COASTAL MAINE
Coastal Maine is a quintessential New England experience, defined by rugged granite shores, deep evergreen forests, and iconic, historic lighthouses. It is a land of wild ocean beauty.
This region is home to Acadia National Park, offering breathtaking scenic drives and coastal hiking trails. It combines charming fishing villages with the vibrant history of maritime America.
Most Popular Attractions
Acadia National Park Highlights:
Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard, famous for being the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise in certain seasons.
Park Loop Road: A 27-mile scenic road providing access to the park’s main sites and dramatic coastal views.
Bass Harbor Head Light: The quintessential Maine lighthouse, set dramatically on a rocky headland and a favorite photography spot.
Jordan Pond: A beautiful, clear glacial lake with a scenic path and the famous Jordan Pond House serving popovers.
Thunder Hole: A small inlet where the ocean dramatically crashes into a cave, creating a loud “thunder” sound, especially at high tide.
Sand Beach: A rare, small sandy beach composed of shell fragments, nestled in a cove between granite mountains.
Otter Cliffs: A stretch of spectacular granite sea cliffs reaching heights of up to 110 feet above the ocean.
Sieur de Monts Spring: The site of the Abbe Museum, a nature center, and the historical spring area.
Precipice Trail: An extremely steep and challenging hiking trail involving iron rungs and ladders, for experienced hikers only.
Ocean Path: A stunning 4-mile walk/bike path along the ocean from Sand Beach to Otter Point.
Beehive Trail: A challenging, vertical climb up the face of a cliff, similar to the Precipice Trail, offering rewarding views.
Carriage Roads: Over 45 miles of historic, gravel roads perfect for biking, walking, and cross-country skiing, originally built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr.
Island Towns & Harbors (Mount Desert Island & Beyond):
Bar Harbor: The main town adjacent to Acadia, offering shops, restaurants, whale watching tours, and a lively downtown area.
Southwest Harbor: A quieter, more authentic working harbor town on the “quietside” of Mount Desert Island.
Rockland Harbor: A working harbor known for its annual Maine Lobster Festival and being the gateway to the Maine Islands.
Camden Harbor: A picturesque harbor backed by the hills of Camden Hills State Park, often filled with historic schooners.
Pemaquid Point Light: A stunning lighthouse famous for the unique geological folds in the rock formations surrounding it.
Marshall Point Light: The lighthouse featured in the movie Forrest Gump, located on a scenic peninsula.
Monhegan Island: A remote, rustic island community known for its art colony, stunning cliffs, and quiet atmosphere (requires a ferry).
Owls Head Light: A small but charming lighthouse near Rockland, offering great views of Penobscot Bay.
Maine Maritime Museum (Bath): An extensive museum dedicated to Maine’s shipbuilding history and seafaring past.
Farnsworth Art Museum (Rockland): A museum specializing in American art, particularly works related to Maine, including the Wyeth family.
Activities & Experiences
Drive the Scenic Park Loop Road (Acadia): Experience the classic 27-mile scenic drive, stopping at key viewpoints like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliffs to witness the dramatic coastal scenery.
Hike the Carriage Roads (Acadia): Explore the 45 miles of historic, car-free carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., perfect for walking, biking, and gentle scenic rambles.
Summit Cadillac Mountain for Sunrise/Sunset: Drive or hike to the top of the highest point on the U.S. East Coast (from September to early March, it is the first place to see the sunrise) for incredible panoramic views of the park and ocean.
Tour Bass Harbor Head Light: Visit and photograph the iconic, picturesque lighthouse on Mount Desert Island, one of Maine’s most famous and oft-photographed beacons.
Go Whale Watching: Take a boat tour from Bar Harbor or nearby ports into the Gulf of Maine to spot humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as puffins and seals.
Savor a Maine Lobster Bake: Indulge in an authentic coastal experience with a traditional New England clambake or lobster bake, often served on the waterfront.
Explore Bar Harbor’s Shops & Galleries: Wander through the quaint, bustling town of Bar Harbor, browsing the local artisan shops, bookstores, and art galleries.
