11 Gorgeous Maine Coastal Towns

Dear traveler!

This is an extended version of our Main Coastal Town Guide. Each section has plenty of information and extremely helpful tips for each town. We added a special tip in a blue textbox for each one.

Enjoy our guide and have fun with it! It’s useful for each season, not only during the beautiful time of late summer and fall.

Enjoy!

1. York

Maine

York is the southernmost coastal town in Maine we recommend visiting. That means, coming from Boston, you don’t have to travel that far if you’d like to see a typical seaside town. It’s an hour’s drive: Google Maps Route: Boston > York. Travelers describe York as a fun-filled, family-oriented summer resort town.

While definitely not as big as Portland, York is one of the slightly larger towns along Maine’s coast. It is rich in historical charm, with attractions like the 18th-century Museums of Old York and the iconic Nubble Lighthouse. With its lovely sandy beaches and idyllic coastal walking path, it’s a must-visit for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

Good to know: The Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick Light) is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S. You can’t walk out to it, but the little park across the water is the best spot for photos.

Summer vs. Winter

The best time to visit York in Maine is between the spring (April/May) and fall (mid-October). During that time, everything is in full swing. However, there are still enough open hotels and restaurants in the winter months (between November and March). The advantage in the off-season: No crowds, no waiting lines, lower hotel rates, winter discounts, and even restaurants offering deals on special meals.

Long Sands Beach & Nubble Lighthouse

While not as outstanding as the golden sand beaches in Ogunquit (see below), the gray sand beaches in York are still great. A walk on Long Sands Beach leads you to a view of the remarkable Nubble Lighthouse at Cape Neddick. Not as iconic as the Portland Head Light (see below) but still one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine.

Short Sands Beach

Short Sands Beach is located downtown, with restaurants and shops right there. Plus, it’s perfect for a fun time with kids: York Wild Kingdom Zoo and Fun Park are at Short Sands Beach, as well as a bowling alley overlooking the ocean. Locals say York has a sort of carnival atmosphere with arcades at the beach and the amusement park area.

Special Food Tip

Visit Dunn’s Ice Cream Stand at Nubble Lighthouse at least once! We had one of the tastiest homemade ice creams we ever tried. Our recommendation: The blueberry ice cream.

Winter Tip (+ Year-Round)

If you visit during the off-season or at any other time, drive the 10 minutes to Kittery and eat a lobster roll at one of the best shacks. Bob’s Clam Hut is open year-round (usually lobster shacks close in winter): Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery – Route from York Top Tip: Don’t forget to visit the popular outlets in Kittery. They are also open throughout the year, and some offer nice discounts in the wintertime.

2. Ogunquit

Maine

Renowned for its three-mile stretch of pristine sandy beach, Ogunquit is a paradise for beach lovers. Add in a thriving arts scene, including the celebrated Ogunquit Playhouse, and this town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and culture.

The best time to visit Ogunquit for great weather and almost endless activities is from late spring to fall, but it’s also a charming year-round destination. The main attraction of this coastal town is the gorgeous beach with fluffy white sand. It is known as the most beautiful beach in New England and is worth visiting any time of the year. Every restaurant, hotel, and shop is open from late spring to fall, but it also gets crowded in peak season during the summer months.

Open Year-Round

The following links provide you with restaurants and shops which are open year-round, even in the off-season between November and March/April in Ogunquit. For hotels, check the booking.com link above.

Marginal Way Tips

This famous paved path is a must-do. It offers gorgeous scenic ocean and cliff views. There are dozens of benches if you’d like to rest. Get there early (around 9 AM) in peak season to avoid the crowds and to find a parking spot. We prefer Perkins Cove (Google Maps).

The parking lots at Marginal Way fill up quickly between spring and fall. However, even in the summer, you can enjoy almost solitude by starting the walk around even earlier at 8 AM. Alternatively, get there in the late afternoon, when many visitors already left.

Good to know: The Marginal Way is 1.25 miles long and runs between Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove. There are around 39 benches along the path, so you always find a spot to sit and look at the ocean. The walk is paved and easy, but it has a few small hills.

Summer Visiting Tips

Ogunquit Beach gets jam-packed in the peak months, even more on weekends. Tip: Stay there one night, so you can get up early enough to avoid the crowds and parking hassle. Also, check the tide times for low tide, as it’s much more relaxed during low tide. At high tide, the beach can feel extremely crowded.

Winter Visiting Tips

Several restaurants and hotels in Ogunquit are closed during the winter months (from November to March). However, in Ogunquit Central, you’ll still find enough places to eat, as well as nice lodging opportunities. While winter offers fewer options, it’s also a much quieter time and highly recommended as you won’t see crowds. At the end of March, almost all restaurants, shops, and resorts start to open again in Ogunquit; it’s like the town is waking up.

