7 day maine road trip

7 Day Maine Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Where to Go and What to Do

Seven days for a Maine coast road trip is the perfect amount of time to see some great cities and immerse yourself in the wonderful local culture of coastal Maine.

From charming small towns that are not-to-miss (and for reasons we explain, below) to bigger cities that will round out the trip, you’re sure to have fun in this stunning New England state.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase, at no cost to you . We truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. We were hosted by Visit Maine. All opinions are our own.

Maine Coast Road Trip Overview

We flew into Maine’s airport in Portland from RDU airport in Raleigh to start our trip. Another easy airport to get to is Boston Logan International Airport, which is just a two-hour drive from Portland.

We rented a car to road trip north from that point. You can begin in Portland and do the reverse of our trip. It depends on your preference. However, we chose to go to the furthest point north of our trip and then drive back south so when we ended and needed to fly home, we were just minutes from the airport.

• Days 1 to 3: Bar Harbor
• 3 to 5: Boothbay Harbor
• 5 to 7: Portland

If you want to extend your time in Maine, we recommend a Maine Windjammer cruise . This will give you a completely unique view of the coast. We had a fantastic experience sailing Maine’s coast this way for four days as an add-on to our road trip.

Days 1 to 3: Bar Harbor, in Northern Maine

Bar Harbor was so beautiful. If you like a bustling and walkable small town on the water, you’ll love it here. Especially because you can do excursions like a lobster boat tour and go whale watching.

We stayed at the most amazing modern bed and breakfast called The Atlantean . The owners blew us away with their hospitality and cooking. (The breakfasts there were the best meals we had of our entire road trip along with Maine foods like lobster and blueberry donuts!)

One of the best things to do here was to simply take walks and stop for ice cream or coffee, and sit in the park to enjoy the view of the water. Another absolutely fantastic view was from the top of Cadillac mountain. It was special to see the water and its many islands like birds in the sky from that vantage point.

Acadia National Park is one of the main reasons many people add Bar Harbor to a Maine coast road trip itinerary. Truthfully though, the town alone is worth the visit.

That being said, Acadia National Park is refreshing and attractive. We enjoyed an easy hike there one afternoon around Jordan Pond and drove the loop road the next day to see some more of Maine’s coast. (Jordan Pond is on the list of things to do in the park on the super helpful National Park Planner. If you plan on going to even two National Parks in the near future, you need this !)

If you’re going to Acadia National Park during summer , we highly recommend getting a Bug Bite Thing to combat bug bites while you’re there. We took a very leisurely short walk in the park at some pretty gardens they have and man oh man….I got eaten alive by the bugs! We are so grateful for this device that eliminates the itch in seconds.

Must-have item for your Tropical vacation:

The only thing we have tried that gets rid of bug bites from your skin is The Bug Bite Thing . This item is a MUST pack when we travel. We always pack one in our backpack/day bag and another in our luggage. Don’t travel without it! And yes, it really works !

Days 3 to 5: Boothbay Harbor

One of the nice things about Boothbay Harbor was how it felt less busy than other areas we visited, and there were a bunch of charming hotel options. There was less to do there than in Bar Harbor and Portland. This meant we could relax a little more and sleep a little later when we were there during our vacation.

It was worth a stop for its Botanical Gardens alone. Secondly, we loved that there was a little local brewery and, thirdly, how walkable the town was. A simple pleasure in life is walking around a town during a Maine coast road trip on a beautiful New England summer day.

Days 5 to 7: Portland

Portland impressed us with its mix of old and new. It’s very much a functioning port city – as it has been for well over a century – and the tourist scene was thriving.

This size city really speaks to the energized explorer in us that gravitates toward liking urban environments that aren’t too big and aren’t too small. (It’s one of the reasons we chose Raleigh, NC , as our home city.)

There were great restaurant options where we could have local seafood, tours that helped us get familiarized with the city streets, a posh Marriott hotel we enjoyed, and boat tours where we could navigate the water on with an expert guide.

There were colorful murals, lighthouses, and waterfront views…what more could you ask for?

Sea Bags flagship store is also there and it was fun to learn about the bags made from recycled sails .

5 Day itinerary for Maine’s Coast

If you only have 5 days, we would recommend the following abridged version of what we did:

• Days 3 to 5: Portland

If you have to skip a city, skip Boothbay Harbor. You can even stop at the Botanical Garden in Boothbay Harbor on your way to Portland from Bar Harbor, but simply continue your drive after you visit the gardens instead of staying overnight.

Extending Your Vacation for a Maine Windjammer Cruise

We feel so fortunate to have experienced Maine’s beautiful coast by sea and by land. Taking a schooner boat, an overnight Maine sailing trip with Maine Windjammer Association aboard American Eagle, was really outstanding.

It’s unlike any “typical” cruise you may think of. If you’re used to sailing or have gone on a sailboat you can stay on overnight, it’s very much like that.

Our seven-day Maine coast road trip started after the sailing and it was the perfect complement to the sea portion of our summer Maine vacation.

Read this next:

• Planning your Trip to Maine in the Summer: 20 Things to Know
• Food Maine is Known For (Lobster and Beyond)
• Best Bed and Breakfast in Bar Harbor: Atlantean Cottage (Our Favorite Accommodations in Maine)

I want to go to Maine after I have retired. My favorite food is seafood – shrimp, crab legs, and lobster. I would like to do a lobster bake in Maine! Thank you for this information.

Need a lot of advice from Kentucky to there. Thank you

Hi Bonnie – it would be best if you flew from Kentucky to Maine, then rented a car to do a road trip of the coast. Follow our road trip plan for the perfect 7 days!

So glad this inspired you, Bonnie!

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Coastal Maine 7-day road trip itinerary

Maine is an incredible place to start off a great road trip to see the fall foliage or chase beaches in the summertime. This is why I’ve planned out this coastal Maine 7-day road trip itinerary just for you. This way, you can see the best and enjoy this beautiful state any time of the year.

Coastal Maine is a great place to visit year-round. From beautiful beaches to just enjoying the countryside, you’re sure to find something you like and even enjoy the peacefulness of smaller cities.

I think Maine is an underrated destination as it has so much to offer. You can enjoy just about anything from sports, adventures, cozy stays, and beach days.

So without further ado, get everything you need to know to start planning this Maine road trip you’ve been waiting for!

When is the best time to visit Maine

The best time to visit Maine will vary depending on what activities you are planning to do while you are visiting.

Every season has something different to offer but also activities that can be done year-round.

If you are looking for a maple syrup experience or great fishing, spring will be the best time to visit. Spring season can bring all kinds of weather. From beautiful sunny days to rainy ones and sometimes even snow! You’ll have to make sure to bring clothing for every type of weather so you can enjoy your time there.

If you’re more into summer sports such as biking, ATVing, water sports, beach days, hiking, camping and so much more, you’ll definitely want to go during the summer season. If you’re not into all of that, Maine has lots of sightseeing to be done. The weather will be a lot more enjoyable. Sunny and warm days are more likely.

Planning to visit in the fall, you’ll be able to enjoy the magnificent fall foliage. Many of the summer activities will still be going on. Hiking, biking, and walking on the beach are still very accessible during this time of year. You can go apple picking, or just walk around to look at all the colors in the trees.

Maine in the winter is also very beautiful. Whether you want to hit the slope or just enjoy a nice fireplace in a cabin, you’ll definitely find what you are looking for. You can enjoy snowmobiling, dog sledding, and wildlife watching as well.

The best time to visit will entirely be up to you depending on your plans. Maine can be enjoyed any time of the year!

What is the weather like

With Maine being geographically located in the north, it is exposed to moderate and moist weather influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and is also exposed to both cold and hot air coming from the continent.

Weather will average between -14 Celsius and 26 Celsius. Depending on which season you are traveling to Maine, you’ll have to dress accordingly. Maine is also partly-cloudy pretty much year-round.

The months of December, January, and February tend to be the coldest. The overall colder season lasts from the end of November to mid-March. The warmer season is between the end of May to about mid-September. The warmer month to visit would be July.

Day 1: Acadia National Park

If you love the great outdoors, Acadia National Park is definitely a place to add to your coastal Maine road trip itinerary.

You don’t have to stay overnight but you might need more than one day to fully enjoy the entirety of the park.

Acadia National Park is one of the top 10 most visited parks in the United States. When visiting the park, you can enjoy miles of historic roads to take the views in, and many, many hiking trails.

Acadia National Park has the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline.

In order to access the park, you will need to buy a park pass. This pass is only valid for Acadia National Park. Most visitors will buy a Vehicle pass, which will cover all passengers on board for a 7-day period.

If you already have the Federal lands pass, you will not need to purchase the Acadia National Park one.

Purchase your Acadia National park pass here!

If you wish to drive to the highest peak in the park, you will need to buy an additional pass for the Cadillac Summit Road. You will need this pass if you are planning to do this drive from June through October. Keep in mind that these could change depending on the weather conditions.

If you wish to purchase the Cadillac Summit road pass in advance, reservations will begin by the end of May 2023. Know that only 30% of passes are offered 90 days prior and that the other 70% is released two days prior. So you’ll have to quickly reserve them in advance or wait two days before your visit.

Purchase your Cadillac Summit road pass here!

If you’re planning the drive, know that it is a narrow two-lane road that brings you to the top. You will find a gift shop, restrooms, and a parking area at the top. Recreational vehicles and trailers are prohibited in this part of the park.

Planning to stay overnight in the park? Acadia National Park offers plenty of campground areas. There are two campgrounds located on Mount Desert Island, one on Schoodic Peninsula, and five lean-to shelters on Isle au Haut.

You must make camping reservations in advance. Winter camping and overnight parking aren’t allowed either.

Spend the night either in the park or in Bar Harbor and enjoy fine dining.

Day 2: Bar Harbor, Blue Hill

Bar Harbor is pretty much the gateway to Acadia National Park. The city is located in a beautiful bay called Frenchmen’s Bay.

If you’re looking to experience the United States’ first sunrise, this is the place to be. The city of Bar Harbor is known for its award-winning dining experiences, accommodations, and of course the outdoor activities located so close by.

It is a popular summer destination so keep that in mind if you visit during summertime. It will be a little bit more crowded.

You can also spend your day wandering on Main Street where you will find shops, boutiques, and plenty of restaurants.

Bar Harbor is great to experience a little bit of everything. From endless outdoor activities to cozy cabin stays. You’ll find something for everyone to enjoy!

After enjoying Bar Harbor, head over to Blue Hill. This small magical town is worth a stop. Let the photographer in you set free! The views are quite impressive and worth capturing!

Spend the night in Blue Hill so you can take advantage of the evening to explore the city.

Day 3: Deer Isle, Stonington

From Blue Hill, drive along the coast and cross the bridge to spend some time on Deer Isle and Stonington.

Not only is the bridge picturesque, but the island is a paradise for bird watchers, kayakers, artists, and anyone who loves to spend some time outdoors.

Deer Isle is worth a visit because it is less crowded than Bar Harbor but as charming.

The island has many art galleries, antiques, and gift shops. The island has plenty of accommodations to offer if you want to spend the night. From motels, inns, and campgrounds you are most likely to find something to your liking.

Day 4: Camden, Rockland, Monhegan Island

Next, head over to Camden. You will be charmed by its 19th-century homes. You can spend some time outdoors enjoying the trails of Camden Hill State Park or look at the beautiful Camden Bay.

Then, head to Rockland. The vibrant city has much to offer foodies. The city is famous for its mountainous and rocky shores. You’ll see many marinas and inlets. If you want to sail, Rockland has great cruising waters.

If you wish to experience Monhegan Island, you’ll have to head over by boat. It is a popular tourist destination to witness the magnificent cliffs and experience the beauty of unpaved roads leading to the village.

You could even spend the night here before returning to the coast to continue your road trip.

Day 5: Boothbay Harbor, Bath

Boothbay Harbor is a great place to get away from your busy schedule. This coastal town is home to a rich history, quaint local shops and boutiques, great restaurants, and world-class boat excursions.

Boothbay Harbor has many activities you can enjoy out there! If you’re looking for beautiful coastal scenery, you’re sure to find what you are looking for.

From its quiet coves, rocky shores, and beautiful lighthouses, the scenery is quite impressive.

Among the things to do, you can take a scenic drive to ocean point. This is the best to see the sunrise and sunset. Have yourself a picnic at Ocean Point Loop and enjoy the magnificent view.

If you prefer to do some outdoor activities, Boothbay Harbor is home to plenty of hiking trails and gardens to explore. There are many great boat excursions you can take as well to visit the islands nearby.

Once you’ve explored Boothbay Harbor, head over to Bath. You’ll have plenty to do! From fine dining to shopping to visiting the Maritime Museum to the Marina, one day probably won’t be enough!

There is plenty of outdoor experiences too. You can use the skatepark if that is something you’re into, there are beautiful beaches, historic walking tours, hiking, and biking trails, and the Kennebec River.

Day 6: Brunswick, Freeport, Portland

Once you’ve finished exploring Bath and Boothbay Harbor, head over to Brunswick to start off your next day. Brunswick has about 61 miles of coastline for you to enjoy some time at the beach or spend time along the Androscoggin River.

If the weather isn’t too great or you don’t feel like spending some time near the water, there is plenty of museums to visit. There are art museums, historical museums, and more.

From there, head to Freeport. Freeport is famous for its shopping outlets, restaurants, amazing fairs, and festivals, and great oceanfront campgrounds.

You’ll have plenty to do in this bustling coastal town.

Finish off your day in Portland to spend the night. Go explore the city at night or just go out for dinner. This is a packed day and you might need more than one day if you want to explore and take in the sights without feeling rushed.

Day 7: Portland, Scarborough

Portland and Scarborough are great cities to finish off your coastal Maine 7-day road trip. Portland is a mix of artists, foodies, beachcombers, and winter lovers.

It’s a great place for nightlife, shopping, and many great attractions nearby. The city has beautiful waterfront paths you can enjoy the view. If you’re looking for charming scenery, head to the Portland headlight.

Spend the rest of the day in Scarborough. Scarborough is known to be the best of both worlds. You’ll have all the best amenities and beautiful landscapes on top of that.

You’ll have beaches, cliffs, a historic harbor, family-friendly attractions, a great town center, and many types of accommodations.

Where to stay in Portland

• The Press Hotel, Marriott Autograph Collection
• Portland Harbor Hotel
• Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown-Old Port
• The Westin Portland Harborview
• Hampton Inn Portland Downtown – Waterfront
• Aloft Portland ME
• Portland Sheraton at Sable Oaks
• Hyatt Place Portland-Old Port
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Portland

Where to eat in Portland

• Eventide Oyster Co.
• The Highroller Lobster Co.
• Solo Italiano

Got more than 7-days on your coastal Maine road trip?

If you’ve got more than 7 days to go on your Maine road trip, then you can add a couple more destinations to discover.

Spend some time exploring more stunning coastal towns, laying on the beach, and enjoying the sights around you.

Day 8: Cape Porpoise, Kennebunkport

If you’ve got more time on your hands, you need to head over to Cape Porpoise and Kennebunkport. Cape Porpoise is considered the quiet side of Kennebunkport. You’ll want to visit Cape Porpoise as it is a quiet town with beautiful scenery right next to Kennebunkport.

You can stroll historic streets and see the beautiful scenery the city has to offer. There are several galleries and delicious restaurants. Cape Porpoise doesn’t really have beaches to hang out but it is a great place to go kayaking or biking.

Next, head to Kennebunkport. Kennebunkport is known for its beaches, local seafood, and beautiful scenic lighthouses. You can spend the day at either Goose Rocks Beach or Arundel Beach.

Kennebunkport is a touristy destination so you’ll have to expect a bit more crowds. There’s plenty of arts and culture you can enjoy while spending some time there. There’s also shopping. You’ll find unique shops all over the place.

You can also spend some time in all the different museums and historic houses. You can visit the Wedding Cake House or the Trolley Museum.

Day 9: Ogunquit

On your next day, head over to Ogunquit. Spend your day at the beach. The water is cold in Maine. Keep that in mind when you go for a swim! Ogunquit has long beaches on sandy peninsulas with grassy dunes in some places.

Ogunquit is said to have the most beautiful beaches in all of Maine!

You can also hike Marginal Way. Marginal Way is a cliff walk where you’ll enjoy beautiful coastal views and a lighthouse.

In the summertime, you can enjoy musicals at the Summer theatre. Ogunquit has a vibrant art scene as well. You’ll find many attractions to do.

You might just need more than one day!

Day 10: York

York is known for being a summer resort town. It has great golf courses, beautiful sandy beaches, and Mount Agamenticus.

This coastal vacation town is one of the oldest towns in the United States!

York has plenty to do! Spend some time at Sohier Park, head to the Nubble lighthouse, and visit the Museum of Old York, splurge yourself at the Goldenrod candy store, or try some spirits at the Wiggly Bridge Distillery.

As you can see, there’s no shortage of activities to do in York. You’ll definitely find something to do to explore the beautiful area.

Day 11: Kittery Outlets

To finish off your Coastal Maine 7 (or more) day road trip itinerary, do a bit of shopping at the Kittery Outlets. The outlets are located closer to the New Hampshire and Maine border.

There are more than 75 outlet stores to choose from. If you need specific items at discounted prices, it’s a great place to find what you’re searching for.

You’ll find outlets such as Adidas, Champion, Calvin Klein, Columbia, Levi’s, Lululemon, Nike, and Under Harmour to only name a few.

I’ve shopped at these outlets before going to Scotland and I found more than what I was looking for!

Maine might not be on your radar but it is definitely a place you’ll want to road trip once in your lifetime. With all the beautiful coastal and fishing villages and historical landmarks, you’re going to find something for you.

There is plenty of outdoor activities you can enjoy as well.

I hope this coastal Maine 7-day road trip itinerary helps you plan your own Maine road trip!

If you’re looking for some more trip inspiration, keep on reading!

How to take a road trip on a budget

What to wear on a road trip

33 reasons why road trips are fun

How to find showers on the road

Hey, I'm Payte, a British-Columbia native, now living in the French part of Canada, Quebec City. I am a former flight attendant, mother of 2 kids, and an adventure seeker.  Even though I don't travel full-time, travelling is part of who I am and every chance I get, I spend it traveling! Giving you all the best advice is a great way to share my passion with you!

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Lobster rolls and lighthouses: The perfect Maine road trip

Maine's breathtaking coastline is unlike any other. It's only about 280 miles from the New Hampshire border to the New Brunswick, Canada, border if you follow the region's principal road, U.S. Route 1 (along with state Route 189 for the final stretch).

However, this jagged shoreline is anything but a straight shot. And if you measure the tide coastline — which includes every peninsula, inlet, island and tidal basin — the Maine coast actually measures 3,478 miles, making it the fourth-longest in the country (it slightly exceeds California's).

You could drive it sticking closely to U.S. 1 in about seven or eight hours, but you wouldn't actually see much of the ocean. For views of Maine's azure waters — its rocky headlands dotted with imposing historic lighthouses, its sheltered harbors aglow with sleek sailboats and colorful lobster buoys — you'll want to detour frequently from the main route. To fully experience this breathtaking maritime landscape immortalized in the paintings of Winslow Homer, Marsden Hartley, Andrew Wyeth and countless other luminaries, spend at least a few days (or ideally a couple of weeks) tracing the coast's many contours.

As you traverse the coast in a northeasterly direction, heading "down east" as it's known in Maine vernacular, you'll encounter far fewer people and much less commercial development. The relatively direct stretch from the New Hampshire border to the state's largest city, Portland, abounds with sophisticated sea-to-table restaurants and posh country inns as well as charming lobster shacks, enticing ice cream stands and nostalgic minigolf centers. Once you get past Freeport, with its iconic L.L. Bean flagship store, you start to encounter the wilder and more rugged Maine coast, with its long and narrow peninsulas.

Along this part of the coast, you'll still find pockets of upscale vacationers in affluent summer colonies like Boothbay Harbor, Camden and Bar Harbor, but the pace slows. The final stretch of coast beyond Mount Desert Island to the Canadian border feels completely rural. You'll encounter few fellow travelers in this sparsely populated but verdant area that depends economically more on commercial fishing and blueberry farming than tourism.

But by exploring the full length of Maine's gorgeous coast, you'll find much to appreciate. You can feast on incredible seafood (not just lobster but rock and Jonah crab, oysters, mussels, and myriad fish) and a dizzying variety of craft beers. You'll discover superb art museums and galleries, and diverse flora and fauna to view on coastal hikes, wildlife-watching cruises and kayaking and biking tours. And, of course, there's the stunning natural scenery of Acadia National Park.

Here's your guide to planning the perfect coastal Maine road trip and everything you should see and do along the way.

Maine road trip planning

GPS devices tend to be at cross purposes with actually enjoying a drive up the Maine coast, as they constantly attempt to shunt you onto U.S. Route 1 or, worse, Interstate Highway 95, instead of the happily meandering and circuitous roads that run closer to the shoreline. Unless you're pressed for time, feel free to ignore the entreaties of your GPS and take the scenic route whenever possible. Detour down to the tips of Maine's finger-shaped peninsulas, and if there's an island you can reach by bridge or even by ferry, go for it, at least once. Bailey Island, Deer Isle and Vinalhaven (which entails a ferry ride) are all good bets.

Note that many municipal beaches have steep parking fees for nonresidents, sometimes $25 or more. Day-use fees at state beaches are per person rather than per vehicle and typically cost around $7 or $8 per person. In Portland and some of the more popular small towns along the coast — Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport, Ogunquit — street parking can be hard to come by, especially during the summer high season, so prepare to use a pay lot that may also be expensive.

Gas stations are present all along U.S. Route 1 and in most towns, but they can be harder to find, or a lot more expensive, on the more rural peninsulas and islands. It's best to top off your tank before venturing anywhere remote.

Set aside enough time

If you're driving this full itinerary from Kittery to the Canadian border, give yourself a minimum of five days and four nights to be able to experience the key sights along the way. This allows you to set aside a full day each for exploring Portland and Acadia National Park, and enough time to drive through all of the towns described in this article. To appreciate this trip at a more leisurely pace, budget a week to 10 days and try to spend two nights in some of the more prominent areas, such as Kittery-Portsmouth, Portland, Rockland-Camden, and Bar Harbor-Acadia National Park. If you have two weeks or even longer, you won't run out of engaging things to see and do.

Getting to the Maine coast

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) has by far the greatest number of direct flights in New England, and it's just a 75-minute drive from the Maine border. Another option is to fly into Maine's small, user-friendly Portland International Jetport (PWM), which is a 45-minute drive from Kittery. A lesser-known option that's just a 50-minute drive from Kittery is Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) in New Hampshire. It's served by several of the major airlines. Although Logan Airport is likely the easiest to reach from much of the country and many international destinations, it is a busy hub in a city with notorious traffic, and rental car rates tend to be steeper than at the airports in Portland and Manchester, which are also smaller and more pleasant to navigate.

From Boston, Amtrak serves Portland and several smaller towns along the lower Maine coast. And there's frequent daily bus service on multiple carriers from Logan Airport and downtown Boston to both Portsmouth and Portland.

Best starting and end points on the Maine coast

This itinerary follows Maine's coast in a northeasterly direction, beginning at the town of Kittery, which is just across the Piscataqua River from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This corner of the state is easy to get to, as it's just a 75-minute drive up the coast from Boston via I-95, and there are plenty of hotels in the area, both on the New Hampshire and Maine sides of the border. This trip ends at the Canadian border, where you have the option of extending your adventure by continuing into New Brunswick and potentially beyond. Although it can take several days to travel along the coast's meandering roads, exploring its peninsulas and inlets, the drive back from Lubec to Kittery-Portsmouth takes just under five hours if you take the most direct interior route (state Route 189, U.S. Route 1, state Route 192 and state Route 9 to Bangor, and then I-95 the rest of the way).

The best time to visit the Maine coast

For the best balance of weather and scenery without excessive crowds or super-steep hotel rates, make this trip during the spring and fall shoulder seasons, between May and mid-June or mid-September and mid-November. The exception to this rule is fall's peak foliage season, which along the Maine coast is generally from around mid-September through the first week of November. Although the coast attracts fewer leaf-peepers than interior New England, crowds do pick up around this time and hotel rates can also spike a bit.

July and August are peak high-season, as are holiday weekends in spring and fall. This is the best time to laze on Maine's beaches and even swim in the ocean (which is still pretty chilly, with highs averaging around 70 degrees in summer). It's also when seasonal businesses like lobster shacks, ice cream stands and scenic tour boats have their longest hours. But you'll pay a premium at coastal hotels during this time (note that the starting rates for hotels recommended in this article are for the summer high season).

Conversely, winter on the Maine coast can be a bargain as long as you don't mind bundling up, and you'll sometimes have beaches all to yourself. But many businesses, including lodgings and restaurants, shut down in winter — and in some cases all the way from mid-October through early May, especially the farther up the coast you go.

Kittery to the Kennebunks

More than any other section of Maine's coast, this relatively short (30-mile) stretch in the state's southwestern corner is easiest to access from coastal roads, which more or less parallel the shore's contours, even beyond Kennebunkport and up through Cape Elizabeth and South Portland.

The region is characterized by broad, crescent-shaped, golden beaches and is home to the greatest concentration of tourism-related businesses. You'll find no shortage of accommodations, from swanky seaside inns to low-frills, family-friendly motels to vacation rentals of every configuration and price range. Although the population swells in summer and traffic can slow to a crawl on weekends, don't give in to the temptation to skip this region in favor of the quieter areas beyond Portland. It's a beautiful part of the state with a number of appealing attractions. What you might consider doing, however, is timing your trip so that you're in this area midweek rather than during the busier weekend.

Kittery and the Yorks

Start your journey by taking U.S. Route 1 over the Memorial Bridge, which crosses the Piscataqua River from historic downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Kittery, Maine's oldest town. If you want to fuel up early, stop on Badger's Island, which is right in the middle of the river, for a hearty meal at Ore Nell's Barbecue or in the historic downtown at Lil's Cafe , an artisan bakery with great coffee drinks.

Continue east on state Route 103 along the curving riverfront rather than following U.S. Route 1 into the tangle of outlet shops for which Kittery is most famous. Stop to walk around colonial-era Fort McClary State Historic Site , with its formidable granite walls and views of pretty Portsmouth Harbor. The road curves past characteristic colonial homes before joining with U.S. Route 1A, a scenic coastal road that passes through the classic seaside vacation villages of York Harbor, York Beach and Cape Neddick. These towns have a nostalgic family vacation vibe and there are plenty of places to hop out for a stroll along the sand or a bite to eat overlooking the sea.

Just north of York Beach — a stretch of beach cottages and hotels that looks like a postcard from the 1940s — turn right (follow the signs) to the parking area for what's quite possibly the most photographed building in Maine: Nubble Lighthouse, an elegantly simple white tower beside a red-roofed Victorian keeper's house set on a small rocky island just offshore. You can't actually visit the island, but the view from across the water is splendid, and next to the parking lot, Fox's Lobster House is a good spot to indulge in your first bowl of chowder or lobster roll.

Optional side trip to Portsmouth, New Hampshire

The largest community on New Hampshire's 18-mile shoreline, this upbeat historic city with a population of around 23,000 is both an excellent base for exploring the adjacent southwestern corner of Maine and a delightful destination in its own right.

