9 Close-Knit Towns To Visit In Maine

With 3,500 miles of coastline, Maine is a charming state that manages to fuse its waterfront with a picturesque landscape. Besides its waterfront, Maine also boasts 17 million acres. With plenty of nature to explore, it’s no secret that Maine has become an ideal place to settle down. For those looking to enjoy the best of the quiet and quaint state, there are a few towns whose small populations lend to a more close-knit community. Towns such as Rockport, Cape Elizabeth, and Castine, Maine’s small towns are perfect for those looking to find a place where they can get to know their neighbors and community. Besides the small-town feel, these towns have many activities and landmarks to fill your days exploring everything Maine offers.

Rockport

A prime example of the many historic harbor towns in Maine, Rockport is a charming location with plenty of reasons to visit or reside. Located in the state's midcoast, Rockport's working harbor allows for plenty of views of the state's most recognized industry. Those looking to participate in some of the town's most notable activities can visit the Center For Furniture Craftsmanship, which provides lessons in furniture making and more. While in Maine, it's vital to indulge in the local cuisine such as Nina June and 18 Central Oyster Bar, where you can enjoy rich seafood while overlooking the harbor. With a population of just 3,678, Rockport is a small coastal community with a rich history and lifestyle.

Camden

Located on Penobscot Bay, Camden is another endearing coastal town offering various activities. Despite Camden's 5,224 population, this lively town enjoys many festivals and events throughout the year for the community to participate in. During the summer, the town's Windjammer Festival brings in many windjammers in the region for a celebration. Other events like Lobster Crate Races take over the town throughout the year, making it an exciting way to stay involved with your neighbors. Those who enjoy nature will adore the Camden Hills State Park, which has around 30 miles of trails and 100 campsites. During the winter, Santa visits the town to participate in the town's Christmas by the Sea event, which includes shopping and eating alike. One of the liveliest towns in the region, Camden is a perfect place to socialize and meet others throughout the year.

Bar Harbor

Home to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a scenic town with many activities and attractions. From downtown Bar Harbor with its locally owned shops lining the streets or the vast green space that houses all kinds of fun activities, there is much to explore in this small town. Other unique attractions like the American Ghost Walks and the Acadia Birding Festival make this town, unlike others in the region. After a long day of exploring, Bar Harbor offers plenty of cuisine options from the Black Friar Inn & Pub or C-Ray Lobster, where you can get to know more about the locals and the regional eats. Like Maine's other coastal communities, Bar Harbor guests can take in the water views via a boat charter or the Diver Ed's Dive-In Theater. Although low in population, Bar Harbor's offerings are anything but small.

Cape Elizabeth

With a population of 9,580, Cape Elizabeth is a charming community that's home to many historic landmarks. Home to the Fort Williams State Park, Cape Elizabeth offers plenty of acres of scenic views. While it's possible to explore the town via terrain, the most enriching way is through the Can Cruise which showcases all of the town's bridges, lighthouses, and coastal landmarks. Those wanting to see the iconic Maine lighthouses will enjoy plenty of options in Cape Elizabeth. Locations like the Portland Head Light, Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse, and the Cape Elizabeth Light are available to explore along the town's coast. Those wanting to explore all of the luxuries in Cape Elizabeth can enjoy a stay at Inn By The Sea, which is full of amenities and views to make your trip even better. Although the vast options of activities and landmarks make the town feel bigger than it is, Cape Elizabeth is a small town that enjoys big-city living.

Castine

One of the oldest towns in New England, Castine is a quaint and historic town with plenty of charm. Full of preserved Victorian, Federal, and Georgian architecture, Castine has a rich history to explore. Home to the Maine Maritime Academy, this town comes with a diverse population, from professionals to college students. With rolling hills, woodlands, and a functioning harbor, there's no shortage of nature to lose yourself in. Locations like the Castine Historical Society Gift Shop and Mary Margaret's Mercantile are just some local shops that keep the town's small-town atmosphere alive. Despite the bountiful land and water activities, it's Castine's creative community makes it feel close-knit and welcoming.

Wiscasset

Sitting alongside Sheepscot River, Wiscasset is a quintessential coastal community that comes with a rich and detailed history. Located in the state's Midcoast, Wiscasset is a waterfront community often lauded as one of the prettiest in the state. History buffs will enjoy locations like the Lincoln County Museum and Old Jail and the Lincoln County Courthouse, which is also considered the oldest functioning courthouse in the New England area. Those looking to enjoy history and shopping will enjoy the plethora of antique shops that Wiscasset contains. Locales like the Wiscasset Antiques Mall, Wiscasset Antique Center, and the Marston House have all of the antiques and items to symbolize your trip. Full of small-town charm, Wiscasset is a charming community that continues to enjoy its historic roots.

Boothbay Harbor

Located just an hour north of Portland and 166 miles from Boston, Boothbay Harbor is a delightful small community that has more than enough events and activities to enjoy. History buffs looking to take in the town's past will find plenty to explore at the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay Railway Villiage, and the Boothbay Region Historical Society. During the summer, Boothbay fills up with theatre and art festivals that will entice any culture lover. Although Maine's Midcoast is full of waterfront communities and aquatic activities, Boothbay Harbor offers plenty more than just its water views.

Bath

Located near the Kennebec River, Bath is a charming and historic time renowned for its maritime history. With a population of just under 9,000 residents, it's no secret that Bath's most active community can be found in Downtown Bath. Full of small businesses and landmarks, Bath has much to explore despite its small size. Home to the second oldest YMCA and New England's largest skate park, there's always something for everyone. Those looking to enrich themselves in history will find Maine's First Ship, which is a reconstruction of the 1607 Popham Colony's ship Virginia. The Nor'easters Barbershop Chorus fills the town with acapella music in the classic barbershop style, giving the community another layer of charm. Drenched in historic preservation and unique activities, Bath is an example of the classic Maine small town.

Rockland

Considered one of the most popular cruising bays in the world, Rockland's influence is larger than its small population. While many of Maine's communities have focused on one industry, Rockland is recognized for multiple active industries such as agriculture and shipbuilding. Even though Rockland is home to many festivals and events year-round, it is known to be more iconic than Maine's Lobster Festival. A highly popular event, Rockland has successfully housed the festival in its quaint location. After enjoying lobster, Rockland guests and residents can walk along the famed Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse that spans around a mile. A great starting point for reaching the rest of Maine's coastal communities, Rockland has established itself as a close-knit small town with a big city influence.

Final Thoughts

While most of Maine's small towns are home to waterfront views and coastal communities, each caters to a different type of resident or guest. Towns such as Rockland and Camden are home to active communities that have year-round events to keep the town vibrant, while others enjoy a slower pace of life. Either way, these small towns are enriched in picturesque landscapes and breathtaking water views. No matter which of Maine's small towns are picked, they are all full of proud communities that enjoy their close-knit friendships and towns.