Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an outdoor adventure, or a cultural experience, Maine has something to offer. Consider visiting these best summer vacation spots in Maine for an unforgettable experience.
Maine is a state filled with breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural destinations such as Bar Harbor, located on Mount Desert Island, is a popular tourist destination for its stunning coastal views, delicious seafood, and close proximity to Acadia National Park which is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, offering stunning landscapes, forests, lakes, and hiking trails.
And Portland, the largest city in Maine, is a cultural hub, known for its thriving food and drink scene, beautiful harbor, and charming brick buildings. Cranberry Isles, located off the coast of Mount Desert Island, offers a peaceful escape with its serene waters, lobster fishing boats, and beautiful lighthouses.
Also the Height of Land, located in Rangeley, is a scenic overlook offering breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lakes of western Maine. Old Orchard Beach, located in Cumberland County, is a popular summer destination for its seven-mile stretch of sand and rolling surf, as well as its lively boardwalk and amusement park.
Here are the Best Summer Vacation Spots in Maine
Maine is a beautiful state with a lot to offer during the summer months, from stunning coastal towns to lush forests and mountains. In this article, we’ll showcase the 10 best summer vacation spots in Maine that you should consider visiting this season.
Portland
Portland is a charming and vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, unique culture, and stunning natural scenery such as Fort Gorges, South Portland’s Bug Light. The city is a hub for arts and culture, offering a range of cultural experiences, including a vibrant food scene featuring locally sourced seafood, innovative restaurants, and a thriving craft beer industry.
This city is also home to a vibrant arts scene, including several galleries, museums, and theaters which are the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, Portland Museum of Art, and Flagship Premium Cinema, as well as a thriving music scene featuring local and touring acts.
The city is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, including the rugged coastlines of Casco Bay and the nearby mountains and forests of Acadia National Park. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape or a cultural experience, Portland offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Maine.
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor in Maine is a popular summer vacation destination known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. With its rocky coastline, rolling hills, and stunning views of Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking at Bubble Rock, fishing, boating, the trail at Precipice Trail, and beach-going.
In addition, the town is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Abbe Museum, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond, making it a great choice for those looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Bar Harbor is an excellent choice for a summer vacation.
Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is a picturesque coastal town located in southern Maine, known for its New England charm and stunning natural scenery such as Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve and Gooch’s Beach.
The town is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful escape, offering a range of outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and whale watching and popular spot such as Blowing Cave Park, as well as a vibrant cultural scene featuring Landmark Gallery-David Fouts, boutiques, and restaurants.
Visitors can explore the town’s historic architecture, including the famous Bush family compound, or take a scenic drive along the nearby coastline. Kennebunkport is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Goose Rocks Beach and Mother’s Beach, offering opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
With its charming small-town atmosphere and breathtaking natural scenery, Kennebunkport is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to southern Maine.
Gulf Hagas
Gulf Hagas National Park is a stunning natural preserve located in the state of Maine. This park is known for its stunning scenic trails, including the famous “Hundred-Mile Wilderness” trail, which runs along the West Branch of the Pleasant River.
Visitors to Gulf Hagas National Park can explore Little Wilson Falls waterfalls, deep gorges, and sparkling pools along this scenic trail. The park also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, camping, fishing, and picnicking.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, Gulf Hagas National Park ibs a must-see destination in Maine.
Cranberry Isles
Cranberry Isles is a quiet, coastal getaway in Maine that’s perfect for summer vacation. This Island is located on the south side of Mount Desert Island, while Hope Island sits across from it on the north side.
Both islands have been designated as national wildlife refuges because they are home to nesting colonies of endangered piping plovers and other birds that nest there each spring and summer months.
The Cranberry Isles are made up of two main islands, Cranberry Island and Hope Island, which are connected by a causeway that’s open all year round. There are also several smaller islands in the area that make up the Cranberry Isles National Wildlife Refuge.
Cranberry Isles Beach, this beach is located just outside of town and has lifeguards on duty during the summer months. It’s also a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing because it has clear waters and sandy beaches that stretch for miles across both sides of the island!
Quoddy Head State Park
Quoddy Head State Park is a popular summer vacation destination known for its natural beauty, including the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse and rugged coastal cliffs, and Reversing Falls Park.
Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the Bay of Fundy. The park also offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and whale watching. Overall, Quoddy Head State Park is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor recreation and natural scenery.
Ogunquit Beach
Ogunquit Beach is a popular summer vacation destination in Maine, known for its beautiful, sandy beach and clear, blue waters. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
The beach is surrounded by charming, seaside restaurants and shops, making it a popular destination for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Ogunquit Beach is also known for its beautiful sunsets and scenic walking trail, which provides stunning views of the coastline. Overall, Ogunquit Beach is a great summer vacation destination for those looking to relax and soak up the sun by the ocean.
Moosehead Lake and Mount Kineo
Moosehead Lake and Mount Kineo in Maine are popular destinations for those seeking outdoor recreation and breathtaking natural scenery. Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in the state, offers a wide range of water activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking.
