No matter if you’re a Maine native or a first-timer visiting Maine, this state is the absolute definition of “pick your own adventure” for the saltwater lover in all of us. Well, having lobster shacks with warm butter at winding coastal paths that will make you feel like you’re on the edge of the earth. But before starting the trip, plan everything in advance for a hassle-free journey. For that, this guide we’ll be presenting you with the best places in Maine for dining experiences, picturesque views, and seaside strolls you’ll be ready to throw your phone off a cliff and never look back at. Let’s go!
Best Places In Maine For Seafood
For Maine, it’s nearly impossible to think of seafood without immediately jumping to lobsters. Because of Maine’s clean, cold Atlantic waters, its shellfish and finfish are some of the finest in the world. However, from casual wharfside joints to high-end restaurants, seafood has been a game changer in the economy and culture of Maine and Maine has built a reputation as a gourmet destination in the industry. So let’s have a look at some of the best places in Maine to try seafood. If you need a Maine map, then follow the Maine official site
Famous For Lobsters & Shacks
- Red’s Eats: A must-visit place in Maine. Here you can have one of the most famous lobster rolls of Maine.
- The Calm Shack: This place serves award-winning lobster rolls with delicious fried clams.
- Five Islands Lobster Co.: Here you can enjoy delicious seafood with an outstanding waterfront view.
Best Dining Experience
- Geddy’s: This is a fifty-year-old spot serving one of the best lobster bakes and many gluten-free options near Acadia National Park.
- Fish House Grill: You can enjoy delicious fish items and other seafood with a beautiful view.
- Nubb’s Lobster Shack: This place is famous for its lobster tatchoes and while enjoying it, you can have a great view of the ocean.
Local Spots
- Bob’s Clam Hut: This place has been running since 1956 and serves one of the best fried seafood and ice cream.
- Pepper’s Landing: This place has a very friendly atmosphere and is considered one of the best spots locally for family dining.
5 Top Places In Maine For Views & Ocean Walks
The beauty of Maine doesn’t only lie in its food. Here you can explore many places offering great views and have a great walk by the ocean. However, because of the extreme popularity of its cuisine, these things are not well-known by people. Well, rather than food, Maine offers very good scenic spots. So let’s have a look at some of the best spots in Maine for views and ocean walks.
Acadia National Park
This 47,000-acre park offers some of the great views and is considered as one of the best places to visit in Maine. Here you can explore,
- Cadillac Mountains: From here you can watch the first sunrise of the East Coast. Also from the viewpoint you can see the beautiful oceans and islands.
- Great Head Trail: This place offers one of the great views of sand beaches and oceans.
Marginal Way
This is one of the most iconic places in Maine. Here you have about 1.25 miles of pathway for a walk near the rocky coastline. And while walking you can have an amazing view of the ocean waves and small boats roaming nearby. This is a great place for clicking pictures or making videos.
Insider Tip: Bringing a dog here is restricted from 1st April to 30th September.
Portland Head Light
This is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the whole world and a unique attraction in Maine. You must have seen it somewhere in a desktop or laptop wallpaper. Also, many travel magazines have used it as their cover image. Rather than the amazing view this place has a great park called Fort Williams Park, where you can take a great ocean walk with rocky shore and old ruins. This park is open to the public and offers a great experience.
Mount Battie
This is an iconic spot of Camden Hill State Park. From here you get a great view of Camden Harbour and Penobscot Bay. Well for the best view you need to go up and for that you can hike a little or go by car. After reaching to the top you will get to see an old historic stone tower and along with you will see a great view of mountains, oceans, and islands. The best time to visit here is summer and fall, as you get the best views of the coast.
Monhegan Island
This is a small island almost 12 miles away from the Maine coast. Well the only way to reach here is by boat. But once reached, you will feel like coming to heaven. From here you can have a beautiful view of the ocean and the surrounding natural environment. Also this place is famous for its hiking trails. Well, if you love nature then this place is going to be heaven for you.
Insider Tip: Be ready to walk and explore, as this island is a walking island and cars are not allowed.
Best Places To Stay In Maine
There are many places to stay in Maine. But not every place will be a good experience for you. But don’t worry. For your help, here are some of the good places listed below for every need.
Coastal & Town Stays
- Camden: This is one of the best coastal towns to visit in Maine. Here you can explore historic charms, have a beautiful view of the harbor, and enjoy great fine dining.
- Kennebunkport: If you want to stay in a resort in a coastal area then this place is a great pick. Here you can find many of the best resorts in Maine to stay.
- Bar Harbor: If you are a hiking person then this will be a good place for you to stay. Here you have one of the best hiking experiences with beautiful ocean views.
- BoothBay Harbour: This place is like a boating hub. Here you can get cozy stays and lodges at the waterfront.
- Portland: This place is old but considered as one of the best places to stay and explore. Here you get an old vibe and get a chance to explore delicious foods
Luxury & Unique Stays
- Migis Lodge: If you are looking for a family-friendly place in Maine then this place will be good for you to stay. This place offers lakeside cabins with a peaceful family-friendly vibe.
- Samoset Resort: This is one of the most finest places in Maine to stay. Here you get the best view of the oceans and a big 18-hole golf course for guests.
- Inn at Diamond Cove: If you want to stay in an escape-type place then this is a great choice for you. This is a beautiful island with a very calm and relaxing vibe.
- The Lodge at Moosehead Lake: If you want to explore true Maine Wilderness then this is the place. But this is only good for adults.
Mid-Coast Gems
- Belfast: This is a less crowded but one of the most beautiful cities you can find.
- Newagen Seaside Inn: This is a classic spot near Boothbay where you get a calm and relaxing vibe. One of the best and quietest places to relax in Maine.
Best Time To Visit Maine
The best time depends on what you want to do in Maine. If you are there just for exploring and having a good time then June to August is a great time because the weather is mild and pleasant. This helps to explore Maine and the best time to explore the Acadia National Park. But if you are visiting just to explore food then summer is a great time. However summer in Maine is a peak time for fresh lobsters. But if you want to explore Maine in less crowd then spring and fall are the best time. The crowd is much lower and you can enjoy a calm and peaceful vibe. And during winters Maine becomes a winter wonderland.
Travel Tips
- If you are planning to visit in peak season then book everything much earlier.
- To explore Maine peacefully book a charter bus rental for Maine and enjoy with any inconvenience.
- Wearing comfortable shoes, helps a lot in hiking and exploring.
- Make sure to try local blueberries.
- Download and use offline maps.
- Carry a bug spray with you.
- Visit Acadia National Park as early as possible to explore peacefully.
- If you are planning to visit in a group then better go for a group transportation service and enjoy your trip peacefully.
Conclusion
You should must visit Maine once in your lifetime. There are many experiences you can have and spend one of the best times of your life. The delicious seafood, spectacular views of oceans, mountains and islands. A great escape place for hectic city life. So rather than thinking more, pack your bags, plan a trip and have fun.