Hike the Beehive or Precipice Trail (for the adventurous): Take on one of Acadia’s famous iron-rung trails for a thrilling climb and breathtaking views (check park conditions before attempting).
Take a Lighthouse Cruise: Board a boat trip dedicated to viewing several of Maine’s historic lighthouses, such as Egg Rock, Baker Island, and Bear Island lights.
Visit the Shore Path in Bar Harbor: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the historic Shore Path, which offers beautiful views of the bay, the Porcupine Islands, and impressive waterfront mansions.
Enjoy Popovers at the Jordan Pond House: Partake in a century-old Acadia tradition by having afternoon tea and famous popovers with jam and butter on the lawn overlooking Jordan Pond and the Bubbles mountains.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential (but park it often): A car is necessary for maximum flexibility in exploring the region, including the various sections of Acadia National Park and the scattered lighthouses. However, once in a town like Bar Harbor or a key park area, utilize the local options.
The Island Explorer Bus (Acadia): This free, efficient, and propane-powered bus system connects all key park attractions, carriage roads, and the village of Bar Harbor. It is the best way to reduce traffic and parking stress within the park, and it runs from late June through Columbus Day.
Parking Reservations (Acadia): A reservation is now required for vehicle entry to Cadillac Mountain during peak season (mid-May through late October) and must be made online in advance.
Biking the Carriage Roads: Renting a bike is one of the best ways to experience the scenic carriage road system. Rentals are widely available in Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor.
The Maine “Wicked” Culture: You may hear the local slang, such as using “wicked” as an intensifier (e.g., “That view is wicked good!”). The people are typically friendly, practical, and possess a dry, understated sense of humor.
All Things Lobster: Lobster is a staple. Don’t be afraid to try it in all its forms: steamed lobster (classic), lobster rolls (hot with butter or cold with mayo/celery), and lobster stew. Learn the technique for cracking the shell—locals are happy to demonstrate.
Layers are Key: Even in the summer, coastal Maine weather can change rapidly. Mornings can be cool and foggy, and afternoons hot. Always dress in layers and carry a light, waterproof jacket.
Acadia’s Crowds: July and August are the peak season. Expect crowds at major spots like Thunder Hole and Sand Beach. Plan to visit the most popular spots before 8:00 AM or after 5:00 PM to find parking and enjoy a quieter experience.
Tides and Fog: The coastline is dramatically affected by tides. Check the tide charts if you plan to explore tide pools or walk on Sand Beach. Coastal fog (known as “pea soup”) can roll in quickly, obscuring views; have alternative plans for foggy days.
Hidden Gems:
- Jesup Path (Bar Harbor): A beautiful, easy boardwalk trail near the center of Bar Harbor that connects the village to the Wild Gardens of Acadia.
- Schoodic Peninsula: The often-overlooked and quieter eastern section of Acadia National Park. It offers stunning, rugged coastline, a smaller scenic loop drive, and fewer tourists.
- The Asticou Azalea Garden: Located near Northeast Harbor, this serene, Japanese-inspired garden is a tranquil place to stroll, particularly beautiful in the late spring/early summer.
Top Restaurants
Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound [$25-$45] – An iconic, no-frills roadside classic just before Mount Desert Island, famous for boiling lobsters in seawater over an outdoor wood fire.
Thurston’s Lobster Pound [$30-$50] – Located right on the water in Bernard, this classic, family-run pound offers incredible harbor views and some of the freshest steamed lobster and clams.
Beal’s Lobster Pier [$25-$45] – A working lobster pier in Southwest Harbor where you can enjoy fresh seafood on picnic tables right next to the boats that brought it in.
McLoons Lobster Shack [$30-$55] – A slightly farther but highly-regarded spot in Spruce Head, known for its buttery, generous lobster rolls and stunning ocean-side dining views.
Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound [$20-$40] – Located in Southwest Harbor, known for its traditional lobster bakes and the unique, legendary, “relaxed” lobster preparation method.
