is a brief summary of the activities and attractions you can enjoy when visiting coastal towns during the fall season. These towns are especially beautiful in autumn due to the vibrant colors of the leaves. Here’s a simple table to guide your autumn adventure :

Please note that the options and souvenirs might vary depending on the specific location you visit.

What Are the Best Times of Year to Visit These Towns?

In general, the best times of year to visit these towns are during the spring and fall. The weather is usually milder during these seasons, making exploring the towns more comfortable and participating in outdoor activities . However, each town has its own unique attractions and events that may be better enjoyed at different times of the year. For example, the Christmas markets in Dresden are popular tourist attractions during the winter.

What Are the Best Activities for Couples in These Towns?

Couples can do many different things together, depending on their interests and their specific town or city. However, some general popular activities among couples include exploring local attractions, going on romantic walks or picnics, visiting nearby wineries or breweries, attending local festivals or fairs, and simply spending time together enjoying each other’s company.

What Seaside Towns and Beautiful Coastal Towns in Maine to Visit?

There are several seaside towns you should visit on a trip to Maine. It depends on your key interests, but some popular ones are Portland, Camden, and Ogunquit. These seaside towns have trees and shrubs that, during autumn, reflect the fall colors well.

What Town in Maine Is Most Like Cabot Cove

Although Cabot Cove is fictional, the TV series gives clues and descriptions of the coastal town. Based on those descriptions (fishing village, coastal town, small forests, harbor), it can be represented in real places in Maine such as Boothbay Harbor, Freeport, and Winter Harbor.

Cabot Cove is a “small, fictional, fishing village in which Jessica Fletcher lives in the television series”. ( Source ) 

What Is the Coolest City in Maine?

Portland is the coolest city in Maine because of its vibrant and creative culture, stunning natural scenery, and friendly and welcoming people. The city has a strong sense of community and pride in its local businesses and attractions. Portland is also home to some of the best restaurants in the state and a thriving nightlife scene.

Coastal Maine Towns – Harbor Towns to Visit

There are many reasons to love living on the coast. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore, the smell of salt in the air, and the feel of sand between your toes are just a few. But one of the best things about coastal living is having easy access to some of the most beautiful small towns in Maine.

Maine is known for its rocky coastline, lighthouses, and seafood shacks. And while all of those things can be found in abundance along our coastline, there are also plenty of charming harbor towns worth visiting .

Here are a few popular and public favorite coastal Maine towns:

1. Boothbay Harbor – This quaint town is on a peninsula jutting into Boothbay Harbor. It’s home to numerous shops and restaurants, as well as a variety of boat tours that depart from its docks daily. There’s also an abundance of activities for kids , making it a great place to bring the whole family.

2. Camden – Located on Penobscot Bay, Camden is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. Its picturesque harbor is lined with shops and restaurants, and it’s also home to a number

Best Beach Towns in Maine for Families

Best coastal towns in maine to live.

There are many factors to consider when it comes to finding the perfect place to raise a family . The right coastal town for families comes down to a set of criteria. But if you’re looking for a beautiful setting with plenty of activities for everyone in the family , Maine’s coast is the place to be.

There are dozens of great towns to choose from, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top five picks for the best coastal towns in Maine to live in for families.

1. Camden: Camden is a picturesque town located on Penobscot Bay. It’s known for its stunning harbor views, and there’s plenty to keep families busy with its many shops, restaurants, and museums. A public beach and several parks are also perfect for picnics or days spent exploring nature.

2. Rockland: Rockland is another great option for families looking to live on Maine’s coast. This town is home to the renowned Farnsworth Art Museum and several other art galleries and museums. Plenty of outdoor activities are available, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. And don’t forget about Rockland’s famous lobster!

3. Boothbay Harbor: Boothbay Harbor is a charming seaside town that offers something for everyone in the family. In addition to its many shops and restaurants, there are also a number of boat tours and charter fishing options available. And for those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore.

4. Kennebunkport: Kennebunkport is a popular summer destination for families, but it’s also a great place to live year-round. This town is home to several beaches and a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. There’s also a lively downtown area perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.

5. Portland: Portland is Maine’s largest city, and it offers everything you could want in a coastal town . There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, museums, art galleries, and parks. And with its convenient location just minutes from the beach , it’s the perfect place to call home for families who love the coast.

You might be interested in my article Best Beach Towns for Families – Plus 13 Ways to Decide On The Right Town which gives you some criteria and help for deciding which beach town to raise a family. 

What Are the Best Activities for Families in These Towns?

1. Swimming

2. Sunbathing

3. Building sandcastles

4. Searching for shells

5. Playing in the waves

6. Exploring tide pools

7. Taking a walk on the beach

Autumn is a wonderful season to visit Maine. There are plenty of beautiful towns to explore along its coastline, each with its unique charm. There’s nothing like walking along the shoreline and watching the landscape change from green to orange to red with a splash of bright yellow mixed in. But if you want to appreciate the beauty of the season, you should plan a trip to visit one of these beautiful towns during their annual festivals. Take a look on the web for information about these festivals per town.

