lobster tours in ogunquit maine

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Maine Lobstering Tours

Come join us for an unforgettable excursion on the waters of Casco Bay while we guide you through the daily routines of a Maine Lobsterman. Participate in the excitement of hauling up the traps or sit back and relax as we cruise near picturesque lighthouses, historic civil war forts, and the “Seal Rocks”.

Each of our lobster tours lasts for 80-90 minutes and passenger numbers are limited to ensure that everyone gets an up-close and personal Maine lobstering experience.

You’ll see how these tasty treats get from the bottom of the ocean to your dinner plate and learn about lobster habits, conservation efforts and the difference between hard shells, shedders, shorts, culls, and keepers. Any lobsters we catch can be purchased after the cruise for wholesale “boat” price, and if you don’t have a pot at home, take them across the pier to the Portland Lobster Company restaurant for the freshest lobster dinner anywhere.

*Click here to book online*

A diverse variety of marine life will enter a lobster trap, and some common visitors include rock crabs, snails, starfish, and hermit crabs. Our see-thru “live tank” offers a chance to watch these little creatures until the end of the day when all are thrown back into the sea.

In addition to lobstering, the Lucky Catch can provide a wide selection of private charters including birthdays, corporate outings, cocktail cruises, bird watching and island dining transportation. If you have an idea for a custom charter, let us know and we’ll try to make it work for you!

15 Best Lobster Boat Tours in Maine (Instructional & Inclusive!)

Explore the top 15 lobster boat tours in Maine for an unforgettable experience. Learn to catch lobster, enjoy marine life sights, and more. Ideal for travelers!

There is no better place to be in the summer than Maine. Booking a lobster boat tour is one of the best ways to book a day of fun on the water. Depending on the company, you’ll be departing from villages and harbors to have hourly, half-day, or full-day lobster boat tours.

On a lobster tour, your captain will take you out and teach you how to bait, catch, and haul in lobster traps. These tours are not only for catching lobster but are also for sightseeing and catching other marine life too. While on your tour, you may see sharks, seals, bald eagles, lighthouses, and more!

There’s something for everyone in Maine. Are you up for the challenge of becoming a pro at catching lobster? Let’s find out!

If you’ve been wondering about what company you should go with on your adventure to Maine, don’t worry, we have you covered. Let’s dive into our top 15 lobster boat tours in Maine.

1. Acadia Lobster Cruise

Credit:  Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

The Acadia Lobster Cruise in Maine is simply one of a kind!  You’ll get to have a taste of the world’s best lobster on a boat that is captained by Maine native Jason Clark.  You’ll get to take in breathtaking views of Acadia National park while listening to the captain share their knowledge of Mount Desert Island.

After the captain has hauled the lobster traps, he will cook you a traditional Maine lobster feast right on his boat! Your lobster feast will include fresh lobster, corn on the cob, homemade blueberry pie, and unforgettable memories! Private cruises are available with a maximum of six passengers.

Price of Tour:  $150 Per Person

Length of Tour : Two trips daily at 10 AM & 2:30 PM

2. Rocky Bottom Fisheries

Credit:  Enrico Della Portea / Shutterstock

Are you traveling to Maine and looking for an experience that you’ll never forget? You’ll want to hook a harbor lobster tour on an authentic fishing boat.  You’ll get to haul and set traps on a lobster tour, cruise the beautiful Maine coast, and/or private charter for your family or group.

On your tour, you’ll learn about one of Maine’s oldest fishing industries and try your best at pulling and baiting a lobster trap yourself. If you have a night free, you can book a sunset tour to make your evening extra special.

If you have a special occasion, private charters are available. You’ll be able to hop aboard with your company, friends, or family and enjoy a boat ride that is personalized to your needs. Whether you’re hauling traps or cruising in the sunset, this is a great option in Portland Harbor.

Price of Tour:  Adult: $50; Child: $35 | Sunset tours: $50 (21 years or older)

Length of Tour:  60 - 90 minutes

3. Camden Harbor Cruises

Credit:  Christian Delbert / Shutterstock

If you’ve never been, you must know that Camden Harbor is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.  On your tour, you’ll relax aboard their classic wooden boat and get a close-up of the Maine coast. During your ride, you’ll see majestic lighthouses, seaside mansions, and visiting yachts.

On their Eco-Tour (wildlife cruise and lobster demonstration), you will travel across the bay to one of the remote seal habitats.  Along the way, you’ll look for birds and other marine life. In addition, you will be able to haul a lobster trap to see what’s coasting along the ocean floor.

Camden Harbor Cruises also has morning lobster hauls. For 90 minutes you’ll be able to take on lobster fishing and help the staff haul, bait, and re-set their lobster pots.

Price of Tour:  Starting from $40

Length of Tour:  1.5 - 3 hours

4. Rugosa Lobster Tours

Credit:  Rabbitti / Shutterstock

The Rugosa Lobster Tours is the true adventure of New England. Their tour is known as the most-popular boating attraction in Maine. They are the only kind of boat tour that is hosted on a traditional down-east style lobster boat.

The Rugosa’s lobster tour offers a more exclusive, personal, and educational type of lobster cruise. They will sail from the Kennebunkport River Waterfront to start their tours.  When booking, you’ll get to select the Coastal Lobster Tour, which is a hands-on tour where you’ll enjoy the scenic coastline and watch them haul lobster traps.

When arriving for your tour, you may park anywhere in their parking lot for free. Once you have parked, you can take a stroll across the lawn to the marina where their boat is located. Kids under 6 are not permitted.

Price of Tour:  Adult $49; Child (6-12) $49 | Adults Only $55 | Private Charter $900|

Length of Tour:  1 hour 25 minutes

5. Lucky Catch Cruises

Credit:  Caine Friend / Shutterstock

If you’re wanting to take a memorable excursion on Casco Bay, you’ll want to book with Lucky Catch Cruises and come along to see the daily routines of the Maine Lobstermen.

You’ll get to participate in exciting events like hauling lobster traps and sitting back and enjoying the scenery.  Along the way, you’ll get to see lighthouses, civil war forts, and seal rocks.

To ensure that every guest has an up close and personal experience, they like to keep the number of riders at a minimum. This is one tour you don’t want to miss!

Price of Tour:  $40

Length of Tour:  80 - 90 minutes

6. Lulu Lobster Boat Ride

Credit:  Kevin M. Walsh / Shutterstock

The Lulu Lobster Boat Cruise is one of the most popular in the region. They are the only lobster tour located in Bar Harbor that is hosted on a traditional down-east style lobster boat. On this boat, you’ll be offered two-hour tours that are personal and unique from any other.

They will sail from the main location of Bar Harbor waterfront and Barside hotel and marina. On the tour, you’ll learn all about Maine lobsters and how they catch them. While on the boat, you’ll want to look out for seals and other wildlife while trying to take in the beautiful sights.

Lulu Cruises offers lobster fishing, where you’ll experience a taste of what it’s like to be a lobsterman.  They’ll describe the parts of a lobster trap and how the lobsters find their way to the bait.  You’ll also get to learn about the anatomy of a lobster.

Price of Tour:  From $38

Length of Tour:  2 hours

7. Sunrise Lobster Boat Tours

Credit:  Angelo Giampiccolo / Shutterstock

To get an authentic Maine lobster experience, you’ll want to book with Sunrise Lobster Boat Tours. The Sunrise is a wooden boat that was built in 1965 and rebuilt for a relaunch in 2010.

The Sunrise will take its guests from the Northeast Harbor to different locations including the Bear Island Light, Bunkers Ledge to see seals, and to Somes Sound.

On your tour, locally caught steamed lobsters will be served if you really want to have a true Maine experience.

Price of Tour:  Call for pricing  📞

Length of Tour:  90 minutes

8. Robertson Sea Tours

With Robertson Sea Tours you’ll hop on board a thirty-two-foot boat and cruise along the coastline of Maine. You’ll get to haul the captain’s lobster traps, look at eagles and seals, and even Atlantic Puffin. Their Wildlife and Lighthouse Cruise is 3 hours and will have you view three lighthouses, and wildlife, and see a lobster trap hauled.

Another option you’ll have to choose from is their Lobster Fishing Tour.  This tour is 2 hours long and you’ll be able to tend to lobster traps and learn how to bait them. Baiting and hauling lobster traps are not as easy as it looks.

Since you’ll be learning how to haul in traps, it’s recommended that you wear the proper boating attire just in case it gets a little messy on board. There’s a high possibility that you may leave smelling a bit fishy!

Price of Tour:  Adults $85; Children under 12 $65

Length of Tour:  2 - 3 hours

9. Captain Joe’s Cruises

Credit:  Arthur Villator / Shutterstock

You’ll want to start your next lobster adventure with Captain Joe’s Cruises.  Captain Joe will take you on a private two-hour cruise of the Saco River. While on the tour, you’ll be able to look for seals, bald eagles, and leaping fish. Their boat is called the Ruby Belle and is designed to keep the safety of kids a top priority.

If your kids tag along for the tour, they’ll be able to safely peer over the side to get a view of the water. From the options available, you’ll be able to choose from the Two Hour Cruise, Sunset Cruise, or Coffee Cruise.

Price of Tour:  Starting from $275

10. Mary May Charters

Credit:  Alessandro Cancian / Shutterstock

If you really want to know about Lobster, you’ll want to book a tour with Mary May Charters. Catching lobster while out on the water is a very rewarding experience compared to buying it at the store.  If you’ve ever wanted to see if you’d enjoy lobster fishing, Mary May Charters will teach you everything you need to know .

