10 Incredible Vacation Spots In Maine

The Maine coastline has beckoned travelers for centuries. From the rugged cliffs of Acadia National Park to the tranquil lighthouses that dot the shore, Maine offers a diverse array of incredible vacation spots that rightfully earn it the moniker "Vacationland." While Maine might be cold in the winter, it still offers an incredible array of vacation spots for all seasons and preferences. Whether you want to camp, enjoy the Maine Coast, or simply enjoy the small-town life much of Maine offers, these destinations will be well worth the trip.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor sits on Mount Desert Island in the Down East portion of the state and has been a favored destination for many years. Acadia National Park borders the town, and visitors can hike Cadillac Mountain to witness the first sunrise in the United States during certain times of the year. The Shore Path, a paved walkway, winds along the coastline, providing views of Frenchman Bay. On a clear day, you can see the Porcupine Islands dotting the bay. Acadia National Park offers hiking, sea kayaking, and camping with unbeatable views. Camp on the Atlantic shoreline and explore the coastal tide pools in the summer! If camping isn't your preferred way to sleep, try the Bluenose Inn.

For those looking for time indoors, the Abbe Museum, opened in 1928, educates visitors about the region's Native American history. It has a collection of over 50,000 pieces. Be sure to grab a lobster roll from one of Bar Harbor’s many excellent seafood restaurants—they don’t get fresher than here.

Camden

Camden, known for its picturesque harbor, is just about halfway up the coast between Bar Harbor and the state’s cultural capital, Portland. That doesn’t mean that Camden lacks culture, however: the town is home to the Camden Opera House, which opened in 1894 and still functions as a venue for performances. Camden Hills State Park provides hiking trails that lead to the summit of Mount Battie, the park’s highest point. From the top, one can see Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. The view has inspired poets and artists for more than a century. Enjoy it from your bed by staying at the Camden Harbour Inn.

Would-be shoppers should venture downtown; the town center has shops such as the Owl and Turtle Bookshop Cafe, which has operated since 1970. Art lovers should check out the Page Gallery, which offers rotating local featured art as well as youth exhibitions and art workshops for all ages.

Kennebunkport

For a true, salty look at Maine’s coastal history, Kennebunkport is the ideal destination for a vacation spot. The town became a shipbuilding center in the 18th century, and today, the town features Dock Square, an area with boutiques and art galleries. The Seashore Trolley Museum, the world’s largest trolley museum, established in 1939, has a collection of vintage trolley cars. Nearby, the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge protects salt marshes and estuaries, which are home to diverse bird species.

Kennebunkport is not far from the New Hampshire border and is easily accessible via I-95; its other main draw is its many beaches, from Colony Beach to Mother's Beach and Parson's Beach. Ideal for daytrippers, these gorgeous sandy expanses are often crowded in the summer—but well worth braving the crowd. Those looking to sleep in Kennebunkport should take advantage of the sea views offered by the Cape Arundel Inn and Resort.

Ogunquit

Ogunquit draws visitors to its incredible beaches and the Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile cliff walk that stretches along the coastline, featuring stunning maritime views that explain the town’s name: "Ogunquit" means “beautiful place by the sea” in Abenaki, the local Indigenous language. Marginal Way ends in the tiny village of Perkins Cove, which is a historic fishing village. Those looking to be more sedentary should go to Ogunquit Beach, which offers crashing waves and sandy shore, as well as rental sea kayaks for a different perspective on the shoreline. Want to stay on the beach? Try the Norseman Resort.

The Ogunquit Museum of American Art, founded in 1953, displays works by artists who have lived in or visited Maine. The museum's collection focuses on modern and contemporary American art. Music lovers should peruse upcoming events at Johnathan’s, a restaurant that often features live music as well.

Rockland

Rockland, a city with a population of just over 7,000, has a rich maritime history and proves ideal for a historically grounded vacation. Older than the nation it calls home, Rockland was a hotbed of anti-British privateering in the American Revolution, with many hoping to get some of the land seized from the local Waldo family after their British sympathies were discovered.

Today, Rockland is revolutionary in its unmatched vacation energy. The Maine Lobster Festival, which started in 1947, occurs annually in August and celebrates the state's tastiest and most famous crustacean. Be sure to book a room at the LimeRock Inn to properly digest after so much seafood.