The crowds are gone, so you won’t have to worry about finding parking or fighting through throngs of tourists. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to discover some of the prettiest seaside towns in Maine.

Frequently Asked Questions‍

What are the best places to visit in maine in autumn.

There are many beautiful coastal towns in Maine that are worth a visit in autumn. Some of the best places to visit include Camden, Old Orchard Beach, Bar Harbor, Rockland, and Boothbay Harbor.

Can I see fall foliage in Maine?

Yes, Maine is known for its stunning fall foliage. The state’s best places to see fall colors include Camden Hills State Park, Acadia National Park, and the coastal towns along the Maine coast.

What Is the Nicest Town to Live in In Maine

The nicest beach town to live in in Maine is Kennebunkport. It’s a small community located along the coast of southern Maine. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and quaint shops. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy.

Kennebunkport is home to the famous B&M Restaurant which serves fresh seafood . This restaurant is considered one of the best places to eat in Maine. Another great place to visit is the Kennebunkport Farmers Market where visitors can find local produce and delicious food.

Kennebunkport has plenty of activities such as sailing, fishing, kayaking, golfing, hiking, biking, and more.

What Is the Most Affordable Coastal Town in Maine

If you are looking for a beach town that is affordable and family-friendly, then look no further than Old Orchard Beach, Maine. This beach town is on the southern coast of Maine and offers 7 miles of sandy beaches to enjoy. In addition to its beautiful beaches , Old Orchard Beach also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities for families to enjoy.

Is Camden worth a visit in autumn?

Absolutely! Camden is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Maine and offers spectacular views of the fall foliage. Don’t miss a visit to Camden Hills State Park for stunning hiking trails and panoramic views.

What are some other popular places to see fall foliage in Maine?

In addition to Camden, other popular places to see fall foliage in Maine include Bar Harbor, Rockland, Boothbay Harbor, and the towns along the Maine coastline. Acadia National Park is also a must-visit destination for its breathtaking fall colors.

Are there any lighthouses to see along the Maine coast?

Yes, Maine is home to several picturesque lighthouses along its coastline. Some notable lighthouses to visit include Portland Head Light, Pemaquid Point Light, and Bass Harbor Head Light.

Which town in Maine is known for its lobster?

Bar Harbor is one of the most famous towns in Maine for its lobster. You can enjoy fresh seafood and lobster dishes at many of the local restaurants and seafood shacks.

Is Rockland a good place to visit in autumn?

Yes, Rockland is a charming coastal town in Maine that is beautiful in the fall. It is known for its scenic harbor, museums, art galleries, and delicious seafood.

What are some other beautiful coastal towns to visit in Maine?

Some other beautiful coastal towns to visit in Maine include Boothbay Harbor, Old Orchard Beach, Camden, and Kennebunkport. Each town has its own unique charm and attractions.

Can I hike in Camden Hills State Park?

Yes, Camden Hills State Park offers several hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is a great place to experience the beauty of Maine’s fall foliage.

Is Maine the perfect destination for autumn?

Yes, Maine is known for its spectacular beauty in autumn. The vibrant fall foliage, charming coastal towns , and delicious seafood make it a perfect destination for this season.

The Best Places to Live in Maine 2020

Can you picture yourself in one of these 12 Maine towns?

Community. Natural beauty. Opportunity. Momentum. These 12 Maine towns — from coastal villages to mountain hamlets to the state capital — just might have what you’re looking for in your next home base. (Anyway, it’s fun to daydream.)

A new crop of downtown entrepreneurs has a message: Don’t Dis ’Gusta.

Who really needs a ski mountain, anyway?

All the perks of the Camden Hills, with way more affordable homes than in neighboring Camden.

A town with momentum at Acadia’s front door.

A vibrant college town with back-door access to the coast.

Is Westbrook Stealing Portland’s thunder?

A Bangor bedroom community with an A+ school system.

Brooksville

The good life in McCloskey country.

A historic mill town in the midst of a revival.

Quirky and coastal — and a bargain.

South Berwick

A southern Maine gem at the intersection of nature and history.

North Haven

North Haven in winter has a quiet beauty.

Population, income, age, and poverty data come from the most recent U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey. Walk Score (walkscore.com) awards scores based on an assessment of a community’s walkability. GreatSchools (greatschools.org) rates Maine institutions based on publicly reported standardized test scores; Down East has calculated an average of ranked elementary, middle, and high schools, public and private. All of these stats provide only a generalized snapshot of a community and a starting point for further research, and factors like walkability can vary substantially from one area of town to the next.

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Maps of the April 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

By Jonathan Corum

On April 8, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow across a swath of North America: a total solar eclipse.

By cosmic coincidence, the moon and the sun appear roughly the same size in the sky. When the moon blocks the glare of the sun, the sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, will be briefly visible.

