These 10 Coastal Maine Towns Are Incredible Beauties All Year Long
By Michelle|Published September 16, 2020
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Maine is known throughout the country for its small coastal towns with that quintessential New England look and feel. While it’s important to remember just how diverse the land in Maine really is, you can’t deny the beauty of the rugged coast. And that’s why we love visiting the small towns that lie along the water. If you’re looking for some local adventures, consider checking out these beauties and supporting their restaurants and other local businesses. Simply start on US-1 and head north!
This sleepy little beauty is a great day trip if you're looking for a quiet spot on the Maine coast. The town has the longest coastline of any town in the state and includes islands just off the coast.
Perhaps best known for its lobster shacks, Wiscasset is a conveniently located town that's fun to visit or simply drive through. It's referred to as "the prettiest village in Maine" and visiting will prove why. There's a lot to visit if you love history, but the sights of the water are just as compelling.
Just an hour and a half north of Portland, this is a great day trip from southern Maine and northern Maine. A must-visit is the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens which offers wonderfully green and vibrant gardens from spring to fall. In the winter experience Gardens Aglow when millions of lights adorn the trees for a truly spectacular experience.
Another little beauty in the mid-coast region, little Bristol is great if you're looking for some peace and quiet. The roads are windy, the seaside craggy and you'll have access to Pemaquid Lighthouse. This sleepy town is definitely worth the drive and it's close enough to Boothbay Harbor to satisfy the touristy-town fun you might want here and there.
One of the larger towns on this list, Camden is great for an all-day trip. Start early and take in the sights, consider visiting Camden Hills State Park for a hike and then enjoy dinner at any of the local spots in town.
This little mid-coast gem is small but mighty. With a vibrant community feel, you'll love visiting some of the little shops here. And if you're hungry, you're in luck! The town is known for its great food and beverage. It's also home to Cellardoor Winery, which is a beautiful place to visit on a sunny day.
The state's largest fort, Fort Knox is located in Prospect. You'll also find the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory here. If you love views, this is a must-see. The observatory is the highest in the world! Check it out and continue on your way up the coast.
Castine has one of the richest nautical histories in the state and it's even considered one of the oldest communities in the entire country. This is a great stop for people who love history and there's lots to see here. Make sure you carve out at least an afternoon to tour the museums and the town itself.
Now it's on to Down East Maine, a region totally unlike what you'll find in the rest of the state. The remoteness of Deer Isle makes it great for those who want to get away. A destination for artists from all over, you'll also find some great art galleries here to check out.
We love Blue Hill for its many local businesses, including restaurants and stores. But what sets it apart is the added bonus of nature. There are lots of wonderful trails and views throughout the area, making this a great place to stop to satisfy a variety of interests.
What are some of your favorite small Maine towns? Do you prefer going inland or visiting the coast? Let us know in the comments!