A compact seaport, Portsmouth is known for its carefully preserved colonial buildings, many of them open to the public. A highlight is Strawbery Banke Museum , a 10-acre living history village of more than three dozen restored structures. Sometimes described as a miniature Portland, this city of narrow tree-shaded lanes and well-tended gardens has a growing restaurant scene and plenty of galleries, crafts shops, bookstores and clothiers to keep you busy.

Just north of Cape Neddick, where U.S. Route 1A cuts west to join U.S. Route 1, turn right onto Shore Road and follow this narrow, curvy route into charming Ogunquit, which developed into an artists colony and a summer resort in the late 19th century and has in more recent decades become a popular LGBTQIA+ destination. Testament to this cheerful beach town's creative legacy are the small but excellent Ogunquit Museum of American Art and the acclaimed Ogunquit Playhouse summer theater. Be sure to check out the shops and seafood eateries (such as Footbridge Lobster and Barnacle Billy's ) of Perkins Cove, where there's also a photogenic footbridge across the town's boat basin. From here, walk the stunning 1.3-mile Marginal Way footpath along a series of sea cliffs into the cute downtown, where you'll discover a number of hip bars and restaurants.

Kennebunkport

As you head north on U.S. Route 1 from Ogunquit, turn right onto the state Route 9 shore route into the old-money enclave of Kennebunkport, with its appealing village center bisected by the scenic Kennebunk River. Stroll among Dock Square's many shops and restaurants, where you can also book a sightseeing cruise on The Pineapple Ketch , a historic 38-foot ship that provides a glimpse of the many imposing summer cottages (mansions, really) that dot the town's shoreline, including Walker's Point, aka the Bush compound, which served as the "Summer White House" for President George H.W. Bush. Off Dyke Road a few miles northeast of town, Goose Rocks Beach is one of the area's gems, offering great opportunities for tidepooling and soaking up rays.

Where to stay

With days of driving ahead, you might consider treating yourself to a night or two in a fabulous spa resort, like Cape Neddick's sumptuous Cliff House Maine (rates start at $699 per night), which is perched on a dramatic rocky ledge a few miles south of the Ogunquit border. In addition to having a 9,000-square-foot spa overlooking the sea, this contemporary 226-room hotel boasts a championship golf course, several restaurants and myriad recreational activities. From the enchanting Trellis House (rates start at $309 per night), an eight-room bed-and-breakfast surrounded by lush gardens and greenery, you're steps from Ogunquit's Marginal Way coastal path and within walking or trolleying distance of the beach and local dining.

The contemporary-chic AWOL Kennebunkport (rates start at $327 per night) offers a distinct contrast to the area's many old-fashioned inns. A short walk from lively Dock Square in Kennebunkport, it's made up of 17 airy cabins with low-slung, tasteful furnishings and private patios and balconies. Most rooms have fireplaces, and rates include a breakfast featuring a toast bar with bagels, muffins, breads and gourmet toppings. AWOL is part of the renowned boutique hotel brand Lark Hotels, which has four other Maine properties, including the stunning Kennebunkport Captains Collection (rates start at $471 per night), which is just around the corner and consists of four smartly updated historic homes with plush rooms and suites outfitted with soaking tubs, working fireplaces and plenty of other perks.

Just across the state line in Portsmouth, you'll find a great selection of both modern full-service hotels and distinctive urban inns. A couple of notables include the Hotel Thaxter (rates start at $369), a new 15-room boutique inn within the heart of the city's historic downtown, and Wentworth by the Sea (rates start at $389 per night), which is a 10-minute drive outside of town on the beautiful New Castle island. This legendary grande dame was built in 1874 and overlooks a scenic harbor where the Piscataqua River meets the ocean. It offers a spa, two pools, tennis courts and a Scottish-style links golf course.

Greater Portland

Maine's largest city has just under 70,000 residents and is 50 miles up the coast from the New Hampshire border. In addition to being a picturesque port city with an incredible food scene, it's an excellent place to anchor yourself if you're planning a longer stay and appreciate having proximity to both the sea and a vibrant arts and cultural scene. From Kennebunkport, state Route 9 leads into the towns that form the metro area's southern edge, including Biddeford and South Portland.

Biddeford and Cape Elizabeth

From Kennebunkport, follow Route 9 as it curves back inland along the Saco River into Biddeford, a once-thriving textile mill town that underwent a severe downturn during the second half of the 20th century as industry moved elsewhere. By the early 2000s, the city center's handsome, though largely empty, redbrick mill buildings and storefronts began to attract chefs, brewers, makers, artists and other entrepreneurs, and today Biddeford buzzes with activity.

Stop for breakfast or lunch at acclaimed spots like Catface Cafe and the Palace Diner , or a memorable dinner at Elda . Sample fine spirits, including aromatic small-batch gins, at cozy Round Turn Distilling , and house-roasted coffees and local beer at the inviting bookstore-cum-cafe Elements .

Once you've filled up on excellent food and drink, follow U.S. Route 1 over the river into another small industrial city, Saco. Here, you have a decision to make about which route to follow. If you have a soft spot for the thrum of boardwalk amusement parks, fried-dough and saltwater taffy vendors, T-shirt shops and souvenir stands, and other retro-kitschy fun, head east a few miles to Old Orchard Beach, a spirited if at times raucous honky-tonk vacation town with a long pier, a beach that's jammed on weekends with towels and umbrellas, and fireworks shows on Thursday nights from late July through early September.

If this isn't your bag, continue up U.S. Route 1 to the bedroom community of Scarborough, and take state routes 207 and 77 through the upscale seaside town of Cape Elizabeth. On this scenic route, you can detour south to Prouts Neck to visit the Winslow Homer Studio ( tours are offered only by advance reservation through the Portland Museum of Art), where the artist painted many of his legendary Maine seascapes from the 1880s until his death in 1910. And you can visit the Portland Head Light , which has served as a beacon to ship captains since 1791 and inspired countless paintings, including Edward Hopper's memorable 1927 work, "Portland Head." You can walk around this graceful stone tower and tour the museum inside the quaint keeper's house — walking paths lead along the rock bluffs and throughout surrounding Fort Williams Park. Route 77 continues north across Casco Bay Bridge and into the heart of Portland.

With its walkable streets lined with stellar restaurants, cocktail lounges, fine galleries and fashionable boutiques, Portland is the perfect city to ditch your car for an afternoon, or even a few days, and explore on foot. The exercise will come in handy given how much eating and drinking you'll be tempted to indulge in. Moreover, there's a clutch of first-rate hotels downtown.

Great views can be had from the grassy lawns of the Western Promenade and Eastern Promenade, two hilltop parks that bracket the city. The Portland Museum of Art features extensive holdings of painters who have immortalized the region's natural scenery, including Homer and Hopper but also John Marin, George Bellows and Andrew Wyeth. There's also an outstanding contemporary collection and terrific rotating exhibits. A few blocks away you can visit the childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, which now contains the Maine Historical Society . Nearby, the Old Port district exudes old-world charm with its bustling wharves, seafood markets and narrow lanes.

Where to eat and imbibe? Longtime favorites include Fore Street for locally sourced seafood and meats and Duckfat for Belgian-style frites and luscious milkshakes. Along the same block, head to Eventide Oyster Co. for fresh-shucked bivalves and its sister establishment, The Honey Paw , for boldly flavored pan-Asian cooking. Newer chef-driven spots such as locavore-minded Twelve and warmly convivial Thistle & Grouse are turning heads with their inventive, artfully prepared cuisine. And James Beard Award-nominated chefs are well represented in town; consider Krista Cole of Sur Lie (she also runs Gather , just up the road in Yarmouth), Courtney Loreg of Woodford Food & Beverage , Isaul Perez of Isa Bistro and Jake Stevens of Leeward , to name just a few. Allagash , Bissell Brothers and Austin Street are among the more than two dozen craft breweries making waves in and around Portland, while purveyors of everything from artisan baked goods (the Holy Donut , Forage , Norimoto ) to locally roasted coffee ( Tandem , Bard , Speckled Ax ) appear in seemingly every direction. Prepare to be blown away.

The islands of Casco Bay

If you have an extra day, consider taking a cruise among the nearly 150 islands of Casco Bay; six can be reached by scheduled ferry service with Casco Bay Lines from downtown Portland. You can rent a bike near the terminals of most of the islands if you're up for a two-wheel adventure, or just go for a cruise. The sunrise and sunset runs are especially scenic, while the mailboat run lets passengers soak up the scenery as workers deliver mail to several of the islands. For a longer visit, consider booking one of the many vacation rentals on the islands, or staying at one of the few full-service hotels, such as the Inn at Diamond Cove on Great Diamond Island.

As you continue up the coast from Portland, you'll encounter the one span of this itinerary that's best undertaken via a dull but efficient freeway. Hop onto Interstate Highway 295 for the nearly 20-mile drive to Freeport, an attractive and historic town that's both a suburb and a retail hub, thanks to the presence in the heart of downtown of the renowned gear and sportswear store L.L. Bean . Established here in 1912, this massive flagship store is open 24/7 and is a must for stocking up on everything from boating and skiing equipment to tasteful housewares and practical yet attractive fleeces, sweaters, boots and more. A crop of other name-brand retailers have outlet shops within walking distance of L.L. Bean.

Set in an imaginatively transformed 1850s mill building in downtown Biddeford, the artful Lincoln Hotel (rates start at $334 per night) contains 33 spacious, industrial-chic rooms with brick walls, gas fireplaces, soaring ceilings and huge windows. It's an excellent choice for taking advantage of Biddeford's increasingly acclaimed culinary scene. Close to Portland Head Light and convenient to downtown Portland but with a peaceful setting on Cape Elizabeth's idyllic Crescent Beach, the pet-welcoming Inn by the Sea (rates start at $495 per night) has 62 individually designed rooms with casually opulent decor; suites have full kitchens.

The seven-story Press Hotel (rates start at $432 or 67,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) occupies a 1920s Old Port building that once housed the city's newspaper and has been given new life as a hip 110-room hotel with old-fashioned writing desks, local art, a rooftop deck, lots of comfy common spaces and a scene-y (for Portland) farm-to-table restaurant. Located in Portland's historic West End, The Francis (rates start at $395 per night) is set in an imposing redbrick mansion that had fallen into a state of disrepair before its new owners completed an ambitious two-year restoration. This dashing 15-room boutique inn has light-filled, uncluttered rooms with a modern vibe, and guests can book spa treatments in the hotel's sister property, The Longfellow, just across the street.

On Great Diamond Island, just a 25-minute ferry ride from Old Port, the distinctive Inn at Diamond Cove (rates start at $249 per night) has been created out of late-19th-century army barracks and has spacious, stylish suites, some with kitchens, that feature porches or balconies, and a large pool and acclaimed waterfront restaurant.

Brunswick to Camden 

From Freeport, U.S. Route 1 continues to the dapper college town of Brunswick (home to Bowdoin College and arguably the state's most famous artisan ice cream purveyor, The Gelato Fiasco ), before becoming a less-trafficked and generally quite scenic two-lane road as it meanders in an east-by-northeast direction through Maine's storied Mid-Coast region. It's about a 60-mile drive from Brunswick to Camden, much of it through lively village centers lined with colonial and Victorian houses and storefronts.

You won't see the actual coastline along this section of road, but numerous state roads run south from U.S. Route 1 down to the picturesque tips of several craggy peninsulas, leading to fabled sites of natural beauty like the Giant's Stairs on Bailey Island, Popham Beach in Phippsburg and Pemaquid Point in Bristol. Detouring down these winding, slow-going roads can easily take an hour or more round-trip, without stops, so unless you have lots of time on your hands, don't attempt to explore every one. But do try to set aside time for at least one of these rewarding side excursions, as it's when you get off the beaten path and experience this region's windswept beaches and dramatic rock formations that you gain a true sense of coastal Maine's sheer beauty.

Bath and Boothbay Harbor

Continue on U.S. Route 1 from Brunswick to the bustling small city of Bath, whose location along a deep stretch of the Kennebec River has made it a hub of shipbuilding since the mid-18th century. Thousands of vessels, including striking wooden clipper ships, were built in the shipyards that formerly lined the riverfront, and the grand Federal and Victorian homes that you see throughout town are a testament to the wealth derived from this important industry. On the south side of downtown, Bath Iron Works opened in 1884 and has built countless warships for the U.S. Navy. It continues to function in this capacity as a division of General Dynamics Corp.

You can learn about the town's, and the state's, rich shipbuilding legacy at the outstanding Maine Maritime Museum , which opened in 1971 on the site of the historic Percy & Small Shipyard. This rambling 20-acre campus contains dozens of carefully preserved buildings along with a terrific museum with an impressive permanent collection of nautical art, ship models and memorabilia, as well as excellent rotating exhibits. On your visit, set aside time to take one of the nature and lighthouse cruises that the museum conducts along the Kennebec River.

From Bath, shortly after passing through historic Wiscasset (home to the famous lobster shack Red's Eats ), turn right onto state Route 27 and continue south to Boothbay Harbor, an idyllic yachting enclave that's home to several stunning lodgings as well as a handful of colorful boutiques and convivial seafood restaurants. Boothbay Harbor's greatest draw is the expansive Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens . Peaceful trails lace the more than 300 acres of formal plantings, a delightful children's garden, shady riverside woodlands and art installations, including five whimsical, larger-than-life troll sculptures that Danish artist Thomas Dambo fashioned out of recycled wood.

Back on U.S. Route 1, you'll continue through several attractive small towns, including Damariscotta, known for its oyster farms and beautiful Victorian buildings. River House and King Eider's Pub are a couple of excellent spots in town to enjoy the local seafood.

You'll find some of Mid-Coast Maine's most bewitching scenery along the shore of West Penobscot Bay, starting with Rockland. Once a rough-and-tumble hub of commercial fishing and lime quarrying, and later a supply center serving the needs of the region's swankier resort communities, this town of about 7,100 has enjoyed a recent renaissance thanks in part to the opening of the renowned Farnsworth Art Museum , known for its remarkable collection of works by Andrew Wyeth (as well as his father, N.C., and son Jamie). The museum also features the works of many other notables of American painting and sculpture, including Louise Nevelson and Marsden Hartley. The Farnsworth is the centerpiece of Main Street, whose striking redbrick Italianate buildings house one-of-a-kind shops and eateries.

A block away, the strikingly sleek Center for Maine Contemporary Art , which acclaimed architect Toshiko Mori designed in 2016, is another cornerstone of the town's remarkable creative scene. Rockland supports an increasingly robust dining scene, with Primo and the ethereal Mediterranean cuisine of James Beard Award-winning chef Melissa Kelly leading the way.

Before heading north toward Rockport, make the easy 15-minute detour southeast to Owls Head Lighthouse , a stout white lighthouse that's notable for its dramatic setting atop an 80-foot bluff that guards the entrance to Rockland's busy harbor. Climb to the top of this 1852 structure for a rewarding view of Penobscot Bay and the nearby island of Vinalhaven, to which ferry service is available from downtown Rockland; there's a small, informative museum at the base. Home to more than 150 meticulously maintained antique cars, motorcycles and planes, the Owls Head Transportation Museum makes for a fun stop on your way back to Rockland.

Rockport and Camden

U.S. Route 1 continues north along Penobscot Bay through quaint Rockport, a venerable artists colony set around a glorious little harbor and home to destination-worthy restaurants like 18 Central Oyster Bar and, turning out seasonally sourced Maine-meets-Mediterranean fare, Nina June . Turn right onto U.S. Route 1A and follow this narrow, twisting road through the village and around to Camden City Park, a slice of greenery set on a bluff with commanding views of the antique wooden-masted sailboats and schooners in Camden Harbor. It has access to a wonderful little beach, too.

In Camden, an affluent summer getaway that's famous for its fleet of historic Windjammer ships, several outfitters in town offer sails on the bay. Stroll around downtown, relax in the Olmsted Brothers-designed Harbor Park or make the short but rather steep 1.1-mile round-trip hike up to the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park . From the historic observation tower at the top, to which you can also drive, the bay views are stupendous. Back in town, alluring restaurants await, such as Long Grain , for some of the tastiest Thai food in the Northeast, and 40 Paper , with its oft-changing menu of flatbreads, pastas and charcuterie focused on locally sourced ingredients.

A stately 1860s captain's house with additional rooms in adjacent buildings, the Topside Inn (rates start at $369 per night) sits on a hilltop with a gracious lawn and sweeping views of Boothbay Harbor. It's a short stroll from local shops and restaurants and a great base for visiting Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and the Maine Maritime Museum.

Overlooking the harbor in the heart of downtown Rockland, the stylishly modern 250 Main Hotel (rates start at $358 per night) has 26 spacious, high-ceilinged rooms on five floors, along with a rooftop deck with fantastic views of the water and downtown. The thoughtful staff tends to guests' every need, and amenities include a light complimentary breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese.

One of Mid-Coast Maine's most luxurious hideaways, the Camden Harbour Inn (rates start at $555 per night) is part of Relais & Chateaux and enjoys a spectacular setting on a hill with expansive views of the town harbor. This 20-room property features an inn and the critically acclaimed restaurant Natalie's; it's also a short walk from downtown dining and shopping. A half-mile up U.S. Route 1 from downtown Camden, Whitehall (rates start at $231 per night) occupies a 19th-century sea captain's mansion that's been given a clever, boldly colored 21st-century makeover. The 36 rooms and suites are set among a few buildings and range from plush and expansive to simple and economical (with bathrooms down the hall).

Camden to Bar Harbor

There are essentially two ways to get from Camden to Bar Harbor, which is just 40 miles east as the crow flies: the long way, following U.S. Route 1 up around Penobscot and directly across to Ellsworth, and the really long way, which entails detouring extensively down through the beautiful Blue Hill Peninsula and onto pastoral Deer Isle before cutting back up to Ellsworth.

The first option takes a little under two hours without stops, while the second option can take as long as four hours depending on how many of the Blue Hill Peninsula's nooks and crannies you decide to explore. This side excursion is well worth the time if you're not in a rush. Either way, from Ellsworth, it's an easy drive down state Route 3 onto the eastern shore of Mount Desert Island to get to Bar Harbor.

As you drive northeast along U.S. Route 1, skirting the western shore of Penobscot Bay, you'll pass through the small beach town of Lincolnville, which is where you can pick up the ferry to the attractive summer vacation island of Islesboro, before entering one of the coast's most alluring small towns, Belfast. With a downtown abundant with grand centuries-old homes and shopfronts with ornate brick facades, the governmental seat of Waldo County is a pleasure to explore on foot. You'll find a smattering of generally casual bars and eateries in town, plus some intriguing antiques and housewares shops.

Searsport and Bucksport

As you continue up U.S. Route 1, more antiquing awaits in the friendly village of Searsport, which is also worth a visit for its superb Penobscot Marine Museum . About 10 miles north, right before the road crosses the Penobscot River, make a left turn and follow the signs to Fort Knox Historic Site and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory . Built in 2007, the soaring cable-stayed Penobscot Narrows Bridge is home to the world's tallest bridge observatory; take the elevator to the top of the 420-foot-high West Tower to enjoy the 360-degree views. Then return to earth and stroll the grounds of the adjacent Fort Knox, a formidable granite fortress constructed in the mid-19th century.

After driving across the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, you'll come to the small riverfront town of Bucksport, a former mill town that's reinvented itself as a burgeoning center of tourism. The walking path along the riverfront makes for a pleasant stroll.

Blue Hill Peninsula and Deer Isle

Bordered by Penobscot Bay to the west and Jericho Bay, Blue Hill Bay and Mount Desert Narrows to the south and east, the mostly rural and incredibly peaceful Blue Hill Peninsula is about 25 miles long and contains just a handful of unpretentious yet dignified villages and a cluster of atmospheric country inns and reliable restaurants. As you drive along its curving country roads and alongside its pebbly beaches and graceful bays, it's easy to imagine you're seeing a slice of coastal Maine much as it probably looked a century ago. Home to several conservation areas and nature preserves, the peninsula is popular for hiking, with 934-foot-tall Blue Hill Mountain among the best destinations for a not-too-strenuous 2-mile round-trip scramble, and the views from the top are impressive.

To get here, turn right onto state Route 166 from Bucksport and follow it south along the eastern shore of Penobscot Bay to Castine, a once-bustling colonial seaport that transitioned gradually into a summer colony of understatedly wealthy industrialists in the 19th century. You'll find a handful of endearing shops and eateries in the village center overlooking the harbor.

From here, backtrack up and around Northern Bay and then follow state Route 175 south to a bridge and then a causeway leading to 30-square-mile Deer Isle, with a pair of winsome villages, Deer Isle proper and Stonington, with still more appealing boutiques, galleries and eateries. Home to one of the state's most famous farm-to-table restaurants, Aragosta , Deer Isle attracts more than its share of foodies. Return to the main route by crossing back onto the peninsula and taking state Route 175 or 172 northeast to the peninsula's largest town, Blue Hill, which is still pretty tiny (the population is slightly fewer than 1,000 souls).

Follow U.S. Route 1 and then state Route 3 onto Mount Desert Island, home to the postcard-worthy resort town of Bar Harbor as well as most of Acadia National Park . Bar Harbor was established as a fishing and shipbuilding town in the 1760s, but by the middle of the next century, prestigious American landscape painters, including Thomas Cole and Frederic Church, were drawn here by the captivating harbor, towering granite cliffs and mountains, and sheltered beaches. The town soon attracted wealthy visitors, many of whom, including Rockefellers, Astors and Vanderbilts, erected massive summer homes. The downtown is one of the prettiest, albeit busiest during the summer high season, in the state.

From May through October, cruise ships tie up in the harbor and ferry passengers into town, resulting in sometimes excessive crowds. That being said, the lovely Main Street is lined with appealing shops and eateries, and both the Village Green and waterfront Agamont Park are enchanting spots to relax, perhaps with a slab of fudge or a dish of ice cream from one of the countless sweets shops. Pro tip: Mount Desert Island Ice Cream , which now has locations as far away as Japan, serves the best frozen desserts in town, with unique flavors like coriander-lemon curd and hojicha (roasted green tea). Make sure to visit the two excellent history museums in town, the Abbe Museum , a Smithsonian-affiliated property devoted to interpreting Maine Indigenous culture and natural history, and La Rochelle Mansion , the Gilded Age "summer cottage" of George Bowdoin that opened as a museum in 2020.

Acadia National Park

Home to the highest peak on the Eastern Seaboard (Cadillac Mountain, elevation 1,530 feet) and remarkably diverse landscapes of rugged and rocky coastal headlands and pristine forests and beaches, Acadia National Park is one of the great natural treasures of New England. About 77 square miles, the park covers around half of Mount Desert Island, mostly on the eastern of the island's two lobes; the rest of Acadia is on Isle au Haut (reachable by ferry from Deer Isle), a number of small and mostly uninhabited islands in the vicinity, and the southern end of the Schoodic Peninsula. Most visitors focus their efforts on the portion of the park adjacent to Bar Harbor, which is indeed an excellent place to start, although this section of Acadia also receives the greatest number of visitors and can feel a bit overwhelming in summer, especially on weekends.

After stopping by the park's Hulls Cove Visitor Center, drive the breathtaking 27-mile Park Loop Road, absorbing the views from the many rocky ledges. Enjoy lunch at the historic Jordan Pond House restaurant. It's famous for its fluffy fresh-baked popovers with butter and strawberry jam.

Although you can drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, parking is limited and reservations are required between mid-May and mid-October to drive to the summit. If you love getting outside and you're ready for a break from driving, consider hiking to the top instead. Several trails, ranging in length from around 2 to 7 miles round-trip, lead to the summit. Other appealing treks in the park include neighboring and less crowded Dorr Mountain and climbing the ladders and rungs of the short but quite vertical Beehive Loop, which overlooks one of the park's loveliest stretches of shoreline, Sand Beach. If you have an extra day or want to get away from the crowds, set aside a few hours to explore the park's quieter western side, checking out the trails around Beech Mountain and Echo Lake.

A luxurious base that's close to both Camden and Belfast yet not far from the Blue Hill Peninsula, the exquisitely restored Homeport Inn and Tavern (rates start at $179 per night) is a short walk from Searsport's town park and fishing pier. This 1860s sea captain's house has a warmly lit British-style pub serving elevated comfort fare, and many rooms have terraces overlooking the verdant gardens.

Famous for having one of the state's most celebrated restaurants, Aragosta at Goose Cove (rates start at $360 per night) offers overnight stays in nine dog-friendly cottages with kitchenettes and three suites, all of them steps from the sea (and some of them with direct water views). It's in the quiet village of Deer Isle, far from crowds, even in the middle of summer. The Blue Hill Inn (rates start at $237 per night) is one of the true gems of the Blue Hill Peninsula. This 1830s mansion decorated in the Federal period style has 11 upscale rooms, and there are two more contemporary suites in an adjacent Cape House cottage. Rates include a lavish multicourse breakfast, and the inn is within walking distance of the harbor and several popular restaurants.

With one of the most desirable locations of any hotel on Mount Desert Island, the refined Bar Harbor Inn & Spa (rates start at $469 per night) sits on a promontory with stupendous views of Frenchman Bay and a wealth of amenities, including an infinity pool, a full-service spa and three waterfront restaurants; many rooms have balconies with water views. The inn accesses the town's famous coastal Shore Path and is an easy stroll from numerous restaurants, shops and the sightseeing cruises that depart from the town pier. The owners run a few other first-rate properties in town, including the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel (rates start at $409 per night), a contemporary reconstruction of a baronial 19th-century inn that was lost in a fire.

The stylishly updated Salt Cottages (rates start at $505 per night) date to the 1940s and are a 10-minute drive from downtown Bar Harbor, across the road from Hulls Cove Beach and right by the Hulls Cove Entrance to Acadia National Park. Popular with families, this welcoming beachy-chic resort offers a host of amenities, from a pool and hot tub to lawn games and a fire pit with s'mores. For a quieter stay away from the bustle of Bar Harbor, book a room at the beautifully renovated Claremont Hotel (rates start at $529 per night), overlooking Somes Sound in Southwest Harbor, on the more tranquil western half of Mount Desert Island. It's a great base for exploring the trails in Acadia National Park's west side, and this 6-acre property features a large pool, three excellent restaurants and a wide range of accommodations options, from classic hotel rooms to houses with multiple bedrooms.

Bar Harbor to Lubec

After returning to U.S. Route 1 from Mount Desert Island, it's about a 90-minute journey — the final 15 minutes on state Route 189 bring you to the town of Lubec, which is the easternmost point in the contiguous United States. This is the most sparsely populated stretch of Maine's coast. It's punctuated by a few hardscrabble fishing, farming and timber towns, and the natural scenery along the smaller roads leading out to the coast is beautiful, but there aren't a lot of dedicated attractions in this region. One notable exception to keep an eye out for as you zoom along U.S. Route 1 is the Wild Blueberry Heritage Center in tiny Columbia Falls, which occupies a distinctive pale-blue geodesic dome building meant to resemble a bulbous blueberry. It's one of those goofy roadside stops that's fun for a photo op. Inside the building, a small nonprofit museum has exhibits about the state's most famous crop and a gift shop selling all things blueberry-themed.

For the most part, car traffic dwindles to a trickle, even in summer, once you drive east of Ellsworth. At the end of the road, however, Lubec and neighboring (across Johnson Bay) Eastport are inviting villages free from excessive development. For fans of seaside solitude, it's worth tacking on an extra day or two to complete the drive to the Canadian border.