Unlike other boats, Mary May Charters is allowed to have five lobster traps placed in the water. This increases the chance of you being able to catch some lobsters on your tour. Any lobsters that are caught are allowed to be kept.

If you don’t know how to catch a lobster, don’t worry, they’ll teach you. On the tour, they’ll go over how to bait the trap, set the trap, and remove lobsters from the trap. Their guide will even teach you how to tell the males from females.

Price of Tour:  $350

11. Balmy Days Cruises

Credit:  Jane Rix / Shutterstock

Balmy Day Cruises has many different experiences to choose from when booking their tours. The Balmy Days Cruises are a one-hour tour on their Squirrel Island Mailboat. In addition to the tour, there could be several stops to drop off or pick up the islanders at Squirrel Island.

On this tour, you will see a lot of nature with the sights and sounds of sea life with gentle waves and occasional fog. You will get to see lobster boats, yachts, sailing boats, and maybe even an occasional cruise ship.  You’ll also get to see the working waterfront and how the lobstermen work.

If it’s a special occasion, you can book a private charter. Whether it’s for you or a friend, a large group, or just for family, you’ll have the opportunity to have the whole boat to yourself!

Price of Tour:  Adults $24; Kids $12; Children 2 & under are free

Length of Tour:  1 hour

12. Swans Island Charters

Credit:  Spwidoff / Shutterstock

Swans Island Charters offer you the chance to see marine life, and rare seabirds, and the opportunity to learn about successful commercial fishing in Maine. Their tours may be more on the expensive side, but they are well worth it! The first featured tour you’ll have to choose from is the Acadia National Park Tour.

This tour is 8 hours long and will allow you to see Acadia National Park, Somes Sound, Bar Harbor sightseeing, and a stop at Bar Harbor to grab a bite to eat.  The next and most popular tour available is the Bass Harbor Private Lobster Charter.  This tour will provide the most informative and genuine lobster fishing experience in Maine.

This tour is a family favorite and provides a one-of-a-kind experience. You’ll have a great time learning about everything lobster and be prepared to catch some crustaceans.

Price of Tour:  Puffin: From $1499 | Private Lobster Charter: From $499 | Bass Harbor Private Lobster Charter: $980 | Acadia National Park Tour: From $1799

Length of Tour:  2 - 8 hours

13. River Run Tours

Credit:  Allan Wood Photography / Shutterstock

River Run Tours will give you one of the most scenic tours you could ever ask for in Maine. The most popular tour they have on their boat is the Five Islands Tour.  This tour has everything you need, PLUS will give you the opportunity to stop and have a bite to eat at Five Islands Lobster Company.

They will start the cruise from Bath down through the Kennebec River so you can see the Bath Iron Works production of the ships. The Captains in charge is the tours are each licensed to carry 6 passengers, which will allow guests to freely have more space when on their tours. River Run Tours will give you the best of both worlds.

Price of Tour:  $280

14. Maine Island Charters

Credit:  AR Pictures / Shutterstock

Maine Island Charters is number one in lobster tours in Maine. You’ll join them on their thirty-six-foot boat for a lobster-style tour on a private charter, island tour, eco-tour, or water taxi. You will get to cruise the coast of Maine on their fully Coast Guard-inspected boat.

Guests have raved about Captain Gus and the amazing tours he has provided.  Not only will you get to your on a lobster boat, but you’ll get to see lighthouses, seals, and eagles, and may even briefly go into the open ocean.  Many guests have also said this tour is kid-friendly and enjoyed bringing their entire family along.

15. LiveLiner Charters

Credit:  WoodysPhotos / Shutterstock

LiveLiner Charter Tours will give you one of the greatest deep-sea fishing experiences that Maine has to offer. You’ll get to experience the thrill of fishing for Blue Sharks, Mako, Threshers, and Porbeagles. They also offer sunset and harbor cruises.

They have a thirty-one-foot boat that can comfortably fit up to four people. If you’re looking for something that is family-friendly, you’ll want to book their, “Family Mackerel” tour. With this tour you’ll spend a couple of hours on the water and kids can learn how to catch mackerel.

If you want more of a thrill, you’ll want to hook their shark trip.  With this tour, you’ll go 15 to 30 miles out, set up some chum, and ring the bell to see what you can catch.  A variety of sharks live in these waters and you’ll learn how to bait, tackle, and catch a shark with assistance provided.

Price of Tour:  Shark Tour $1250 | Bluefin Tuna Tour $1250 | Inshore Groundfish $550 | Family Mackerel $350 | Harbor Cruise $350

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• Lobster Boat Tours

Marshall Dodge’s classic humor recordings of “Bert & I” created a soundtrack to Maine lobstermen that is as accurate – and funny – today, as it was 60 years ago. If you’ve ever listened to “The Bluebird” and imagined yourself at the helm of a lobster boat, then it’s time to come to Maine. Lobster boat tours are a unique way to experience lobstering first-hand and learn how lobster fishermen preserve this vital industry.

A Family-friendly Excursion

Guests can pull up traps, and learn how lobstermen decide whether a lobster is good for dinner or needs to enjoy more time at the bottom of the sea. Kids delight in all the other creatures pulled from traps, too, like starfish and crabs.

You can often buy your catch and cook the freshest lobster imaginable or have a restaurant prepare it for you.

Tours go past lighthouses and other landmarks and the ocean’s mammals, like porpoises, seals and whales, can be seen.

You can have a lobster tour on a sail boat, traditional Downeast lobster boat or even ships with see-through floors!

Some of Maine’s Lobster Boat Tours

Camden, maine.

Camden Harbor Cruises

BAR HARBOR, MAINE

Lulu Lobster Boat Tours Bar Harbor Whale Watching Co.

BOOTHBAY HARBOR, MAINE

Sail Muscongus

HARPSWELL, MAINE

West Wind Lobster Boat Tours

HARRINGTON, MAINE

Robertson Sea Tours & Adventures

KENNEBUNK, MAINE

Kylie’s Chance Scenic Lobster Boat Tour

KENNEBUNKPORT, MAINE

Rugosa Lobster Boat Tour

OGUNQUIT, MAINE

Finestkind Scenic Cruises

PORTLAND, MAINE

Lucky Catch Cruises

SOUTHWEST HARBOR, MAINE

Sail Acadia

SURRY, MAINE

Linda Greenlaw Charters

SWAN'S ISLAND

Swan's Island Charters

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The axe pit.

Maine's best axe throwing bar. Local beer and great fun!

Phone: 207-805-3889

Website: www.theAxePit.com

Address: 333 Clarks Pond Parkway , South Portland

Museum of Maritime Pets

Waterfront history museum celebrates working maritime animals throughout the ages.

Phone: 2073905909

Website: museumofmaritimepets.org

Address: 75 Mechanic Street, Suite 106W , Rockland

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries - July Splendor 2023

Thomaston Place Auction Galleries announces their annual summer feature auction, July Splendor, which will include fine art, antique, custom & modern design furniture, jewelry & watches, estate silver, Asian artifacts, folk art & marine items and more.

Phone: 207-354-8141

Website: thomastonauction.com

Address: 51 Atlantic Hwy , Thomaston

Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum

The Southern Aroostook Agricultural Museum showcases the rich rural heritage of Aroostook County, Maine.

Phone: 207-538-9300

Website: southernaroostookagriculturalmuseum.org

Address: 1664 US Highway 1 , Littleton

Moon Dog Excursions

Something Extraordinary! Custom Boat Charters and Island Excursions on Penobscot Bay. Experience the beauty of the Maine Coast.

Phone: 207-230-9069

Website: moondogexcursions.com

Address: 111 pascal ave , rockport

Portland by the Foot guided historical walking tours

Guided walking tours that will knock your socks right off!

Phone: 207-200-5885

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Address: PO Box 784 , Portland

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Travelers from all U.S. states are able to travel to Maine without providing a negative COVID-19 test result or quarantining, unless otherwise determined by the Maine CDC. International travelers from approved countries will be subject to any federal requirements for travel.

Learn how our safe travel protocols are helping ensure everyone's visit is a safe one.

Thank You for a Great 2023 Season! Our 2024 Calendar is Now Live and Bookable Online.

The Rugosa is operating daily under the Covid 19 safety guidelines. We adjust our capacity to allow for safe distancing as well as any additional precautions deemed necessary by the captain to insure confidence and safety amongst our guests. See you soon!

Rugosa Lobster Tours

A hands-on lobsterman experience in kennebunkport, maine, a true new england adventure.

Welcome aboard the Rugosa. Our popular tour is known as one of the top-rated boat attractions in the region. We are the only lobster boat tour in Kennebunkport, Maine, hosted on a traditional wooden Downeast-style lobster boat.

Rugosa’s lobster tour offers the most exclusive, personal, and educational cruise in Kennebunkport. We sail from the beautiful Kennebunk River waterfront at the historic Nonantum Resort & Marina.

Come join us on what is sure to be a highlight of your time in Maine!

• Hour Glass 1.25 hours

Coastal Lobster Tour

Join us aboard the Rugosa, a classic New England wooden lobster boat, for a memorable Maine experience.

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Oyster Tour with Mere Point Oyster

Join us on a scenic ride of the Kennebunkport coastline and the Kennebunk River while learning about the oyster industry and how to shuck the tasty crustacean.

An Authentic 5-Star Lobsterman Experience in New England ★★★★★

"Being from Iowa, we don't get a lot of exposure to lobsters, besides in the restaurants. We learned a lot about the lobster industry, and concerns about the lobster population around Maine. I would recommend this tour to anyone with any interest at all in it. Super knowledgeable crew, helpful and ready to answer any questions you have!"