Below are several maps of the eclipse’s path as well as images of what you might experience during the event.

Where Can I See the Total Eclipse?

The eclipse will begin at sunrise over the Pacific Ocean, then cut through Mexico and cross the United States from Texas to Maine. Most of North America will see a partial eclipse, but viewers within the deepest shadow — a band sliding from Mazatlán, Mexico, to the Newfoundland coast near Gander, Canada — will experience a total solar eclipse.

Percentage of

the sun obscured

during the eclipse

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Viewers inside the path of the total eclipse may notice a drop in temperature , a lull or shift in the wind , the appearance of bright planets in the sky, and the quieting of birds and other wildlife.

Many cities lie inside the path of the total eclipse, as shown below, the width of which varies from 108 miles to 122 miles.

5:13 p.m. NDT

20% partial eclipse

NEWFOUNDLAND

SASKATCHEWAN

Fredericton

4:33 p.m. ADT

3:26 p.m. EDT

3:20 p.m. EDT

Minneapolis

3:18 p.m. EDT

3:13 p.m. EDT

San Francisco

90% partial eclipse

3:05 p.m. EDT

Los Angeles

1:51 p.m. CDT

1:40 p.m. CDT

1:33 p.m. CDT

12:16 p.m. CST

12:12 p.m. CST

11:07 a.m. MST

Mexico City

EL SALVADOR

12:23 p.m. CST

1:36 p.m. CDT

3:09 p.m. EDT

3:27 p.m. EDT

Explore our interactive cloud outlook for eclipse viewing times and average cloud data at your location.

What Will I See?

A composite image of the 2017 solar eclipse over Madras, Ore.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA

If the sky is clear, viewers in the path of the total eclipse should see a “diamond ring” effect a few seconds before and after the total eclipse, as the edge of the sun slips in and out of view.

The “diamond ring” effect during the 2017 solar eclipse.

Rami Daud/NASA, Alcyon Technical Services

The sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is normally hidden by the sun’s glare. These tendrils and sheets of gas, heated to a million degrees Fahrenheit or more, are in constant motion and shaped by the sun’s swirling magnetic field.

The sun’s corona during the 2017 solar eclipse.

The sun is relatively active this year and is nearing the expected peak of its 11-year solar cycle . Researchers at Predictive Science are using data about the sun’s magnetic field to predict and model a dramatic corona for the April eclipse.

A prediction of how the sun’s corona might appear during the April 8 total eclipse.

Predictive Science

What Colors Should I Wear?

As the sky darkens, light-sensitive cells in human eyes become more sensitive to blue and green hues than to reds and oranges. This shift in color perception is known as the Purkinje effect , after a 19th-century Czech scientist, and is typically seen at twilight.

Watching the 2017 total eclipse at Southern Illinois University.

Andrea Morales for The New York Times

To take advantage of the Purkinje effect, Solar Eyeglasses suggests wearing green clothes or a contrasting combination of greens and reds. Blue-green colors (shorter wavelengths) will appear brighter, while red colors (longer wavelengths) will appear to recede into the darkness.

What If I Miss It?

The next two total solar eclipses in the United States won’t occur until 2044 and 2045 . But eclipse chasers might catch one in 2026 in Greenland, Iceland and Spain; 2027 along the coast of Northern Africa; 2028 in Australia and New Zealand; or 2030 across Southern Africa and Australia.

A Total Solar Eclipse Is Coming. Here’s What You Need to Know.

These are answers to common questions about the April 8 eclipse, and we’re offering you a place to pose more of them.

By Katrina Miller

What’s the Cloud Forecast for Eclipse Day? See if the Weather Is on Your Side.

April 8 could be your best opportunity to see a total solar eclipse for decades. But if clouds fill the sky, you may miss the spectacle.

By Josh Katz, K.K. Rebecca Lai and William B. Davis

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Our Coverage of the Total Solar Eclipse

Dress for the Occasion:  What should you wear for the eclipse? Our fashion critic weighs the options , including an unexpected suggestion from scientists.

Free to View:  Six inmates in upstate New York prisons who sued the state won their lawsuit to view the eclipse , arguing it “is a religious event.” But a statewide prison lockdown during the eclipse will remain in place.

Hearing the Eclipse:  A device called LightSound is being distributed to help the blind and visually impaired experience what they can’t see .

Sky-High Hotel Prices: One Super 8 hotel in the eclipse’s path is charging $949 a night . Its normal rate is $95.

Animal Reactions : Researchers will watch if animals at zoos, homes and farms act strangely  when day quickly turns to night.

A Rare Return:  A total solar eclipse happens twice in the same place every 366 years on average. But people in certain areas will encounter April 8’s eclipse  about seven years after they were near the middle of the path of the “Great American Eclipse.”

 No Power Outages:  When the sky darkens during the eclipse, electricity production in some parts of the country will drop so sharply that it could theoretically leave tens of millions of homes in the dark. In practice, hardly anyone will notice  a sudden loss of energy.

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