Even if you're not planning to go all the way to Lubec, consider driving at least as far as the small, laid-back village of Winter Harbor on the Schoodic Peninsula, which dips down into the Gulf of Maine just 5 miles across the water from Bar Harbor. In summer, you can take a passenger ferry between the two towns; otherwise, it's an hour's drive up and around Frenchman Bay. At the southern tip of the peninsula, off state Route 186, you can enter the nearly 4,000-acre Schoodic District of Acadia National Park, with its largely untrampled conifer forests and bike-friendly scenic park loop road and gravel paths. Only a tiny fraction of visitors ever make it to this pristine and highly underrated section of the park that's anchored by the Schoodic Institute , a 1930s mansion that once held offices and living quarters for the U.S. Navy base that occupied the land before it was transferred to the park in 2002. The building now houses a visitor center and a small museum with exhibits on natural history and the peninsula's interesting military history.

A mellow fishing village surrounded on three sides by water, scenic Lubec has just under 300 residents and an unpretentious downtown with a handful of casual lodging and dining options. After spending the night in town, you can rise early and drive to nearby Quoddy Head State Park to watch the sunrise from the nation's easternmost point. Set aside an hour or two to walk around the 49-foot-tall candy-striped West Quoddy Head Lighthouse and explore the park's peaceful, windswept nature trails.

Campobello Island

Another enjoyable activity in this part of the world is driving over the only bridge onto Canada's Campobello Island (from the Canadian mainland, you can get to this wooded island of about 950 residents by ferry only). The main event here is visiting Roosevelt Campobello International Park , the 2,800-acre summer hideaway of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. You can tour the 1897 shingle-style house and learn more about the couple in the excellent visitor center. Don't forget to bring your passport!

Tantalizingly within view of both downtown Lubec and Roosevelt Campobello International Park, this historic village on the southeastern tip of Moose Island is only reachable (by car, at least) by driving about 45 minutes around Cobscook Bay. (In summer, there is a passengers-only water taxi that runs between Lubec and Eastport.) Despite feeling even more remote than Lubec, Eastport's downtown actually has more in the way of infrastructure, with a waterfront historic district that comprises a few blocks of handsome Victorian buildings containing a smattering of galleries and cafes. Horn Run Brewing occupies one of the prettiest buildings in town and serves well-crafted brews and tasty pub fare, with a tree-shaded patio looking across the Passamaquoddy Bay toward Canada's Deer and Campobello islands. Stop by the Tides Institute & Museum of Art , which is set inside a vintage bank building and contains rotating exhibits.

Optional side trip to St. Andrews, New Brunswick

You could easily continue your coastal explorations by crossing onto the Canadian mainland and driving farther into the Maritime Provinces. From the border crossing between Calais, Maine (which is a half-hour drive up the St. Croix River from Eastport), and St. Stephen, New Brunswick, it's just an hour or so to the province's largest, and Canada's oldest, incorporated city, St. John. From there, plenty of travelers continue on to Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.

But even if your goal is to return to your starting point in southwestern Maine, you might consider making a quick side excursion to St. Andrews, which is just a half-hour southeast of the Calais-St. Stephen border crossing. This colorful maritime village perched at the tip of a peninsula that juts into Passamaquoddy Bay is known for its quaint downtown art galleries, seafood eateries and colonial houses. It's also home to several upscale inns and hotels, including the gracious, Tudor Revival-style Algonquin Resort.

En route from Bar Harbor to the Schoodic District of Acadia National Park, the enchanting Crocker House Country Inn (rates start at $210 per night) sits near the tip of a secluded peninsula, Hancock Point, an easy stroll from the Frenchman Bay waterfront. The 11 rooms in this 1884 inn received a dapper renovation in 2022, and the inn's restaurant serves exceptionally tasty contemporary American and Asian specialties.

At the Inn on the Wharf (rates start at $130 per night) in tiny Lubec, you can stay in the easternmost town in the United States while enjoying a view from your room of the sun setting to the west over the water. The inn operates out of a former sardine factory but also has rooms in several contemporary cottages on a hill overlooking the bay. A casual restaurant serves simple, fresh seafood, and whale-watching excursions are offered on the inn's 26-passenger boat. In Eastport's downtown historic district, the Kilby House Inn (rates start at $150 per night) is set in a pretty Queen Anne house with four period-furnished rooms with antique beds and country quilts; a full breakfast is served in the dining room each morning.

If you decide to hop across the border for a night or two, consider staying at the elegantly restored Algonquin Resort St. Andrews by-the-Sea (rates start at $218 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night), which is in the quaint seaside village of St. Andrews, New Brunswick. A member of Marriott's Autograph Collection, this red-roofed late-Victorian hotel has 233 stylishly appointed rooms, five restaurants and bars, a luxurious spa, and an award-winning 18-hole golf course.

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The Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary

June 26, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   3 Comments

Trying to plan the perfect Maine road trip? Look no further! We’re here to help make the process a little less stressful!

It is one of the best road trips in the USA and should totally be on your bucket list!

Maine has so much to offer: from scenic roads to iconic lighthouses, famous lobster shacks, breathtaking trees alongside winding drives, fun cities, and some national parks, you won’t be disappointed with any stop you add to your Maine road trip itinerary. 

We are listing some of our favorite and “must-see” stops for a Maine road trip below. Victoria actually grew up exploring Maine and New England by RV, so we hope that you enjoy this itinerary!

Keep your personal timeline in mind as you get the car ready to go! You’re in for an amazing adventure.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary

Getting to maine .

When starting your Maine road trip, we recommend flying into the Boston Logan International Airport. This airport is large and therefore a huge hub for many Airlines such as Delta, Cape Air, Southwest, American, United, and more. 

Because this airport is a hub, it also has a variety of cities to depart from, including, Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta Fort Lauderdale, Vegas, and more! So no matter where you are coming from, you will find a well-priced flight here at Boston Logan International Airport. 

If you want to fly into somewhere else, however, you can also consider flying into Portland (Portland, Maine, of course!), through their Portland International Jetport! We just suggest Boston Logan International because it is close to the border of the state and easier to rent cars from for Maine road trip! 

Getting Around During Your Maine Road Trip 

To begin your Maine road trip, you’ll need a car! So make sure to stop by the Rental Car Center serving Boston Logan after you land. Airport terminals run every 5-6 minutes and will take you straight to the RCC where you can rent out a vehicle.

Here you can rent from Enterprise, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, BOS, Thrifty, and Advantage! Just make sure to get a car that has some room and good gas mileage so you are comfortable and prepared for all your adventures of a road trip to Maine. 

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

When to See Fall Foliage in Maine 

We know that the fall foliage in New England is spectacular: people come from all over to see the leaves change, and Maine has some of the bright orange, yellow and red hues across their Maples, Oaks, Elms and Birch trees. 

Many people travel to Maine during late September to see the fall foliage. The September to October weather also is perfect timing for touring the coast and witnessing these hues act as a stake contrast of the blue waters of the nearby oceans, lakes, and rivers! So make sure to keep this in mind when you’re planning a date for your Maine road trip!

Stop 1: Rest and Relax at Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit, Maine is a must stop for your Maine road trip because it truly is a beautiful place by the sea! With miles of sandy beaches, a scenic coast, art galleries, fun shopping, and dining adventures, this place ranks as one of the best vacation spots! 

Perkins Cove is a small fishing village that is great for shopping and restaurants! There are also a variety of tours from boat harbors that you can visit here! Marginal Way is a 1.25-mile coastal walking path that connects Perkins Village to Ogunquit, so this is a great science route to walk. 

There is also some great theater here, so you can check out the Ogunquit Playhouse or the Museum of American Art if you’re interested! Or if you want to do something beyond the beach and small towns, make sure to check our some events: local food and wine tastings are popular and fall-themed events are dependent on the time of year you visit! 

Where to Stay in Ogunquit Beach

Mid-Range: Ogunquit River Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Ogunquit Tides . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Continue to Relax in Kennebunkport 

Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine that is famous for it’s long, sandy beaches. You must check this location out during your Maine road trip if you’re interested in stopping by Goose Rocks Beach as well as Arundel Beach.  This is truly one of the best things to do in Maine!

The Seashore Trolley Museum is also a neat and niche place that displays a huge collection of streetcars, and many people like checking out St. Ann’e Episcopal Church since it dates back to 1887 and its rustic stone architecture contrasted with its grass fields are breathtaking. 

Cape Porpoise is also a nearby lobster-fishing village that sits in a harbor and is well known for its local seafood. From most restaurants and galleries here, you can also view the 1833 Goat Island Lighthouse! 

Where to Stay in Kennebunkport

Mid-Range: Lodge at Kennebunk.  Check Rates: Booking.com

High Range-Range: The Boathouse. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 3: Make sure to Visit Cape Elizabeth for Iconic Lighthouses

A Genteel town, Cape Elizabeth is another stop you have to spend some time during your Maine road trip This place of history and coastlines and parks hugs the Casco Bay , making ripe for adventure! 

Many tourists love to explore this area by bike and cross the Casco Bay Bridge to get to the Cape Elizabeth’s coast. But the hardest decision to make when visiting here comes down to visiting lighthouses: there are so many! Portland Headlight, Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse, and Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse  are active and great views. 

Williams Par k has great trails to explore old batteries, but more importantly, Two Lights State Park is set on a rocky shoreline where you can view twin lighthouses that are close by. This place is perfect for lunch alongside the crashing waves, but you can also check out Crescent Bech State Park!

Where to Stay Near Cape Elizabeth 

Mid-Range: The Francis Check Rates: Booking.com

High-Range: Inn by the Sea . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Spend some time in Portland, Maine (not Oregon!) 

Set on the peninsula extending into Casco Bay , Portland is a great city to stop in during your Maine road trip, and it’s close to Cape Elizabeth!  The Old Port features fishing wharves, warehouses, restaurants, and unique Indie shops that are great for exploring. 

Fort Willams Park is fantastic for visiting a rocky coast, as the seaside park is coastal and has an old fort and views of lighthouses! The Portland Head Lighthouse is also super cool to check out. 

If you’re looking for something more “indoors” to do, you can check out the Portland Museum of Art, but we highly recommend visiting Peaks Island , where there are more beaches and a really cool Fifth Maine Regiment Museum ! 

Where to stay near Portland 

Mid-Range: Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront Check Rates: Booking.com

High-Range: Portland Harbor Hotel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Enjoy the Water in Waldoboro 

Waldoboro is a cute, quaint town in Maine that is perfect for any Maine road trip itinerary. Well known for its lakes, this place thrives off of its agricultural and fishing legacy. 

We recommend checking out all the lake and pond wonders Waldoboro has! From Damariscotta Lake to Pemaquid Pond and Duckpuddle Pond , these bodies of waters are perfect for evenings that you want to fish, relax, boat, and watch sunsets! 

We also think the Waldoboro Historical Society is a cute museum to check out! And the Goose River Peace Corps Preserve and Pond are just fantastic for exploring trails and greenery! Make sure to take in the scenery at Waldoboro! 

Where to Stay Near Waldoboro

Mid-Range: Claddagh Motel and Suites. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Ledges by the Bay . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Check out Rockland and it’s cute Bay and Harbor

Rockland , Maine is a popular tourist spot, so you must add it to your Maine road trip itinerary. Rockland is known as mid-coast Maine and is beautifully famous because the mountains and sea converge here right on Rockland Harbor and Penobscot Bay . 

The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is a highlight of the town, and there are plenty of tours you can take that lets you travel around Penobscot Bay. 

There are also amazing restaurants and shops to check out here, such as Rustica — a great Italian place– and Jess’ Market . Many tourists love renting bikes to explore the small-time and highly recommend looking at great festivals that might be going on when you visit: Rockland is famous for its Summer Solstice Festival! 

Where to Stay Near Rockland

Mid-Range: Glen Cove Inn & Suites. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range : Strawberry Hill Seaside Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: You Must See the East Coast’s Acadia National Park 

Would you really be on a Maine road trip without stopping by and witnessing Acadia National Park in all of its glory? Acadia National Park is a 47,000-acre recreation area on Maine’s Mount Desert. 

Known for its foods, rocky beaches, and breathtaking granite, there are some must-sees here. Cadillac Mountain is the tallest point on the East coast for example. It’s known for its sweeping panoramic views. 

But also make sure to check out Sand Beach , where the quiet cove is super relaxing, or even Jordan Pond where there are some beautiful trails with nearby mountains and lakes! We recommend ensuring that you check out the Bubble Mountain hike though, and Mount Desert Island! 

Where to stay near Acadia

Low-Range: Acadia Pines Motel. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Anchorage Motel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 8: Spend some Time In Bar Harbor 

This bayside town is close to Acadia and is a popular getaway or stops for tourists which is why we’re listing it on your Maine road trip itinerary! You can view this town from the top of Cadillac Mountain.

Many people stop by here because it is so close to Acadia, but while here make sure to check out the Ocean Trail, Schoodic Peninsula, and Frenchman Bay . 

The Criterion Theatre is also a cool place for an evening in, or exploring Village Green , a small historical town with lots to explore! The College of the Atlantic Gardens is also quaint and quiet if you’re looking for something a bit different to explore!

Where to stay in Bar Harbor

Mid-Range: Moseley Cottage Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

High-Range: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 9: Take a trip on a ferry to Nova Scotia 

Although Nova Scotia is technically a province in eastern Canada and not a part of Maine, you have to add it to your Maine road trip! Thankfully you can take the CAT ferry from Bar Harbor for a day trip to Nova! 

Some of the top sights you’ll want to visit in Nova during your trip include the Cape Breton Highlands National Park where you can take trails through mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and coastlines. The Kejimkujik National Park is similar to Cape Breton as well! 

Or you can explore the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, the Halifax Public Gardens of the Halifax Citadel National Site. And if you’re feeling REALLY adventurous, off the coast of Sable Island there are tons of shipwrecks to explore if you want to go diving or snorkeling! Just watch for the high tides Nova is famous for! 

Where to Stay in Nova Scotia

Low-Range: Hillside Landing B&B. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Residence Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

We are so excited you’ve chosen o embark on a Maine road trip, as it is truly a gorgeous state with unforgettable coastlines. After your day trip to Nova, you can head back to Boston or Portland to go ahead and fly home! But as we’ve mentioned, this guide only touches the surface of what Maine has to offer. If you want to know more or have more time to explore, check out some other stops as well. Either way, we know you’ll have fun!

With More Time: 

There is truly so much to do in Maine, so if you are traveling with a bit more time, or for a longer period of time, we are adding a few more stops you might want to stop and explore during your Maine road trip! These stops are super popular as well but are a bit further out of the “loop” during your traveling adventures. They will take more time to get to, but definitely check them out if you have that extra time!

Visit Chimney Pond Via Mount Katahdin

To climb Mount Katahdin during your extended Maine road trip, we suggest taking the Chimney Pond Trail. This trail is 6.3 miles and is considered a “moderate” hike, but is well known for the lake and views it offers.

The Chimney Pond Campgrounds are also part of the “backcountry” near Baxter State Park . Here you can rest and realz while having the closest access to other trails such as Hamlin Ridge and Saddle .  

Visit Oh My Gosh Corner/Carrabassett

Carrabassett Valley is located between the Bigelow Mountains and is known for its scenic routes of birches and rivers. Many people love to come here for skiing in the winter, as there is a bend in the Route known as “Oh My Gosh Corner.”  

From this corner, you can see Sugarloaf Mountain, is 163 trails trifling down its surface. The bend in this road is breathtaking: its north-facing mountain towers around the corner at a 4,237 summit along Carrabassett River . You don’t want to miss it during your Maine road trip.

Visit Moosehead Lake 

Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, which means you have to stop and see it with your Maine itinerary! Situated in the Longfellow Mountains , this lake is surrounded by the Kennebec River.

Near Beaver Cove , the terrain slopes gently toward the water making it a perfect place to swim. The water clarity is great, temperatures fairly warm, and Mount Kineo is also close: here you can explore the 700-foot scenic cliffs in-between your lake day! 

Visit Rangeley Lake 

Fed by a variety of streams, Rangeley Lake is situated close to Rangeley , which was named one of the best winter towns inNew England. Its lake is over 6,000 arches and is super deep (149 feet!). But no matter what time of year you are taking your Maine road trip, you’ve got to stop here! 

Many people love to fish here, as the lake is known for its brook trout and salmon. Beyond the lake though, there is Rangeley Village with hotels, restaurants and shops, and the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society is a cute museum that exhibits the town’s history! 

Visit Sugarloaf Mountain 

Sugarloaf Mountain is a lovely mountain in Maine. Open from 8 a.m. until sunset, this natural landmark has geographical beauty and striking landscape views. After taking lifts to the top of Sugarloaf and exploring the park, you can check out the nearby towns. 

Visit Baxter State Park 

Our last suggestion for your Maine road trip itinerary includes Baxter State Park . This is a large wilderness area that has been permanently preserved and features a variety of trails (we highly recommend checking out the Knife Edge trail !), sights, and mountains. 

Mount Katahdin is Maine’s tallest peak and is located here. It is also a favorite hike amongst tourists! And Baxter Peak is also popular, although its trial is more difficult. If you’re feeling more “woodsy” too, you can explore the monuments and breathtaking sights of Katahdin Woods and Waters! 

And there you have it! A great Maine road trip itinerary that will take you around the state to experience national parks, iconic lighthouses, potent landscapes, and more. Make sure to drive safe and have TONS of fun during your Maine road trip– we promise it will be unforgettable! 

Reader Interactions

July 12, 2020 at 12:14 pm

What a wonderful trip through Maine. I have done some of it but would love to return to see the rest. It is a beautiful state with so many places to visit…One day…

October 14, 2022 at 8:39 pm

thanks for the good read. i am going solo as i promised to see Maine before i am 60 ill let you know how much i love it

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The Best 10-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary For An Amazing Trip

This post contains affiliate links to trusted partners. If you purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Do you need help planning a coastal Maine road trip itinerary ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Located in the New England region of the United States, Maine is the country’s easternmost state and borders Canada to the north.

Its cooler climate and coastal location are what allow visitors to enjoy many of the things Maine is most known for: delicious seafood, juicy blueberries, beautiful beaches, rocky coastline, and stunning landscapes that offer some of the world’s best hiking and outdoor activities.

There is a lot to enjoy on a Maine road trip, though with so many options, it can be hard to narrow down what to actually add to your itinerary.

Luckily, I’ve done the hard work for you, and you’ll find a road trip through Maine mapped out below — complete with recommendations for where to go, what to do, where to eat, and tips for having the best trip possible.

This itinerary is based on a summer road trip I did with my husband Andy, though solo travelers, families, and friend groups can also enjoy the below suggestions.

To help you have the best Maine road trip possible; one complete with incredible memories you’ll truly never forget!

Renting a car for coastal Maine road trip?  Check out  Discover Cars  to quickly compare your rental options. Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% by using their tool! There are also a number of fun guided Maine tours to add to your itinerary, like an Old Port Culinary Walking Tour from Portland or an eBike Tour of Acadia National Park’s Carriage Roads from Bar Harbor .

Psst, don’t forget to pin this Maine itinerary for later!

Simply add the map to your phone to have it ready to go for your trip.

Bonus: The kit comes with 40+ other travel resources — from printables to quizzes to itineraries — all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!

On that note, let’s go over how to have the absolute best road trip in Maine.

10-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary (Quick Facts)

To help you save time, here is a quick overview of the Maine coast vacation itinerary detailed below.

Maine car rental: Use DiscoverCars to compare prices across various car rental companies. This can really help you save money when traveling to Maine or heading out on a road trip .

Maine travel insurance: I use and recommend SafetyWing , which offers budget-friendly yet robust coverage.

Road trip planning tool: Wondering how to plan a trip to Maine? Check out Roadtrippers Plus , which helps you plan your route, estimate gas costs, book hotels and tours, create maps, and more. Use code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off!

Stop #1: Portland (2 nights)

• Stay: This historic hot tub-equipped Airbnb or at a hotel in downtown Portland – like the Black Elephant Hostel (which has private rooms) or The Docent’s Collection .
• Eat: Bite Into Maine (amazing lobster rolls), Blyth & Burrows (cocktails & bites), Central Provisions (unique seasonal menu), Holy Donut (made-from-scratch potato donuts).
• Do: Bike the lighthouses as a DIY adventure or book this tour , walk the many scenic neighborhoods, visit beautiful beaches (like Old Orchard Beach), and do a beer tour .
• Tours: Click here for a full list of tours in Portland, Maine .

Stop #2: Bar Harbor (3 nights)

• Stay: We stayed at the Acadia Pines Motel based solely on the price, and wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. It was fine for what we needed, though if I did it again I’d probably choose the reasonably-priced Little Fig Hotel , which also has a better location right in Bar Harbor’s walkable village.
• Eat: 2 Cats Restaurant (made-from-scratch breakfast), Terrace Grille (delicious lunch on the water), Merchant & Frye (farm-to-fork eatery), and Geddy’s (fresh local lobster).
• Do: Hike in Acadia National Park, wander the walkable village and its coastal Shore Path, and go on a tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co .
• Tours: Click here for a full list of tours in Bar Harbor, Maine .

Route 1 Maine Road Trip Map

When it comes to Maine driving trips along the coast, many people like to take Route 1 since it’s smooth, scenic, and parallels the Maine coast.

To help you save time, you can click here for a Google Map for your Route 1 Maine coast itinerary with the above-mentioned destinations pre-plotted.

10-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary (In-Depth Plan)

Now let’s go over our best coastal road trip in Maine in-depth.

In this section, I’ll detail a number of recommendations in each stop based on my own unforgettable 10 day Maine itinerary — so that you can steal them for your own travels.

Of course, this list of ideas for a road trip through coastal Maine is not exhaustive. If you have your own suggestions, please share them in the comments below!

Maine Road Trip Stop #1: Portland (2 Nights)

One stop you should definitely add to your Maine trip is Portland, a hip city with a rich history.

Originally called “Machigonne” (great neck) by the Native American Algonquians, the area was later named after the English Isle of Portland.

According to Britannica , it changed names a few more times before eventually becoming Portland again, and its history includes being a fishing and trading village, seeing many wars (and being destroyed and rebuilt many times), and playing a big part in the transportation industry.

Much of this history, and more, can be explored at Portland’s many museums.

Portland is actually Maine’s largest city, and today you’ll find loads of opportunities to discover great restaurants, bars, nightlife, tours, and cultural institutions.

Quite honestly, there is enough to do to warrant a longer stay in Portland; however, as this is only a 10-day Maine itinerary and we’ve got places to go, I’m keeping it at 2 nights. That being said, feel free to extend if you have the time!

Where To Stay In Portland

Airbnb with hot tub . During our road trip to Portland, Maine, we stayed in a charming Airbnb housed in a building that’s on the National Historic Registry. Known as the Leonard Bond Chapman House (circa 1868), the home is a classic Second-Empire Victorian, and once featured vast farmland and a successful nursery — though today you’ll find the land has amenities like a hot tub, pool, and relaxing lounge areas.

Hotel in Portland’s Old Port . If you’d prefer to be in the heart of the action, staying in the historic Old Port with its cobblestone streets and beautiful brick buildings is a smart idea. You’ll be within walking distance of loads of restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques — plus the waterfront is nearby if you’d like to enjoy a promenade walk, waterfront meal, or sunset cruise .

Things To Do In Portland, Maine

-Bike The Lighthouses

One fun activity to do along your coastal Maine road trip is to bike the lighthouses Portland is so well known for.

You can rent a bike from Lighthouse Bikes in South Portland, which offers rentals for $10 per hour or $35 per day, which also gets you a helmet, bike lock, and a map.

There are 5 lighthouses on the main route, though most people only do the first 4 — Bug Light , Spring Point Ledge , Ram Island Ledge , and Portland Head Lighthouse .

Liquid Riot . While they have a food menu, I’d recommend coming here just for drinks. They brew their own beer and distill their own alcohol — meaning the libations are delicious. Plus, the space is really cool with giant glass windows showing the behind-the-scenes of the operation, wine barrels as tables, and indoor-outdoor seating.

Drink recommendation: the “Wild Hearts” made with Liquid Riot Bonfire Spirit, mezcal, banana Cognac, lime, prickly pear, grapefruit, and spice.

Holy Donut . This beloved local donut shop is known for their made-from-scratch potato donuts that come in flavors like chocolate sea salt and blueberry lemon. My top pick: the vegan chocolate caramel coconut, which looks and tastes like a Samoa cookie!

Geddy’s Restaurant . No vacation on the Maine coastline would be complete without savoring some local lobster. This eatery in Bar Harbor Village is known for its fun nautical decor and fresh lobster caught right in the Maine waters out front. Pair a Lobster Bake — which comes with lobster, corn, and homemade blueberry pie — with a local Atlantic Brewery beer.

Merchant & Frye . This hip eatery in Bar Harbor Village serves up seasonally-inspired dishes that pair perfectly with their craft cocktails, local beers, and carefully curated wines in a stylish space with open kitchen, fun artwork like regal dog portraits, and classic diner tables and stools.

We loved the Maine mussels appetizer — served with seed crackers and aioli for a unique flavor. It’s also recommended to try the Crab Cacio & Pepe with thick rye pappardelle pasta and a generous helping of crab meat, and the 12-hour smoked brisket with marinated heirloom tomatoes.

Graffiti Donuts . This dessert cafe’s specialty is donut creations — including “Donut Nachos” featuring fresh-made cinnamon sugar donut holes, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and rainbow sprinkles. Yum!

Terrace Grille . Here you can savor an amazing lunch with a front row view of the harbor. A few standout dishes include the fish tacos made with local Maine haddock, the shrimp and haddock grits, the lobster roll, and the homemade New England Clam Chowder in a bread bowl. Pair with a local Atlantic Brewing Co beer or their charitable cocktail of the day (it was “Bubbles For Books” when we visited).

Tours In Bar Harbor, Maine

Add one — or more — of the following Bar Harbor tours to really experience the best of coastal Maine:

• Private Holiday Professional Photo Shoot in Bar Harbor
• Narrated Bus Tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
• Savor Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour
• A Walk Through Time in Bar Harbor (Celebrating 200+ Years!)

Click here for a full list of Bar Harbor tours .

Tips For Visiting Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor has free parking after 8pm. This is true even in the large main lots.

Book your trip in advance. While this goes for all of coastal Maine, Bar Harbor is particularly tricky when it comes to finding affordable lodging. Especially if visiting during the busy summer months, book your accommodation, tours, and transportation as far in advance as possible.

Plan your Cadillac Mountain visit in advance. When researching what to do in coastal Maine, visiting the iconic Cadillac Mountain — the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard at 1,530 feet tall — will undoubtedly come up as a recommendation. The thing is, you need a permit to drive to the summit, which books up quickly. You can find full information on making a Cadillac Mountain reservation here .

Maine Road Trip Stop #3: Camden (2 Nights)

If you want to explore the best places to go on the coast of Maine, Camden should definitely be on your road trip itinerary, especially as many consider it to be one of the prettiest coastal Maine towns.

“Where the mountains meet the sea” is Camden’s motto, as it’s one of only two places on the Atlantic seaboard where inland hills roll right up to the harbor to kiss the water.

This makes for absolutely breathtaking scenery whether you’re hiking in the local Camden Hills State Park or wandering the charming waterfront village full of galleries, shops, restaurants, and breweries.