Stay One Night

We highly suggest staying at least one night in Ogunquit (in a gorgeous beachfront hotel or a resort) to dodge the crowds and explore the stunning beach and coastal area in solitude in the morning. Otherwise, it’s easy to day-trip Ogunquit from Portland (45-minutes drive) or Boston (about 1 hour and a half).

3. Wells

Maine

Wells, fondly known as “The Friendliest Town in Maine”, boasts seven miles of coastline perfect for fishing, bird watching, and beachcombing. Its extensive network of nature preserves offers trails for all levels of hikers.

The town is located midway between Ogunquit (see above) and Kennebunkport (see below) and is only a very short 10-12 minute drive from both towns. It’s smaller, without a nice downtown area, fewer shops, fewer restaurants, and fewer hotels. While the beaches are beautiful in Wells, locals say that Ogunquit is definitely better as far as impressive beaches go.

Nature tip: Wells is home to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. The one-mile Carson Trail is flat and easy, great for families, and takes you past salt marsh, woods, and water where you can spot many birds. Just a few minutes away is the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, with about seven miles of trails down to the shore.

Wells in a Nutshell
  • Nearby Ogunquit and Kennebunkport but smaller
  • The best time to visit is from spring to fall. Winter is possible and very quiet
  • Smaller and less touristy than Kennebunkport and Ogunquit
  • Fewer restaurants, shops, and hotels but cheaper rates
  • Great beaches but not as gorgeous as in Ogunquit
Best Lobster Rolls

We recommend driving a few minutes to Kennebunkport and eat at the excellent ‘Clam Shack’ (see below).

Pizza Tip

In case you already had enough lobster rolls, try the best pizza in Wells at Seacoast Pizza and Pasta

Winter Accommodation Tip

If you plan to visit in the winter, expect a quiet time and gorgeous winter scenery. The best place to stay in winter is the Village by the Sea (via booking.com with price match). Their beautiful indoor pool and hot tub are perfect for relaxation after a winter walk at the beach.

4. Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a seaside gem nestled 16 miles south of Portland, Maine. This quaint New England town provides the perfect escape.

Spring

Spring in Old Orchard Beach is typically mild. Expect the occasional rain shower. With fewer tourists around, it’s the ideal time to enjoy the tranquility before the summer rush.

Summer

Summer brings the heat and the crowds. Old Orchard Beach buzzes with families and solo travelers soaking in the sun. Note it can get quite crowded, particularly in midday. For quieter beach moments, aim for early mornings or late afternoons.

Fall

By fall, the weather remains pleasant and the crowds thin out. You’ll find peace and serenity, and the sunsets over the ocean are simply breathtaking.

Old Orchard Beach boasts a seven-mile stretch of sandy shoreline. But it’s not just any beach – the iconic Pier, nearly 500 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, stands as the town’s entertainment and dining hub. With unique views of the water and the town, it’s a must-see for any visitor.

Good to know: Palace Playland right on the beach has been running since 1902, which makes it one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States. It’s also the only beachfront amusement park in New England. Entry is free, you just pay for the rides.

The town itself offers a mix of local shops, restaurants, and amusements. You might explore the beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland, or sample local seafood at one of the many restaurants.

The beach, with its soft sand and gentle waves, invites relaxation. For those who love outdoor adventures, kayaking and surfing are popular activities. Don’t forget to explore the scenic nature trails around town, too.

In Old Orchard Beach, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a beach lover, food enthusiast, or outdoor adventurer, this quaint town will leave you charmed. Pack your bags and embark on your Old Orchard Beach adventure.

5. Kennebunkport

Maine

Just a 20 minutes drive from Ogunquit and a half an hour drive from Portland, you’ll find this historic town with the typical New England charm.

With its stunning coastal views, charming downtown, and the famous Walker’s Point estate, Kennebunkport offers an exquisite taste of Maine’s coastal life. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic boat tour and experience the area’s rich maritime history.

Good to know: Walker’s Point on Ocean Avenue is the summer home of the Bush family and was the “Summer White House” during the presidency of George H.W. Bush. It’s a private residence, so you can’t go in, but there is an overlook on Ocean Avenue where you can stop and take photos.

Summer Visit

The best time to visit Kennebunkport for favorable weather is from June to September. Top Tip: Late May and early June, as well as the first two weeks after Labor day, are the best shoulder months. You will enjoy pleasant weather without the heavy summer tourist crowds. Also, all the restaurants and shops are open, and almost every activity, from sailing tours to kayaking, is possible.

