Exploring the Best of Maine: Coastal Towns, Lighthouses, and Lobster Rolls
Maine is known as the “Pine Tree State” and is located in the northeastern region of the United States. It is a beautiful state that is known for its rugged coastline, picturesque lighthouses, and abundance of outdoor recreational activities. Maine has a lot to offer visitors who are looking for a taste of New England life.
Maine’s Attractions: A Perfect Summer Destination
Maine’s pristine beaches, rolling hills, and charming towns make it the perfect summer destination. Visitors can enjoy kayaking and whale watching off the coast, hiking in Acadia National Park, or exploring one of Maine’s many quaint coastal towns. The rocky coastline offers breathtaking views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean that will leave you in awe.
A Taste of Maine
One cannot mention Maine without praising its delicious seafood cuisine. Lobster rolls are a must-try when visiting Maine – they’re typically served on a toasted New England-style hot dog bun with buttered lobster meat and mayonnaise.
For dessert, blueberry pie made with fresh wild blueberries is an absolute must-try! It’s said that Maine has some of the best ice cream shops around offering unique flavors like whoopie pie ice cream or blueberry basil sorbet.
The Classic Lighthouses
Maine boasts over sixty lighthouses that provide stunning views of the ocean landscape from their rocky perches. These beacons were critical to guiding ships through treacherous waters during stormy weather conditions along the coastlines. Some notable lighthouses include Portland Head Light which dates back to 1791; Bass Harbor Head Light located on Mount Desert Island where you can also catch stunning sunset views; and West Quoddy Head Light which sits on the easternmost point of land in America.
Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, Maine has something for everyone. With its beautiful scenery, unique attractions, and delicious cuisine, it’s a perfect vacation spot for the whole family.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking in Acadia National Park
Maine is home to one of the most beautiful national parks in the country—Acadia National Park. Located on Mount Desert Island, this park boasts over 120 miles of hiking trails with breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.
One of the most popular trails is the Precipice Trail, a challenging trail with steep climb and iron rungs to help hikers navigate through rock faces. Another must-see trail is Jordan Pond Path, a more leisurely hike that takes you around a serene lake and through stunning forests.
Kayaking in Casco Bay
For those who love water activities, kayaking in Casco Bay should be on your list. With over 200 rocky islands dotting its waters, exploration by kayak is the perfect way to take in all that Maine’s coastline has to offer.
Kayak rentals can be found throughout Portland and surrounding areas to fit any skill level from beginner to advanced. Some tours even include visits to lighthouses or stops at secluded beaches only accessible by watercraft.
Whale Watching in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island, offers some of the best whale watching opportunities on the east coast due to its proximity to feeding grounds for humpback and finback whales. Visitors can join guided tours leaving from Bar Harbor or nearby towns such as Northeast Harbor or Southwest Harbor for an up close experience with these majestic creatures.
Many tour companies have naturalists aboard who provide educational commentary about whales and their behaviors during the trip. Whether it’s hiking through picturesque forests or spotting whales breaching out at sea, Maine offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors who love adventure and nature alike.
Coastal Towns to Visit
The Best of Maine’s Largest City: Portland
Portland is Maine’s largest city and a must-visit for any tourist. It’s known for its vibrant food scene, which ranges from fresh seafood to innovative farm-to-table restaurants. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be in heaven here.
Check out Eventide Oyster Co. for some of the best oysters in the country or head to Street and Co. for Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes. Don’t forget to stop by Standard Baking Co., which is famous for their artisanal bread and pastries.
Aside from its delicious cuisine, Portland also features unique attractions such as the Portland Museum of Art, which showcases works by regional and national artists. Take a stroll through the Old Port district, which features cobblestone streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and bars.
Presidential Charm: Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town located just south of Portland that’s famous for being the summer residence of former President George H.W. Bush. Visitors can tour Bush’s home at Walker’s Point or visit the Seashore Trolley Museum to learn more about local transportation history.
Aside from presidential history, Kennebunkport offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean at places like Goose Rocks Beach or Cape Porpoise Pier. Don’t miss out on dining at David’s KPT or The Clam Shack for some classic Maine lobster rolls.
Picturesque Harbor Life: Camden
Camden is a quintessential Maine town known for its picturesque harbor views and boutique shops and restaurants. Start off your day with a hike up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Penobscot Bay. Afterward, take a stroll down Main Street and browse local shops like Once a Tree, which sells handcrafted furniture and home goods.
End your day with dinner at Francine Bistro, a French-inspired restaurant that uses ingredients sourced from local farms. Overall, Camden is the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway with stunning scenery.
Lighthouses to Explore
Portland Head Light: A Photographers Dream
Perched atop a rocky cliff in Cape Elizabeth, Portland Head Light is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. A beacon of light for over 200 years, this historic lighthouse offers visitors stunning views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore on their own as they learn about the rich maritime history that surrounds this iconic landmark.