Actually, the Native American Penobscots, who originally inhabited present-day Camden , called it “Megunticook,” meaning “great swells of the sea” — which references the silhouette of the Camden Hills. Hopefully, you’ll have some bright days in Camden during your coastal Maine road trip, as this is when the visual is most apparent.

On that note, let’s go over how to have an amazing time in Camden on your road trip to Maine.

Where To Stay In Camden, Maine

High Tide Inn . We absolutely loved our stay at this bed & breakfast — which is only a 6-minute drive to the walkable village and a 3-minute drive to Camden Hills State Park.

Owned by two sisters, they offer cottages and motel units, many of which have ocean views.

Along with a delicious breakfast of hard-boiled eggs, fresh fruit, and homemade baked goods, you can enjoy sipping a glass of wine, seeing a sunrise, or stargazing on their beautiful lawn (with lawn chairs) or on their private beach.

Camden Deli . Not only does this deli have delicious sandwiches — including a number of yummy options for vegetarians — it has a back patio with waterfront views and a rooftop.

Sea Dog Brewing . Enjoy elevated pub fare like crab rangoon dip, creamy lobster bisque, or a veggie sweet potato burger on the back patio with waterfront views and pair with one of their many beers: wild blueberry ale, hazelnut porter, light-bodied wheat ale, hoppy IPA, and more!

Peter Ott’s On The Water . Treat yourself to a nice meal at this fancy restaurant on the water. Prices are reasonable for the level of service and the quality of the dishes — like the homemade lobster corn chowder, panko-crusted haddock, or my personal recommendation, lobster fettuccini. Order it and thank me later!

Tours In Camden, Maine

Camden is one of the best places to visit on the Maine coast, especially if you add some of the following tours to your itinerary:

• Windjammer Classic Sunset Sail
• Windjammer Classic Day Sail
• Ghost Walking Tour
• Artisanal Cheeses of Maine Class

Click here for a full list of Camden tours .

Tips For Visiting Camden, Maine

Explore Camden early. Camden Village closes down early, with most shops closing around 5pm or 6pm and dinner restaurants closing around 8pm or 9pm. Many places — especially those on the water — will have a wait, so if you can get there before 6pm you’ll avoid having to wait for an hour.

Parking is cheap. Along with paid parking spots and lots that are typically $2 per hour, there are a few free lots — including one on Washington Street behind Camden Fire Department and one past the Camden Public Library on Atlantic Avenue.

Maine Road Trip Stop #4: Kennebunkport (2 Nights)

Sitting at the mouth of the Kennebunk River, right along the Atlantic coast, sits Kennebunkport — one of the Kennebunks, which consists of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel.

To the Native American Abenaki, Kennebunk meant “the long cut bank,” believed to reference Great Hill at the mouth of the Mousam River.

The place we call Kennebunkport today was named Cape Porpus by settlers in 1653, and then Arundel in 1717. In 1821, it was finally called Kennebunkport — a name derived from an Abenaki or Mi’kmaq word translating to “long sandbar,” according to Britannica .

Today, the hub of activity is in and around the Dock Square neighborhood of Kennebunkport. Here you’ll find a walkable village with local shops and eateries, waterfront restaurants, and activities like kayak and bike rentals.

That being said, there are numerous places to explore in and around Dock Square to enhance your Maine coastal road trip.

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport

Paris In Kennebunk (Airbnb). This cozy and comfortable Airbnb is located in nearby Kennebunk and is walkable to a number of yummy restaurants. There is also a backyard with a grill, fire pit, hot tub, and loads of seating options for relaxing under the stars with a glass of wine.

Whimsy . Here they sell whimsical home decor and gifts, like decorative lamp shades, hand-carved bird statues, and Maine-themed ornaments.

Minka . This boutique showcases sustainable and handmade apparel, accessories, and art.

Note that these are hardly your only options, so add exploring Dock Square for a few hours to your coastal Maine road trip itinerary!

-Relax on the beach

The best Maine road trips always include time in the sand. Luckily, There are many local beaches in Kennebunkport and Kennebunk, like Kennebunk Beach , Mothers Beach , and Parsons Beach .

Probably the most popular — and the one you’ll see in many Maine tourism ads — is Gooch Beach , which features an expansive stretch of sand with swimmable waters, waves for surfing, and views of lovely local homes.

This is one of the best places to visit along the Maine coast. Plus, if you book the above-mentioned Airbnb, a beach parking pass is included with your stay!

Tours In Kennebunkport / Kennebunk

No road trip along the Maine coast would be complete without visiting Kennebunkport. Elevate your itinerary by booking some of the following tours:

• Luxury Catamaran Sailing Charters in Maine
• A Walk Through Time in Kennebunkport (Celebrating 200+ Years!)
• 3 Hour Kayak/SUP Rental in Cape Porpoise Harbor
• Alpha Omega Connections – A Spiritual Healing and Guidance Home

Click here for a full list of tours in Kennebunkport .

Tips For Visiting Kennebunkport

Know where to park. During busy times, the parking lot in the center of Kennebunkport gets full and it’s tough to find parking. Luckily, we discovered a large and empty free lot about a 10-minute walk from the village. The lot is next to the Kennbunkport Fire Station. Here is a pin you can put into Google Maps to find it.

Shorter 7-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary Option

Not all great driving trips in Maine need to be long to be fun. If you don’t have time for a full 10 day coastal Maine road trip itinerary and only have a week to spare, I’d personally cut out Portland and shave one night off Bar Harbor.

With this in mind, your Maine coast driving itinerary would be:

• Bar Harbor (2 nights)
• Camden (2 nights)
• Kennebunkport (2 nights)

This is especially true if visiting Maine in the warmer months when you’ll want to take advantage of the beaches and don’t necessarily care about exploring a bigger city as much.

If traveling to Maine in the winter, then you might instead consider removing Kennebunkport from the road trip itinerary.

With this in mind, your cool weather coastal Maine vacation itinerary would be:

• Portland (2 nights)

If you’re looking for an unforgettable week in Maine, either of the above would be perfect. These are truly some of the best scenic road trips in Maine.

About Jessie Festa

Jessie Festa is a New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture , an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys , which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

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How to Do Coastal Maine in 7 Days: Charming Camden

Coastal Maine is an outdoor lovers paradise in the summer months. In an effort to get away from urban life and see a new part of the US that I had never experienced, I recently put together a road trip: “Coastal Maine in 7 Days.” This is the first post in a series where I will take you along for the trip. I’ll show you the itinerary I used so that you can replicate and experience everything that Maine has to offer. This first post starts with the flights into Portland and the first stop in the small and charming town of Camden, Maine. Stay tuned to this series as we will eventually make our way up the Maine coastline to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Par k before returning for a couple of days in Portland.

Post Contents

Day 1 – Arrival and Drive to Camden, Maine

Flight into portland, maine.

The best way to start the “Coastal Maine in 7 Days” trip is by flying into Maine’s largest city of Portland. Portland’s airport is the Portland International Jetport (PWM). It is a fairly small airport so flights in and out are somewhat limited; although, service has been growing in recent years. To allow the most time to explore along your first day’s drive, try to get an early arriving flight.

If flying into Portland does not work for you because of cost, connections, or schedule, Boston-Logan airport is a backup option. Boston is a much larger airport and would therefore have better connections and service. In addition, the prices may be cheaper in Boston based on where you are originating. If you do fly into Boston-Logan, an extra hour and a half of driving will be required to get to Portland (assuming you don’t arrive during a Boston rush hour).

Collect Bags and Pickup Rental Car

Coastal Maine is a collection of small towns along the waters edge. While there is some train service that heads south from Portland, there is almost no public transportation infrastructure. For this reason, a rental car is a necessity when exploring coastal Maine.

The major car rental agencies are located at Portland International Jetport (no shuttle to the rental cars is required). After collecting your baggage (if you checked bags), walk directly across the airport terminal road to the rental car center.

If you are able to obtain rental car elite status or sign up for executive/preferred status with the rental car agency, Portland is a city where this can be quite helpful. During the tourist season, long lines can form at the rental car center. Elite status or preferred status with your rental car agency can help you skip the line and get you on your journey that much faster.

Drive to Camden

The first overnight location along this itinerary is Camden, Maine. Camden is a short drive up the Maine coast. Most of this drive is along the famous Atlantic Coast Highway (US Highway 1). Over the Coastal Maine in 7 Days itinerary, you will become very familiar with the Atlantic Coast Highway. If your flight arrival time allows, I recommend that you stop along your journey to Camden.

The stop at Rockland Breakwater Light below assumes you land in Portland around noon (12 PM). If you arrive much later than 12 PM, you may have to eat on the road or be okay with getting into Camden later. If you are flying into Boston and don’t arrive prior to noon, Rockland Breakwater Light may not make the itinerary until the return drive due to the additional driving time required from Boston.

Rockland Breakwater Light

The Rockland Breakwater Light is a lighthouse located in Rockland, Maine. This lighthouse sits at the end of a long breakwater that protects the harbor of Rockland. The light isn’t your typical lighthouse shape. Instead, the lighthouse is essentially bolted onto the roof of a regular two-story house. The two-story house is the caretaking building which would normally be a separate building in traditional lighthouse setups. This makes for a less picturesque lighthouse photo, but it is unique in the set of Maine lighthouses that are on the Coastal Maine in 7 Days itinerary for that reason.

In addition to the unique structure, the lighthouse’s real claim to fame is the breakwater on which it sits. The lighthouse is located at the end of the Granite Breakwater of Rockland Harbor. To access the lighthouse, visitors walk the top of the approximately 0.8 mile-long breakwater. The breakwater is constructed of large blocks of granite that have been mostly smoothed on top. This breakwater creates a long walkway out into the middle of Rockland harbor. There are still gaps between the blocks that make up the breakwater so you have to watch your step as you go.

The Rockland Breakwater Light is such a unique walk that you won’t want to miss it. It is also free to walk the breakwater and climb the elevated platform outside the lighthouse. The platform provides some great views of the Rockland harbor, passing sailboats, the surrounding coastline, and the breakwater heading back to shore.

Be sure to bring layers of clothing. Since the lighthouse is 0.8 miles out into the bay, winds can be quite strong. This often means that temperatures at the lighthouse feel 10°F cooler than the shoreline. A final note of caution is that the breakwater can become covered by water at certain times. When the ocean is at high tide and there are waves or a swell, the breakwater risks being covered. Check the tide chart before you go to time your visit appropriately. The breakwater becomes covered at 11 feet of tide. Any tide below 11 feet will provide a clear route to the lighthouse.

Check In to Camden Accommodations

Camden, Maine is a small town of less than 2,000 permanent residents year-round. However, during the summer tourist season, the population of the town swells with tourists and seasonal workers. Don’t be deterred by that fact. Camden has many inns and bed & breakfasts so that the influx of summer vacationers is handled well.

Camden is a very walkable town. Parking downtown can also be difficult. A 2 hour limit on parking spots is strictly enforced. For these reasons booking a hotel, inn, or bed & breakfast near the downtown area will serve you well. In addition to the convenience, it is just a nice change of pace to be able to walk to explore the downtown area and walk to and from dinner in the evening. For all the places you consider, I would enter them into Google Maps and check the walking distance to downtown. I would feel comfortable booking anything that is less than 15 minutes walking. If you or your travel companions are mobility challenged, consider reducing the 15 minutes walking goal to 10 or 5 minutes.

Explore Downtown Camden and Dinner

As mentioned earlier, downtown Camden is very walkable. While the vast majority of shops and boutiques will have closed by the time you arrive in Camden the first night, dinner will be in full swing in the town. If you are traveling during the summer, you will see many people out and about for dinner and evening walks. Take this opportunity to learn the lay of the land in the town.

First, make your way to Main St. This short stretch of road (not more than 0.2 of a mile) houses most of the downtown shops, breweries, and boutiques. Next, get some great views of the harbor. These views can be found from the Harbor Park (near the Camden Public Library) or from the harbor walk near the docks off of Main St. When coupled, these two central locations will give you a great overview of Camden’s commercial center.

As you explore Camden, make your way towards a dinner location. Some great locations to try include:

• https://www.waterfrontcamden.com/
• https://www.nataliesrestaurant.com/menu/
• https://www.peterotts.com/

Two notes on dinner in Camden to pass along. First, during the main tourist season, the influx of visitors can easily pack out the available restaurants. You may want to consider dinner reservations at some of the above if you want a particular dining time. Second, restaurants and other venues in Camden tend to close early. Almost all restaurants close by 9 PM. While this doesn’t mean that they will kick everyone out at nine, many restaurants do a last seating near 8:30 PM. In the summer when days are long and if you are trying to maximize what you can do in that time, take these closure times into account. As a heads up, 9 PM closings will be somewhat common throughout the whole Coastal Maine in 7 Days Itinerary.

Day 2 – Camden

The first full day in Maine is also unfortunately the only full day in Camden. As we make our way along coastal Maine in only 7 days, maximizing the use of our time will be essential. Today will hit some of the most well-known aspects of Camden: Camden Hills State Park, downtown Camden, and Penobscot Bay.

Hike Mt. Battie

Perhaps the most well-known attraction in Camden is Camden Hills State Park and its tallest peak, Mt. Battie. Mt. Battie is located immediately next to downtown Camden making it a perfect way to start the morning. After grabbing breakfast and donning your hiking gear, the Mt. Battie Trailhead is a short 0.5-mile walk from downtown Camden. As a warning, the walk to the trailhead is uphill through a neighborhood. If you want to cut this portion of the hike out, there is a small parking lot at the trailhead.

This hike is difficult and uphill. The total distance is only 0.8 miles from trailhead to the peak of Mt. Battie; however, the incline is what makes it difficult. Make sure you are prepared and bring plenty of water with you. If you are an active person, it will be difficult. However, it is rewarding once you get to the top.

The top of the mountain provides amazing wide views of Penobscot Bay and the town of Camden. You are able to see so much of the surrounding area below you during the hike up, and the view only improves the higher you climb. Waiting at the top of Mt. Battie is Mt. Battie Tower. This tower is a cute way to get another view of the bay and Camden from the top. In addition, it makes for great pictures once you reach the top.

The hike down is steep in some places, but it is much easier that the hike up.

If you are able to do the hike, I highly encourage it. Climbing to the top is very rewarding and provides a warmup for some of the hiking later on in the trip in Acadia National Park. However, if you can’t do the hike, there is a road to the top of Mt. Battie to allow you to see the same panoramic views of the bay and the town of Camden. Entrance to the state park via a vehicle costs $6/person or $2/senior (age 65 and older).

Bike Camden

The state of Maine is truly an outdoorsman or outdoorswoman’s paradise. The generally pleasant weather in the summer combined with great natural beauty is what creates this paradise. In order to spend as much time in the outdoors as possible, I recommend a bike ride through Camden to fill your afternoon. A couple of different companies rent bikes for the day. While most bike rentals will be for the entire day, I recommend making this a half-day activity in order to have time for other activities.

The easiest place to rent from is Maine Sport Outfitters. They have two locations. The main location is located about 1.5 miles from downtown Camden. They also have a downtown Camden location, but it is much smaller. Most of their rental equipment is located at their main location, but they will deliver to downtown if you reserve and request that ahead of time.

At the time of writing, standard bikes were renting for $40/day/bike. As a word of warning, Camden is a hilly town. Biking up and down the hills (while beautiful) can be difficult if you aren’t a regular biker. For those who aren’t regular bikers, Maine Sport Outfitters also rents a small number of E-bikes (battery-powered pedal assist bikes) for $79/day/bike.

Camden City Park & Laite Memorial Beach

While most of your bike ride will be spent exploring some of the areas of Camden outside downtown, there are a few places that you should make a stop on your bike journey. First is Camden City Park and Laite Memorial Beach. Laite Beach is popular with locals and tourists alike as a place to come and soak up the sun. While you don’t have to lounge in the sun, it’s a fun opportunity to see a local Maine beach. You also get some good views of the Camden harbor from outside the downtown area.

Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe

If you like candy, sweets, or chocolate, this is a stop for you. Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe offers a huge selection of candies. These include mass-market favorites like gummy bears, jellybeans, and candy bars. However, the candy shop also includes many sweets made in-house like saltwater taffy, fudge, brittle, and caramels. It’s a truly fun experience for adults and children alike to browse the wide selection available and pick up a couple of items to try.

The Smoothie Shack

The Smoothie Shack is a great place to be able to take a break after you have been biking for a while. This roadside food truck just outside downtown on Elm Street is known for the smoothies, but they also serve wraps and salads. In addition to classical fruit smoothies, they also carry “superfood smoothies” that include ingredients like carrot, kale, protein, and chia seeds. Be aware that they only accept cash as payment so make sure that you have cash available.

Schooner Sailing Expedition

No trip to Camden (or Maine in general for that matter) would be complete without a sailing excursion. The opportunity to see the Maine coastline from the oceans is a completely different perspective that is not to be missed. While there are several sailing excursions offered in Camden, my recommendation from research and experience is the Schooner Surprise.

The Schooner Surprise has a maximum capacity of 15 guests, but often there are many fewer guests on the boat making for a more intimate sail. During the sail, you will have front row seats to the captain and first mate hoisting the sails and steering the ship. Depending on your cruise, you may get lucky and have an opportunity to assist.

The sail takes you around a couple of the nearby lighthouses for which Maine is famous. Also included in the schooner trip is a cruise through the middle of Penobscot Bay and a close sail around a few of the many islands in the area.

I recommend an early evening cruise due to the picturesque scenery on the water at that time of day. It is also a great way to relax and wrap up your day prior to dinner in downtown. The Schooner Surprise will also allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages on board to enjoy during the sail.

As with the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse earlier in this itinerary, makes sure to bring some extra layers of clothing. Once out on the water, the wind will pick up making it feel many degrees colder than it is in Camden. The schooner does have some blankets available for those that are cold. Try to dress appropriately though as there aren’t enough blankets to go around if everyone on the schooner wants one.

Dinner and Day Two Wrap Up

Once you depart the Schooner Surprise, you will be in the harbor in downtown Camden. I recommend almost immediately going to dinner as many places will be doing final seatings within the hour. Enjoy the remainder of your evening with a laid-back dinner and stroll back to your accommodations.

Hopefully, you have enjoyed this overview of the first two days of the “Coastal Maine in 7 Days” road trip. If you have any questions, please leave them below.

Stay tuned – the next three days of the road trip including Bar Harbor are coming up soon!

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• Trip overview
• Places to visit
• Events nearby
• Restaurants

7 Day Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Maine 7-day road adventure.

This 7-day road trip through Maine is designed to provide an unforgettable experience filled with scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and charming towns. Start your journey at the iconic Portland Head Light , where you'll marvel at the stunning coastal views and rich history of one of the most famous lighthouses in the United States. Next, explore the cobblestone streets of Old Port in Portland, a historic district brimming with unique shops, seafood restaurants, and lively waterfront activities.

Head to Freeport , renowned for the L.L.Bean flagship store and a variety of outlet shops and cozy cafes perfect for relaxing and shopping. Travel north to the tranquil setting of Moosehead Lake , ideal for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Your next destination is the majestic Acadia National Park , where breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems await, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and scenic drives along the rugged coastline.

Nearby, the picturesque town of Bar Harbor invites you with its charming streets and seaside dining, serving as a perfect gateway to exploring Acadia's natural beauty. Finally, your journey ends at Camden Hills State Park , where you can hike up to Mount Battie for panoramic views of Maine's stunning coastline and forests. This road trip in Maine promises a blend of adventure, relaxation, and memorable experiences.

Recommended Explorations

Portland head light.

• Remove Edit Reorder

Moosehead Lake

Acadia National Park

Camden Hills State Park

Local Events & Happenings

Music for your journey, tasty picks, stay recommendations, the cliff house maine.

The Inn at Ocean's Edge

The Press Hotel, Maine

Greenville Inn at Moosehead Lake

Chebeague Island Inn

7-Day Scenic Road Trip Across Coastal Maine

Kelsey Casey

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/52VWYZ/7-day-scenic-road-trip-across-coastal-maine-kelsey-casey

Active Travel

Adventure Travel

Domestic Travel

Nature Escapes

Road Trip Travel

Curator’s statement

Growing up in Maine, I've always been drawn to the state's rugged nature juxtaposed against its peaceful and cozy interior. Its scenic coast allures both locals and travelers alike who are drawn to its severely gorgeous landscape, sea-to-table feasts and historic charm. This road trip is for those looking to explore Maine like a local, while also not missing the greatest hits along the way.

The Fora Difference

Book with Kelsey to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Aragosta at goose cove.

Waterfront resort with nine cottages and three suites with sweeping ocean views, just steps from the stunning onsite farm-to-table restaurant, Aragosta.

250 Main Hotel

Modern boutique hotel on Rockland Harbor with an industrial-modern vibe.

$25-50 hotel / resort credit.

Complimentary tickets to local art museum.

Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in.

Under Canvas Acadia

Glamping experience on a private beach in Acadia offering breathtaking views of the Maine coast.

The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection

In the heart of Portland, Maine, this historic hotel features a fun newspaper-theme with rooms and suites styled as writer's offices.

$100 hotel / resort credit.

Welcome amenity.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Tops'l Farm

Set on an 83-acre farm in Midcoast Maine, Tops'l Farm features rustic cabins, seasonal retreats, an event space and plenty of room for activities.

Unlock perks by contacting Kelsey to book your trip.

Get in touch with Kelsey

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Kelsey within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Your message has been sent to Kelsey !

Learn more about what to expect when working with an advisor.

Days 1-2: Portland & Waldoboro

Once you touch down in "Vacationland," Maine's state slogan, grab a quick bite to eat downtown before heading north to Tops’l Farm in Waldoboro. Lunch spots include Central Provisions , known for their hearty sandwiches, Eventide Oyster Co ., famous for their fresh seafood and creative New England fare (a heaping platter of freshly-caught oysters is a must) or HighRoller Lobster for a tasty lobster roll. Once all bellies are full, it’s off to the coast where you'll find yourselves hugging the rocky shoreline as you drive due North. 

Upon arrival at Tops’l Farm, check into your room (we stayed at the red cottage and it was absolute perfection) and take a tour of the property. While you're here, there will be plenty of fun to be had with free time and space to roam. The farm’s 83 acres offer up a chance to get some much needed fresh air and an overload of starry skies during a woodland escape in Maine. 

Dinner this evening will be a picnic organized by Tops’l Farm that you can eat anywhere on the property! Then, it’s off to bed after a long travel day.

Start your second day by driving to Moody’s Diner for a hearty breakfast. This place is an institution in Waldoboro, serving up simple diner eats since 1927. From there, drive south to the beautiful Pemaquid Point, where you can see an iconic Maine lighthouse and get out on the bay with Maine Kayak at their Colonial Pemaquid State Park Outpost.

You'll have likely worked up an appetite paddling, so drive to Ancho Honey for a bite to eat. It doesn’t get any better than a fresh grilled cheese sandwich on local sourdough here on the patio. Before heading back to Tops'l Farm, enjoy a local wine tasting at Oyster River Winegrowers (and give their unreasonably cute Corgi big pets for me!) or head to Odd Alewives Farm Brewery for some local brews.

Once back on property, there are many activities to choose from depending on energy levels. You can grab a canoe and hit the river. Take a hike nearby. Or you simply give yourselves the opportunity to relax and do (blissfully) nothing at all. 

Options for dinner are countless, but my favorites include: Round Pound Lobster Co-op, Muscongus Bay Lobster , Shuck Station Raw Bar, Primo Restaurant or Sterlingtown Public House .

Days 3-4: Camden, Belfast, & Deer Isle

Camden, Maine

Before you hit the road today, enjoy a breakfast sandwich and coffee provided by the farm. Then, begin your slow trod up the coast, tacking east on North Shore Drive to get out to Owls Head State Park. This is woodsy Maine coast at its best; park in the lot and do a lovely hike to Owls Head Light, a functioning 19th-century lighthouse that's as beautiful as the landscape over which it presides. After hopping back in the car, stop in the beautiful coastal town of Camden. Here, you owe yourselves a walking tour (it won't take long). Stroll Main Street, aka Route 1, for the shops and scenery, and be sure to stop at Sea Bags to pick up one of their funky-chic tote bags made from recycled sails. Then, make your way through the well-manicured Harbor Park, which gracefully notches the top of postcard-pretty Camden Harbor.

Belfast, Maine

As you continue North, stop near Belfast for lunch at Young’s Lobster Pound , a famous waterfront destination for lobster rolls, grilled fish and casual seafood. The mussels are served on a lunch tray and to this day, I remain full from this one meal. Other great options nearby include: Long Grain , a Michelin star Thai restaurant serving up curry, stir-fries and housemade noodles, Tinder Hearth , a local bakery renown for their pizza and baked goods, and Suzuki’s Sushi Bar , a bright eatery offering the freshest sushi on the coast. 

Deer Isle, Maine

After another hour or so on the road, you'll arrive at Aragosta Cove, your home for the next two days. While on-site at the property, you must enjoy the dinner tasting experience, which will entail multiple courses featuring the seasonal flavors of the coastal region. Sample plates include Deer Isle Scallop Crudo with umami soy and citrus vinaigrette and Goose Gove Lobster Tortellini with shelling pea and buerre blanc. 

TIP: If you’re planning on eating here, be sure to make a reservation well in advance on Open Table. It was worth every penny! If are unable to snag a reservation, take advantage of their happy hour and/or brunch. Check their website for the latest details and timing on these events. Additionally, I highly recommend booking either the Elm or Rosa Rugosa cottages at Aragosta as they’re right on the water with unobstructed views of the ocean. The waves will put you right to sleep! 

During your only full-day on Deer Isle, begin by eating breakfast at Aragosta, which is included in your stay. Then, explore all the island has to offer. Options include:

Hiking on Deer Isle

There are many hiking trails on Deer Isle, including Barred Island Preserve (easily accessible from Aragosta, walking distance in fact, but you must pay attention to the tides in order to access Barred Island itself), Settlement Quarry, Shore Acres Preserve, and Edgar Tennis Preserve (this was our favorite hike on the island - mainly on the coast and great views). 

Outdoor Activities on Deer Isle

Kayaking, canoes, bicycles and paddleboards are all are available to rent from The Activity Shop via Aragosta. There is a $50 dollar fee for delivery to Aragosta, so it may be worthwhile to have the shop deliver to a closer destination. Otherwise, Stonington Paddle is another local canoe and kayak rental service.

Other Activities on Deer Isle

Visit Isle au Haut. A beautiful island off the coast of Stonington that is home to portions of Acadia National Park. Isle au Haut is accessible by ferry from Stonington. 

Coffee at 44 North . This coffee shop features small batch, custom roasted, organic coffee. Serving cold brewed and slow drip coffee, plus locally baked goodies. 

Driving Route 15 around the island. The island has so many nooks and crannies that are found simply by driving around the main road. Highly suggest seeing where the road takes you!

Another dinner option on the Isle includes Burnt Cove Boil , which offers simply steamed lobster, crab and corn at a picnic table by the sea. Jake requires reservations since it’s a one-man gig, so be sure to reach out in advance. You’ll need to bring everything you need for a picnic, but he’ll do the rest!

After an adventurous day, return to Aragosta for a relaxing evening on your private deck.

TIP: Most businesses and restaurants are closed on Mondays on the Isle, so plan your stay here accordingly.