Visitors can take scenic boat tours or rent a cottage or cabin for a relaxing getaway. Mount Kineo, located on a peninsula in the lake, is a state park offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The park is also home to Mount Kineo Golf Course, a historic course with panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding wilderness. The combination of recreational opportunities and stunning natural scenery makes Moosehead Lake and Mount Kineo a popular summer vacation destination in Maine.
Augusta
Augusta is the capital city of Maine and is located in the central part of the state. Augusta is home to many important government buildings and monuments, including the Maine State House, the State Library, and the Blaine House, the Governor’s official residence.
The city is also known for its diverse cultural scene, with a number of museums, galleries, and performing arts centers, as well as a thriving food and drink scene. Augusta is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with several parks, lakes, and trails offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other activities.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor recreation, Augusta is a great place to visit and explore.
Coos Canyon
Coos Canyon is a popular swimming and picnicking spot located in western Maine. It is a narrow and deep gorge formed by the Swift River and is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The crystal-clear water of the river is ideal for swimming and cooling off during the hot summer months, and the rocky banks provide plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and relaxation.
The area is also a popular spot for gold panning, as gold was discovered in the river in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can still try their luck at finding precious metals. With its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Coos Canyon is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park in Maine is a popular destination for those seeking outdoor recreation and the breathtaking natural scenery of Jordan Pond and Schoodic Pond. The park is known for its rugged coastlines, pristine lakes, and dense forests, fall foliage, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
Visitors can explore the park’s many trails, including the famous Cadillac Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The park also has a rich cultural history, including several historic sites and cultural landmarks, such as the Bass Harbor Head Light and the Jordan Pond House.
Height of Land
The Height of Land scenic spot in Maine is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. located in Franklin County in the western part of the state, this area offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests, lakes, and mountains in the vast Rangeley Lakes region.
Visitors can hike along the trails Appalachian Mountains that wind through the lush forest and take in the breathtaking scenery from the top of the ridge, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The Height of Land is also known for its abundant wildlife, including moose, black bears, and many species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Height of Land is a must-visit destination in Maine.
Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach is a classic New England beach town located on the southern coast of Maine. Known for its long, sandy beach, amusement park, and iconic Pier, Old Orchard Beach draws visitors from all over to enjoy its lively atmosphere and stunning scenery and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions such as Palace Playland, Funtown Splashtown USA and Seashore Trolley Museum.
During the summer months, the town comes alive with beach-goers, street performers, and food vendors selling everything from lobster rolls to cotton candy. In addition to its lively atmosphere, Old Orchard Beach is also home to several state parks and nature reserves such as Ferry Beach State Park, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Bailey Island
Bailey Island is a small, picturesque community located off the coast of Maine. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the island is popular with tourists and offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
The island is also home to the famous “Cribstone Bridge,” a unique natural bridge made of massive granite boulders.
Kittery
Kittery is a town located in York County, Maine, near the New Hampshire border. It is known for its historical significance, with many colonial-era buildings still standing today.
The town is also a popular tourist destination, offering a range of shopping, dining, and outdoor recreational options, including the Kittery Outlets shopping center and the Kittery Foreside neighborhood.
Camden
Camden is a picturesque coastal town located in Knox County, Maine. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the town offers a range of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, and hiking.
Camden is also home to a vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries and performance spaces. The town’s famous Camden Hills State Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery.
Jasper Beach
Jasper Beach is a secluded, sandy beach located in Phippsburg, Maine. The beach is surrounded by dense forests and offers a peaceful, natural setting for swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of nearby coastal towns.
FAQs
Is Maine a good summer vacation?
Maine can be a great summer vacation destination, with its scenic coastline, charming coastal towns, and numerous outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
Additionally, it’s known for its seafood, lighthouses, and the Acadia National Park. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure-filled getaway, Maine offers something for everyone.
What is the prettiest place in Maine?
The beauty of a place is subjective and can depend on personal preferences. However, some popular places known for their natural beauty in Maine include Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Moosehead Lake, and the Mid-Coast region.
Is it better to go to Maine in July or August?
July is peak tourist season in Maine and the weather is typically warm, but it can also be crowded. August is still warm, but the crowds tend to thin out.
Is July a good month to visit Maine?
July is a good month to visit Maine as the weather is warm and there are many tourist activities available. Some of the most popular events in July include the Fourth of July celebrations, the Blue Hill Fair, and the Camden Windjammer Festival.
What is the nicest town in Maine?
As for the “nicest town” in Maine, that can depend on individual preferences. Some popular towns for tourists include Bar Harbor, Portland, Rockland, and Camden, among others.
What is the friendliest town in Maine?
It is difficult to determine the “friendliest town” in Maine as friendliness is subjective and can vary depending on individual experiences. However, some cities in Maine that are known for their welcoming and friendly communities include Bar Harbor, Camden, and Kennebunkport.