Jordans Restaurant [$15-$30] – A long-time Bar Harbor favorite known for its classic Maine blueberry pancakes and simple, hearty breakfast fare.
The Travelin’ Lobster [$20-$40] – A smaller, family-run roadside spot in Bar Harbor offering excellent, fresh-picked lobster meat for rolls and bakes.
C-Ray Lobster [$20-$35] – A great, simple option in Bar Harbor for picking up fresh, steamed lobster and enjoying it at a picnic table.
Stewman’s Lobster Pound [$35-$60] – A classic Bar Harbor waterfront experience with two locations, serving traditional lobster dinners and Maine favorites.
Havana [$35-$60] – A sophisticated Bar Harbor fixture offering an upscale, unique blend of American and Latin-inspired cuisine, with a focus on fresh Maine seafood.
Side Street Cafe [$20-$35] – A casual Bar Harbor favorite known for its generous portions, house-made mac and cheese, and great lobster rolls.
Reel Pizza Cinerama [$15-$25] – A unique Bar Harbor institution where you can enjoy excellent pizza, beer, and Maine-themed sodas while watching a movie in comfy couches.
The Chart Room [$30-$55] – Located in the quiet village of Northeast Harbor, offering upscale New England classics and beautiful views of the harbor.
The Lompoc Cafe [$20-$35] – A hidden gem in Bar Harbor with a cozy outdoor patio, known for its creative pub fare, extensive craft beer list, and relaxed vibe.
The Burning Tree [$45-$75] – A small, intimate, and highly-regarded restaurant outside of Bar Harbor known for its creative use of local ingredients and wood-fired cooking.
Atlantic Brewing Company Midtown [$15-$30] – A great casual spot in Bar Harbor for craft beer, burgers, and pub food, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner.
Finn’s Island Take Away [$15-$25] – A local secret in Bass Harbor offering excellent, casual take-out food, including great fried seafood baskets.
Epi’s Pizza and Bakehouse [$15-$25] – A popular, casual spot in Northeast Harbor for hand-tossed pizzas and baked goods.
Mount Desert Island Ice Cream [$5-$10] – While not a restaurant, this Bar Harbor staple is absolutely essential for its inventive, high-quality, and often Maine-themed ice cream flavors.
Fore Street Restaurant [$45-$80] – Located in Portland (a day trip away, but highly influential to the region’s cuisine), this renowned spot uses a wood-fired oven for a menu focused on local, seasonal ingredients and amazing seafood.
Primo [$60-$100] – Another top-tier spot in Rockland (farther south), offering a unique “Full Circle Kitchen” concept where ingredients are grown or raised on-site for a truly exceptional farm-to-table experience.
Morbidi’s [$30-$50] – A fantastic Italian restaurant in Bar Harbor offering house-made pasta and classic dishes with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
Red Sky Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located in the tranquil village of Southwest Harbor, this restaurant is known for its sophisticated American cuisine with a focus on French techniques and local sourcing.
Salt & Steel [$35-$60] – A relatively new and trendy spot in Bar Harbor offering creative, small-plate-focused New American cuisine and a great cocktail program.
Cleonice [$30-$50] – A lovely Bar Harbor bistro offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a focus on local ingredients in a warm, intimate setting.
Little Notch Bakery & Cafe [$15-$30] – A popular Bar Harbor spot for excellent pastries, breads, and casual lunch/breakfast items made with high-quality ingredients.
Flexit Cafe & Bakery [$10-$20] – A great stop in Northeast Harbor for fresh sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, often catering to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Colonel’s Restaurant [$15-$30] – A local favorite in Northeast Harbor known for its comfort food, great breakfasts, and classic New England dinners.
Cafe This Way [$20-$40] – Tucked away in Bar Harbor, this cozy spot is known for its excellent breakfast and dinner menus that blend casual comfort with creative flair.
The Quietside Cafe & Tavern [$15-$30] – A comfortable, local-focused spot in Southwest Harbor offering good pub fare and a selection of craft beers.
Fiddler’s Green Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in the center of Bar Harbor, offering New American cuisine with a focus on fresh fish and local ingredients.