Days 5-6: Acadia National Park

Once you're packed and ready to go, hit the road for Acadia National Park. Your first stop is Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, the quintessential image of Maine. After snapping a few photos, head to the Long Pond and Great Notch Trails, a 4.8 mile loop trail along Long Pond. I recommend starting clockwise to hit the higher elevations first, ending with the pond to the left. 

By this point in the day, you're likely craving some lunch, so head to Thurston’s Lobster Pound for fresh seafood by the water. There’s always a line to order, but that means you can linger as chefs lower net bags of lobsters, clams, mussels and corn cobs into steaming vats of boiling water outside the door. Once you've recharged your batteries, you can decide what your appetite is for more activity in the area. Hiking options include Beech Cliff Ladder and Canada Cliff Loop, a 2 mile loop located near Mt. Desert, Acadia Mountain and Man O’War Trail, a 2.5 mile loop trail located near Southwest Harbor, and Ship Harbor Trail, a 1.3 mile loop located near Southwest Harbor. Otherwise, to get on the water, National Park Canoe & Kayak Rental on Long Pond offers the only boat rentals on Mt. Desert Island. On a hot summer day, this is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

With your legs likely requiring a break at this point, drive 20 minutes east to Bar Harbor. Once here, you can opt to walk the Shore Path. It's a small but perfect work of Bar Harbor genius: about 1.5 miles of well-manicured walkway tracing the coastline from the Town Pier to Wayman Lane. The path is flat and graveled, suitable for a leisurely stroll. You'll get great views of the rock formations along the shoreline, and of course the sweeping harbor, the islands and the boats trickling in and out. You can also stop at the Ivy for drinks in their beautiful garden, situated perfectly for people watching and relaxing. Other stops may include Fair Trade Winds for handmade crafts and Cool As A Moose for cheeky Maine and Acadia gear. 

For dinner, dine at Havana . A longtime favorite of both locals and visitors alike, Havana is perfect for a nice night out in Bar Harbor. While their tapas are perfection, the bar program tops it all off, offering an extensive wine list and expertly made mojitos. 

After a full day, head to your glamping tent at Under Canvas Acadia to rest up for another day in the park. 

The next morning, it's back off to Mount Desert Island with an early start. On the way, you can wake up with a cappuccino from Coffee Hound Coffee Bar or stop at Cafe This Way for breakfast. Afterwards, stop at the infamous Sand Beach for a morning stroll before completing the infamous Beehive hike, a 6.3 mile loop trail for those that are adventurous enough! You'll be scaling the mountain and climbing up bars that have been built into the mountainside to start, but the rest of the hike is gorgeous and even-keeled. 

From here, venture to Northeast Harbor, which is a quieter town in comparison to Southwest Harbor. There are cute boutiques on the main strip, including Main Street Mercantile , and delicious spots for lunch, like The Nor’Easter Pound & Market . Should you save your appetite for dinner, head to Sweet Pea Farm on your way back to Under Canvas Acadia. The setting is idyllic on a farm tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Bar Harbor. We ended up here instead for the night and loved the setting right on the farm and away from the hustle and bustle of Bar Harbor. Get here early for a picnic table out back and order their fresh house iced tea, which is a blueberry lemon tea so refreshing it’ll knock your sweat from the day right off. Pizzas and local vegetables are the other stars. 

Wind down that evening back at Under Canvas Acadia, where dinner and s’mores will greet you upon arrival.

A note from Kelsey

Parking in Acadia National Park is hard to come by, so I highly recommend you choose your priority hike for the day and get there early for a parking spot. We ended up doing the Beehive trail above first and parked in the lot nearby no later than 8 AM. There were still plenty of spots to park on the road, but we got the last spot in the lot and the trail itself was already packed with a line to do the ladders. The earlier you can get a head start in the park, the better!

Day 7: Portland

After grabbing a light, early breakfast at the hotel, you're off to drive back to Portland! The drive takes about 2.5 hours and once back at the Old Port, you'll make your way to grab a heartier lunch at a local institution you didn’t eat at on Day 1. Then, it’s off to the Lucky Catch dock for a catch and release lobster cruise. The boutique home goods store, Ember , awaits for you to grab some last minute Maine goodies. Then, it's time for a final supper in this beautiful place before you depart the next day. 

Other Portland Recommendations:

Where to eat in Portland

Tandem Coffee & Bakery : The best biscuits and baked goods alongside delicious coffee. Gail Simmons from Bon Appetit highly recommends this place!

Chaval : Spanish restaurant tucked into a cute neighborhood away from the tourist hotspots.

Becky’s Diner : A classic, no-frills diner with delicious pancakes

Scales : Upscale seafood restaurant on the port. Reservations are essential and must be made far in advance. Don’t skip out on the bread!

Standard Baking Co .: Great bakery in the heart of downtown.

Duckfat : Famous for their fries that are fried in duckfat oil.

The Shop by Island Creek Oysters : Same owners as Eventide, same delicious oysters.

Things to do in Portland

Visit the Portland Lighthouse.

Walk Washington Avenue between Cumberland Avenue and Loring Memorial Park. Tons of great boutiques, breweries, and restaurants to pop into, including:

Goodfire Brewing Company .

Root Wild Kombucha .

Oxbow Blending & Bottling .

Maine Mead Works .

Cheese Shop of Portland .

Venn + Maker : Gorgeous home goods store.

Maine & Loire : Stop here for a glass of wine and a lite bite mid-day or before dinner.

Sticky Sweet : Ice cream that is mainly plant-based and delicious.

Travel Advisor

Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

For more adventure travel inspo, check out my guide to Norway: Outdoor Exploration in Norway: Lofoten, Bergen, Flam & Oslo and my guide to Iceland: 8-Day Road Trip Itinerary around Iceland's Ring Road .

A Classic Maine Road Trip: Lobsters, Lighthouses & Coastal Views

A Coastal Maine Road Trip

There are a couple of classic road trips throughout the US but in the Northeast, I think the route that comes to mind most often would be Maine.

Rugged yet charming, coastal with the backdrop of beautiful mountains, Maine’s coast is one of its most attractive destinations that draw big crowds each summer.

We spent just over 10 days in Maine and focused on a trio of cities – Kennebunkport, Portland and Rockland – as well as some leisurely, unplugged time out on the water.

We joined a classic Maine windjammer cruise to sail for 4 days out in the Penobscot Bay, an inlet famous for secluded offshore islands and lobster fishing.

Today we’re sharing everything you need to know about road tripping in Maine, along with our itinerary, where we stayed and recommended sights!

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Maine Road Trip Itinerary

If we had 2 weeks in Maine or longer, we would have loved to continue our journey up north and explore Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor and cross over to Canada’s Prince Edward Island. Some of the most dramatic lighthouses in Maine are in the very north of the state!

Instead, we opted to do a sailing cruise.

We had heard so many great things about the traditional windjammer boats that sail around Maine’s Penobscot Bay so we joined a 4 day cruise aboard the J & E Riggin schooner.

Best Time to Visit Maine

Summer is the warmest season in Maine and when the state comes alive. The Atlantic ocean “heats” to a refreshing 60 degrees, the flora come alive and the nights are breezy.

Another popular time to explore Maine is in the fall, preferably in October during peak fall folliage . Picture it now: deep blue bays dramatically contrasting against 12 million acres of rustic red, yellow and orange forest. A great way to see it all is on a fall folliage specific cruise , like this one .

Maine Itinerary

Days 1-2: kennebunkport.

Kennebunk and Kennebunkport are two picturesque towns right next to each other.

Together, they’re commonly called The Kennebunks. There’s history, shopping and great restaurants in the area – you could easily spend 4 nights here!

From charming Main Street downtown to the stately mansions on Oceans Drive, we fell in love with Kennebunkport.

The town is most famous for being the summer home of the Bush clan, who have a majestic compound on Walkers Point.

Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Maine

• Drive through Oceans Drive for a view of unique homes
• Relax at Goose Beach
• Try lobster rolls at Mabel’s or The Clam Shack
• Pick up a ‘Maine’ t shirt!

Where to Stay in Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is known for its charming bed-and-breakfasts and a couple of out-of-this-world luxury hotels. We opted to try out 2 hotels in different locations to get a different feel for the town.

We recommend The Yachtsman , a new colorful and comfortable hotel with a prime spot right on the marina (less than a 10 minute walk from Main Street). The hotel was originally a motel, so you park right in front of your room, but there’s nothing low budget about this property now!

The interior rooms have been beautifully designed, with walkout back doors that open to the marina. Rooms are incredibly spacious and modernized, with smart TVs, marble bathrooms, wine coolers and sky high ceilings.

Check rates:  Hotels.com ,   Booking.com

Read reviews:   TripAdvisor

Hidden Pond Resort

If you’re visiting Kennebunkport with family, or want a more secluded experience, try Hidden Pond . This luxury property is about a 15 minute drive outside the bustling downtown, and feels worlds away. In fact, the property is so large that guests get a map at check in!

We stayed here on our drive back down to NY and loved not only the rustic glamping vibe, but the fact that each “room” is its own standalone 1 or 2 bedroom  cottage .

We had a huge screened-in porch, stone fireplace, cute kitchenette, king size bed, marble bathroom and even an outdoor shower . This is the hotel to relax in seclusion and style!

Check rates:   Hotels.com ,  Booking.com

Day 3: Scarborough

If you want to get some beach time in, stop in Scarborough!

This coastal resort area is just south of Portland with miles of white sand.

We stayed at  Higgins Beach   hotel, right next to the beach, then did a couple quick trips to check out Cape Elizabeth and its lighthouse as well as Fort Williams Park and the Portland Head lighthouse.

We also noticed Scarborough is very family friendly and a much more affordable place to stop if Portland isn’t your thing (they’re about 15 minutes driving distance apart)

Things to Do in Scarborough

• Surf in the morning at Higgins Beach
• Spend the afternoon in sunny Pine Point Beach
• Take in the historic homes and pretty seascapes along Prouts Neck Cliff Walk
• Kayak at Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, home to Maine’s largest salt marsh
• Try some great local beer and food at Sebago Brewery

Where to Stay in Scarborough

Higgins Beach Inn is a quaint Victorian home that’s been lovingly restored. A pretty impressive hot breakfast is included and the rooms are clean and comfortable. Best of all, it’s not even a 2 minute walk to the beach!

Check rates:   Booking.com ,  Hotels.com  

Days 4-5: Portland

Portland is Maine’s big city and it’s primarily known as a foodie city !

Whether you like shopping, dining or more active adventure, Portland offers a bit of it all. 

On our drive up we detoured at Portland Head Light, the most iconic and most photographed lighthouse in Maine!  It’s located within Fort Williams State Park and well worth a visit.

Things to Do in Portland, Maine

• Snap a photo at picturesque Portland Head Lighthouse
• Get a scenic tour of Portland on a vintage firetruck !
• Visit Old Port for quaint cobblestone streets, a food tour & New England architecture
• Have seafood and fresh oysters at Eventide Oyster Co
• Sip Maine’s most famous beers on a fun craft brewery tour
• Indulge in some doughnut decadence at Holy Donut

Where to Stay in Portland

The Press Hotel  is a member of Autograph hotels so naturally everything about this place is immaculately designed! Formerly a printing plant, the hotel redesigned the space with spacious rooms, (comfy king size beds and huge bathrooms!).

The location is close to Portland’s best restaurants and shops, while the in-house bar serves some great cocktails. Best of all, the service is incredible – staff make every effort here so that your stay is unforgettable!

Days 6-7: Rockland

Rockland is a cool, up and coming town in Northern Maine.

It’s long been known as the lobster capital of the world but is making a second name for itself due to its incredible art scene.

On our way from Portland to Rockland, we pit stopped through Freeport, a town made famous as the headquarters of L.L. Bean.

Freeport is a shopping mecca – every great all American store has a presence in the outlets here: Patagonia, North Face, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein etc!

Things to Do in Rockland

• Rockland has a well know art scene. Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum & the Center for Maine Contemporary Art
• Explore Rockland Breakwater, a lighthouse nearly a mile into the sea with great views
• Take a picturesque windjammer cruise at sunset
• Shop for your own art collection on Main Street’s boutiques
• In August, chow down at the Maine Lobster Festival

Where to Stay in Rockland

We stayed at 250 Main , probably our favorite hotel from the trip.

It’s beautifully modern, with spacious rooms, comfy beds and chic toiletries from Malin and Goetz.

The rooftop is the perfect place to watch the sun rise over the harbor or enjoy a glass before bed. 250 Main offers not only breakfast with your stay, but also a complimentary glass during happy hour so you can also meet other guests!

Driving from NYC to Maine

From NYC to Rockland, Maine, the route is roughly 400 miles one way, or about an 7-8 hour drive without stops.

We knew we wanted to focus on Maine’s coastline and have the freedom to explore at our own pace, so we opted to rent a car for 10 days and stop only in Maine cities (so we drove straight through Connecticut, New Hampshire and Massachusetts).

Volvo kindly let us test drive the hybrid XC 60 and it was  beautiful . 

The XC 60 is one of Volvo’s most popular models and as a mid-size SUV, it was super roomy for just the two of us! Inside, the luxury car had comfy leather seats and a minimalist Scandinavian design.

I really loved the panoramic roof in particular! My parents cars’ have sun roofs, but the Volvo’s roof is long enough to cover both the front and rear seats, so that the entire interior is flooded with light.

And if you’re like me and avoid the sun like the plague, don’t worry – the sunroof is made from a special tinted glass that filters out extra heat and UV radiation.

The first hour getting outside the city is always the most stressful. 

As C handled the driving, I started familiarizing myself with the dashboard. I’ve never seen such a beautiful, completely digitized car – everything was touch screen !

No more scrolling through radio channels trying to find a song you like – the Volvo displayed every channel on air with the song title and artist, and even had genre-specific categories.

Once C found out his favorite ESPN podcast was on air, he made us listen to that for an hour while I groaned. If you prefer your own playlist, the car can sync to your iPhone via bluetooth.

Busy driving?

You can even control all the functions with your voice !

We’ve been living in NYC for so long without a car that it was so impressive to see how far cars have advanced. 

C really liked how the dashboard updated him in real-time with each road’s speed limit  so we could make sure we were transitioning between Route 1 and the local roads easily.

Meanwhile, I loved the lane keeping aid and  parking assist , which especially came in handy for parallel parking once we were back in NYC!

Best of all, the Volvo didn’t even need a key to plug-in to an ignition or to open the car.

We just had to have the key in your pocket while standing on the driver side to unlock the Volvo, which is nice if you are forever rummaging in your purse like I am. When you lock the car, the side mirrors automatically turn in.

Best of all, we only had to fill the tank twice on our 10 day trip. The hybrid model we drove uses a combination of a combustion engine and an electrical engine, so it’s incredibly fuel-efficient.

We spent just ~$60 on gas for 800+ miles, at about $3.00 a gallon! So impressive.

We also saw many electric charging stations in Maine, which was an unexpected surprise and a bonus for hybrid electric car drivers! (We didn’t use the electric charging stations though as we didn’t know how lol).

The main highway that runs north to south from NY to Maine is Route 1. We plugged in our destinations on Google Maps, clicked ‘avoid tolls’, and off we went!

That was our Maine road trip! Let me know in the comments what you’re most looking forward to seeing in Maine and where are you starting your Maine vacation?

Visiting Maine – Trip Planning Checklist

Road Trip |  We rented a car for our 10 day road trip. It ended up being a great and cost-effective way to explore Maine, as our hybrid Volvo XC 60 really maximized every mile of the 800 mile route. We only had to fill up on gas twice! Check the latest deals on car rentals here .

Accommodation |  Maine has some beautiful boutique hotels along its popular coastal towns. Summer is peak season in Maine, so book hotels in advance to save, or check here for last-minute deals . Alternatively, get a fun group together and rent a house on  AirBnB  for a slightly more budget friendly option.

Insurance | Lastly, be sure to visit Maine with  travel insurance . Whether you get injured and need to be hospitalized, or your phone gets stolen, travel insurance will help when you need it most. Get a quote for your trip here .

  You Might Also Enjoy:  

Maine Vacation Planning Articles

A Classic Maine Road Trip : Lobsters, Lighthouses & Coastal Views

What to Wear in Maine : The Ultimate Packing List

Where to Stay in Portland, ME

Coastal Maine

Our Windjammer Cruise Sailing Experience : J&E Riggin Review

7 Things to Know Before Joining a Windjammer Cruise

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HI…I am taking my son on a 3-5 day trip…he has always wanted to see the lighthouses so that will be our focus. We both love food so will catch a little food along the way…any help would be great.

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Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary

With stunning scenery, miles of beautiful coast and impressive wildlife, Maine is the perfect place to head if you want to connect with the natural world. Whether you're in search of peace and quiet or looking to hop between the state's quaint towns and coastline, a road trip around Maine certainly won't disappoint.

It takes 5 days to drive the ultimate 860-mile road trip loop around Maine, visiting beautiful Portland, Augusta, Belfast and Bar Harbor, Greenville as well as Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, Mt Katahdin and the stunning, rugged Maine Coastline.

Located on the northeast corner of the United States, visit Maine to enjoy its stunning views, winter sports and wonderful historic towns, many of which are perched on the North Atlantic coast. Keep on reading to find out how to make the most out of a 5-day road trip around the state.

The ultimate road trip itinerary in Maine

What is the ultimate maine road trip itinerary.

Famous for its lush green forests and rugged coastline, New England's largest state is actually one of the smaller states compared with other parts of the USA. That means it's the perfect place to enjoy a scenic road trip, without having to spend too much of your trip on the road.

It's possible to comfortably travel an 860-mile road trip around Maine in 5 days, with stops in Augusta, Bar Harbor, Greenville, Carrabassett Valley and Portland.

You'll spend an average of 4 hours per day on the road, though be prepared for a longer stretch on day 3 as you travel from Bar Harbor up towards Greenville.

If you have a little more time for exploring, you could easily add on extra nights at Bar Harbor (to visit Acadia National Park), Moosehead Lake or the Kennebec Valley, or alternatively spend an extra night in York as you travel back towards Portland.

Day 1: Driving from York to Augusta

Starting out in York, the first day of your Maine road trip follows the coast as far as Bath, from where you can visit Popham Beach and Reid State Park, before heading inland towards Augusta.

You should expect a manageable 3 hours 50 minutes of driving on day 1, as some of the 170 miles you'll cover takes you off the interstate and out along the stunning coastal roads.

Road trip route from York to Augusta

From your starting point in York, pick up US-1 to visit Bald Head and Ogunquit before switching onto I-95 to pick up the pace as you head northeast.

If you have a little extra time, you could also consider sticking with the highway a little then turning onto ME-9 which winds through Kennebunkport and Cape Porpoise before joining up with the interstate a little further on near Biddeford.

From the interstate, follow the road into Portland then make your way out of town on I-295 to continue your journey. You'll be skirting Casco Bay, which is full of islands and scenic views so make sure to stop and snap a picture or two.

Approaching Brunswick the highway and the interstate separate. Take Route 1 towards Bath then turn off south through Phippsburg to reach Popham Beach. Returning to Bath you can cross the wide Kennebec River and take Arrowsic Road all the way down to Reid State Park.

Retracing your route back up to Woolwich, stick on US-1 then turn onto ME-127 as far as Dresden. From here, Route 27 runs close to the banks of the Kennebec River before merging onto ME-9 and following it all the way to Augusta.

Things to explore on the way to Augusta

You cannot visit Southern Maine and not visit one of its gorgeous beaches. Old Orchard Beach is a great starting point, located between Ogunquit and Portland.

Located on a beautiful stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, you will find a gorgeous pier, plenty of entertainment, souvenir shops, restaurants and even a carousel here.

And of course, make sure to enjoy a delicious lobster roll on the beach before you set off on the next leg of your ultimate Maine adventure!

Sticking to the coast, you'll arrive at Reid State Park, which is known for its sandy beaches, ledges to climb (if you are feeling adventurous!) and hiking trails. There is even a lagoon, perfect if you are traveling with family, meaning that this park has both saltwater and freshwater beaches.

Where to stay in Augusta: enjoy a cozy retreat

Known as a historic hub that played an important role in Maine's history, Augusta is arguably most famous for Fort Western, a National Historic Landmark. This former British colonial outpost is the oldest wooden fort in United States.

The architecture of the gorgeous Maple Hill Farm Inn is a perfect example of Maine's historic facades. You will have access to the sauna on the property to let off some steam (pun intended) and an outdoor hot rub. There is a fantastic bar on site and the hotel serves made-to-order breakfast so that you can start your day right.

For the ultimate romantic Maine experience, you will find a fireplace in select rooms. This property is located near Maine State House and Maine State Museum.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Day 2: Driving from Augusta to Bar Harbor

You'll have a shorter but no less scenic drive on day 2, as you travel 130 miles on quiet roads through Maine's leafy interior before following Penobscot Bay.

Along your 3-hour drive you'll pass Rockland, Belfast and Ellsworth, with the stunning Acadia National Park a real highlight of the day.

Road trip route from Augusta to Bar Harbor

Follow the Memorial Bridge across the Kennebec River then leave Augusta on S Belfast Avenue. You'll get picture postcard views as you cross Togus Pond, then continue on past Windsor and Somerville.

At the crossroads turn left towards Rockland, where you'll meet the ocean once again and start to follow Route 1 - the Atlantic Highway - north along Penobscot Bay. Look out for beautiful glimpses of the water through the trees.

Stick on US-1 through Belfast and across the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, following it as far as Ellsworth where you join ME-3 to head south on to Mt Desert Island, where most of Acadia National Park is located. The same road will take you all the way to Bar Harbor to complete your drive for the day.

Things to explore on the way to Bar Harbor

Rockland is a stunning Maine town that boasts gorgeous coastal scenery and a majestic rocky shoreline. Make sure to check out the boat tours on the famous Windjammer while in Rockland for a unique experience!

With many historic homes and shops in Rockland too, you can visit The Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center to learn more about and admire Maine art, including works by the famous Wyeth family.

You can also make a stop here and enjoy a meal at the many restaurants. In fact, Rockland is the capital of the lobster industry in Maine, so it isn't surprising that it was named one of the “Top 9 Small Foodie Towns” in Maine.

You can't visit Maine without spending some time in Acadia National Park. It's an absolutely stunning national park, where you can fish and ski (depending on the time of year) as well as hike gorgeous trails.

Inside the national park, climb Cadillac Mountain to see the sun rise before anyone else in the country. Thunder Hole is also an impressive place to visit, as the breaking waves create their own natural spectacle.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor: watch the sunrise in style

Seeing as Acadia National Park is one of the must-see stops along this route, we'd definitely recommend spending a night or two in nearby Bar Harbor so that you have plenty of time to enjoy the national park, and to relax over a delicious meal after a busy day exploring.

There's also plenty to do in Bar Harbor itself. Pause a while to enjoy the unforgettable ocean views and if you're lucky you might even see whales out in the bay.

For a really characterful stay, book into the beautifully designed Queen Anne's Revenge , where you'll receive a warm welcome.

The hotel also has a beautiful garden to relax in as well as a terrace. There is a daily breakfast with buffet and continental options. The property is a short distance from Agamont Park and The Abbe Museum and West Street Historic District.

Day 3: Driving from Bar Harbor to Greenville

The 220-mile route you'll follow on day 3 takes you inland to visit the stunning Baxter State Park before ending the day at beautiful Moose Head Lake.

It's the longest day of driving on your ultimate Maine road trip, coming in at around 5 hours 50 minutes on the road, so make sure to stop for snacks and fuel before setting out.

Road trip route from Bar Harbor to Greenville

Leaving Bar Harbor, work your way back along ME-3 towards Ellsworth on the mainland, where you'll join US-1A heading north across more of the beautiful Maine countryside. Watch out for lakes and rivers tucked away behind the trees.

From Bangor you'll pick up the interstate, which runs parallel to the Penobscot River for a while. After crossing the river at Medway, follow Main St through Millinocket then turn right onto Huber Road once you've crossed the scenic Dolby Pond.

From here you can make a detour to Roberts Road to reach the scenic Katahdin Loop Road and Scenic Overlook. Explore the area's stunning trails if you have time, especially around Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.

When you're ready to continue, head back south towards Huber Road and follow it west until you meet up with Millinocket Road. After passing Millinocket Lake, you can choose to drive on the Golden Road, which will take you around the southern side of Mount Katahdin - Maine's highest mountain - following the river towards Ripogenus Lake and then Caribou Lake.

The road isn't fully paved along this part of the drive, so consider the impact that weather conditions will have on the road unless you're traveling in a 4WD vehicle.

Otherwise follow ME-11 past Schodic Lake and switch to ME-6 in Milo, which will take you directly to Greenville.

Things to explore on the way to Greenville

Did you know that Bangor, one of the larger towns you'll pass on day 3, is home to a few celebrities? You could run into Stephen King as you are strolling down Bangor's streets as he owns a house (more like a Victorian mansion!) in the city.

You can also take a Stephen King tour around the city, which will take you to the famous Paul Bunyan statue, featured in the author's beloved scary novel “It”, among other interesting sites.

There is so much to do and explore in this small city, starting with the Cole Land Transportation Museum, which has an extensive collection of cars and trains on display.

Further north you'll reach Baxter State Park. This Maine wilderness haven was created by Percival P. Baxter, who described it as his “magnificent obsession”.

You can take gorgeously scenic hikes, camp in one of the many campsites, spot some adorable wildlife or simply have a relaxing picnic here.

We highly recommend visiting during fall to admire the foliage in the park change into golden and auburn colors.

Where to stay in Greenville: explore the Maine Highlands

Moosehead Lake, where you'll end the third day of your Maine road trip, is the ideal place to spend a couple of nights if you're wanting to head out into the Maine Highlands or even just explore the incredibly scenic area around the lake itself.

An absolutely fabulous place to stay if you're looking for a bit of luxury in your scenic getaway is the Lodge at Moosehead Lake . There isn't much here that can't be described as stunning, from the lake views to the hotel's service, restaurant and gorgeous design.

Another great option which is also more budget-friendly is Leisure Life, Greenville , which also offers superb views and a great location. You can park up here for free and relax at the hotel bar - you'll most likely have earned some downtime after the day's driving and hiking.

Day 4: Driving from Greenville to Carrabassett Valley

After the long and adventurous driving on day 3 you'll probably welcome the much shorter stretch that lies ahead on day 4. It's just 90 miles from Greenville to Carrabassett Valley, which will only take a couple of hours to drive, leaving you plenty of time to stop and explore along the way.

Road trip route from Greenville to Carrabassett Valley

Turning away from the lake, follow ME-6 south past Monson on the way to Abbot. There are rafting companies based along this road if you fancy making an active stop just outside Greenville.

At Abbot turn right onto West Road which leads you to Kingsbury Plantation and Lake. A little further along the road you'll reach Bingham, which sits on the shore of Wyman Lake.

From here, River Road follows the Kennebec River south - with another opportunity for rafting - until you reach Solon. Here, cross the river and take Cross Town Road to join up with ME-16 to Kingfield.

The Carrabassett Valley runs north from Kingfield, offering river views and trailheads.

Things to explore on the way to Carrabassett Valley

Located in Western Maine, Bigelow Preserve and Flagstaff Lake make a stark contrast to the state's coastal towns. You will find alpine landscapes and the pretty Flagstaff Lake views here.

Plus, if you're traveling with your kayak or canoe, Flagstaff Lake is the perfect place to put them to use.