Looking for something to do all year round? The Farnsworth Art Museum, established in 1948, holds a significant collection of American art, including works by artists such as Winslow Homer. The museum also features the Wyeth Center, which is dedicated to the work of the Wyeth family of artists. Rockland Breakwater Light, completed in 1902, stands at the end of a granite breakwater that extends into Rockland Harbor.

Castine

Castine, a town on the Penobscot Peninsula, has a history that dates back to the 17th century. Now home to the Maine Maritime Academy, where officers and captains of the merchant marine are trained, the town offers something for everyone, especially history buffs. Stay in the heart of town at the Pentagoet Inn and Pub.

Fort George, constructed in 1779 during the American Revolution, sits on a hill overlooking the harbor; the five-acre site is perfect for a stroll or even a picnic with a view. The Wilson Museum, established in 1921, has exhibits about the area's history and natural environment, ranging from trilobite fossils to examples of recent local history. Finally, enjoy the Dice Head Lighthouse, built in 1828, which guides ships into Castine Harbor and looks iconic against the harsh surf.

Blue Hill

Blue Hill, located on the Blue Hill Peninsula, has a vibrant arts community. With galleries like Handworks and Blue Hill Bay, one can easily spend the day strolling the town and ducking in and out of spaces showcasing local artists. Stay at the Blue Hill Inn to rest afterward. Music lovers will appreciate the Kneisel Hall Chamber Music Festival, which began in 1902 and brings musicians from around the world. History lovers can't miss the Johnathan Fisher House, a museum that showcases Blue Hill's early history in the form of an artist's home.

Also not to be missed is Blue Hill Mountain, accessible via multiple trails and boasting a gorgeous view of "Down East" Maine. Finish your hiking day at one of Blue Hill's many avant-garde fine-dining restaurants, like the Barncastle Hotel + Restaurant.

Belfast

Belfast, a city on Penobscot Bay, became a major shipbuilding port in the 19th century. Located at the mouth of the Passagassawakeag River estuary and Belfast Bay, Belfast has everything from excellent food and dining like Dos Gatos Gastropub to boutique shops like Bramble Gift Shop. History buffs can't miss the Belfast Historical Society and Museum, which preserves artifacts and documents related to the city's history. Want to wear history? Check out Colburn Shoe Store, the nation’s oldest shoe store.

The Belfast City Park offers walking paths and views of the bay and even offers a dog park for furry friends. At night, don’t miss the Colonial Theatre, which opened in 1912 and continues to show movies and host performances. Try staying at a cottage at Colonial Gables Oceanfront Village for views and a quaint hospitality experience.

Damariscotta

Damariscotta, situated on the Damariscotta River, is known for its oyster farms. Enjoy one or several at the Pemaquid Oyster Festival, an annual celebration of these delicious sea dwellers. The town has several art galleries and shops along Main Street, including homegrown gem Reny’s, a wonderland of Maine kitsch, and Skidompha Secondhand Book Shop, which offers over 20,000 used books.

The Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site preserves evidence of Native American activity dating back thousands of years. Nature lovers can also go on a sea kayak or take a river cruise, not to mention visit oyster farms. Those who want to continue the floating can stay at the Maine Bed and Boat, a boat motel.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor, a town on the coast, attracts visitors to its harbor and boating activities. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, opened in 2007, contains themed gardens and walking trails. In addition to the gardens, don’t miss the Burnt Island Light, built in 1821, which stands on an island at the entrance to the harbor and is the oldest lighthouse in the Boothbay region. June sees the annual Windjammer Days maritime festival, featuring boats and activities for the whole family. Enjoy a panoramic view by staying at the Topside Inn.

Want to be like Ishmael and take to the sea? For over eight decades, Cap’n Fish’s Cruises has offered whale-watching cruises as well as cruises featuring the stunning shorelines of Boothbay Harbor. You might even see a puffin!

These ten towns represent a small fraction of the unique destinations found throughout Maine. From the rocky shores of Ogunquit to the historical sites of Castine, each town provides its own experience. The active visitor can hike Mount Battie, while the relaxed traveler can stroll through the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. The historian can explore Fort George, and the artist can find inspiration in Blue Hill. These incredible Maine towns offer the best vacation spots and experiences that will long remain in the memories of those who visit.