Activity Tips

The 15 best things to do in Kennebunkport via TripAdvisor

Kennebunkport vs. Ogunquit

Kennebunkport is located very close to Ogunquit (north of it) and offers similar beautiful beaches, also a great downtown area, shops, seafood restaurants, and the famous ‘Clam Shack,’ known as the best lobster shack worldwide, for quite a while. Locals say that Kennebunkport is classier while Ogunquit still has the ‘younger vibe.’

Winter Visit

Kennebunkport is quiet in the off-season from late October to March/April. However, there are enough shops and restaurants around Dock Square open in the winter months. Also, hotel rates are much lower. Exception: It can get busier on the first two weekends in December due to Christmas Prelude.

6. Portland

Maine

Portland is Maine’s cultural center and a vibrant city throughout the year. It is known for its world-class dining scene, bustling Old Port district, and historic lighthouses, which are a feast for the senses.

There is something to do in Portland every season. Visit captivating museums, explore attractions downtown, the brewery scene, and eat lobster in the best restaurants at any time of the year.

Good to know: Portland Head Light in nearby Cape Elizabeth is the oldest lighthouse in Maine. It was ordered by George Washington and first lit in 1791. It sits in Fort Williams Park, which is free to enter, and it’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country.

Great Base

Portland is the best base for those who want to enjoy food, shopping tours, and see the magnificent coastal scenery but are not that much into extensive hiking or camping.

Day Trips

Portland is also the perfect location for day trips to gorgeous coastal towns like Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, or Camden, as they are just nearby via a short drive (35-45 minutes). Winter Tip: If you’re visiting in the winter months, plan your day trips to one of the beautiful smaller coastal towns on the weekend, as more restaurants are open in the off-season.

Islands via Ferry

The ferry is an iconic and inexpensive way to visit the nearby Casco Islands, or just to view the stunning coastal scenery is a must-do activity. Check Casco Bay Lines for the schedule. They are usually operating year-round. Locals suggest a trip during the more pleasant months from spring to fall.

Food Tip & Lighthouse

The restaurant with the tastiest lobster roll is Eventide! And don’t forget to see the historic and iconic lighthouse Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, which is probably the most photographed lighthouse in the whole world!

Winter Eating Tip

Lobster shacks (preferred by locals over restaurants) usually close in winter. Not in Portland! There are some shacks that are open year-round. Ask a local or the staff in your hotel for recommendations.

7. Boothbay Harbor

Maine

This picturesque town is a boater’s paradise, complete with an array of waterfront dining and charming boutiques. Whether you explore the renowned Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens or take a puffin watching tour, Boothbay Harbor delivers an unforgettable experience.

The best time to visit Boothbay Harbor is from May to October. However, it’s a year-round town, and there are still restaurants and hotels open in the off-season. Personally, we recommend staying in another slightly bigger coastal town like Camden or Rockland when visiting during the winter months.

Good to know: The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay is the largest botanical garden in New England. It opened in 2007 and sits on more than 300 acres with gardens, woodland and shoreline trails, and giant wooden trolls hidden around the grounds by artist Thomas Dambo.

Boothbay Harbor is one of the tinier and less touristy coastal towns:

  • A beautiful harbor
  • No beach
  • Fewer crowds in peak season
  • Not as busy as Camden, Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, etc.
  • It has a downtown area but not as big as other coastal towns with those dozens of shops and galleries.
Must-Do Things
Best Lobster

Visit Kaler’s Lobster directly in Boothbay Harbor (closed in winter until mid-May)! However, we also recommend that you either walk half an hour or drive the 6 minutes over to Robinson’s Wharf in Southport (open year-round, no winter closures). They offer excellent lobster and a great outdoor opportunity to watch the boats while eating.

8. Rockland

Maine

Home to the Maine Lighthouse Museum and the renowned Farnsworth Art Museum, Rockland blends coastal charm with a rich cultural scene. Known for its Lobster Festival, a visit to this bustling town promises delicious seafood and lively entertainment.

Rockland is located alongside Penobscot Bay. The best time to visit is from spring to fall. However, especially if you’re looking for open restaurants, you’ll find plenty of them in the off-season in Rockland.

Like other mid-coast towns, Rockland is not known for its beaches, as the shoreline along this section of Maine’s coast is very rocky. That means you won’t find those beautiful long beaches here like in towns of Southern Maine. However, the views are just stunning!

Good to know: You can walk out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse on a granite breakwater that runs almost a mile (about 7/8 of a mile) into the harbor. It was built from over 700,000 tons of granite, and the lighthouse at the end dates back to 1902. Wear good shoes, the stones can be uneven and slippery when wet, and check the tides, because waves can wash over it at high tide.