"This was my first visit to the state of Maine and I was so excited about learning about lobsters. The trip with Rugosa Lobster Tours was definitely the best event of my trip. I learned all about lobsters, was able to hold a live one, and I have such an appreciation for the lobsterman/women who provide these delicious delicacies to our tables! Great trip. Highly recommend!"

"Captain Bob and the Lobster “Professor” John were super knowledgeable! Easy to get to, this lobster tour is not to be missed. We learned so much about Lobster (thought we already knew a lot!!), the local industry as well as the surrounding area. Traveling with a 9-year old, our son was very engaged throughout the 90-minute trip and enjoyed the hands-on experience. Thank you so much for a memorable trip out!!!"

"Captain Bob and Jessi were phenomenal! The entire tour was educational and entertaining. We were so happy to return to Iowa and tell our friends and family all of the fun facts we learned. Would highly recommend! They even provided sea bands for anyone who potentially would get sick! Great boat and team!"

FIRST CHANCE WHALE WATCH

Whale watching tours & scenic lobster cruises in kennebunk & kennebunkport, maine, join us for a true maine experience.

• Most Popular!
• Clock 4.75 Hours

Nick’s Chance Whale Watching Cruise

Enjoy Kennebunkport while taking in the breathtaking sights of Whale’s surfacing and jumping from the water.

• Clock 1.5 Hours

Kylie’s Chance Scenic Lobster Tour Maine

See beautiful sights and learn how famous lobsters from Maine are harvested all while enjoying Kennebunkport from the water.

• Clock 2 Hours

Blue Angel Private Coastal Evening Cruise

Go by and see the Kennebunk’s and Cape Porpoise from the water on board The Blue Angel a 43’ Tiara.

WHY FIRST CHANCE WHALE WATCH?

First Chance Whale Watch is the premier company for whale watch and scenic boat tours around the Kennebunk and Kennebunkport areas of Maine. Book online today for a true Maine adventure.

With three fantastic boats, “Nick’s Chance,” “Kylie’s Chance” and “Blue Angel,” we offer the most authentic and exciting experiences of the Atlantic Ocean, its wildlife, and the culture surrounding it in the Kennebunk and Kennebunkport areas of beautiful Maine. The “Blue Angel” offering private coastal cruises for more intimate boating.

Whether you’re looking to get out on the water for hours in hopes of fulfilling a lifelong dream to see whales in their natural habitat among giant swordfish, playful dolphins and more Maine marine life, or you just want a short and sweet scenic tour that will educate you about the marine culture of Maine while also showing you the sights of the water and coast, our Whale Watch and Scenic Lobster tours are sure to impress.

Come aboard for a true experience of the Maine coast and beyond!

KENNEBUNKPORT BOAT TOURS ARE FOR EVERYONE!

Scenic lobster and seal cruise

The ship’s captain let my son “steer” the ship and he also got to see a lobster up close! My husband has been coming to Maine more than 30 years and he loved the scenic tour of the coastline in a way he hadn’t seen before. Plus it was an excellent way to beat the heat.

Definitely the ride the take

We are local to the area and have been on a few boat trips in the area and this was by far our favorite. Definitely the one to take if you have little kids. Our 4 year old LOVED the lobsters and getting a chance to steer the boat. Very friendly crew and overall a lot of fun!

Lobster tour, little kid friendly.

We did the Lobster tour and took our 4 year old grandson. This tour company is first rate! From the kids at the front office to the crew on Kylie’s Chance. It even rained on us, and everyone was cool! We live here year round and this is the first time out on this boat. We will highly recommend and be back! Thanks so much!

Perfect activity for families with young kids

Had a great time with 2 little ones. Perfect length for our group at an hour and a half. Loved getting out on the water and being able to view and handle the lobster. Both kids even got to drive the boat!

Memorable lobster tour!

My nephew and I enjoyed the trip with First Chance. The captain and his mates were very friendly, knowledgeable and interactive with us on the boat. The views were spectacular, the lobster pull very informative and the time on the sea relaxing. Would choose them again in a heartbeat! Good value for my money.

GIVE THE PERFECT GIFT

Lulu Lobster Boat

Lobster boat rides & tours in bar harbor, maine, welcome aboard the lulu.

Our wildly popular Maine boat tour is consistently one of the top-rated boat cruises in the region. We are the only lobster boat tour in Bar Harbor hosted on a traditional Downeast-style lobster boat, offering exclusive two-hour tours that are personal and unique. We sail from the heart of the Bar Harbor waterfront at the beautiful Harborside Hotel & Marina. Come experience what is sure to be a highlight of your time in Maine!

Bar Harbor Lobster Boat Ride

Take a ride aboard our traditional, Downeast-style lobster boat, Lulu! Learn all about Maine lobsters and how we catch them. Keep an eye out for seals and other wildlife while taking in all the amazing sights that Bar Harbor has to offer.

• User 6 years or older
• Hour Glass 2 hours
• Clock 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., or 5 p.m.
• Calendar May 8 - October 19, 2024

What We Offer

Lobster fishing.

During your cruise on Lulu, experience a sample of the life and work of the Maine lobstermen (or lobsterwomen!). Watch a demonstration of how lobster traps are hauled. We’ll describe all the parts of a lobster trap and how the lobsters (and many other sea creatures) find their way to the bait inside. Learn all about the anatomy and life cycle of the Maine lobster. For example, did you know that lobsters smell with their leg hairs?

Sightseeing

Cruising on Lulu is like making the prettiest coastal Maine postcard come to life. See different privately-owned islands up close. Observe sea birds, bald eagles, and other marine wildlife in their natural environment. View beautiful summer cottages along the shores of Mount Desert Island. When sea conditions permit, many tours cruise very close to Egg Rock Light, one of Maine’s most picturesque lighthouses.

Seal Watching

Seal watching is the best on Lulu. Unlike the larger tour boats, Lulu can slowly and quietly approach the rock ledges where the seals rest at the lower tides. They think Lulu is just another of the hundreds of lobster boats they see every day. So, they are not frightened back into the water and remain on the rocks while Lulu’s passengers delight in watching their activities.

Over 1,000 Visitors Think We're A Catch!

The driver and the guide explained about the lobstering industry and we learned many facts. We went by Egg Rock Lighthouse and saw the seals sunning themselves. They pulled up two traps and found lobsters for us to see and pass around. The time went quickly, but it was a splendid way to spend the afternoon!

Our tour guide (Galen) was awesome. He was so informative about the lobster regulations and very entertaining at the same time. He has a great sense of humor that made the tour tons of fun. Definitely recommend this tour to anyone wanting to learn about lobsters!

We had an absolutely wonderful time! We were a little concerned about how cold it might be in October, but we were so interested in what was going on that it was no bother, plus they offer us all blankets! Our tour guides were phenomenal and we learned a great deal about lobstering, but also about the area while taking in the scenery.

The trip was really well worth it! Got to see a lighthouse, male bald eagle and seals sleeping and swimming all around. Then they pull lobster traps up and the boat's guide gives you the whole history of the lobster and all the in's and out's of being a Captain of a lobster boat. Have to do this trip if you visit Bar Harbor, Maine!

West Wind Lobster Tours

Let's go lobstering book online, lobstering adventures on casco bay, welcome the 2024 season will run june 15-sept 10., let’s go lobstering.

Check out the video on West Wind Lobster Tours by the Maine Office of Tourism!

To make a reservation, use the online booking tool on this page, call 207-939-5481, or email us at [email protected]

  Join us on gorgeous Casco Bay for a Lobster Harvesting To ur you won’t forget! During the first part of the two hour tour, Captain Jay McGowen will explain the history of lobstering as he navigates toward his traps. Then he will demonstrate how a trap is lifted from the ocean floor and opened to collect the lobsters inside. The basic anatomy of the lobster is next, along with ho w the trap works. You’ll be able to get a close look at the sea life that comes up in the trap, which may include sea urchins, starfish, and crabs.

Once the traps have been pulled, we’ll change gears and look for seals. Often we find them basking in the sun on some ledges off of a larger island. We can get pretty close, so you’ll be able to take great pictures!

While the Let’s Go Lobstering Tour is the tour we run most often, there are two additional private charter options on our  Rates and Tours page.

Pickup location

Pickup is at the dock near Cook’s Lobster and Ale House , 64 Garrison Cove Road, Bailey Island, ME

Directions: From Route 1 take the Cook’s Corner exit to Route 24. Follow Route 24 for about 13 miles until you go over the bridge to Bailey Island. At the top of the hill take a right onto Garrison Cove Road. Follow the road down to Cook’s Lobster and Ale House. Park in the parking lot, head down on the wharf, take a left right at the red building, which leads to a ramp to the north floats.

The Captain will arrive with the boat just before your tour, so please don’t be concerned if it is not sitting at the dock waiting. Captain Jay typically wears a navy blue West Wind Lobster Tours t-shirt (for sale on the boat, $15!) or a khaki buttondown, and the boat is bright red.

Sometimes Captain Jay is unreachable when he is preparing the boat–please call 321-213-1146 with concerns, if you don’t reach him, call or text 207-939-5481 .

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Fourth of July: Here's what's planned in York, Ogunquit, Kennebunk and Sanford

Ready for America’s birthday bash? Communities throughout southern Maine are, with fireworks and fun planned for Independence Day on Thursday, July 4.

York will host two fireworks shows, one on Thursday, July 4, and another on Saturday, July 6. Ogunquit has a "giant fireworks show" planned on the Fourth of July, while Sandford will host its annual block party and parade.