Both are just a short drive further on from Carrabassett Valley, and once you're there you can enjoy hiking trails for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, including an easy one that is perfect for the whole family.

Of course, this ultimate Maine road trip itinerary isn't only for sun worshippers, beach lovers or foodies. If you are a fan of winter sports, you will find world-class facilities at the Sugarloaf Ski Resort, which is also just a short distance out of Carrabassett Valley. You will get to admire stunning views as you ski or snowboard.

Sugarloaf Mountain is also one of the most popular rock climbing spots in the country with around 270 different routes to explore.

Where to stay in Carrabassett Valley: hit the slopes and trails

As we've mentioned, Carrabassett Valley is known for being home to the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Resort, which is the largest skiing area in Maine.

There is plenty to do in Carrabassett in other seasons as well, such as hiking, biking, boating, fishing and golfing. You can also take foliage walks, something this area is so famous for.

With direct access to skiing areas and an 18-hole golf course, Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel has something for every traveler. In warmer seasons, you can enjoy hiking and cycling in the area.

After your adventures outdoors, you will be happy to learn that there is also a fabulous outdoor hot tub to soak and relax in at the property. You'll find restaurant options a short drive from the hotel too.

If you aren't traveling with your skiing equipment, you can hire them from the property. There's also ski storage if you have brought your own.

Day 5: Driving from Carrabassett Valley to Portland and York

You'll complete your road trip with another 4-hour drive, taking you the 170-miles from Carrabassett Valley to Portland and York.

Traveling through more of Maine's beautiful green landscapes and passing rivers and lakes before you meet the coast again at Portland, it's the perfect way to end your ultimate Maine adventure.

Road trip route from Carrabassett Valley to Portland and York

The final day of your trip starts out on some of Maine's small, scenic roads, first traveling along ME-27 to Eustis then down ME-16 to Rangeley. Once you've made your way around Rangeley Lake, ME-17 takes you through picturesque forests, rivers and hills to Byron and Roxbury until you reach Chisholm Park.

Here, join US-2 which follows the Androscoggin River through Hanover and Newry. Then, once you reach Bethel, take ME-35 past Waterford and Harrison then along Long Lake as far as Naples.

Crossing the Naples Causeway you'll join Sebago Road, which offers picturesque views and lakeside attractions once it hits the shore of the popular Sebago Lake.

From Standish, simply follow ME-114 all the way to Portland, then pick up the interstate for the final few miles of your trip, heading back south to York.

Things to explore on the way to Portland and York

Located in close vicinity of the scenic Rangeley and Mooselookmeguntic Lakes, Rangeley is a charming town with a laidback character. You will find fantastic golf courses here, as well as the scenic Rangeley Lake State Park.

Wilhelm Reich Museum and Height of Land (a popular scenic overlook) are both a short distance from the town too.

Keeping with the scenic lakes theme of this leg of the itinerary, Sebago Lake is a fantastic place to take a break en route.

This beautiful, clear lake is the second largest in Maine after Moosehead Lake, and is especially popular in summer. You will be able to enjoy watersports, golfing and fishing, sunny beaches and even a float-plane excursion here!

Where to stay in Portland: take a trip back in time

Portland is a beautifully scenic town, full of cobblestone streets and historic houses. You can also indulge your creative side, as the city has a buzzing arts scene.

After the lovely drive from Carrabassett Valley, you'll have plenty of time to end the afternoon sitting back to relax beside Portland's waterfront.

You can also stay nearby at Portland Harbor Hotel , which is in walking distance of the waterfront as well as Wadsworth Longfellow House, Victoria Mansion and Portland Downtown Historic District on foot.

Its central location and beautiful design, which channels a contemporary coastal vibe, means that you have a fantastic choice of restaurants, bars and cafes nearby. Or, if you don't feel like venturing out there's also a restaurant on-site.

Things to see on the ultimate road trip in Maine

By now you'll probably already have several stops in mind for when you make your fabulous Maine road trip, but there's even more to discover if you have the time.

• York - With views across stunning sandy beaches, the Yorks are the perfect place to come for some good old-fashioned seaside entertainment. Head to the Fun-O-Rama arcade and enjoy live music and saltwater taffy as you explore York Beach.
• Ogunquit - The stunning waterside gardens around Ogunquit Museum of American Art make this a must-see stop if you're visiting the town. There's also a lovely stretch of coastline here - said to be one of the country's best beaches.
• Broad Cove Reserve - Trails here take you to more amazing ocean views, starting from a sandy beach.
• Popham Beach State Park - At the mouth of the Kennebec River you'll find this swimming and surfing spot. You can also walk to Fox Island across the beach, but pay attention to the rising tide which cuts off the path at certain times of day.
• Bath - Known as the ‘city of ships', it's no surprise that Maine Maritime Museum is located here. It's also a great place to indulge in some of the state's famous and delicious seafood.
• Reid State Park - This is a bird watcher's paradise, with seabirds nesting in the stunning coastal landscape. You can also follow trails along the headland which will reward you with amazing coastal views.
• Augusta - The state capital has a number of excellent museums, including Maine State Museum and the Old Fort Living History Museum.
• Kennebec Valley - If you can add an extra day to your trip, consider following the beautiful Kennebec Valley from Augusta to Skowhegan.
• St George Peninsula - There's more of the fabulous Maine coastline to explore along this beautiful peninsula, but for a bit of variety this is also a great place to sample Maine wines. The Owls Head Transportation Museum is worth a visit too.
• Rockland - Home to the popular Maine Lobster Festival, Rockland also has a thriving arts scene which you can get to know at Center for Maine Contemporary Art or with a visit to the North Atlantic Blues Festival.
• Belfast - Another artistic stopover, many visitors like to drop in to Belfast's small galleries or enjoy live music and summer Arts Walks.
• Penobscot Narrows - Take a tour up the huge observation tower to admire the ocean from a new perspective.
• Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park - This popular national park is famous for its rugged coastal views and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities
• Bangor - As well as taking a tour of locations that inspired legendary author Stephen King, we'd also recommend checking out Maine Forest and Logging Museum and the Cole Land Transportation Museum.
• Baxter State Park - North Penobscot and Mount Katahdin are both super-scenic areas within this stunning state park, where you can kayak and climb as well as hiking and fishing.
• Greenville - Take a break from the road with a cruise on beautiful Moosehead Lake.
• Bingham - Consider a detour to see more of the Kennebec Valley, which you can explore via US-201. Following this road, you can read The Forks and Moxie Falls, as well as taking an exhilarating white water rafting trip.
• Bigelow Preserve - Pick up the northern end of the Appalachian Trail in this beautiful natural area, which was almost turned into a ski resort back in the 70s.
• Sebago Lake - Cool off at this popular lake a short drive out of Portland. You can take a boat or kayak here too.

Best time to go on the ultimate road trip in Maine

It's possible to visit Maine all year round, but depending on when you travel you'll have a very different experience. You'll encounter snowfall and freezing temperatures through the winter compared to temperatures in the 80s in summer!

Traveling in winter

With temperatures often sitting below freezing, and frequent, heavy snowfall, you'll need to wrap up warm if you're visiting Maine in winter. The coast, where temperatures can hit the high 30s Fahrenheit, is warmer than the interior.

That means Maine is a great winter sport destination, and you can find plenty of places to ski, including Nordic skiing. However, driving can be challenging if you're not used to snowy conditions, although roads are kept as clear as possible.

Out of the peak summer season, you might find that cafes, galleries and other visitor attractions in quieter areas may be closed.

Traveling in summer

With its northerly location, Maine doesn't usually get too hot in summer, and temperatures in the high 70s Fahrenheit can make for ideal hiking. You'll have to pack for the seasons though, as there's frequent rain here even in summer, and occasional dramatic thunderstorms.

While we've mentioned the many stunning beaches you'll visit along the way, we should also point out that the water might feel chilly even in summer.

Expect crowds at Acadia National Park and in the coastal towns, as they're popular destinations for a summer vacation. Consider booking accommodation in advance to be sure of your top picks.

Traveling in spring or fall

The Maine winter can feel very long, with March and November feeling more like winter than spring or fall. Spring is a variable time of year, but don't expect significantly warmer temperatures until late April or May.

By May you'll have a good chance of mild and relatively dry weather if you're spending time outdoors, but remember to take bug spray to guard against the harmless but ever-present wildlife that's likely to try and join you on your hike.

Maine is famous for its stunning fall scenery, but it's also a very wet time of year. With temperatures dropping to around 60 degrees by October, you might prefer to visit in September for the ultimate combination of smaller crowds, mild weather and beautiful sea views.

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The Perfect 10 Days In Coastal Maine

Thinking of unplugging on a rusticator vacation in Maine? Or need a dose of vintage seaside charm?

If so, I have the perfect 10 day road trip itinerary for coastal Maine, often dubbed the “Lighthouse State.”

The coast of Maine is abundantly beautiful, with secluded destinations, spectacular unspoiled scenery, and crisp bluebird days.

As the border sign into Maine reads, “Maine: the way life should be.”

In Maine, ocean waves crash against a craggy shores. You’ll be dazzled by pristine beaches, boat filled harbors, classic New England townscapes, and rocky shorelines dotted with lighthouses. Lobster shacks and wild blueberries abound.

Maine is heavily forested, with a green canopy that’s set ablaze with fall foliage. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and fall back into nature and history, coastal Maine is the perfect destination.

Maine is really best enjoyed by car. A 10 day road trip is the perfect way to visit, experience, and fall in love with Maine.

On a scenic drive, you can pick your own favorite ocean vista. Coastal Maine is one of the United States’ most classic road trips and should definitely be on your US bucket list .

Here’s my 10 day itinerary for exploring Maine. This Maine road trip itinerary takes you down winding coastal roads from southern to northern Maine.

I point out all the must see attractions and must visit towns on the coast of Maine. I also give you tips for visiting Maine — what to do and see, where to hike, where to stay, and where to eat.

In truth, you could spend weeks exploring Maine. You could easily turn this 10 day Maine itinerary into a 2-3 week itinerary, simply by staying longer at each destination and exploring at a slower pace.

I’ve also added some bonus destinations at the end, in case you want to extend your coastal Maine road trip even further and explore other places in Maine.

10 Day Road Trip Itinerary For Coastal Maine

This 10 days in Maine road trip itinerary takes you from Portland in southern Maine to Bangor in northern Maine. To begin your trip to Maine, fly into in Portland International Jetport (only one hour from NYC). Downtown Portland is just a 20 minute drive from the airport.

You can also fly into Boston’s Logan International Airport, which is a major hub. Portland is only two hours from Boston, an easy drive up Interstate 95. Or simply drive to Portland from your own home to begin your Maine road trip.

Here are the best places to leaf peep, shop, sightsee, eat, and stay between Portland and Bangor. The lobsters and blueberry muffins will be worth the entire trip, I promise.

Day 1-2: Portland

Portland is the perfect place to start your 10 days in Maine road trip. Located on a peninsula jutting into Casco Bay, Portland is a rare metropolis in a state filled with small hamlets.

Portland has myriad cultural offerings and is a bastion of historical preservation. The restored Old Port is a warren of cobbled streets, filled with vibrant Victorian buildings, buzzing farm to table eateries, and cute boutiques. You may want to book a guided walking tour of this historic area.

Do some shopping on Exchange Street, were you can nab anything from fudge to fine crafts.

Downtown, there’s a thriving art school, infusing the city streets with creative types. There are 24 commercial art galleries.

Restaurants and coffee bars are filled with visual art. In June, the revived downtown hosts the Old Port Festival, described as “part freak show, part art festival, part fashion parade.”

Opened in 1983, Portland’s crown jewel and premiere art destination is the Portland Museum of Art , an architectural masterpiece designed by I.M. Pei of Louvre fame. Its innovative architecture allowed curators to redefine the art viewing experience.

The museum has an impressive collection of late 19th and early 20th century art, including works by Andrew Wyeth, John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, and Marsden Hartley. It also hosts traveling international exhibits.

Merrill Auditorium is the site of Portland’s performing arts scene. It’s an elegant restored concert hall, which houses the world famous Kotzschmar Memorial Organ.

The venue hosts concerts by the Portland Symphony Orchestra, touring national theater companies, dance companies, and music acts. The Portland Opera Repertory also uses Merrill for full scale productions.

Portland also has plenty of outdoor hiking trails. An hour from Portland is the Burnt Meadow Mountain Trail, which is a 3.6 mile trail strewn with wildflowers.

To land on a beach, hike the meandering 3.8 trail from Morse Mountain to Seawall Beach. Just 30 minutes from Portland is Bradbury Mountain State Park, with an easy 1.9 mile trek on the Tote Road Loop.

Where To Stay In Portland

Portland is filled with fantastic hotels. Here are the top four choices, to my mind.

The  Blind Tiger  is a cool boutique hotel in a 19th century mansion in the Old Port. It’s a luxurious place with bright colors and a private rooftop deck.

The  Press Hotel  is a cool hotel where the rooms look like writers’ desks. There are typewriters in the lobby and old new copy blown up on the wall. 

The  Best Bower  is a tiny boutique hotel in the city’s restaurant-friendly East End. It’s housed in a beautifully restored craftsman building.

The Francis  is Portland’s newest boutique hotel. It’s housed in a restored 19th century building. There’s custom furniture and art in the rooms.

Where To Eat in Portland

Portland is loaded with great restaurants including the Honey Paw, Union at the Press Hotel, Solo Italiano, Woodford Food and Beverage, Eventide Oyster Co.

As an alternative to a specific place for lunch, you may want to take a  2-3 hour food tour in the old Port  or a  2.5 hour seafood tour .

Day 3: Freeport | Brunswick | Boothbay Harbor

On day 3 of your 10 days in Maine itinerary, start your day with breakfast at Standard Baking Company in Portland. It has delicious artisanal baked goods.

20 minutes from Portland, take a slight detour to see the historic lighthouse on Cape Elizabeth. Commissioned by George Washington and set amid flowering fields, this classic landmark is Maine’s oldest lighthouse.

Then, amble on to Brunswick on US 1. On your way, check out the retail outlets of Freeport Maine, the home of LL Bean’s flagship store . Almost 3 million people visit this famous store every year.

10 miles north of Freeport is Brunswick. Brunswick is home to Bowdoin University and the fabulous Bowdoin College Museum of Art . In the museum, you’ll find works by famed 19th century artist Winslow Homer.

Bowdoin College also owns the Harriet Beecher Stowe House , a National Historic Landmark and the former home of the antislavery novelist.

To get outdoors in Brunswick, you can hike the 6 mile Town Commons Trail, which starts near Bowdoin. Or just walk around the beautiful college campus and admire the historic architecture.

Beach lovers can head to Thomas Point Beach, which has nice picnic areas.

Another 45 minutes down the road is the mid-coast seaside gem of Boothbay Harbor. Boothbay Harbor is one of New England’s most adorable small towns, known as the “boating capital” of Maine.

Ferry over to Brunt Island, where you can hike and admire the lighthouse. Or reconnect with nature at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Boothbay Harbor’s quaint downtown is filled with shops and cafes, including Maine’s oldest bookstore, Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop. If it’s time for a lobster roll, pop into the Lobster Dock or Shannon’s Unshelled.

Overnight in either Brunswick or Boothbay Harbor. Brunswick is closer to your next destination, Bath, just 10 minutes away.

Where to Stay And Eat In Brunswick And Boothbay

Where to stay in Brunswick : OneSixtyFive , The Federal , or The Brunswick Hotel

Where to eat in Brunswick : Enoteca Athena, El Camino Cantina, Tao Yuan, The Great Impasta, Frontier

Where to stay in Boothbay Harbor : Linekin Bay Resort , Spruce Point Inn and Spa , or The Thistle Inn

Where to eat in Boothbay Harbor : Ports of Italy, Boathouse Bistro, The Thistle Inn

Day 4: Bath

Bath is Maine’s shipbuilding capital, boasting a beautiful waterfront. Bath is full of grand 19th century homes — a mix of Federal, Greek Revival, Victorian, and Italianate styles.

Bath’s historic district boasts one of America’s great streets, Front Street. It’s chock full of tony boutiques and antique shops. One Sunday a month is the Bath Antique Show.

No trip to Bath is complete without visiting the Maine Maritime Museum . It’s a cluster of buildings that were once a historic shipyard.

Inside, you’ll learn about the world of shipbuilding through exhibits, models, paintings, and artifacts. In the summer, museum boat tours cruise the Kennebec River.

Just 15 minutes away from downtown Bath is Reid State Park . This is where you’ll find Maine’s best sandy beaches (a rarity in Maine) lining Sheepscot Bay — Mile Beach and Half Mile Beach.

It’s a great stretch of sandy beach with a pounding surf. If some beach time is on your Maine agenda, this is where you should indulge.

For a truly spectacular vista, make your way to Griffith Head, a rocky headland overlooking the park. Or boat out to Seguin Island to see Maine’s tallest lighthouse.

Where to stay in Bath : Kennebec Inn , Pryor House B&B , or Benjamin F. Packard House Bed and Breakfast

Where to eat in Bath : Mae’s Cafe & Bakery, Osprey Restaurant, Starlight Cafe, J.R. Maxwell and Co.

Day 5: Wiscasset | Damariscotta | Rockland

Continue your 10 day Maine road trip by driving north to get back one Route 1. You’ll meander through the pretty towns of Wiscasset and Damariscotta. This is where you can soak up Maine’s quaint village vibe.

Wiscasset styles itself Maine’s prettiest village. The town boasts some of Maine’s most important architectural landmarks and an utterly charming main street. And it’s home to Red’s Eats , one of Maine’s famous lobster shacks. (There will be lines in summer.)

Damariscotta is also lovely, surrounded by salt marshes, tide pools, oyster beds, and the Damariscotta River. The tiny hamlet overlooks the snug harbor and is filled with historic brick architecture.

For a real Maine country feel, stop in for lunch at S. Fernald’s Country Store for an “eggs in a frame” sandwhich. Or fill up on oysters and mussels in the local restaurants.

One hour further down the road is the arty town of Rockland, where you’ll spend your fifth night on your Maine road trip.

Where to stay in Rockland : 250 Main Hotel , Rockland Harbor Hotel , or Strawberry Hill Seaside Inn

Where to eat in Rockland : Archer’s on the Pier, Cafe Miranda, Primo Restaurant, Rustica

Day 6: Rockland

Fuel up in the morning with breakfast at Home Kitchen Cafe in Rockland. You’ve got a busy day ahead.

Rockland is a historic waterfront town on the shores of Penobscot Bay. The entire bay area is loaded with artists, galleries, and community theaters. The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is a highlight of the town. In the first week of August, Rockland hosts the popular Maine Lobster Festival.

If you’re an art lover, budget time for Rockland’s must see cultural gems: Farnsworth Art Museum , the Wyeth Center , the Center for Maine Contemporary Art , and the Lincoln Street Center . There’s even a 400 seat Rockland Opera House with year round performing arts programs.

The main building of the Farnsworth Art Museum houses art works by Andrew Wyeth, George Bellows, Milton Avery, and Robert Indiana. An entire room of canvases depicts ships at sea and coastal imagery, paying homage to the region.

Bunk overnight in Rockland again.

Day 7: Camden

On day 7, drive 15-20 minutes north to Camden. Camden is a seaside jewel on the coast of Maine. The town is a mecca for sailing. And Camden offers a beguiling nexus of art, dining, and outdoor play. It fulfills Maine’s slogan of “the way life should be.”

Camden has a charming historic district. It’s set on a rising hill and lined with historic 19th century architecture.

You’ll find shops, boutiques and cafes housed in wooden historic buildings. Stop by the Smiling Cow, the Cashmere Goat, the Owl & Turtle Bookshop, and the Leather Bench for some unique gift ideas.

At the end of the strip is the pretty brick Camden Public Library, which has a lawn with benches set above the harbor. You can admire a fantastic collection of photogenic schooners, sailboats, and yachts.

No visit to Camden is complete without taking in the view from Mount Battie. Take the 1.4 mile trail and road. At the top, you have a hawk’s eye view of Camden and the islands of Penobscot Bay.

If you want to hit the beach, try Barret’s Cove, a fresh water beach on Megunticook Lake. It’s even quiet in the summer months.

Where to stay in Camden : Relais Chateaux Camden Harbour Inn , Hartstone Inn & Hideaway , or 16 Bay View

Where to eat in Camden : Fresh and Go, Oliver’s Bistro, Long Grain, Primo

Day 8: Bar Harbor

On day 8 of your 10 days in Maine itinerary, drive 1:45 from Camden to the beautiful resort town of Bar Harbor, where cool breezes blow away the summer heat. Perched on Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor is a charming seaside town in New England.

Bar Harbor is adjacent to magnificent Acadia National Park, and makes a good base. The town’s name derives from the twice daily tide drop, when a gravelly sand bar appears creating a natural harbor.

Take a stroll down West Street, a designated historic district. You’ll see some fine old shingle-style mansions that survived the fire of 1947. The Village Green hosts concerts and art shows. The Abbe Museum is devoted to Maine’s Native American heritage.

Bar Harbor is the perfect place to go kayaking or take a 2 hour boat cruise . You can hike Great Meadow Loop, which starts at the Village Green.

Or stroll the shore path along Frenchman’s Bay, which includes a self-guided tour marked with signs telling the history of Bar Harbor. And don’t forget to have some lobster or go whale watching.

End your day in Bar Harbor with a sunset cruise of Frenchman’s Bay. Hop on the Downeast Windjammer , which leaves from the pier.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor : Sand Bar Cottage Inn , Bar Harbor Inn and Spa , Bluenose Inn , or the Holiday Inn Bar Harbor Regency Hotel

Where to eat in Bar Harbor : Burning Tree, Havana, , Mache Bistro, Side Street Cafe, Thurston’s Lobster Pound, Beale’s, Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Day 9: Day Trip To Acadia National Park

It’s just a quick job from Bar Harbor to Acadia. Maine’s 35,000 acre Acadia National Park is dubbed the “Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.” The splendid park definitely lives up to its moniker.

You can do a self drive tour , take a guided tour from Bar Harbor , or book a private tour to see it all.

The park is a vast pine-studded landscape. The average park visit is 3-4 days. But you can absolutely enjoy the park on a well-planned day trip from Bar Harbor.

Acadia is located just southwest of Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island. Fuel up at Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast in Bar Harbor before venturing out.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll understand why the likes of John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Brooke Astor vacationed here in the 20th century.

If you’re pressed for time, make sure you see one thing at Acadia National Park — Cadillac Mountain . You can access it by foot, car (a winding 3.5 miles), or bike via Summit Road.

This incredible mountain is actually the highest point along the Atlantic Seaboard of the United States.

Another can’t miss spot on your Acadia National Park itinerary is Thunder Hole . If you experience it during high tide, you can see crashing waves funneling up through the center of the rocks.

The three best hikes in Acadia are Jordan Pond Shore Trail (3.3 miles), Ocean Path (2 miles), and Bubble Rock (1.5 miles). Cap off your Acadia trip by visiting Sand Beach. The water is always frigid cold. But you can walk the beach and enjoy the views.

Head back to Bar Harbor to bunk down for the night. If you want to whet your whistle before leaving Acadia, make your way to the northern point of the island. Stop in at Atlantic Brewing Company . Set on a ten acre farm, this excellent craft brewery focuses exclusively on ales.

Where to eat in Acadia National Park : Jordan Pond House, Helen’s, The Blue Bird Ranch Restaurant

Pro Tip : There aren’t many dining options in the park. It’s really better to head back to Bar Harbor for dinner.

Day 10: Bangor

End your trip in Bangor, the second largest city in Maine and unofficial capital of the north. Underrated Bangor has seen a resurgence in tourism as of late, especially with its thriving restaurant scene.

Because Bangor has an international airport, it’s also a good place to fly out of if you’re heading back home after your 10 day Maine road trip.

Bangor has a revitalized waterfront. From July to October, you can take in a concert at the outdoor amphitheater, Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion.

Bangor’s American Folk Festival draws crowds in late August. And you can check out the massive Paul Bunyan statue, reminding you that lumber was once the state’s main export.

For an eerie experience, wander by Stephen King’s eccentric house. The famed horror novelist has lived in Bangor for many years.

The red and white house is front and center, with a macabre wrought iron fence featuring spiders, bars, and a three headed reptile. You can take a private tour of Bangor’s Stephen King sites with SK Tours of Maine .

If you need a dose of culture, Bangor delivers. You can visit the Maine Discovery Museum , with many interactive exhibits. Or head to the Zillman Art Museum (formerly the University of Maine Museum of Art), which features modern and contemporary art and is free to the public.

Where to stay in Bangor : Hilton Garden Inn or The Charles Inn

Where to eat in Bangor : Thistles Restaurant, Novio’s, The Lobstah Buoy, The Fiddlehead Restaurant, Massino’s Cucina Italiana

Extra Time On Your Maine Road Trip?

If you have extra time beyond 10 days in Maine, I have some bonus destinations in Maine that are completely worth a visit.

First, if you have more vacation days, spend another day or two in Acadia National Park. There’s so many things to do there, you could keep busy for days.

Alternatively, from Bangor, head to either the town of Eastport (for culture) or to Quoddy Head State Park in Lubec (for the great outdoors).

The scenic village of Eastport is surely one of New England’s most picturesque towns, like a Norman Rockwell painting come to life. Situated on a peninsula on pristine Moose Island, Eastport is a world apart. Eastport has historic architecture, a vibrant local art scene, and lobster galore.

While there, you can visit Shackford Head State Park, with miles of hiking trails. Or you can go on a whale watching tour in Passamaquoddy Bay. In the summer, the sea breezes bring flocks of sea birds, so bird watching is a good option too.

In the easternmost tip of Maine, you’ll find the West Quoddy Head Light, one of 60 lighthouses dotting Maine’s coastline.

The Quoddy park has a cliff walk, a bog walk, rare plants, and spectacular views. If you’re lucky, you may spot a whale. Quoddy is remote and utterly quiet, perfect for frazzled urbanites.

If skiing is on your Maine to do list, head to Sugarloaf Mountain. Open from 8 am until sunset, this natural landmark features striking landscape views. After taking lifts to the top of Sugarloaf and exploring the park, you can check out the nearby small towns. 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Maine?

The fall foliage in New England is spectacular. When the leaves change, Maine is aglow with fiery orange, yellow and red hues from its maples, oaks, elms and birch trees. This makes September and October an ideal time to visit. But fall always arrives at different times. Click here for a New England fall foliage tracker.

Myself, I also love the languid late summer for a visit to Maine, and had many as a child. Summer starts later in Maine, really kicking off on July 4th. Be forewarned, traffic on Route 1 can get congested in the summer-fall seasons.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days in Maine itinerary. You may enjoy these other New England travel guides and resources:

• Prettiest Towns in New England
• 1 Week Road Trip in Southern New England
• Best Places To Visit in Massachusetts
• What To Do On a Berkshires Road Trip
• Fall Foliage Road Trip in New England
• 1 Week Road Trip in Vermont
• 3 Day Itinerary for Boston
• 30+ Landmarks in Boston
• 21 Less Touristy Towns on the East Coast

If you’d like to take a 10 day road trip in coastal Maine, pin it for later.

2 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Days In Coastal Maine”

My wife and I visited Maine in early October. We found Bar Harbor way too touristy ( think Gatlinburg) but we did enjoy hiking over to Bar Island,

Bar Harbor can definitely be touristy. I like Boothbay better myself.

