While most states in America would reserve an article like this for warmer months, Maine is unique! We’re lucky that the coast is a perfectly reasonable place to visit in ANY weather. We might not be donning our swim suits and going for a dip, but lifelong Maine residents and visitors alike can agree that there’s no view in Maine more quintessential than that of the coast. The rocky, craggy view comes with the spray of saltwater and, if you’re lucky, even a lighthouse in the distance!
- The Oldest Operating Inn in America, Kennebunk
Seaside Inn / Facebook This Inn has been in operation since 1660! We love the history that comes with it, but one of our favorite things is the access it provides to one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine. You don’t need to worry about the weather here. You’ll believe that after you’ve woken up to a cold, crisp morning with the bluest sky over that Maine ocean! Visit them at: 80 Beach Avenue, Kennebunk / Highlights info row image (207) 967-4461
- Port Clyde, Knox County
Dave Hensley / Flickr This tiny town is home to Marshall Point Lighthouse, which many might recognize from the movie, Forrest Gump. In addition to this claim to fame. it’s also one of the most idyllic towns on the Maine coast.
- Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia National Park
criana / Flickr Another spot located in Acadia National Park, but this one is a bit more hidden. About 20 miles east of Ellsworth and directly south of Winter Harbor, the Schoodic area is the only portion of Acadia National Park that is located on the mainland. While the Schoodic Peninsula is just about five miles from Mount Desert Island as the crow flies, driving there takes about an hour and will have you meandering around the rocky coast of the island..
- Bar Island, Bar Harbor
Ken Lane / Flickr There are certainly many places in Maine that offer this foggy view over the water, but this is just a bit off the beaten path. We challenge you to go anywhere aside from Maine to find something like this: Fog drifting over the harbor, completely engulfing a small island area. You just won’t find it!
- Acadia National Park, Mt. Desert
Dave Wilson / Flickr This one might be fairly obvious, but maybe we just wanted an excuse to share this photo! It perfectly captures the essence of a coastal Maine sunset Downeast. Maine’s largest and only National Park can keep you busy for days. Whether you choose to get lost in the forest by spending your time hiking and camping, or if you stay in Bar Harbor and make day trips, Acadia is one of the most beloved and well-known trips to take while in Maine.
- Hike at Two Lights State Park , Cape Elizabeth
Paul Noble Photography / Flickr This easy hike (it’s actually more of a walk) will take you to the rocky coast in Two Lights State Park. But, while the short hike will take you to the water, standing above the coast gives incredible views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Click here for the actual location and instructions.
- Castine, Hancock County
smilla4 / Flickr Another great thing about Maine? Our coast is larger than that of California which means we have tons of wonderful towns that provide the perfect coastal views. The small and historic town of Castine sits at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary, just beyond the Bagaduce River. You might know it for its maritime ties, but it’s also an artists’ haven
- Little Hunters Beach, Acadia National Park
mikeandterri / TripAdvisor This hidden beach is one of the best in Maine. Both in beauty and in solitude. The beach is located off the Park Loop Road, about three miles past Otter Point. But, remember that this beach is hidden, so you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled! You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the small pullout along the road for parking. Cross the street and head down the wooden stairs to access the beach. You’re likely to have the views all to yourself this time of year!
- Monhegan Island, Lincoln County
George Bremer / Flickr This tiny town might take a bit of effort to reach. It’s about ten miles from the mainland and can only be traveled to by boat. One of its most defining characteristics is the lack of cars and paved roads. The incredible landscape, shore and cliffs make for some wonderful inspiration and tourists spend lots of time photographing these areas. But, head there in the off-season and you’ll have un-hurried views of some of the best coast in Maine.
- Reid State Park, Georgetown
Yelp/Robert R. Reid State Park has the honor of being Maine’s first State-owned Saltwater Beach. Today, thousands of visitors enjoy the park’s long, wide sand beaches like Mile and Half Mile, which are rare in Maine. Take a trip in the winter for the peace and quiet that can only be found on the Maine coast!
Once you’ve soaked up all the coastal fun you can, you might be hungry. Think about visiting one of these wonderful famous restaurants in Maine. They’re well-known, but absolutely worth the wait to get it.
Seaside Inn / Facebook
This Inn has been in operation since 1660! We love the history that comes with it, but one of our favorite things is the access it provides to one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine. You don’t need to worry about the weather here. You’ll believe that after you’ve woken up to a cold, crisp morning with the bluest sky over that Maine ocean! Visit them at: 80 Beach Avenue, Kennebunk / Highlights info row image (207) 967-4461
Dave Hensley / Flickr
This tiny town is home to Marshall Point Lighthouse, which many might recognize from the movie, Forrest Gump. In addition to this claim to fame. it’s also one of the most idyllic towns on the Maine coast.
criana / Flickr
Another spot located in Acadia National Park, but this one is a bit more hidden. About 20 miles east of Ellsworth and directly south of Winter Harbor, the Schoodic area is the only portion of Acadia National Park that is located on the mainland. While the Schoodic Peninsula is just about five miles from Mount Desert Island as the crow flies, driving there takes about an hour and will have you meandering around the rocky coast of the island..
Ken Lane / Flickr
There are certainly many places in Maine that offer this foggy view over the water, but this is just a bit off the beaten path. We challenge you to go anywhere aside from Maine to find something like this: Fog drifting over the harbor, completely engulfing a small island area. You just won’t find it!
Dave Wilson / Flickr
This one might be fairly obvious, but maybe we just wanted an excuse to share this photo! It perfectly captures the essence of a coastal Maine sunset Downeast. Maine’s largest and only National Park can keep you busy for days. Whether you choose to get lost in the forest by spending your time hiking and camping, or if you stay in Bar Harbor and make day trips, Acadia is one of the most beloved and well-known trips to take while in Maine.
Paul Noble Photography / Flickr
This easy hike (it’s actually more of a walk) will take you to the rocky coast in Two Lights State Park. But, while the short hike will take you to the water, standing above the coast gives incredible views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Click here for the actual location and instructions.
smilla4 / Flickr
Another great thing about Maine? Our coast is larger than that of California which means we have tons of wonderful towns that provide the perfect coastal views. The small and historic town of Castine sits at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary, just beyond the Bagaduce River. You might know it for its maritime ties, but it’s also an artists’ haven
mikeandterri / TripAdvisor
This hidden beach is one of the best in Maine. Both in beauty and in solitude. The beach is located off the Park Loop Road, about three miles past Otter Point. But, remember that this beach is hidden, so you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled! You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the small pullout along the road for parking. Cross the street and head down the wooden stairs to access the beach. You’re likely to have the views all to yourself this time of year!
George Bremer / Flickr
This tiny town might take a bit of effort to reach. It’s about ten miles from the mainland and can only be traveled to by boat. One of its most defining characteristics is the lack of cars and paved roads. The incredible landscape, shore and cliffs make for some wonderful inspiration and tourists spend lots of time photographing these areas. But, head there in the off-season and you’ll have un-hurried views of some of the best coast in Maine.
Yelp/Robert R.
Reid State Park has the honor of being Maine’s first State-owned Saltwater Beach. Today, thousands of visitors enjoy the park’s long, wide sand beaches like Mile and Half Mile, which are rare in Maine. Take a trip in the winter for the peace and quiet that can only be found on the Maine coast!
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