Here is a look at the events planned in York, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, Wells and Sanford.

York Beach: Here's what's new at Short Sands Beach, Wild Kingdom and more in 2024

York lights up: Two nights of spectacular fireworks

York is offering two nights of fireworks the week of the Fourth of July.

First, fireworks will be set off July 4 from a barge off Short Sands Beach for the crowd at Ellis Park on Ocean Avenue.

Then, on July 6, fireworks will go off near the York Harbor Reading Room at 491 York Street.

York Parks and Recreation Special Events Coordinator Nick Darby said the July 4 show is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. and the Reading Room fireworks should go off around the same time, or after dark.

The week will also feature fun events and entertainment on Long Sands Beach.

A dance party will be held with music near the Long Sands bathhouse on July 4 led by one of the Parks and Recreation Department’s dance instructors.

“For anyone that wants to jump in and show their moves,” Darby said.

The next night, July 5, the 195th Army Band will perform in front of the Long Sands Bathhouse.

Darby said the Fourth of July is a special time of year for York that holds more meaning than “just another summer day.”

“There’s a little bit more patriotism and love for our veterans,” Darby said. “It’s a little more appreciation for the country we live in.”

The 45th annual Four on the 4th Road Race brought to you by York Parks and Recreation and York Rotary Club is also set for July 4.  

Registration is online only and closes July 2 at 8 p.m. The race starts at York High School at 7:30 a.m. and runs along Long Sands Beach. Bib pickup starts at 6:15 a.m. on race day, but participants are encouraged to pick up bibs at the family-friendly Pre-Race Party on July 3 between 3 and 5 p.m. at York High School. 

Visit yorkmerotary.org for the race registration link.   

A pre-race party will be held on July 3 from 3 to 5 p.m. at York High School.  Brought to you by York Rotary, this event is open and free to everyone. It features activities for the whole family, including an obstacle course and bouncy house, yard games, music, refreshments, and early bib pickup for race participants. 

Sanford: Block party, fireworks and a parade

In Sanford, the fun starts on Wednesday, July 3, with a block party set to begin on William Oscar Emery Drive at Number One Pond at 4 p.m.

According to Sanford Parks and Recreation, vendors will open their food trucks, tents, and stands at 4 p.m.

The Maine Attraction Water Ski Team will begin its warmups on the water at 6 p.m. and will liven up the pond with an entertaining show at 6:30 p.m.

The fireworks will begin at dusk – or nine-ish, as the Rec Department says on its website. Per tradition, friends and families alike can view the display from the shore of the pond, the hill at Gowen Park, the bridge on Winter Street, or near the waterfall at Gateway Park on Washington Street, to name just a few choice spots.

Then, on Thursday, July 4, the city will hold its annual Independence Day Parade, which will step off from streets surrounding Sanford Car Wash at 10 a.m. and will proceed north to Gowen Park. The theme for this year’s parade is “Sea to Shining Sea.”

Ogunquit Beach summer preview 2024: Shops, eateries, shows and more

Ogunquit plans 'giant, dazzling fireworks show'

Earlier this year, Real Simple, a New York-based magazine, hailed Ogunquit as the world’s top vacation destination. Part of its appeal, no doubt, is the reputation the seaside town’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show has earned over the years.

“We have a giant fireworks show, which I’m told is one of the very best in southern Maine,” said Alice Pearce, the executive director of the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce, which is presenting this year’s display.

On July 4, the “dazzling show,” as Pearce described it, will begin at Ogunquit Beach at 9:15 p.m. Anyone who finds a spot between Main Beach up to Footbridge and North beaches and beyond is assured “great views,” the chamber stated on its website.

Musicians will provide live entertainment in the couple of hours leading up to the show.

If it rains, the town will bump the fireworks show to the next night, Friday, July 5, at the same time.

Kennebunks summer preview 2024: New shops, eateries, festivals and more

Kennebunk, Kennebunkport team up for fireworks show

On Wednesday, July 3, the Kennebunk River Band will perform a free concert at Lafayette Park at 9 Storer Street at 6:30 p.m. The show is the holiday week’s entry for the town’s annual Concerts in the Park Series, which is offered every Wednesday night, now through Aug. 14.

Per tradition, the towns of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport will team up for their fireworks show at Kennebunk Beach at dusk on July 4.

Earlier on the Fourth, the Kennebunkport Resort Collection will host a Fourth of July Lobster Bake at The Lodge on the Cove at 29 South Main Street, with two seatings at noon and at 5 p.m. Tickets start at $70 and are available online.

Billed as “the quintessential Maine experience,” the Bake will give attendees a chance to “immerse themselves in classic New England flavors of the sea,” according to the KRC. On the menu will be 1.25 pounds of fresh lobster per person, barbecue chicken, clams, corn on the cob, potatoes, cornbread, and Maine blueberry crisp.

Wells Beach summer preview 2024: Food trucks, festivals, concerts, chili and more

Wells: A concert to end the holiday weekend

While the town of Wells does not have any traditions on the Fourth, the community is offering an entertaining way to wrap up the holiday weekend.

As part of the 2024 Wells Harbor Summer Concert Series, which recently began, the Deep Blue Sea Studio Orchestra will perform at the Hope Hobbs Gazebo at 331 Harbor Road on Saturday, July 6, at 6 p.m.

According to Rebekah Kelley, the town’s communications and volunteer coordinator, the orchestra will perform songs including “Lazy, Hazy Crazy Days of Summer,” “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine,” “Under the Boardwalk,” and more.

The orchestra is led by international touring artist Dave “Doc” Vose, a longtime professor at Boston’s Berklee College of Music, a Yamaha clinician, and a published music composer.

“The orchestra focuses on two things: high-quality performance and entertaining its audiences,” Vose said.

Parking and admission are free. There are park benches for seating, but attendees are welcome to bring their own blankets, folding chairs, and more.

Kelley even encouraged people to pack a picnic.

“Our summer concerts are the perfect way to enjoy great music in the beautiful setting of Wells Harbor,” Kelley said. “We invite you to round out the July 4th weekend with a relaxing evening of wonderful entertainment, with good folks in a scenic spot.”

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Field Guide To Boston

Day trips in maine: 3 itineraries for eating, drinking and adventuring your way through vacationland.

• Tulley Hescock, Maine Public

Summer day trips are a big part of life in New England. We visit our favorite beaches and ice cream spots, and we discover new bookstores and trails.

Journalists from the New England News Collaborative have been on the road, seeking out the best local spots in the region. Find ideas for Maine and other New England states at  http://mainepublic.org/daytrips .

Maine is known as “Vacationland,” and it really lives up to that name. Whether you want a day trip to the beach, a coastal hike or a mountain lake swim, Maine has it all. As you may have heard, we are known for our seafood, especially our lobster. When it comes to finding the best lobster roll, know that fresher is better, but be prepared to spend some money. We are also known for our spectacular lighthouses and ocean views. You might even see a whale or a moose if you're lucky!

Check out this list of fun things to do, places to see, and food to eat in three key regions of the state — southern Maine and the Greater Portland area; Down East Maine; and the Western Mountains. Know that this is not an all encompassing list but a good place to start your day trip plans.

‎Southern Maine & Greater Portland

Southern Maine and Greater Portland offer a great mix of beach aesthetic and small-city living. Known for its vast array of eateries, Portland in particular is a foodie and beachgoers dream. Plus, there are breweries galore to satisfy all your IPA dreams. As someone who lives here, these are the spots I can thoroughly recommend if you're looking to spend the day eating and exploring in the area.

What to do if you're a ...

Beachcomber.

If you’re looking to surf, relax with a good book on the sand, or find a spot for your dog to run, these are some of the best beaches in southern Maine.

• Higgins Beach  — This is a great beach for surfing and for lounging. Parking is limited, so make sure to get there early.
• York Beach  — A classic Maine beach with miles of sandy beach to walk, run and play beach games.
• Ogunquit Beach  — A popular beach with a cute downtown within walking distance, Ogunquit also has a natural lazy river that occurs with the tidal change and provides a calm area for kids to play in the water.
• Old Orchard Beach  — This is a busy location, but the beach and activities are well worth it! Ride the Ferris wheel and get some ice cream while you're there.

Lighthouse geek

• Portland Head Light  — This is a favorite among lighthouse lovers, and is located in Cape Elizabeth, about a 10 minute drive from Portland. The lighthouse is located in Fort Williams Park, with 90 acres of land for walking and outdoor activities.
• Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse  — A lesser known lighthouse, and my personal favorite, Spring Point Ledge lighthouse is only a 10 minute drive from downtown Portland and offers a great view of the water. Note that it's not easily accessible as it has some large rocks you have to walk across to get to the lighthouse.
• Nubble Lighthouse  — Located in York, Nubble is a picturesque lighthouse that's classic coastal New England.

• Evergreen Cemetery  — Established in 1854, Evergreen cemetery is the largest in Maine and, as a garden-style cemetery, it offers walking trails and a pond. It's also a great location for bird watching.
• Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours  — Take a guided tour in style! Ride a vintage fire engine while seeing historic landmarks and learning about the city of Portland's rich history.
• Portland Art Museum  — Located in downtown Portland. Note that there is free admission to all 4-8 p.m. Fridays. Through the Portland Art Museum, you can also get tickets to the  Winslow Homer Studio tour  in Scarborough, and see where the famous Maine painter made much of his work. (Available May 20- Nov. 10, tickets range from $25 to $70.)
• Longfellow Books  — Located in Monument Square, it is easily accessible by foot as you walk through downtown Portland. They have a robust collection of new books and very friendly staff.
• Cove Street Arts  — Check out Cove Street Arts to learn about Maine’s place in American art history and see multidisciplinary art exhibits. Note that they are closed on Sundays and Mondays.