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Last Updated on July 28, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

The Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary Guide

Maine is one of our favorite states in the United States and without a doubt one of the best road trips in the USA. With so many beautiful landscapes and unique views, it’s hard not too. That is why we want to help you plan the most epic Maine road trip with the “must-see” stops. We try to visit Maine every year as it has many beautiful landscapes and unique views in every season. The best weather to visit Maine is during late Spring, Summer and early Fall.

Maine will steal your heart with its beautiful scenic roads, stunning lighthouses, delicious lobster rolls, and breathtaking national park, Acadia. We have added the best stops you must include into your Maine road trip itinerary from where to eat to where to stay. While we recommend the hotels we have experienced, Maine also so many cute and romantic Airbnbs that it is worth comparing prices.

Maine has a spectacular combination of welcoming people, delicious food and multi-generational activities. No matter your age, race or gender Maine has something fun to offer to every visitor.

When visiting the midcoast of Maine you will quickly come to enjoy the slow pace and relaxed atmosphere of the region take over your vacation. We visited on the shoulder season at the beginning of May and the weather was fantastic, the prices were lower and the places were less crowded.

In this guide we have split the coast of Maine in three regions: The Maine Beaches, the Midcoast of Maine and DownEast Acadia.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Maine Coast

My favorite things to enjoy in the midcoast of Maine are visiting the many charming small towns, taking a stroll through each downtown and visiting many of the arts venues and quaint shops. When in Maine you need to photograph and visit as many of the state’s 65 lighthouses. Maine is one of those states that keep pulling you back to visit again.

Getting to Maine

The best way to explore the coast of Maine and start your Maine road trip is doing it by car, so you can stop at any historic town or beautiful viewpoint you come across. Mazda provided us with the Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD which is perfect for road trips with a cool HUD (heads up display) too keep our eyes on the road, integrated navigation and up to 27 MPG.

One of the main and closest airport to Maine is Boston Logan International Airport. As one of the largest airports in the region it is a hub for many Airlines and it has a big range of flights from different cities around the country and even the world. This makes it very convenient for your road trip to Maine.

We recommend either taking the bus/train from Boston or rent a car at any of the rental companies, such as Enterprise, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, BOS, Thrifty, and Advantage and start your Maine road trip right then!

Main cities to visit: Kennebunkport, Portland, Wiscasset, Camden and Bar Harbor.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary – T he Maine Beaches

Maine is well known for having the best lobsters and the iconic Acadia National Parks. Yet, it also has endless sandy beaches and relaxing oceanside towns that will make your vacation hard to forget.

The Maine Beaches is a short drive from most of New England, only 70 miles from Boston and a 5 hour drive from NYC or Montreal. The beaches of Maine is where you want to be in the Summer. The warm sun and cool breeze make for enjoyable days at the water. If driving is not an option you can always take the Amtrak Downeaster Train , the bus or catch a flight to Portland.

Day 1: Drive to Ogunquit Beach

We started our drive from Boston towards the Maine Beaches. We left earlier to take full advantage of the day. To reach the Maine beaches region you can either take the quicker I-95 or more scenic US Route 1.

Cape Neddick Lighthouse

The Cape Neddick Lighthouse, also known as Nubble Light is a small but beautiful lighthouse in York and it is a must stop for your Maine road trip. It is perched on its own little island that can only be enjoyed across the water from Sohier Park.

Have lunch at Fox’s Lobster House

After photographing one of the most iconic lighthouses of Maine, make sure to stop at the Fox’s Lobster House in York to try the famous lobster roll or in our case we opted for the fresh fish and chips.

Marginal Way to Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit Beach is a the perfect place to enjoy and afternoon at its sandy beaches or walking down the art galleries, doing some shopping or even enjoying a delicious meal.

If you like beautiful coastal landscapes, then make sure to walk along the rocky seashore on the paved Marginal Way path . Enjoy this 1.25 miles long path from Perkins Cove all the way to the sandy shores of Ogunquit Beach.

This beach is one of the best vacation spots in Maine and it is definitely worth visiting on your Maine road trip.

Along the walk you are met with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and several smaller and more rocky beaches to dip your toes into the water. Ogunquit Beach itself is rated one of the best in New England, which comes as no surprise with its warm sands and calm waves.

End the evening off with a hair raising performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse . They run some of the best Broadway musicals and soon to be Broadway hits from the late spring through the early fall in a theatre built in 1937 exclusively as a seasonal theatre. Grab a drink at the bar before enjoy a musical delight with your loved one.

During our visit, we saw the lively Smokey Joe’s Cafe on its way to New York. The theatre has a different musical each month, so make sure to check the calendar on what is playing when you visit.

Where to sleep in Kennebunk?

The Port Inn is the perfect Inn to rest after a day full of beautiful landscapes and long walks. Melt into the comfortable king size beds  in your spacious hotel room. With a delicious continental breakfast included and a relaxing pool on site, it is the perfect spot to rejuvenate or spend a lazy afternoon.

Day 2: Enjoy the Maine Beaches in Kennebunk

For a our second day in our Maine road trip itinerary we will be heading to Kennebunk.  This beautiful coastal town in southern Maine is famous for its long sandy beaches. Other beaches you can visit in Maine are Goose Rocks Beach and Arundel Beach, which are located in Kennebunkport.

Kennebunkport is a historical shipbuilding and fishing village and one of Maine’s most popular seaside towns. It is famous for its picturesque harbor, colonial architecture, quaint shops and the Bush family’s summer compound.

Gooch’s Beach

Gooch’s Beach is the largest section of public beach in Kennebunk. Its clean white sands and proximity to downtown makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Our second day at the Maine Beaches is full of fun in the sun and new adventures.

Parson’s Beach and shore walk

Parson’s Beach is a privately owned beach, which is open to the public. During low tide, you will find many locals fishing on the edge of the vast beach. Behind the sand dunes of the beach there is also a short walk among the salt marshes where you can spot local wildlife.

Morning scenic flight

Start the morning off right with a bit of excitement on a scenic flight. We were met at the Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport by Andrew Button the Chief Flight Instructor of Southern Maine Aviation . We hopped into a Cessna 172 Skyhawk for a fun flight, with enough room for our dog, Gordo!

During the one hour scenic flight we made it all the way down to Portsmouth, NH before making our way along the coast to Portland and then headed back to the airport. Along the flight we had amazing views of the rocky seashore, long sandy beaches, several towns and of course many iconic lighthouses.

The hour long scenic flight is $260 per hour and holds up to 3 passengers, or two passengers and one calm dog.

Lunch at Fisherman’s Catch

After an exciting morning exploring Maine by air, head off the beaten path to enjoy lunch at  Fisherman’s Catch in Wells, ME. We highly recommend sitting outside in the sun or at the cute boat turned into a bar. We got the Fish and Chips and the daily special, a salmon fillet sandwich. Lucky for us, the large portions meant we were left with an afternoon snack to go.

Hop aboard a train at the Seashore Trolley Museum

Take a ride on a historic streetcar at the  Seashore Trolley Museum . Here you will find a collection of public transportation from across the country and throughout history. Enjoy the many restored trolley cars and related pieces. Our favorite part of the museum is riding on a restored streetcar, driven by volunteers, some of which come all the way from Boston for the day.

Other places you can visit near Kennebunkport are the beautiful St. Ann’s Episcopal Church and the lovely lobster-fishing village of Cape Porpoise and the Goat Island Lighthouse. Try some of New England’s freshest lobster rolls at Clam Shack.

Day 3: Spend the day at Old Orchard

Down Old Orchard St to Palace Playland

Spend the morning walking in the small bustling downtown of Old Orchard Beach . Starting at the top of Old Orchard Street work your way through the many shops on your way down towards the water. Make sure not to miss the local collections of souvenirs from Beachology  or your childhood dream of endless candies, popcorn and fudge at  Dickinson’s Candy .

Getting closer to the water are two staples of Old Orchard Beach;  Palace Playland  and  The Pier . Palace Playland is a little amusement park right in the center of town with rides for all ages, including a massive arcade. The area is open for all to enjoy as you pay per ride, with the option for an all-day pass for the rides.

The Pier is the ultimate food and entertainment destination out over the water. The Pier features several restaurants, bars and even a few souvenir shops upon its wooden planks.

Rooftop lunch at Joseph’s by the Sea

Just a five minute walk down the beach from the center of Old Orchard Beach is the spectacular  Joseph’s by the Sea . If you have the opportunity, enjoy your meal and drinks from the rooftop for unfettered views of the ocean.

Halfway through our stay we needed a break from the seafood capital of the world with some juicy hamburgers and well-crafted cocktails. Even if you are not looking for a full meal, head on over for a tasty drink in the sun with the best view in town.

Where to sleep near Portland?

Along the shores of Cape Elizabeth, just a 10 minute drive south of Portland, you will find the ultimate eco-friendly beach resort.  The Inn by the Sea  is perched on the hillside above the expansive Crescent Beach State Park.

Make your way to this elegant example of luxurious hospitality perfect for any romantic or family getaway to Maine.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary – Midcoast of Maine 

Cape Elizabeth is one of the most beautiful stop and lighthouse in all of Maine. You must include Cape Elizabeth on your Maine road trip. Other lighthouses you must visit in this region that are active and with incredible views are Portland Headlight, Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse,  and  Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse.

Day 4: Explore Portland and surrounding areas

Explore Fort Williams Park and Portland Head Light

This stunning lighthouse is located inside of  Fort Williams Park . Here you can enjoy the beautiful Head Light, the powerful rocky Maine coast and explore some military ruins and old batteries.

➳ Read More: A Complete Guide from Portland Maine to Bar Harbor

Waterfront along Commercial St.

Portland, Maine is a fantastic stop during your Maine road trip. Go for a stroll along the historic cobblestone roads of Commercial St along the waterfront. Along the road you can enjoy rows of beautiful brick architecture with plenty of interesting stores to take a peek into. Walking along the waterfront there are a handful of working piers that you can go down. Make sure to make a quick stop along The Old Port , where you will find fishing wharves, warehouses, and delicious restaurants.

Portland Observatory

Climb to the top of America’s last standing maritime signal tower. The Portland Observatory was built in 1807 to help manage Portland’s significant maritime movements. You can now climb to the top of this wooden tower for breathtaking panoramic views over the city of Portland and surrounding waters. Making your way through the interior of the tower you learn the history of the port city along with ideation and construction of the tower.

Lucky Catch Lobster Cruises

No trip to Portland or Maine is complete without the chance to catch some live lobsters. With Lucky Catch Cruises the tour is not just about picking up the lobster traps. You can also refill the fish bait bags, learn the history and laws regarding lobstering of Maine and about the life of a lobster/fisherman.

Did you know that to keep a lobster caught in Maine there are strict size requirements and cannot be too big or too small?

The lobster cruises enjoy a scenic ride along the way, with  route options  including White Head Passage, a chance to spot seals, and even a glimpse of Portland Headlight.

Tickets for the 90 minute lobster tour are $50 per adult with the opportunity for you to purchase some fresh caught lobster at the end of the tour.

Where to sleep in Portland?

If you are looking to stay at the center of the action in downtown Portland with your pup, look no further than the  Hilton Garden Inn . Enjoy views out into Casco Bay and down the bustling waterfront. Besides the spacious rooms and comfortable beds.

Day 5: Explore the Harpswell and Boothbay Peninsulas

The Harpswell and Boothbay Peninsulas offer sweeping views over northern Casco Bay. The handling on the Mazda CX-5 is great for an afternoon drive along the winding roads across the remote landscape. Several historic and charming towns offer a handful of places to stop and enjoy some fresh seafood.

➳ Read More: The best Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Visit the Giant’s Stairs in the Harpswell Peninsula

We made a quick stop at the Giant’s Stairs to witness the ruggedness of Casco Bay. It is powerful as you watch the waves forcefully crash into the rocks below.

Enjoy a Lobster Roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset

As you might know, we do not eat shellfish but we have heard from locals and other tourists that you must stop at Red’s Eats to try the lobster roll dipped in butter.

During summer plan accordingly as a highlight of the region the lines are super long and it can take you 20 to 40 minutes to eat.

End your day at the Boothbay Peninsula 

During the summer, Boothbay Harbor is one of the coolest towns in midcoast Maine. It is full of music, good vibes, exciting art galleries, restaurants and museums.

Throughout the Summer make sure to visit this spectacular peninsula. On the first Friday of each month to enjoy a First Friday Art Tour, where art galleries open their doors for everyone to enjoy the exhibitions.

On Sundays from June through Labor Day there is an epic and unique live music reggae cruise that you simply cannot miss.

Visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden

While you are on the Boothbay Peninsula you must visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden . Covering over 300 acres, this beautiful landscape will take your breath away. The Botanical Garden has many woody trails, fountains, ponds, sculpture and a butterfly house.

Take a Red Cloak Haunted History Tour with Sally

If you are into historical tours, ghost tours or historical mysteries make sure to sign up for a Red Cloak Haunted History Tour . Sally, the founder, has the best stories and I can assure you will have an amazing time.

Where to sleep the second night:

We were really luck to experience the Midcoast of Maine with a twist of luxury. Staying at the Topside Inn made our whole experience a more memorable and cherish one. The hotel and the people who worked there made our trip more enjoyable.

Topside Inn in Boothbay Peninsula : The Topside Inn is owned by Brian Makarewicz and Mark Osborn, a lovely couple that make sure every detail is perfect. They offer a delicious gourmet breakfast every morning included with your stay. The Inn, overlooking the main street and waterfront, won first place for Inns in Maine and ranked #5 most romantic inn in the United States.

Day 6: Explore the Pemaquid Peninsula and the Penobscot Bay

The rugged and rocky Pemaquid Peninsula offers a less touristy experience of the powerful coast Maine is famous for. Jutting out into the Gulf of Maine it is the perfect spot for a relax enjoyment of the natural surroundings. Other places to visit to complete your perfect Maine road trip itinerary are the quaint town of Waldoboro, the Damariscotta   Lake, the  Pemaquid Pond  and  Duckpuddle Pond.

Pemaquid Point Light

Pemaquid Point Light is one of my favorite lighthouses in Maine, not only for the lighthouse but for the stunning rock formations and the crashing waves surrounding the building.

Pemaquid Point is at the tip of the peninsula, which you might recognize from the back of the Maine State Quarter. Nearby you will also find Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site with a reconstruction of Fort William Henry.

The Good Supply

One of my favorite shops in the Pemaquid Peninsula is the The Good Supply. The store is meant to help local artists and the community by selling the arts at this epic barn. The products at The Good Supply are inspired by Maine’s history, people, nature and culture.

Walk around Camden’s downtown

Camden is one of the most beautiful and most charming coastal towns of Maine. It is the perfect destination for ocean lovers, people who enjoy unique stores and anyone that loves the outdoors.

Camden receives most of its visitor over the summer making the town more vibrant and exciting. Camden has many different activities to offer to its visitor. You can take a boat tour, walk the historic downtown, visit the lighthouse, swim at its beaches and explore the Camden Hills State Park.

Take a cooking class at the Salt Water Farm

Make sure to take a cooking class at the renowned Salt Water Farm cooking school . Learn how to create Maine’s iconic flavors using fresh and local ingredients.

Where to sleep the third night:

16 Bay View is a luxurious boutique hotel built in a renovated historical 20th century industrial brick building at the heart of downtown Camden. The vintage inspired interior is mixed with state of the art amenities making for an amazing stay.

Before leaving the mid-coast Maine region make sure to take a quick stop at Rockland. You must add Rockland Harbor, Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse  and  Penobscot Bay  to your Maine road trip itinerary as it has beautiful landscapes of the mountains and the sea.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary – DownEast Acadia

DownEast Acadia not only has one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States but also boasts 2,330 miles of coastline. In this trip we visited the Blue Hill Peninsula, Bar Harbor and of course Acadia National Park.

Day 7: Explore Bucksport and surrounding areas

Take a tour at fort knox.

Walk around the Fort and enjoy a panoramic view from the Penobscot Narrows Observatory. Take a stroll around the Bucksport riverwalk and have a delicious meal at the Friar’s Brewpub. 

Visit Castine’s downtown

Take a guided tour of Castine to visit the city’s main highlights and learn its history. Walk along the water of Penobscot Bay or rent a kayak for the chance to witness the fluorescent bacteria over the summer, which makes the beach glow.

Where to sleep the first night:

The historic bed and breakfast of Pentagöet Inn in downtown Castine dates back to 1894. Enjoy a sunny afternoon on the pristine porch before heading to the vintage rustic inspired rooms.

Day 8: Explore Deer Isle

Start your day off in Harborside, a small unincorporated village on the coast of Penobscot Bay. Right next to Harborside is the Holbrook Island Sanctuary with over seven miles of walking paths to witness wildlife from a range of environments including shoreline, forests, ponds, and marshland.

Bucks Harbor Market is the perfect stop for lunch in Brooksville. With a well stocked deli, there are many cold sandwich options to go, but make sure to head there early as they often sell out.

Experience the Good Life Center to learn about the lives of Helen and Scott Nearing, and their sustainable and pacifist philosophies an a historic Forest Farm homestead.

For dinner, check out the fresh wood-fired pizza from Tinder Hearth . They offer pizza Tuesday through Saturday evening throughout the summer, and on Tuesday and Saturday the rest of the year. Follow them on Instagram to see what local ingredient pizza pies are on the menu each day.

Where to sleep in Deer Isle:

Step back in time at the Pilgrim’s Inn and its romantic bed and breakfast atmosphere. The building dates back to 1793 and has been excellently restored and maintained for all those who stay.

Day 9: Explore Deer Isle

Explore the coastal downtown Stonington by foot and enjoy the enriched arts scene, thanks in part to the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts on Deer Isle.

Kayaking along The Maine Island Trail, a 375-mile water trail for recreational boaters, spanning Maine’s entire coast. On this trip you will have hundreds of islands and inlets to explore at your fingertips.

Go for a moderate 1.8 mile hike into the old Settlement Quarry Preserve. Along trail in the granite quarry there is informative signage to learn about the history of the site.

Head on over to Nervous Nellie’s Jams & Jellies to taste the handmade goodness of these Maine inspired preserves and enjoy the sculptures of artist Peter Beerits.

Take a lighthouse boat tour to get up close and personal with eight of the lighthouses located on the shores of Deer Isle, including the Pumpkin Island Lighthouse and Goose Rocks Light.

Day 10: Explore Isle au Haut

Isle au Haut is a small island, which is part of Acadia National Park. To reach the island take the passenger ferry from Stonington to the Isle au Haut Town Landing. The ferry runs from mid-June through late September.

You can bike or hike to explore the island, but we highly recommend to bring a bike as the distances are quite long to just hike. The best trail is the Cliff side trail, as it offers amazing views of the open ocean. 

Day 11: Visit Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

Take a stroll around downtown Bar Harbor and make sure to stop and photograph the Bass Harbor lighthouse. While the city is beautiful and offers plenty of good food options, plan enough time to explore Acadia National Park.

Your Maine road trip will not be completed without stopping by Acadia National Park. This 47,000-acre recreation area is located on Maine’s Mount Desert.

Places to visit in Acadia and Bar Harbor are Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach , Jordan Pond , Bubble Mountain, Mount Desert Island, Ocean Trail, Schoodic Peninsula, and Frenchman Bay.

Acadia National Park covers 47,000-acre along the coast of Maine and is home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. While you can visit the park year round, the best time to visit is in the warmer months to take advantage of the over 120 miles of hiking trails.

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Summer Maine Road Trip: An Easy Itinerary for a Unique Week in Maine

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: August 13, 2023  - Last updated: March 20, 2024

We love spending time in Maine and really enjoy visiting in summer months. Winter in Maine is fun and beautiful, but such a different vibe, and if you’re not into the cold and snow, may not be for you. So here we have our summer itinerary for spending a week in Maine. This can easily be turned from a week into two weeks, so do what you need to do for your vacation. This Maine road trip includes everything from the iconic coves and lighthouses of the coast to the waterfalls and lakes in the Highlands. A road trip around Maine (7 days is enough) gives a great taste of the state.

Have you always wanted to visit Coastal Maine and eat lobster every day? Or maybe your ideal summer trip to Maine is being away from it all and picking blueberries every day. Whatever your interest, we’ve got a great travel plan for visiting Maine in summer.

If you have any additional questions or want to share your own tips, please feel free to leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more and help others plan their travels!

Starting a Maine Road Trip in Summer

Before you take this awesome Maine summer road trip plan and do it exactly, be sure to do your own research to see what works best for your timing and your travel crew. Maine in the summer is usually pretty nice, and with that comes a lot of visitors. It’s called “Vacationland” for a reason… While visiting Maine in summer is nothing like visiting Walt Disney World the week school gets out, there are more people than you might expect. After 7 days of a Maine road trip, you’ll experience everything from crazy crowds to nobody around for miles.

You can fly into either Portland (PWM) or Bangor (BGR) to begin. I think Portland is easier as there are more flights into PWM than BGR, but if you find a great deal into Bangor, take it! You will want to be sure that you fly in and out of the same airport though, as that’ll save you $200+ in rental car costs.

Something to think about before you hit the road up here is how the state is actually laid out. The Highlands are all connected with highways and county roads, and it’s pretty easy to navigate as the relative distance is accurately suggestive of travel time. When you get out to the coast it’s not so simple. Yes, there are highways and roads connecting everything, but nothing is as close as it seems. For example, as the crow flies it’s only about twenty-five miles between Rockland and Boothbay Harbor, but if you wanted to go from one to the other and visit the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse between them, that middle stop adds an hour to your drive despite it being only five miles as the crow flies.

How Many Days for a Maine Road Trip

I always say to use the time you have and you’ll enjoy whatever you can, but doing a 10 day Maine road trip is the most ideal. 7 days for exploring Maine is also plenty, and you could even just get a quick snapshot with 3 days, but the more time the better. There are nearly zero straight roads in Maine and you’ll always be going through another small town, so it takes a long time to go places. As grama Charlotte would say “You can’t get theya from heeera.”

For those doing a Maine road trip from Boston (easy to fly into from anywhere in the USA), add a day or two for the towns south of Portland, like Kennebunkport or Ogunquit. Since you have to drive by, it’s easy to stop. You could also just make a short 3 day Maine road trip from Boston to Portland and have a great time.

Where to Stay for a Maine Road Trip

I wish I could say that one home base for your whole visit to Maine was a good idea, but actually it’s really not. You’ll want to plan multiple stays during your visit simply for the ease of travel and not spending every waking moment driving. There are lots of great cabins and glamping in Main e, so consider those unique stays as you’re planning your Maine road trip.

Here are our picks for where to stay throughout your summer Maine experience:

• Portland or Freeport – lots of cool stuff to see, good food, and lodging options. We love the Harasseeket Inn in Freeport !
• Sunday River area – this is a great spot for hiking and waterfalls. The Snow Cap Inn or Grand Summit Hotel are both beautiful picks for a summer visit to this part of the Highlands.
• Carrabassett Valley or Jackman – this is moose country and cabins are key to a nice few days
• Bangor – you’ll be surprised how big Bangor is, and they actually have quite a few national travel brand hotel options, like Fairfield or Residence Inn
• Bar Harbor – this is Acadia National Park basically; staying at the Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor is fun because it’s familiar and easy, but there are wonderful small inns and B&Bs all around Mount Desert Island and out by the Schoodic Peninsula.
• MidCoast – Rockland is lovely and we really enjoy the 250 Main Hotel and the Samoset Resort . We spend a lot of time here so this is where we try to be for a few days at least.

Summer Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Okay, here we go. This Maine summer road trip plan is designed to hit up both the Highlands and Coastal Maine. You can swap the order as you approach the route, or you can cut out whole sections if you want. Some people visit Maine in summer and think that they want to just pop from small town to small town, but they don’t realize that the activities to do along the way will be limited. To get the best, fullest experience, this mix of destinations will showcase the best of your Maine summer vacation.

And something to keep in mind when you’re in Maine, whether it’s peak summer season or when things are quiet, the general vibe of Maine business owners is that they don’t really need your money. This means that hours may be weird or not what is posted online or in a shop/restaurant window. You’ll still pay a premium price for a lobster roll or a tour, but it will not be when and where it’s convenient for you. As our oldest likes to say: “Maine – Closed on Tuesdays.” It’s all still wonderful, but just try to be flexible with your specific plans.

Note: if you have extra time (9+ days) you can add adventures up to the West Quoddy Lighthouse and Lubec , or explore western Maine west of Portland. This road trip plan doesn’t include these destinations.

Begin in Portland, Maine

Portland is a quiet city, but a fun one. Here you’ll find lot’s a great food, some cool museums, lighthouses and a great wharf/waterfront area to explore. Portland is open year-round, unlike much of MidCoast and DownEast Maine. This is a great place to begin your Maine summer road trip to kind of get your bearings and get into the vibe of the state.

A great day in Portland includes a visit to Cape Elizabeth to visit the Portland Head Lighthouse, walking the Spring Point Ledge Light path out into Portland’s harbor in Casco Bay. You might as well visit Bug Light too, because it’s just five minutes away. It’s really cool to visit Portland, Maine if you’re into lighthouses like we are. There’s actually a point you can stand when you’re at the Portland Head Lighthouse where you can see six different lighthouses :

• Portland Head Light
• Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse
• Ram Island Light
• Spring Ledge Light
• Bug Light (aka Portland Breakwater Light
• Halfway Rock Lighthouse (need a telephoto to see it)

While you’re in Portland, visit the Portland Museum of Art , the Longfellow House and eat lots of whoopie pies ! Coming soon: Fun Things to do in Portland, Maine with Kids

Tip: south of Portland is Saco, ME. Here you’re find a cute town and a really fun, albeit small, amusement area called Funtown / Splashtown . It’s open Memorial Day to Labor Day if you want to add a visit.

Sunday River and Rangely Lakes Region

Driving out of Portland, take your Maine summer road trip up to the Highlands starting in Sunday River. This is the part of Maine everyone heads to for skiing and winter adventures, but in the summertime it’s beautiful and full of waterfalls and blueberries. Sunday River, Grafton Notch State Park and all that fun stuff is in an area called Newry, Maine. It’s all hills and rivers and fun. During summer you can find plenty of vacation rentals or stay at any of the ski resort lodgings, so there’s a wide range of options for a family.

Hiking is the big thing to do at Sunday River in the summer. Grafton Notch State Park has some really cool trails and even swimming holes. We love Screw Auger Falls for a nice, brisk splash! Also nearby is the Step Falls Preserve which is both a beautiful hike in the woods and a gorgeous waterfall.

Another fun stop for swimming and seeing an iconic Northeast sight is the Sunday River Covered Bridge. A very well preserved covered bridge, it’s one of nine in Maine. Stop for photos or walk along the river and take a dip. It’s a great spot to visit with kids.

Continue your Maine summer road trip up to the Rangely Lakes Region. The town of Rangely is charming and there are lots of lakes to enjoy. Watch for wild blueberries when you’re hiking or even when you just pull off the main road. Another thing to watch for: MOOSE! Yes, this is a moose-heavy area, and if you’re up early or driving the dirt roads at sunset, you may get to see one!

More stops to make:

• Lovejoy Covered Bridge
• Coos Canyon
• Swift River Falls natural pools
• the town of Rumford (and Paul Bunyan!)