Parkside Restaurant [$25-$45] – A Bar Harbor spot known for its fresh seafood and casual but well-executed dining experience.
Hearth and Harbor [$35-$60] – An upscale but cozy restaurant in Bar Harbor focusing on wood-fired cooking and refined American cuisine.
The Birches [$40-$70] – A classic, elegant dining experience in Northeast Harbor, offering refined American cuisine in a beautiful setting.
Dog & Pony Tavern [$15-$25] – A Bar Harbor favorite for casual drinks, live music, and excellent elevated pub food.
The Asticou Inn Dining Room [$50-$80] – Located near the beautiful Asticou Azalea Garden, this formal dining room in Northeast Harbor offers classic, upscale New England cuisine with spectacular views.
Acadia Perk [$5-$15] – A popular coffee shop in Bar Harbor for morning lattes, bagels, and light breakfast bites.
2 Cats Restaurant [$15-$25] – A quirky, vibrant Bar Harbor spot famous for its scratch-made, hearty breakfasts and strong coffee.
Mount Desert Bakery [$5-$15] – A fantastic bakery in Mount Desert (Somesville) known for its fresh breads, pastries, and lunch sandwiches.
Choco-Latté [$5-$15] – A cozy cafe in Bar Harbor offering great coffee, sandwiches, and decadent chocolates.
The Independent Cafe [$10-$20] – A quiet cafe in Bar Harbor with excellent coffee, pastries, and a focus on simple, fresh ingredients.
Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast [$15-$25] – A popular Bar Harbor breakfast spot known for its large portions, friendly service, and classic American breakfast menu.
Bar Harbor Tea Company [$5-$15] – A wonderful spot for a wide variety of teas, scones, and a light afternoon snack.
The Northeast Harbor Take Out [$15-$25] – A simple, classic take-out shack offering fried seafood, burgers, and ice cream—perfect for a beach picnic.
Rose Eden Lobster [$20-$40] – Located on the road to Acadia, this is a great, simple spot for traditional lobster rolls and seafood.
The Stadium [$15-$25] – A no-frills local diner in Bar Harbor, serving classic, hearty American comfort food.
Town Hill Market [$10-$20] – A casual, local market and deli on the island offering great sandwiches and convenience items for a picnic.
The Docksider Restaurant [$20-$35] – A casual, friendly spot in Northeast Harbor with a deck overlooking the water, serving classic seafood and American fare.
A Slice of Eden [$10-$20] – A bakery and cafe in Bar Harbor known for its delicious cinnamon rolls and other baked goods.
The Common Good Soup Kitchen [$15-$25] – A non-profit cafe in Southwest Harbor offering excellent, simple, and locally sourced soups and baked goods.
Route 66 Restaurant [$20-$35] – A fun, retro-themed diner in Bar Harbor serving classic American comfort food.
The Colonel’s Deli & Cafe [$10-$20] – A great spot in Northeast Harbor for a quick breakfast or lunch sandwich and coffee.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Blyth & Burrows (Portland): Located on Exchange Street in the heart of downtown, this bar is celebrated for its inventive, nautical-themed cocktails and a dimly-lit speakeasy in the back, making it a must-visit for serious cocktail enthusiasts.
Luna (Portland): A sophisticated, year-round rooftop bar atop the Canopy Hotel in the Old Port, offering panoramic views of the working waterfront and Casco Bay, perfect for enjoying a modern mixology menu at sunset.
The Vintage Room (Camden): An elegant lobby bar on the first floor of 16 Bay View hotel, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for enjoying classic and specialty cocktails along with small plates in this picturesque MidCoast town.
NEAT (Boothbay Harbor): A well-regarded cocktail bar with a hidden speakeasy vibe, famous for its extensive whiskey list and highly creative cocktails, discreetly located in the back of a sub shop.
Nubb’s Lobster Shack (Cape Neddick/York): Situated at the Cliff House resort, this spot offers a “bar with a view” where you can sip handcrafted cocktails and local craft brews while taking in spectacular ocean views over the rocky coastline.