With so many good food options across Maine, you'll be happy we have three meals a day. (Or more, if you dispense with formality!)

• Scratch Baking Co.  — Located in South Portland, Scratch is known for their bagels and baked goods. Make sure to grab some Maine salt bagels, and don’t worry, the line moves fast! Note that Scratch is open Wednesday-Sunday.
• Bird and Co.  — This taqueria serves brunch on the weekends and has a wide variety of delicious vegan options.
• The Highroller Lobster Co.  — famous for their lobster rolls, Highroller is conveniently located right in the Old Port and has a bright inside seating area as well as outdoor seating. Make sure to check out their merch as well!
• Duck Fat  — As the name suggests, this restaurant is known for using duck fat to fry their Belgian style fries, giving the food a rich flavor. Don't miss the poutine!
• Sweet Pea's Ice Cream  — Don't forget dessert! Stop by Sweet Pea's after a day at the beach in Ogunquit, Maine.
• Eventide Oyster Co . — Grab some oysters and fresh seafood at Eventide, and make sure to try their famous brown butter lobster roll.
• Crispy Gai  — Incredible Southeast Asian street food in a casual dining setting. You have to try their famous chicken wings, which come with your choice of sweet or spicy sauces.
• Allagash Brewing  — Take a tour of the brewery, order samples and grab a bite to eat. Allagash White, a Belgian-style wheat beer, put this brewery on the map.
• Bissell Brothers  — Bissell has a large beer selection as well as fun events happening throughout the year, and especially during the summer.
• Tomasos Canteen  — This is a great casual spot to grab a beer, share some wings with friends and maybe even munch on some fried pickles. Note that they have limited seating.
• Oxbow Brewing  — Located in Portland’s walkable East End, Oxbow is a great spot to listen to live music and drink an authentic farmhouse ale in their beer garden. Also make sure to grab some Duckfat frites at their takeout window.

Bar Harbor & Coastal Maine

The Maine coast stretches some 3,500 miles, including bays and inlets — meaning there are a myriad of beaches, islands and coastal towns to explore. Bar Harbor is just one part of the Maine coast, but it's a top destination, with Acadia National Park as a backdrop and a beautiful, quintessential downtown as well. Maine’s Down East region is known for its natural beauty and fresh seafood, especially lobster! I grabbed a coworker and spent the day checking out some of these spots.

What to do if you're a...

Nature lover.

Coastal Maine is a nature lover’s utopia. Near Bar Harbor, the go-to spot is  Acadia National Park . Acadia has a perfect mix of coast and mountains and has tons of trails and views for everyone. You will need to purchase a park pass for your vehicle upon entering the park, but note that these passes last for seven days.

If you want a chill outdoors experience

• The Ocean Path Trail  — This is a flat, 4.5-mile trail along the rocky coastline offering some amazing views of the water and nearby islands. This is a great path for all ages and abilities. You can park along the road parallel to the trail and start walking at any point, or you can park at the start of the trail at Sand Beach. This might be my favorite thing to do in the park!
• Sand Beach  — The name says it all! This beach is tucked between rocky cliffs and provides a great spot to have a beach day, go for a swim or play in the sand with your kids. Be aware that it can be crowded during peak season. Also make sure to take advantage of the free  Island Explorer  shuttle, which stops at all popular locations in the park, to help you avoid parking in the busy lots.

If you want something a little more challenging

• Cadillac Mountain  — The Cadillac summit is famous for being the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard and, depending on the time of year, it contends for the first place to see the sunrise in the U.S. You can either reserve a permit to drive up to the top; get an early start and hike up the Cadillac North Ridge Trail, a 4.2-mile out-and-back trail; or cycle up  one of the best-regarded, most challenging bike climbs  in the state.
• The Beehive trail  — This is a rung-and-ladder trail, which can be challenging for some hikers and not easily accessible. But if you’re up for the challenge, the 1.4-mile round trip promises great views that overlook Sand Beach and the Gulf of Maine.
• Cafe This Way  — a cozy breakfast spot with outdoor seating and friendly, quick service. This was a perfect way to start off our day in Bar Harbor. You can even get a breakfast sandwich with French toast as the bread!
• Looking Glass Restaurant  — A great spot for breakfast with a view of the ocean. Make sure to order a Looking Glass-exclusive item.

• Geddy's  — A classic Bar Harbor restaurant located right in downtown. The interior highlights a rustic Maine aesthetic with high-quality food and fresh Maine seafood. Don't forget to order a lobster roll!
• Finback Ale House  — There are a variety of whale-themed restaurants in Bar Harbor, as visitors can spot humpback, finback, and minke whales off of the coast of Maine. I had some fresh clam chowder and, of course, we had to grab a beer to finish off our day of eating and drinking.
• Thirsty Whale  — If you want more of a tavern feel, visit the Thirsty Whale a few doors down that has a wide variety of seafood, appetizers and specialty cocktails.
• El El Frijoles  – If you are headed down the coast towards Sedgwick, make sure to check out El El Frijoles (a play off of Maine’s famous L.L.Bean). This family-owned summer restaurant serves homemade Mexican food made with local Maine ingredients that you can enjoy indoors in a beautiful screened-in porch area, or share a meal with friends around the outdoor fire pit.

Lifelong Learner

If you’re a history buff or find yourself in Bar Harbor on a rainy day, there are tons of places to check out.

• Abbe Museum  — Located right in downtown Bar Harbor, the Abbe Museum is the spot to learn about the Wabanaki Nation’s heritage, culture and homeland.
• La Rochelle Mansion and Museum  — If you are interested in turn-of-the-century homes, you need to take a morning or afternoon and walk through the Bar Harbor Historical Society’s well-preserved home from the early 1900s. The mansion offers a look into a classic New England high class home with beautiful grounds and views.

If you’re more interested in Bar Harbor’s wildlife and ecology…

• Mount Desert Oceanarium and Education Center  — Here you can meet Maine’s coastal critters including fish and lobster, and learn about coastal habitats.
• George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History  — If you’d rather stay closer to downtown Bar Harbor, check out the College of the Atlantic’s Dorr Museum, where there's a touch tank for all ages to get up close and personal with starfish, crabs and other crustaceans. If you are traveling on the free  Island Explorer  bus, the shuttle stops right near the Dorr Museum throughout the summer, making visiting easily accessible to all.

If you are an art lover and are traveling down the coast from Bar Harbor, have you ever heard of the giant trolls of Maine?

• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens  — The trolls are a big attraction at the Botanical Gardens in Boothbay. Their real name is “Guardians of the Seeds,” and they were made by Danish artist and sustainability activist, Thomas Dambo. The botanical gardens have lots of things to see, including gardens in bloom and a butterfly and moth house. They are open May through Oct. 20, and there is an admission fee. This is a great spot for the whole family!
• Center for Maine Contemporary Art  — Make sure to visit the gallery in Rockland. This museum focuses on art made by Mainers or people who are inspired by Maine. It’s a great chance to see and support local Maine art.

Rangeley & Western Maine

The western mountain and lakes region of Maine is known for winter season activities including skiing, snowboarding and hunting. But the area also is a great summer getaway, with tons of swim spots, hiking trails and places to eat. I would argue this drive is the most scenic in this guide. I made sure to stop by some of these places and see what Western Maine is all about.

• Winter skiing  — The mountain region is known for winter skiing. Check out Saddleback Mountain, Sugarloaf, Sunday River, Mt. Abram and Pleasant Mountain.
• Cascade Stream Gorge Trail  — For a quick day hike for the whole family, check out this short, 1-mile loop that leads you to see a series of waterfalls. This is a great option for kids.
• Saddleback Mountain via Ski Lodge trail  — If you’re looking for a more challenging day hike, trek the 5.9 miles (about 3.5 hours) up and back.
• Rangeley Lake State Park  — A great spot to camp, swim or enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake on the public access lawn area.
• Coos Canyon  — Check out Coos Canyon on Route 17, located right on the Swift River. There are swimming and cliff jumping spots, plus places where you can pan for gold!
• Looney Moose Cafe  — Located in Stratton, this might have been my favorite meal of the day! Not only can you eat a hearty breakfast, but they also make homemade doughnuts. Stop by on your way to Sugarloaf to fuel up for skiing or hiking.
• The Red Onion  — Right on Main Street Rangeley, the Red Onion is a local favorite known for their pizza.
• Classic Provisions  — This is a go-to breakfast and lunch spot in Rangeley. They have a variety of sandwiches and salads, as well as coffee drinks and house-made pastries. Plus you can walk two steps and grab an ice cream next door.

• Rangeley Inn and Tavern  — Not only is this a great lodging spot, but it also has an attached tavern that serves quality food in cozy dining rooms.
• The Mountain Social Kitchen and Bar  — This is a great fine dining option. They have locally made food and are located right on the main street in Bethel.
• Furbish Brew House & Eats  – Situated on Main Street in Rangeley, you can sip on your brew while enjoying a view of Rangeley Lake.
• Outdoor Heritage Museum  — This is a small but robust museum where the whole family can learn about western Maine’s history of hunting, fishing and wildlife from the 20th century. They even have a 100-year-old cabin!
• Rangeley History Museum  — Stop by to learn about the history of Rangeley and western Maine. This location is right on Main Street.