Moosehead Lake and the Highlands

The Highlands of Maine are a collection of forests, mountains and small towns. From Eustis near the Canadian border to Kokadjo and Seboomook, you’ll find lots of little spots full of camps Mainers head to for hunting, and then small cabin resorts in the wilderness. Greenville on Moosehead Lake is cute and is rather the hub of the Highlands. This is moose country , and even if you don’t spot one in the wild, everything has a moose on it.

Check out the bakeries and breweries between Embden and Greenville, and be sure to stop in Abbot along the way. Art shops, cute storefronts and, you guessed it, whoopie pies make it a nice break in driving. In Greeneville, walk around town and have a meal or two on the lake. The highlight of Greeneville is the vintage boat on Moosehead Lake, the Katahdin. Take a cruise around the lake or spend the day at Lily Bay State Park just picnicking, swimming and hiking along the lakeshore.

Central Maine Towns to Visit

On your Maine summer road trip from the Highlands to the coast, you’ll have plenty of options for where to stop or stay overnight. I personally really like Waterville, which has a good sized downtown and is nicely set on the Kennebec River. From the Bixby Chocolate Café and Colby College Museum of Art to old Fort Halifax State Historic Site on the Kennebec and Sebasticook Rivers, there’s plenty to do in a day and then you can wake up in this cute town, go for a walk and head onto your next stop.

Augusta is another city to visit in central Maine. This is the state capital and there’s plenty to do here too. You’ve got the arboretum, Old Fort Western, touring the State Building and more. The Colburn House State Historic Site is cool if you’re into Revolutionary War history, as both Aaron Burr and Benedict Arnold stayed here on their travels through Maine (the Massachusetts colony at the time).

Bangor is the last of the bigger towns to plan time in. Don’t get me wrong, there are lots and lots of beautiful small towns and villages to visit, but they are mostly TINY and stops are typically less than an hour. But Bangor is a good one for a full day or a few hours. The town itself has a lot of structure to it, old storefronts, the Maine Discovery Museum and Zillman Art Museum, and it’s set on the Penobscot River, which gives the area just off downtown a fun vibe and cool sights.

Acadia National Park

I think Acadia National Park is absolutely beautiful, but it’s not at the level of epic you get from Olympic National Park or Yellowstone . It is totally worth a visit though, and if you happen to be doing you Maine summer road trip with bikes, then you’ll really enjoy visiting Acadia National Park in summer! A lot of people come to Maine just to cross Acadia NP off their bucket list, so expect a lot of delays and lots of people in Bar Harbor. Check out these great tips for visiting Acadia National Park with ease!

At Acadia NP, the Loop Scenic Drive is a must. There are lots of coves and lookout points to stop at. This is also where the bulk of traffic is, so get there early in the day to see the sights and then plan for hiking and driving up Cadillac Mountain in the afternoon.

Check out our 3 Day Acadia National Park itinerary if you want a longer visit!

One of the best parts of visiting Acadia is spending time in Southwest Harbor and the more quiet parts of Mount Desert Island. This includes visiting the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, which I think is one of the most iconic of all Maine sights, and not just of all the lighthouses. This unique lighthouse is set on a cliffside and can be visited/seen from a few different angles. It’s a great place to watch tall ships sail by, and then end your day with a nice stay in Bar Harbor.

Note: if you are planning LOTS of time in the Northeast, you can actually take the ferry from Bar Harbor over to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. We love Nova Scotia and if you’ve ever considered visiting, you can spend just a day or two doing the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Route … or save that for another trip dedicated to Halifax , the Bay of Fundy and more.

MidCoast Maine Sights to See

Don’t worry, we have an article all about MidCoast Maine and all of the cool towns and coves and lighthouses, but if you want to get a simple taste of the MidCoast during your Maine summer road trip, here are our top picks for the best spots to enjoy the lobster and lighthouse culture of the area. Since our road trip plan heads to MidCoast from Acadia, you’ll have to drive through Belfast to get to your next destination. Belfast has a great town area to explore (and a fun toy store), and this is actually a good spot to hire a fishing charter if you want to do that while you’re in Maine.

Camden and Rockland, Maine are both beautiful and really fun towns to stop in or stay in when you’re doing a Maine summer road trip. We have done a few different cabins in Camden, stayed at the Samoset Resort and LOVED staying at the 250 Main Hotel in Rockland . This is the hub we usually choose for exploring MidCoast Maine since it’s so central and has so many wonderful restaurants and things to do. In Camden, stroll through town, go sailing, go for a hike at Camden Hills State Park or pick blueberries atop Beech Hill Preserve.

In Rockland, pay a visit to the Farnsworth Art Museum (lots of Wyeth paintings!), do the mile walk out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse (technically Rockport), catch a ferry out to Vinalhaven Island (1.5 hours), do the Maine Lighthouse Museum or visit Owls Head for the lighthouse and transportation museum. There’s tons to do in Rockland!

If you haven’t been out on the water yet during your trip, drive down to Port Clyde to jump on Monhegan Boat Lines ‘ puffin tour. You’ll get to ride on an active lobster boat to check traps and then continue onto Easter Egg Rock to see puffins in the wild! Yes, Maine has puffins and they’re adorable!

I could go on and on about all of the fun things to do in MidCoast Maine, specifically around Camden and Rockland, but that’s a whole other blog post. You’ll love this area and want to spend several days of your Maine summer road trip here.

TIP: If you want to really get into the lobster of it all, Maine Lobsterfest happens in Rockland on the first weekend of August. Yes, it’s crazy busy in Camden and Rockland during Lobsterfest, but it’s really fun and there’s lots of good food and fun events.

Gardens, Puffins and Whale Watching in Boothbay Harbor

I feel like I’m saving the best for last, and that’s okay. For your final day on your Maine summer road trip, head to the Boothbay Peninsula. Here you’ll find the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and the world famous trolls by artist Thomas Dambo. The gardens themselves are really cool and fun to explore with kids, especially the bee exhibits, but the highlight that really draws people are the enormous trolls. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors in any weather and the sights along the way are just beautiful.

After a morning at the gardens, head into the town of Boothbay Harbor. This is a great end to your Maine road trip, as the town is quaint, full of restaurants and shops, and this is where you get to board a small ship for some of the best whale watching I’ve experienced. I used to live in Alaska and have done lots of whale watching off Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula , and this experience is at the top of my favorites list. Go out with Cap’n Fish’s Cruises to look for whales and puffins (make sure you confirm which tour you’re on) and who knows what you’ll see. We saw a fin whale, several humpbacks and minke whales. And then we also got to see five lighthouses and a bunch of puffins.

This is such a great Maine day! To end your trip, stay the night here or head back to Portland for your departure. Really, this summer road trip around Maine includes so many different experiences, it’s simply unforgettable.

Summer in Maine Favorites

There is so much to do in Maine in summer, but thinking about our top favorite things to do, we were able to narrow it down to these activities. Don’t let our list limit you though, as Maine is a treasure trove of fun, both on the water and on the land.

• do a sailing experience on a tall ship – Portland, Camden, Waldoboro, Bar Harbor…
• visit the Maine Botanical Gardens – Boothbay
• go out on a Lobster boat tour – limited availability but you can find them in Port Clyde, Bar Harbor and Belfast
• pick blueberries – this requires a little hiking usually, but they’re all around the state, with Camden Hills SP, Beech Hill Preserve and the Rangely Lake Region parks all having lots
• waterfall hiking – the Maine Highlands have more than 20 waterfall trails for all skill levels
• do college campus visits – this is a great way to plan a Maine summer road trip with older kids; give them a look into the smaller schools of the Northeast
• visit lobster pounds and lobster shacks – you’ll find these from Ogunquit to Lubec, Maine and this is where you’ll have the freshest lobster in the state

Doing a Maine road trip in summer is such a unique, fun sort of vacation to plan. Yes, you’ll face busy areas, but if you mix it up with not just visiting the quaint towns of coastal Maine, you’ll have an awesome, relaxing trip.

If you have any questions or want to make some suggestions for more stops or tips for doing a Maine summer road trip, please feel free to leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more!

Full Week of Fall Fun Up the Coast of Maine

7 days of fall fun across maine, sea air, radiant colors, and seasonal menus.

There’s nothing like fall in Maine. Leaves are changing and fall harvest fests are around the corner…

Already dreaming up your next getaway to Maine ? Well—there’s no time like the present with fun fall adventures around every corner. From the cobblestone streets of the Old Port to a scenic fall boat ride along the coast in Freeport. The best time to see the fall foliage in Maine is mid-September through the end of October. Knowing this ensures you’ll see leaves at their peak, so keep reading to plan your seven day Maine fall foliage road trip!

Photo Credit: Serena Folding

DAY 01 – PORTLAND

Start your journey in Portland , just a two hour drive from Boston or four from New York City. If you’re flying in first, have no fear- the jetport is just ten minutes to Portland’s downtown area. Portland’s Old Port and the surrounding neighborhoods are home to award-winning restaurants , breweries , and other neighborhood favorites.

Photo Credit: GLP Films

Take the afternoon to walk around the Old Port, or venture down to the working waterfront, where you’ll see buoys, boats, and views that stretch for miles! Portland knows how to celebrate the changing seasons and will be ready with new art exhibits, seasonal specials, and Fall-themed things to do .

If you’re bringing your friends along for the fun , fall is the perfect time to bond with your besties. Kick the season into high gear by cheering for the home team together at a Maine Mariners hockey game at Cross Insurance Arena . Or when you’re ready to stretch your legs you can live your parkour fantasy at the Movement Lab Collective .

DAYS 02-03 – CHEBEAGUE ISLAND

Not every road trip has to mean staying in the car the whole time! Why not get on the Casco Bay ferry from Portland and explore one of the Casco Bay Islands? Chebeague Island is home to the beautiful Chebeague Island Inn , named one of the top 500 hotels in the world. As you approach this storied inn, you’ll have no problem glimpsing the vibrant foliage in rich red, gold, yellow, and orange hues.

Photo Credit: Peter G. Morneau

Dinner served at their restaurant focuses on seasonal, local ingredients, like lobster that’s delivered right off the boat, much of the produce is from Second Wind Farm on the island, and herbs plucked straight from the Chef’s Garden. You’ll dine overlooking the ocean, where you’ll be able to gaze upon the shore, and the fall leaves. During your stay, feel free to relax on the wraparound porch, play croquet or cornhole, or enjoy a cocktail delivered to your Adirondack chair. Soak in the sea air while you unplug.

DAY 04 – BRUNSWICK, ROCKLAND, AND ROCKPORT

After you’ve returned from your stay on Chebeague, it’s time to get on the road. Take the ferry back to Portland and make your way to Brunswick . In about 45 minutes you’ll be surrounded by picturesque shops and restaurants with lovely seaside views in Brunswick. Before making your way to Rockland, stop for lunch and enjoy a lobster roll. Or stay a night at the reimagined 19th century historic hotel, The Federal .

In Rockland (Roughly 1 hour from Brunswick), you’ll see some of the most vibrant foliage surrounded by the coastline . It’s a beautiful sight and one of the reasons why people love leaf peeping in Maine so much. The crisp fall air is perfect for grabbing an apple cider donut and hot chocolate. The foliage always looks better when you get out of the car, so take a nature walk.

Bring a jacket or a vest to stay warm while you enjoy the gorgeous show that Mother Nature puts on for everyone each fall. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures! Rockport and Rockland are near each other, making it easy to enjoy both on the same afternoon. Warm up by perusing some of the many local antique shops or boutiques near downtown.

Photo Courtesy of CFW Photography

DAY 05-06 – BOOTHBAY HARBOR AND CAMDEN

Some of the best fall foliage is found due north in Boothbay Harbor and Camden. These two coastal areas are only about an hour and twenty minutes from each other. You’ll have all day to enjoy the best of the great outdoors. Start bright and early in Boothbay Harbor by booking a spot on Cap’n Fish’s Cruises morning Whale Watching tour. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the Maine coast and hopefully catch a glimpse of a whale! There’s nothing like being on the ocean in the fall or any season. You’ll be able to enjoy the foliage while you also feel the sea spray on your face. These are the moments that make you feel alive!

After getting your fill of the sea, you can find an ice cream cone before taking a quick drive to Camden . As you take the scenic route to Camden, the colors will look more dynamic and spectacular. We wouldn’t blame you if you stopped on the side of the road to take a few pictures. The best spot for leaf peeping in Camden is Camden Hills State Park. To get the whole experience, take a hike around this beautiful place. Many people like to start with the Mount Battie Trail. It’s 1.1 miles in length that feature panoramic views of Penobscot Bay once you reach the summit. The view is beyond spectacular and a true piece de resistance for your fall foliage road trip adventure. The trail is easy to complete for hikers of all skill levels, making it something your entire family can enjoy.

DAY 07 – DRIVE BACK TO PORTLAND

It’s time to get back on the road to Portland! On your way, you can stop at some of the best places in the Greater Portland area. Who can say no to the treasures waiting to be uncovered in Freeport at L.L.Bean ? There’s no other place like it in the world, making it a fun stop to peruse, even if it’s only to say you finally visited. With restaurants downtown, it’s also a great excuse to grab a lobster roll!

Feel free to stop in Yarmouth , where you’ll find a picturesque downtown just begging to be explored. It’s quiet but bustling and a great place to see some leaves without the crowds. Maine’s beauty never ebbs, making it a stunning place to be no matter where you’re traveling. The only thing that could improve your fall foliage road trip is extending it by a few days.

Once you make it back to Portland, pat yourself on the back! You’ve done a lot in seven short days, and now you have memories to take back and remember for years to come.

Thinking of planning a friends getaway? Look no further- Fall is in the air here in Greater Portland!

If you’re planning a getaway this fall, put Portland on your list. This coastal city provides the backdrop for a spectacular Fall show.

Enjoy a safe and social-distanced Fall—while colors canvass the region and our culinary scene competes to out due each other with Fall favorites.

Stay in Touch

Copy My Trip: 3 days in Portland, Maine

Sep 12, 2024 • 6 min read

Be inspired to spend a weekend in Portland, Maine, with these top tips from a recent visitor. Rachel Lewis/Lonely Planet

Lonely Planet’s senior social media manager, Rachel Lewis, recently returned from a weekend with her wife in  Portland , Maine . Here she shares her trip highlights and what to prepare for before you go.

I’ve always had a clear picture in my head of what visiting Portland, Maine would be like, and, honestly, it was pretty stereotypical: buttery lobster, stripes and linen, setting sail from the Old Port and thumbing through pottery at local shops. I’d never been to Maine, period, but when I told my grandmother (who’s from Massachusetts) that I was planning a long-weekend trip with my wife, she had two recommendations: eat as much as you can manage, and go to the locally owned Cool As A Moose (and buy her a mug for Christmas – on it, Gramma). My wife and I landed with empty tums and space in our luggage for goodies, and hit it. 

I want to help you do the same. Here are a few things that made my weekend in Portland so memorable.

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

The Longfellow Hotel in the West End is a newly opened boutique hotel with a heart for sustainability. On our first morning in Portland, we tested out room service with a breakfast order of an iced oat milk latte. I got just what I was craving, and my wife couldn’t stop raving over her breakfast sandwich – baked egg, spicy mayo and pepper jack on an English muffin.

I was particularly impressed with the creative mocktail menu at its dinner and drinks venue, Five of Clubs . Finding good alcohol-free drinks when traveling sober (or sober curious, in my case) can be tricky, but the “functional cocktails” are stunning. I had a Rosarium – bitter orange, earl grey, pomegranate – and a Vacationland Refresher – wild Maine blueberry, cardamom, lemon soda. The earl grey was a great intro to the -ber months. 

The spa, Astraea , has an  infrared sauna  (reserve it in advance!), and you can get your very own space with a bathroom, rain shower and sauna. There are a few different massage options. We chose Mindful Dreams , a meditative, rhythmic full body massage ($145/person for 60 minutes). Sip peppermint tea and feel wonderful as you lounge about in your new skin (okay, I know that’s not how it works, but it’s how it feels).

What was the best thing you ate or drank?

I'm not even going to attempt to single out a "best" meal in Portland, but with its foodie reputation , you can expect to dine well. These are the dishes, snacks and flavors that stood out for us.

Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company  is a local chain that makes gourmet pizza from Freeport to Yarmouth (the original) and beyond. We went with cheese pizza, and it was beautiful in its simplicity: 12 inches of cheesy goodness with an olive oil base. Next time, though, I’d grab something more experimental, like its blueberry pizza with Maine blueberries, rosemary ricotta, roasted shallots and lemon zest.

Green Elephant , a vegetarian bistro, does not take reservations, so get there at 11:30am when it opens for lunch. Grab yourself some deep-fried vegetarian spring rolls and king oyster mushroom tempura. If you’re a vegetarian like me, you’ll appreciate a space where you can eat literally anything without having to triple-check that the allegedly vegetarian pseudo-meat you’re taking a bite of is 100% not meat. Go for the ginger noodles and appreciate the spice (make it vegan by skipping the egg).

Another tasty lunch option includes Benkay, a Japanese restaurant and sushi bar. Consider the teriyaki tofu; it’s fast, hot and surrounded by colorful veggies. For a filling dinner, we hit  Black Cow , a burger joint. I got a veggie burger with a mushroom lentil patty, iceberg, pickled red onion, radish and black garlic mayonnaise on its signature black cow bun.

When you need a break during your Portland wanders, grab a donut at Holy Donut (consider the blueberry glaze).  Navis Café on Thames Street – about a block from the water – serves great egg-white bagels and iced decaf vanilla lattes for breakfast on the move.

What was the most touristy thing you did?

We wrapped up our final day by hopping on a sunset cruise. Portland has quite a few options, but no matter what you pick, book in advance. We saw many excited tourists get turned away when they tried to buy tickets just before sailing. We chose the Casco Bay Sunset and Lighthouse Cruise ($52/person) to see Diamond Pass and the Calendar Islands and were glad we arrived early – we snagged stellar seats on the upper deck. 

Where is the best place to shop?

In Maine’s historic Arts District, swing by Soleil , a gift shop where you’ll want pretty much everything, especially if you’re the sort of traveler who wishes they had a cuter key chain (how about a  dog wearing a sweate r?), an adorable lobster toiletry bag or a notebook with a metallic croissant on the cover.

Cross the street and make your way to Loquat . It’s alive with design, literally, considering that you can see artists working in the back. Stock up on shea butter or grab a Shirt of the Week . If all this color makes your artsy heart grow three sizes, consider swinging by any of the galleries along the way or nearby. The Portland Museum of Art is the obvious choice, and it’s free on Fridays (otherwise it’s $20 per adult). You’re almost certainly going to run into spaces showcasing student work from the Maine College of Art & Design, so keep your eyes peeled as you stroll.

What essential items did you pack?

The name of the game is layers and comfy, grippy sneakers for lots of strolls on cobblestone streets and stepping onto a sailboat. Portland is pretty chill. We saw loads of people in sneakers and jeans, and quite a few people in all black. I packed a pair of jeans that could be dressed up or down, a light sweater and a linen chore jacket for layering, and a baseball cap in case of rain. Accessories are handy for nicer restaurants where you want to feel like you dressed up without dressing up.

What other tips do you have for someone planning a similar trip?

• When to arrive: Give yourself at least three days – we arrived Friday evening and left late Monday afternoon, and were glad we had time to laze about in between activities. 
• How to get from the airport: For ease, fly into the Portland International Jetport, just 2 miles from downtown Portland. From there, hop in a rideshare. Our Uber was $12 and took less than 20 minutes. Or, if you live within a few hours of Portland, consider taking the train; prices are reasonable, and bonus: you can get in views of foliage if you come during fall.
• Getting around town: Portland is walkable as long as you choose accomodations near the hub where you want to explore. We zeroed in on the West End and Old Port.

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Best Northern California Road Trip Itinerary – 7 Days NorCal Road Trip

A Northern California road trip offers a diverse journey through majestic redwoods, stunning coastlines, charming towns, and world-class wine regions. This NorCal road trip will enchant you if you are an outdoor enthusiast, wine lover, or appreciate picturesque landscapes. Hence, follow this Northern California travel itinerary, which covers the most iconic and hidden gems, making it an unforgettable adventure.

👉🏼10 Cute Towns Near San Francisco – Best Cities Near San Francisco, California

Northern California Road Trip – NorCal Road Trip

Here’s a detailed Northern California road trip itinerary with my suggestions on what to see, where to stay, scenic stops, and travel tips.

Day 1 of  North California Itinerary  : San Francisco to Napa Valley 

Start your NorCal road trip from San Francisco.

• Distance : 60 miles (1.5 hours)

Napa Valley, one of the world’s most famous wine regions, is the perfect place to start your road trip. You will get a chance to get views of incredible vineyards, wine-tasting experiences, and lush landscapes.

👉🏼Best Scenic Drives In Napa Valley (Itinerary + Things To Do)

Things to Do:

• Visit Vineyards : Spend the day visiting world-renowned wineries like Domaine Carneros or Castello di Amorosa , a 13th-century-style Tuscan castle and winery.

• Wine Train : Take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic and gourmet experience through wine country.

Overnight Stay- Napa River Inn with scenic views and is centrally located for winery tours.

Pro Travel Tips:

• Book wine tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season.
• Designate a driver if you plan on tasting wine at multiple vineyards.

Day 2: Napa Valley to Mendocino

• Distance : 108 miles (2.5 hours)
• Route : Take CA-128 W and US-101 N

Mendocino offers breathtaking coastal views, charming seaside villages, and the chance to experience nature up close.

• Explore Mendocino Headlands State Park : Stunning ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and coastal trails make this a must-visit.
• Visit Glass Beach : In Fort Bragg, you’ll find a beach filled with smooth sea glass—a rare and colorful sight.
• Point Cabrillo Light Station : This historic lighthouse offers insight into California’s coastal history and scenic photo opportunities.

Scenic Stops – Navarro River Redwoods State Park : On CA-128, drive through a scenic corridor of towering redwoods, offering a peaceful, shaded escape.

Overnight Stay – The Mendocino Hotel and Garden Suites offers ocean views and is close to the town’s attractions.

Pro Travel Tips – Wear layers. Mendocino’s coastal weather can change quickly and is more relaxed than inland areas.

👉🏼Perfect San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip – SF to Yosemite Drive

Day 3: Mendocino to Humboldt Redwoods State Park (Avenue of the Giants)

• Distance : 140 miles (3 hours)
• Route : Take US-101 N

Driving through Humboldt Redwoods State Park on Avenue of the Giants is an awe-inspiring experience. Towering redwoods and some of the tallest trees in the world, you will experience nature’s grandeur like no other.

• Drive the Avenue of the Giants : This scenic 31-mile road takes you through groves of ancient redwoods.
• Founders Grove : Stop to hike this easy, short trail through one of the park’s most impressive groves.
• Shrine Drive-Thru Tree : One of the last remaining “drive-thru” redwood trees offers a fun, photo-worthy stop.

Scenic Stops – Chandelier Drive-Thru Tree : A quirky roadside attraction in Leggett where you can drive your car through a massive redwood.

Overnight Stay – Benbow Historic Inn offers a charming and comfortable stay near the redwoods, with beautiful views and a historic vibe.

👉🏼7 Best National Parks Near San Francisco, Northern California + Route, Campgrounds & Things To Do

• Gas stations are sparse in this area, so make sure your tank is full before entering the park.
• Plan for a day of relaxation, taking your time to walk among the giants.

Day 4: Humboldt Redwoods State Park to Eureka and Trinidad

• Distance : 55 miles (1 hour)

Eureka and Trinidad are small coastal towns with Victorian charm. Here, you can experience rich history, cultural experiences, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

• Old Town Eureka : Wander through the historic district, known for its beautifully restored Victorian architecture, especially the Carson Mansion .
• Sequoia Park Zoo : The oldest zoo in California, located within a redwood forest.
• Trinidad State Beach : North of Eureka, Trinidad offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and one of the most picturesque harbors on the coast.

Scenic Stops – Patrick’s Point State Park : Hike the Rim Trail for sweeping views of the rugged coastline, lush forests, and wildlife sightings.

Overnight Stay –   Eureka Inn offers a classic Victorian ambiance with modern comforts in the heart of Eureka.

Pro Travel Tips : Try The Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka for a memorable meal. It is famous for its local brews and delicious fare.

Day 5: Eureka to Mount Shasta

• Distance : 200 miles (4 hours)
• Route : Take CA-299 E and I-5 N

Mount Shasta is a volcanic peak dominating Northern California’s landscape. Experience outdoor adventures and spiritual significance here at Mount Shasta.

• Hike Mount Shasta : Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, there are trails of varying difficulty, including Panther Meadows , known for its spiritual energy.
• Castle Lake : A crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for kayaking, swimming, or relaxing.
• McCloud Falls : Three tiers of waterfalls where you can hike and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery.

Scenic Stops – Shasta-Trinity National Forest : Take in the diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and lakes. This area is perfect for a picturesque picnic stop.

Overnight Stay – Shasta Inn offers rustic charm and mountain views just minutes from downtown Mount Shasta.

Pro Travel Tips: If hiking Mount Shasta, be aware that snow can cover higher elevation trails well into the summer.

Day 6: Mount Shasta to Lake Tahoe

• Distance : 220 miles (4.5 hours)
• Route : Take I-5 S, then US-50 E

Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination, and here you will find crystal-clear waters, mountain views, and a variety of outdoor activities ranging from hiking and skiing to boating.

• Emerald Bay State Park : One of the most photographed locations in Lake Tahoe, offering hiking, viewpoints, and boating.
• Tahoe Rim Trail : Hike or bike portions of this 165-mile trail that circles Lake Tahoe, offering panoramic views.
• Kayaking and Swimming : Enjoy the lake’s clear waters, ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming.

Scenic Stops – Donner Pass : Located on the way to Lake Tahoe, this historical site offers spectacular mountain views and a chance to learn about the Donner Party’s ill-fated journey.

Overnight Stay – Basecamp Tahoe City offers cozy, rustic rooms and easy access to the lake.

• If visiting in winter, be prepared for snowy conditions and check road closures.
• The summer months are ideal for water-based activities, but make reservations for any equipment rentals in advance.

Useful Information – Road Trip Through Northern California

• Packing Essentials : Layers are crucial, as Northern California’s climate varies from foggy coastal mornings to warm inland afternoons.
• Best Time to Visit : Summer to early fall is ideal for road trips, as weather conditions are more predictable and ideal for outdoor activities.
• Car Rental : Consider renting an all-wheel-drive vehicle, especially if visiting in the winter or planning to explore off-the-beaten-path areas.
• Pooling Lane (Carpool or HOV Lanes) : Northern California’s major highways, like I-80 and US-101 , often have carpool lanes (also known as HOV lanes ) that can save you a lot of time, especially during peak traffic hours. These lanes typically require at least 2 or 3 passengers in the car. Look for signage indicating the number of passengers needed, and stay in regular lanes if you don’t meet the carpool criteria—fines for violations can be steep.
• Toll Roads : Some parts of Northern California, especially around the Bay Area, have toll bridges and roads, like the Golden Gate Bridge , Bay Bridge , and Carquinez Bridge . Most tolls are electronic and require FasTrak , California’s electronic toll collection system.

A Northern California road trip is an unforgettable journey through natural beauty, charming towns, and diverse landscapes. From coastal wonders to towering redwoods and mountain peaks, this Northern California travel itinerary offers scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and relaxing moments in small-town settings.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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