For those looking for an extra special experience, be sure to visit during sunrise or sunset when the sky is ablaze with color and the lighthouse casts its signature silhouette against the horizon. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just looking to capture some memorable vacation photos, Portland Head Light is a must-visit destination in Maine.
Bass Harbor Head Light: A Hidden Gem on Mount Desert Island
Located on Mount Desert Island, Bass Harbor Head Light offers visitors a more secluded experience compared to some of Maine’s other popular lighthouses. Originally built in 1858, this small but mighty lighthouse provides guests with sweeping views of Bass Harbor and its surrounding islands.
Be sure to take your time exploring this picturesque area as there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and nature walks nearby. Don’t forget to bring your camera as you may even spot some whales or other marine life during your visit.
West Quoddy Head Light: The Easternmost Lighthouse in America
Located at Quoddy Head State Park in Lubec, Maine lies West Quoddy Head Light – the easternmost lighthouse in America. This historic landmark has been guiding ships since 1808 and remains an important navigational aid today.
In addition to its historical significance, West Quoddy Head Light offers visitors stunning views overlooking Passamaquoddy Bay and Canada’s Campobello Island. For those looking for a unique experience, be sure to visit during low tide when you can explore the nearby tidal pools and discover an array of marine life.
Food and Drink
The Ultimate Maine Food Combo: Lobster Rolls and Blueberry Pie
When in Maine, it’s practically a sin to leave without trying the state’s two most iconic foods: lobster rolls and blueberry pie. And if you’re looking for the best of both, Red’s Eats in Wiscasset and Two Fat Cats Bakery in Portland have got you covered. Red’s Eats is a tiny roadside shack that has been serving up some of the best lobster rolls in Maine since 1938.
The rolls are made with fresh-caught lobster meat, lightly dressed with mayo and served on a toasted New England-style hot dog bun. The portion sizes are generous, so be sure to come hungry!
Don’t be discouraged by long lines – they move quickly, and the wait is more than worth it. After filling up on savory seafood goodness, head over to Two Fat Cats Bakery for their famous blueberry pie.
Made with wild Maine blueberries baked into a flaky buttery crust, this pie is simply divine. Although their menu changes daily depending on seasonal availability of ingredients, one thing remains constant: their commitment to using only high-quality locally sourced ingredients.
Craft Beer Tasting at Allagash Brewing Company
Maine is home to many craft breweries producing award-winning beers that can satisfy any hophead’s craving. But one brewery stands out from the rest – Allagash Brewing Company. Located in Portland, Allagash has been brewing Belgian-inspired beers since 1995.
They offer a wide range of beers from traditional Belgian styles like Tripels and Saisons to American interpretations like IPAs and stouts. Visitors can take tours of the brewery (currently suspended due to COVID-19) or visit their taproom for tastings.
If you’re unsure where to start with their extensive beer menu, try the Allagash White – a classic Belgian-style wheat beer that is crisp, refreshing, and pairs well with just about any food. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their experimental releases or limited-edition barrel-aged beers.
Unique Attractions
Desert of Maine: Where Sand Dunes Meet the Forest
Maine is known for rocky coastlines and dense forests, but did you know there’s a desert in the middle of it all? The Desert of Maine is a natural phenomenon located in Freeport where sand dunes cover over 40 acres of land.
It was formed due to poor farming practices in the 1800s, causing soil erosion that eventually exposed a layer of glacial silt that looks and feels like sand. Today, visitors can explore the desert on guided tours to learn about its history and unique ecosystem.
Farnsworth Art Museum: A Tribute to Andrew Wyeth
Art enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, Maine. The museum has an extensive collection focused on American art with a particular emphasis on artists who have lived or worked in Maine.
One standout artist featured at the museum is Andrew Wyeth, who spent summers painting in Maine and was known for his realistic yet haunting paintings. The museum features several galleries dedicated solely to his work, including “Christina’s World,” one of his most famous pieces.
LL Bean Flagship Store: Your One-Stop Shop for Outdoor Gear
If you’re planning an outdoor adventure in Maine, LL Bean should be your first stop. Its flagship store in Freeport is open 24/7 and has everything you need for camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and more.
And if you’re not sure what gear you need or how to use it, LL Bean offers classes and workshops so you can learn from experts. But even if outdoor activities aren’t your thing, the store is worth a visit just for its impressive displays (like a giant boot) and wide selection of clothing and home goods.
Conclusion
Maine truly has something for everyone, from sandy deserts to rocky coastlines, quaint towns to bustling cities. Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or just seeking a peaceful getaway, Maine won’t disappoint.
And with so much natural beauty all around us in the state, it’s important that we do our part to preserve it for generations to come. So next time you visit Maine (or any natural wonder), take a moment to appreciate the beauty and remember that we have a responsibility to protect it.