Lifelong learner

• Maine Mineral and Gem museum  — Who knew you could hold a piece of the moon in western Maine? Plus, we even got to touch 7 billion-year-old stardust. This museum has the largest meteorite collection in North America, plus tons of beautiful gems and stones. Their staff can answer all your burning questions about space rocks! Note that admission ends at 4 p.m., while the museum closes at 5 p.m.
• Did you know that Rangeley is located exactly halfway between the Equator and the North Pole? There’s even a spot on Main Street where you can stand and be exactly in the middle!

• Day trips in Massachusetts: Hikes, history made fun, ice cream and unofficial hot dog tours

More from Field Guide to Boston

36 Hours in Portland, Maine

By Chelsea Conaboy June 20, 2024

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By Chelsea Conaboy Photographs by Greta Rybus

Chelsea Conaboy is a writer and editor who lives near Portland.

From the fishing piers and wharves lined up like piano keys along Commercial Street to the ocean views and historic Queen Anne-style homes atop Munjoy Hill, Portland offers a lot for visitors to take in. And then there is the food. Maine's largest city has long been nationally known as a top food destination, and just this year two Portland bakers won James Beard Awards. To host travelers, culinary or otherwise, five boutique hotels have opened since 2020. The hotel construction, new high-end condo development and rising coastal real estate prices have exacerbated a housing crisis here. But the elements that make this New England city such an attractive place to visit — a dynamic creative economy, juxtaposition of the old and the new, and the distinctive character of a working waterfront — endure.

Recommendations

• The Eastern Promenade offers picnicking, beach access and a playground with an unbeatable view, plus lots of food trucks to explore.
• The Portland Museum of Art , which stretches across four buildings, has a collection of established and emerging Maine artists and includes a small sculpture garden.
• Fort Williams Park in the nearby town of Cape Elizabeth provides visitors the excellent combination of breathtaking views and a good lobster roll.
• Casco Bay Lines , with a ferry terminal on Commercial Street, offers an affordable tour of Casco Bay or a quick trip to the islands.
• On Peaks Island , three miles off mainland Portland, one should meander, swim and enjoy the view.
• Portland Paddle organizes a three-hour kayak tour of Fort Gorges every day in the summer, starting from East End Beach and including time to explore the Civil War-era structure built on a ledge in the middle of Casco Bay.
• Công Tử Bột has a cheerful dining room, a family-style Vietnamese menu and a counter with a kitchen view.
• Ugly Duckling is a sweet luncheonette with memorable breakfast sandwiches.
• Il Leone is in its fourth season of turning local ingredients and naturally leavened dough into wood-fired pizza magic on Peaks Island.
• Luke’s Lobster was known for exporting Maine lobsters to a chain of lobster shacks around the globe, then returned to Maine to build a restaurant very close to the catch, on the Portland Pier.
• Bar Futo serves yakitori-style skewers and sharing plates with creative cocktails and whiskey highballs that will make you want to order another.
• Hot Suppa! brings from-scratch Southern cooking to this very northern city — and the crowds show up.
• Bite Into Maine ’s Fort Williams food truck offers a very Maine experience: eating a lobster roll with a lighthouse in view.
• Oxbow Blending and Bottling is where this popular Maine brewery blends and packages its aged beers, with a large bar and patio area and frequent live music.
• Anoche offers Spanish gin, wine and a wide array of hard ciders, plus all that goes with it, including Spanish cheeses, meats and tinned fish.
• One Longfellow Square draws folk and roots musicians and their fans to its intimate performance space.
• Blue Portland Maine is expanding its legacy as a jazz bar to include other genres, with an emphasis on live sound quality in this small listening room.
• Rabelais sells rare food-and-drink books and will operate a tiny pop-up shop on Washington Avenue this summer.
• Open House is a showroom of antique, vintage and handmade furnishings and clothing.
• Onggi is a market and newly opened cafe with a focus on fermentation.
• Strata is a high-end kitchenware shop with an emphasis on beautiful quality knives.
• Back Cove Books is a neighborhood bookstore with a lovely children’s section and a cozy reading nook for the littlest readers and the grownups.
• At Print: A Bookstore , the staff are funny on Instagram and helpful in real life.
• The Longfellow Hotel , named after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Portland’s most famous poet, opened in May, with 48 guest rooms and a spa on the edge of the historic West End neighborhood. A bar named for Longfellow’s five-man literary group, the Five of Clubs, is the lobby’s focal point. Rooms start at $499, higher during the summer season.
• Canopy by Hilton on the Portland Waterfront opened in 2021 and has one feature that truly sets it apart: a year-round rooftop bar, called Luna , where you can watch the sky over the Fore River change colors in the evening. With 135 rooms, it sits on a quieter block on Commercial Street, a tourist destination for shopping, dining and exploring the waterfront. Rooms start at $399 during the warmer months, higher for a water view.
• The Holiday Inn By the Bay is a more affordable mainstay. Guest rooms and event spaces in this 239-room hotel, built in 1973, have been renovated since 2020. The location is convenient — a block from the Portland Museum of Art — and room rates start around $160.
• While regulated Airbnbs are allowed in Portland, short-term rentals can be hard to find in summer months. With advance planning, look in Munjoy Hill, for easy access to the Eastern Promenade. To expand your search, consider staying in South Portland, just across the Casco Bay Bridge.
• Many attractions on the Portland peninsula are within walking distance of one another. Greater Portland Metro’s bus service offers connections to the Portland Transportation Center, with bus and train service from Boston and other points, and also runs a route that circles most of the peninsula. A single ride for most adults is $2. Be sure to check for updated schedules . Uber and Lyft offer generally reliable service. The city has a biking culture but a long way to go in developing bike lanes . Those who travel by car should read parking lot signs carefully, as ticketing can be aggressive.

Post Supply

A four-block stretch of Washington Avenue is a food hub good for shopping as well as eating. Start your stroll at Onggi , a fermentation market and cafe, where shelves are stocked with sake, chili crisp, pickled blueberries and more. Buy a hojicha-butterscotch oat cookie ($3.25 each) to enjoy as you wander south to browse high-end kitchenware and Maine-made home goods at Strata and Post Supply , found inside what once was the J.J. Nissen bakery, where the New England top-split hot dog bun was created. On the way: The repurposed shipping containers at the Black Box , which serve as five tiny shops with month-to-month leases. Arriving in July is a pop-up version of Rabelais , a renowned seller of rare food-and-drink books.

On to the eating, but how to choose? Texas-style barbecue is served on Terlingua’s sprawling back decks (one pound of house-smoked meats with a side, cornbread and pickles, $35), while sake and shared plates, such as fried tofu with jalapeño soy sauce and bonito ($7) or sautéed udon noodles with duck breast and vegetables ($15) can be found at Izakaya Minato . Công Tử Bột offers a warm welcome, with Vietnamese food ordered family style, great cocktails and a buzzy dining area that’s especially pleasant when the garage-style doors are open. Try the salad of puffed rice, oyster mushrooms and “pickled stuff” dressed with chile oil ($17) or the twice-cooked eggplant ($14). Leave room for chè chuối, a dessert of tapioca, coconut and banana that is more than the sum of its parts ($11).

After dinner, take a short stroll up Munjoy Hill, which dominates the eastern end of the city’s peninsula, to enjoy not one but two incredible views. At the end of Marion Street, follow the stone steps up to Fort Sumner Park, which looks west over Portland’s Back Cove. On a clear day, you can see the peak of Mount Washington and an exceptional sunset. From there, walk up Quebec Street to arrive at the Eastern Promenade, a 78-acre park that looks east over Casco Bay. Lounge on the grass or head back downhill on Congress Street to sit outside at Oxbow , one of the many Maine breweries that make beer in Portland or have outposts here, or choose from a long list of ciders on tap (from $7.50) at the Basque-inspired Anoche .

A four-block stretch of Washington Avenue is known for good shopping as well as good eating, including at places like Island Creek Oysters.

Ugly Duckling

Ugly Duckling , which opened in 2023 with a big U-shaped counter and a come-as-you-are vibe, is the latest project by Ilma Lopez and Damian Sansonetti, owners of the nearby Spanish-French brasserie Chaval. Breakfast sandwiches come on housemade English muffins. The No. 2, which includes two fried eggs, house pork sausage, American cheese and ketchup, is a popular order ($11.75). You might need a fork to finish the Como Se Dice Buongiorno ($12.75): fried egg, hash brown, prosciutto, jalapeño, arugula and garlic aioli on an English muffin with everything-bagel seasoning.

Catch the 10:15 a.m. boat to Peaks Island at the Casco Bay Lines ferry terminal on Commercial Street. The island, with nearly 1,000 year-round residents, was once home to an amusement park and now has a no-shoes-required vibe. Part of the city of Portland, it sits just three miles offshore but feels much farther. During the 17-minute trip (from April to October: $14 roundtrip for adults, $7 for seniors and children), take in a view of Portland from the water, watch for harbor seals and pass by Fort Gorges, a formidable granite military fort built in the mid-19th century and now a frequent host to kayak tours and history buffs.

You can explore the island by foot, but a bike is handy to make the nearly four-mile loop around the perimeter. Bring your own on the ferry for an extra fee ($7 adult, $3.50 children), or rent one from Brad & Wyatt’s Island Bike Rental ($20 for two hours, $30 for four hours — rentals are first-come, first-served, no website). You’ll find great spots for exploring the rocks on the east side of the island, with views of the Atlantic Ocean. Before catching the return ferry, circle back to Il Leone for salad and pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven and eaten at a shady picnic table. The menu typically includes at least one pie that follows the harvest, highlighting Maine-grown garlic scapes, heirloom tomatoes or squash blossoms (pizzas start at $17.95).