Old Vines Wine Bar (Kennebunk): An intimate and relaxed spot known for its carefully curated wine selection but also offering excellent craft cocktails, often enjoyed on their lovely outdoor patio.
Batson River Fish Camp (Southwest Harbor): Located at the Claremont Hotel near Acadia, this oceanside venue is a great place to grab a late lunch or margarita, enjoying the views from the quiet side of Mount Desert Island.
The Great Room Piano Lounge (Bar Harbor): Found within the Bluenose Inn, this classic piano lounge offers a calming, elegant ambiance with a fireplace, featuring nightly live piano music and a full cocktail and wine list.
Coastal Alchemist (Ogunquit): The signature restaurant and bar at The Trident Inn, specializing in expertly crafted cocktails and locally inspired dishes, often with seasonal seating like heated outdoor gondolas.
The Abbey (Brunswick): A highly-rated cocktail bar that also functions as a coffee bar, known for its creative, constantly changing menu and excellent customer service in this southern mid-coastal town.
Round Turn Distilling (Biddeford): Housed in a 150-year-old textile mill, this distillery’s tasting room is a lively space to sample their famous Bimini Gin and other small-batch spirits in a variety of bright, delicious cocktails.
Wiggly Bridge Distillery (York): A craft distillery offering a tasting room experience in the oceanside town of York, where visitors can try handcrafted cocktails featuring their locally-made spirits like Small Batch Dry Gin.
The Front Porch Piano Bar & Restaurant (Ogunquit): A popular spot known for its lively piano entertainment and signature cocktails, often serving as an after-party destination following shows at the nearby Ogunquit Playhouse.
Thirsty Whale Tavern (Bar Harbor): A quintessential downtown Bar Harbor pub with a charming atmosphere, offering a solid selection of drinks and known for being a cozy, friendly spot for both locals and visitors.
Paddy’s (Bar Harbor): This waterfront pub at the West Street Hotel blends Irish coziness with an Atlantic feel, offering a warm setting and a full bar menu with cocktails and classic pub favorites.
Oasis Portland (Portland): One of the premier late-night spots located on Wharf Street in the Historic Old Port District, featuring a high-energy upstairs dance club with a live DJ nightly and a full bar.
Bramhall Pub (Portland): While technically a modern speakeasy in one of Portland’s historic neighborhoods, its late hours and subterranean, dimly-lit brick setting make it a lively hideaway with a focus on a large selection of whiskey, rum, and craft cocktails.
The Thirsty Whale Tavern (Bar Harbor): While also a pub, its central location and lively, friendly atmosphere make it a key spot for socializing and a busy night out in downtown Bar Harbor, often late into the evening.
Dog and Pony Tavern (Bar Harbor): Located centrally on Rodick Place, this spot is a popular local’s hangout known for its casual, unpretentious atmosphere and often features pool tables, games, and a vibrant late-night crowd near Acadia.
The Porthole (Portland): A waterfront staple in Portland’s nightlife scene, featuring a casual but lively atmosphere, live music, and a spacious deck overlooking the harbor, which often turns into a busy late-night gathering place.
Holocene: An industrial-chic venue in Portland that frequently hosts DJ sets and electronic/EDM shows, turning the large space into a dedicated dance floor, though you may need to check their specific schedule.
The Coffin Club (Portland): A distinct horror-themed bar with a dark, Gothic vibe that hosts frequent industrial and darkwave nights, appealing to a specific subculture in the downtown nightlife.
Lola’s Room (Portland): Located below the Crystal Ballroom, this intimate space is hard to miss and famous for its regular ’80s and ’90s dance nights, providing a fun, throwback club experience.
Federal Jack’s Restaurant & Brew Pub (Kennebunkport): While primarily a brewpub, its waterfront location and wide selection of on-site craft beers create a bustling, pub-style atmosphere that is a lively evening gathering spot.
The Thirsty Whale (Bar Harbor): A second mention, reinforcing its dual role as both a pub and a center of nightlife in the Acadia region, attracting a crowd looking for a fun evening.