Foodie Haven

Rockland is recognized as the one mid-coast town with the most restaurants, including the famous Primo: ‘A farm, with a restaurant at the edge of it’.

Things to Do

Visit the art museum, photograph the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, take a schooner (‘Windjammer’) sailing trip, and more: TripAdvisor – Best Things to Do in Rockland – Maine

Local Tip

Do something uniquely different: Visit the island of Vinalhaven with the Maine State Ferry Service in Rockland.

9. Rockport

Maine

Named the “prettiest town in Maine,” Rockport offers postcard-worthy views at every turn. From the peaceful harbor teeming with classic schooners to the world-class Maine Media Workshops, Rockport is a feast for the eyes and mind.

Rockport is situated right between Rockland and Camden (10 or 5 minutes drive to each town) and is home to the historic coastal Samoset Resort. Rockport is smaller and less touristy. There are also fewer activities being offered. As one of the smaller coastal towns, the best time to visit Rockport is from May to mid-October.

Good to know: Down at Rockport Marine Park you’ll find a statue of Andre the Seal. Andre was a real harbor seal, raised in the 1960s by the local harbormaster. For 25 years he came back to the harbor every summer. The statue was put up in his honor in 1978, and it’s a fun little stop with a nice view of the harbor.

Activity Tip

Since Rockport belongs to the Rockland/Rockport/Camden area, you’ll find at least one excellent sailing tour operator here.

10. Camden

Maine

With its classic schooner fleet, stunning harbor, and panoramic view from Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, Camden is an adventurer’s dream. The vibrant downtown area, full of unique shops and quality restaurants, adds a dash of charm to your visit.

Good to know: The view from the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park looks out over Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. You can drive up the auto road or hike the short trail. This is the exact view that inspired the poet Edna St. Vincent Millay to write her poem “Renascence.” There is a small stone tower at the top you can climb for an even wider view.

Best Time

The best time to visit Camden to enjoy the captivating local activities is from May to mid-October. However, Camden can be visited year-round. You’ll find enough places for eating and lodging in the winter.

Crowds

The best months to avoid the crowds in Camden and already enjoy somewhat pleasant weather are April and May when there are no crowds, no long lines, or fighting for parking spaces. However, April weather, especially until mid-April, can be icky. In the fall, a mid-week visit after Labor Day weekend is perfect in terms of fewer crowds and mild weather.

Views and Shops

You’ll find truly gorgeous scenic views of the bay in Camden Hills State Park’s overlooks and in Camden itself along the coastline at any time of the year. If you’re looking for uniquely crafted items, visit the gift shops on the main street in downtown. A must-visit is Camden Harbor Park, with a stunning landscape design and a beautiful panoramic view of the harbor.

Special Tip

Visit Camden Library and take a stroll around it. It’s a gorgeous building with an impressive view of the harbor.

Restaurants

Waterfront vs. Petter Otts? The Waterfront Restaurant is the perfect place for eating delicious burgers and, of course, lobster rolls. Tip: Wait for a table outside and enjoy the fantastic view while eating. However, for lobster and other seafood, we recommend ‘Peter Otts on the water.’ It’s the perfect seaside restaurant, and the lobster is fantastic (first, eat a burger at Waterfront and then lobster at Peter Otts). Both restaurants offer lovely views. Visit Megunticook River Falls as well.

Sailing Tour Tip

Take a schooner sailing tour. They are available between May and mid-October and are a must-do activity in Camden. Experience the magnificent coastline in such a unique way. View the islands, wildlife, and views of Camden Hills and other coastal mountains from a historic schooner. Penobscot Bay / Camden: Historic Schooner Day Sailing Trip starts at Peter Ott’s restaurant (see above).

11. Bar Harbor

Maine

Bar Harbor is the gateway for all your explorations in Acadia National Park. Additionally, you can do so many things right in Bar Harbor: Eat fresh and tasty seafood, discover all sorts of shops and even art galleries, and explore the village environment. Keep in mind that many restaurants and hotels close during wintertime.

When visiting Bar Harbor, start your day early and catch the breathtaking sunrise from Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park. For nature enthusiasts, take advantage of the numerous hiking trails in the park, each offering stunning vistas.

Good to know: Cadillac Mountain in Acadia is the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast (1,530 feet). From October 7 to March 6, it’s the first place in the United States where you can see the sunrise. In summer and fall you need a vehicle reservation to drive up the summit road, so book it in advance on recreation.gov.

Downtown Bar Harbor offers an array of local shops, restaurants, and galleries worth exploring. Finally, don’t miss out on a traditional Maine lobster dinner at one of the local waterfront restaurants for an authentic Bar Harbor experience.

 

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