Think of an indoor flea market and you might imagine rows of booths, some full of beauty, others full of dust. Back on the mainland, Open House instead arranges furniture in cozy living-room vignettes throughout its 10,000-square-foot shop on Congress Street, which has a large selection of vintage clothing and handcrafted goods. Items range in price from $5 for packable trinkets to a few thousand dollars for midcentury-modern antiques. And the owners welcome browsers — no stuffy gatekeepers here.

Maine has a rich literary past and present — for starters, Stephen King and Lois Lowry live and write in the state. In Portland, used, independent and specialty bookstores abound. Linger in the beautiful children’s section at Back Cove Books , in the Woodfords Corner neighborhood, which displays its biographies and current affairs books in an old bank vault. Or visit Print: A Bookstore , with its expertly curated staff picks and a large section highlighting Maine writers. Both shops draw an impressive slate of author readings and other events each month, so check their calendars online.

Plenty of restaurants in Portland serve lobster, but few get you as close to the lobster boat as Luke’s Lobster , a lobster-shack chain that has a full-service restaurant on the end of Portland Pier, off Commercial Street. The two-story restaurant, with a view of the Fore River as it meets Casco Bay, sits next to the company’s commercial lobster-buying facility, where lobster boats dock to sell their catch, some of which goes directly to the kitchen. (No reservations during the peak summer season.) Or reserve a table at Bar Futo in the Old Port to try skewers of squid, fish, pork belly or chicken ($7 to $9 each) grilled over binchotan, or Japanese charcoal, alongside a perfectly carbonated whiskey highball made with a Suntory Toki machine ($14).

Blue Portland Maine

Portland’s go-to venue for summer concerts by nationally touring artists is Thompson’s Point , an outdoor stage near the bank of the Fore River. Included in the 2024 lineup are Goose, Counting Crows and Dark Star Orchestra. But One Longfellow Square , in the West End with 180 seats, has a cozy feel that lends itself well to the folk and roots music that makes up most of its shows. Ticket prices vary but start around $20. Just half a block away is Blue Portland Maine , which hosts jazz and more. Half the shows are ticketed, with prices between $10 and $20, and half are free with a hat passed for the artists.

The Old Port, with its cobblestone streets and old brick buildings, is Portland’s traditional tourist district.

Start your Sunday at Hot Suppa! , with some shrimp and cheesy grits ($22) or scrambalaya ($17) — that’s eggs scrambled with jambalaya. Don’t choose your meal without consulting the specials, which highlight the kitchen’s from-scratch Southern cooking and seasonal produce. Recently, they included eggs Benedict with bacon and ramps ($23). And if your plate doesn’t already include corned beef hash, order a side for the table ($16).

Intricacy and devotion are on display in “ Jeremy Frey: Woven ,” through Sept. 15 at the Portland Museum of Art . Mr. Frey is a seventh-generation basketmaker from the Passamaquoddy tribe in Maine whose works have been shown at art markets for years and are found in major museums across the United States. This is the first solo museum exhibition for Frey, with more than 50 baskets and a short film documenting his process. While at the museum, you can see paintings by Winslow Homer and N.C. Wyeth, but don’t miss the work of artists who have broadened and deepened the legacy of Maine art in recent decades, including paintings by Reggie Burrows Hodges and Daniel Minter , and sculpture by Lauren Fensterstock . (Admission free for ages 21 and under. Seniors and students, $18. All others, $20.)

Portland Head Light

Leave time for the 15-minute drive out to Fort Williams Park , a 90-acre park owned by the nearby town of Cape Elizabeth that has a cliff walk, a children’s garden and a panoramic view of Casco Bay. It’s also home to Portland Head Light , a historic and much-photographed lighthouse. If you haven’t eaten a lobster roll yet (or even if you have), visit the Bite Into Maine food truck to choose between a Maine-style with mayo or a Connecticut-style with butter, or try the picnic-style roll, with lobster piled on a bed of coleslaw ($29.95). Yes, these rolls are pricey, but consider the view.

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

Colorado Springs: ​​Colorado’s second-largest city, which brims with outdoor activities , is enticing visitors with a new museum and revamped hotels.

Minneapolis: Springtime is best for exploring this Midwestern city’s lakeside trails, robust arts scene and top-notch restaurants .

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

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Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

I f you’re here, that means you’re probably planning an epic New England road trip along the coast, and man, I’m SO excited for you! Hi, my name is Sam, and I’ve been exploring this corner of the world for over 10 years now. I’ve taken countless road trips along the coast, and I’ve finally perfected my unforgettable Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine itinerary for those looking to explore the  New England coast .

To date, this is my favorite road trip I’ve done, and I can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself. To help you plan the perfect adventure, I’m going to share all my expertise on this area with you, offer my best tips for planning your trip, and give you my ultimate itinerary that was years in the making.

While following along, I encourage you to tailor this itinerary to your own preferences depending on how much time you have for your trip, but I do make suggestions on how long it takes to make the drive, and see all the best places on the way.

Are you ready to start planning together? Let’s go!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Road Tripping From Boston To Bar Harbor – The Basics

Before we jump into the itinerary, let’s get started with some questions you may have …

How Long Is The Drive From Boston To Bar Harbor?

If you don’t make any stops at all, and take the most direct route, the drive takes between 4 hours and 40 minutes to 5 hours, and spans about 280 miles. It could be longer depending on traffic getting out of Boston. If you happen to leave Boston during rush hour, definitely expect it to take a bit longer.

However, if taking a road trip, you could really make this drive as long as you wanted because there are so many amazing things to see along the way, and some fun detours to take. In just a sec, I’ll give you my suggestions on how long you need to make this trip and see as much of the coast as you can 😉

The auto road to the Cadillac Mountain Summit in Acadia National Park.

Is The Drive Scenic?

I think so, yes! But it kind of depends on your expectations.

While many parts of the actual drive are on highways that are kind of boring, there are  so  many great places to stop along the way that can make the drive very scenic.  Especially  if you take some of my suggested detours and scenic byways! But is every second of the drive stunning? Well, no. So it’s good to set expectations. It’s really more about the stops you make during the trip than the actual drive itself.

There are some portions of the actual drive that are very beautiful, though.

How Many Days Do You Need To Drive From Boston To Bar Harbor?

Since there are just tons of incredible things to see, I’m recommending one week, or 7-8 days, as I know that this is how much most people have to make this drive. If you have longer than a week, then I say it’s worth it to enjoy going at a slower pace. But you can definitely enjoy the top things to see in a week. This will also include two days in  Acadia National Park!  For my itinerary, I’m mapping out 8 incredible days for you, and you can adjust it to fit your schedule 😊

Best Time Of Year To Drive Boston To Bar Harbor

Generally,  June-September  is the best time to drive from Boston to Bar Harbor, as this is when you can expect the  best weather, and longest days .  July and August is considered peak season  along the New England coastline, so this is also when you can anticipate the most crowds and highest hotel prices. But gosh, it’s so worth it!

However, I’ve done this road trip in all seasons – yep, in spring, summer, fall, and even winter! As a second suggestion, I love  May to avoid some of the crowds  and still enjoy mild weather, and also  October to chase all the stunning fall foliage .

I’m going to give you some suggestions later in the post to turn this drive into a fall foliage adventure, so be sure to check that out if you’re planning your trip in the fall season 🍁😉

It’s also good to know that some places along the New England coast are seasonal, especially seafood shacks, boat tours, and ice cream places. If they’re seasonal businesses, it’s likely they won’t open until late May or June and begin to close down around Labor Day or only stay open possibly mid-October. But you’ll always be able to find places that are open year-round, too.

How Many Days Should You Spend In Acadia National Park?

Speaking of Acadia, that’s probably the reason you’re making this drive, right? This park is undoubtedly the top attraction in New England, and rightfully so. I always recommend a minimum of two days to explore, allowing 1 full day in the park, and then at least a half day to see Bar Harbor, which is such a charming town along the coast.

If you have more than a week for this trip, you could definitely add an extra day to Bar Harbor so you have two full days to explore the park.

Is There A Ferry From Boston To Bar Harbor?

No, there is no ferry that goes between Boston and Bar Harbor. The best way to make the trip is to drive.

The only ferry to Bar Harbor is the one from Nova Scotia, which is the CAT Ferry.

Is It Worth Going All The Way To Bar Harbor?

Oh yes! I often get asked this because Bar Harbor is pretty far up the Maine coast, and it’s one of the top attractions most out of the way in New England. But yes, it’s absolutely worth the drive. Because there are so many great things to see along the way, and since Acadia offers some of the best and most iconic coastline views in the Northeast, it’s very much worth the effort.

Overview: Best Stops To Make When Driving Boston To Bar Harbor

These are the top places I recommend stopping in that I think are very much worth your time. Some of them require a bit of a detour, but depending on your preferences, you’ll probably be happy you went out of your way!

→  Massachusetts North Shore : This includes Marblehead, Salem, Gloucester, Rockport, Ipswich, and Newburyport. I suggest you drive the Essex Scenic Coastal Byway on your way to or from Bar Harbor to see some of these towns, depending on which appeals to you the most. I have a slight preference for Salem, Marblehead, and Rockport, which are all small and easy to do in a couple of hours each. I’ll go more into this later in the post 😉

→  Portsmouth, New Hampshire : Pretty much just off I-95 and not out of the way at all, Portsmouth is a charming coastal city that feels more like a quaint town. Great historic New England scenery and shopping! I recommend this stop if you’re looking for more of a town vibe vs. coastline, as the coastal views here aren’t as impressive as the rest of the places on this list.

→  Southern Maine Coast : This includes places like York & Cape Neddick, Kennebunkport, and Ogunquit. I usually suggest stopping at Nubble Lighthouse in York, spending a couple of hours each in Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, and even staying the night in one of these two towns.

→  Portland, Maine : The state’s largest city is filled with lots of maritime charm, amazing dining, lighthouses, and history. If you like cities, this may be worth staying a night, but you can also see the highlights in a few hours if you’re not a city person.

→  Freeport, Maine : Home to the flagship L.L. Bean store! It’s not worth it for everyone to stop, but gosh, it’s a pretty cool place to see if you’re looking to pick-up some New England clothing and accessories.

→  Maine’s Midcoast : Between Freeport and Belfast, just before getting to Bar Harbor, there are lots of great towns along the coast to explore in this region, including Harpswell, Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, Rockland, and Camden. I have so many suggestions for hidden gems and places to visit along this portion of the drive, which I’ll go more into during the itinerary portion of the post!

The PERFECT Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Overview of this itinerary:.

Since most people reading this will need to start and end their trip in Boston to catch a flight, that’s how I’m formatting the itinerary. You’ll be making most stops on the way to Bar Harbor, but also saving a few for the drive back so you have something to look forward to 😉

Day 1 : Explore Boston.

Day 2 : Get an early start and drive to either Kennebunkport or Ogunquit. Spend 1 night.

Day 3 : Drive to Portland to explore for a few hours, and then make your way to Camden with a few optional detours for lighthouses and great coastal scenery! End in Camden to spend the night.

Day 4 : Spend the morning in Camden, and then drive to Bar Harbor. Enjoy downtown Bar Harbor and grab dinner. Spend two nights here.

Day 5 : Explore Acadia National Park during the day, and more of Bar Harbor at night.

Day 6 : Drive to Boothbay Harbor to spend 1 night. Take a boat tour.

Day 7 : Drive to Portsmouth and spend a few hours enjoying the shops, and drive the Essex Scenic Byway along the Massachusetts North Shore to make your way toward Boston. Stay the night in this area.

Day 8 : Arrive back in Boston to head home.

Day 1: Explore Boston

Boston is the perfect starting point for most New England itineraries, but it’s also one of the top places to explore in the region, so you should definitely plan at least a full day in the city!

Rooted in history, packed with New England charm, and filled with exciting dining and cool things to do, you can actually cover a lot of ground in just a day in Boston, including the top highlights.

Here are some of the top things I suggest first-timers do :

→ Take a food tour to get a taste of what this region is all about. I have a detailed guide on all the  best Boston food tours  to help you pick the best one! But seafood and Italian cuisine are especially great here.

→  Visit the most charming neighborhoods , which are  Beacon Hill  and the  North End . The North End is also where you’ll find the best Italian restaurants.

→ Stroll through the  Public Gardens  and  Boston Common . The Boston Public Garden was the very first in the U.S., and it’s so beautiful and photogenic 😍 Boston Common isn’t as scenic as the Public Garden, but in the fall during foliage season, it’s on fire with color. Plus, they’re both really close to one another.

→ If you’re looking to do some  shopping , head to  Newbury Street  and  Copley Place .

→ Visit the  New England Aquarium .

→ Explore parts (or all!) of the  Freedom Trail , which is a walking tour that takes you to historically significant places around Boston. You can also take  this awesome Freedom Trail tour .

→ Grab lunch or coffee at the beautiful and Instagram-worthy  Tatte Bakery , which has locations around the city (you’ll see why I recommend it when you walk in 😉).

→ End your day with a nice dinner out. I love  Neptune Oyster , but they don’t take reservations, and it can be a long wait time. If that’s not worth it for you, I also love the  Union Oyster House  for a traditional New England dining experience. But there are so many fantastic places in Boston to choose from.

How To Get Around Boston :

Boston is very walkable, and most of the tourist attractions, which are truly the top things to see in the city, are within walking distance to one another (less than a mile) in the downtown area. If you’re exploring for a day, you likely won’t need to use public transit, but may want to get an Uber or Lyft, which are widely available, just to save time (or if you’re tired!).

Where To Stay In Boston :

All of these suggestions are in great locations, and within walking distance to most everything!

→  Boston Harbor Hotel

→  Revere Hotel Boston Common

→  The Godfrey

Day 2: Drive To Southern Maine

First thing’s first, you’ll want to  pick-up your rental car in Boston  early in the morning. Then, head out to start your drive to southern Maine! During this part of the trip, you’ll pass through Portsmouth, New Hampshire, but don’t worry, we’re going to stop there on the way back 😉 To get to southern Maine, you’ll hop on I-95.

So, Ogunquit or Kennebunkport ?  Well, you can do both if you want! Ogunquit is about 25 minutes south of Kennebunkport, and the biggest difference, as mentioned, is that Ogunquit is more of a beach town, whereas Kennebunkport is more of a coastal town. That said, Kennebunkport also has beaches, and Ogunquit is also just as charming – I honestly love both.

Since you’ll pass by Ogunquit on your way to Kennebunkport, you can stop by for a few hours and see the beach, and the cute little town, and then end in Kennebunkport. You’ll want to decide which town to spend the night in – both have plenty of hotels and dining options.

On your way to Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, I also recommend you stop in York , which is just south of Ogunquit.

Notable stops to make in York if you have time :

• Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick  – the lighthouse itself is not accessible, as it’s on its own little island, but the viewpoint is really great and worth a stop! It only takes a few minutes.
• Stonewall Kitchen Flagship Store & Café  – This New England brand started in Maine, and is now sold in specialty stores all over the country, but the flagship store has everything, and is really fun! The café is also very good, and a lot of people come here for lunch.
• Downtown York  – Waterfront scenery, and some cute shops.
• The York Cliff Walk  – A pedestrian path along the coast with beautiful views.

*If you’re short on time , I would just do Nubble Lighthouse and maybe Stonewall Kitchen, but if you have time, I do recommend the other two stops.

Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine.

Best Things To See In Ogunquit In A Day :

→  The charming downtown  is filled with shops and eateries.

→  Ogunquit Beach , which is one of the best beaches in Maine!

→  Marginal Way , which is a pedestrian walking path along the coastline that connects downtown Ogunquit with the cute Perkins Cove Harbor.  This is my personal favorite thing to do in Ogunquit.  The trail is easily accessible from downtown, and is just over 1 mile long each way.

→  Perkins Cove  – Once you arrive there after walking Marginal Way, there are some really cute shops to explore, and a lovely bridge that makes for fun photos.

Ogunquit Beach Lobster House Restaurant.

Where To Eat In Ogunquit :

• Ogunquit Beach Lobster House
• Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove for a lobster roll!
• BeachFire Bar & Grille

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Ogunquit , if you’re looking for more ideas!

Kennebunkport, Maine.

Best Things To See In Kennebunkport In A Day :

→  The adorable downtown , which is mainly Dock Square. You’ll find colorful storefronts and great restaurants here.

→  Drive to Cape Porpoise , where you’ll find beautiful coastal New England scenery, and the cute  Farm + Table shop .

→ Enjoy the views of the cove from  Kennebunkport Bridge  (right at Dock Square).

→ Take a coastal walk on  Parsons Way .

→ If you have time, head out on a  lobster tour with Rugosa .

Where To Eat In Kennebunkport :

• Allison’s Restaurant for a great casual meal
• Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. for a lobster roll!
• Old Vines Wine Bar

Day 3: Drive To Portland & Make Your Way To Camden

Portland Head Lighthouse.

This day ends in the beautiful coastal town of Camden, but you’ll be making some fun stops along the way! You can make this day easy by just driving to Portland, and then driving straight to Camden, or you can make it longer and more adventurous by making as many stops you as you feel like. Take a look at all my suggestions, and plan according to your preferences 😊

Option to add a night in Portland : The reason I have you scheduled to only stop in Portland for the day is because it’s  such  a short drive from Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, and personally, I think the scenery around the Camden area is more quintessential Maine. However, if you have extra time, you can definitely stay the night in Portland, and continue on to Camden the next day!

Things To Do In Portland In A Few Hours:

→  Take a food tour!  Portland is a huge foodie destination, and this is a great way to taste your way through the city.  The Old Port Seafood Lovers Tour , and  Old Port Culinary Walking Tour  are both great options.

→  Visit the lighthouses.  If you only have time for one, definitely make it  Portland Head Lighthouse . This is probably the most iconic lighthouse in New England, and it’s absolutely beautiful. Nearby are also  Spring Point Ledge Light , and  Bug Light , which are smaller, but still fun to visit. These are all in South Portland, so you’ll want to see them first before getting to downtown Portland.

Old Port in Portland.

→  Stroll around Old Port . I suggest parking somewhere around Commercial Street, and then walking around from there. This is the most unique and charming part of the city along the waterfront. Exchange Street and the streets nearby are nice shopping areas, too.

Optional Stops That Are Worth Your Time On The Way To Camden :

Some of these will definitely add time to your trip, so map them out carefully based on your plans to ensure you have enough time in your day.

Marshall Point Lighthouse.

→  Freeport  to shop at the L.L. Bean Flagship Campus.

→  Wiscasset  – a charming little town with a famous seafood stand called Reds Eats. Also known as being the prettiest village in Maine. You’ll drive right through it on your way to Camden.

→  Pemaquid Lighthouse  – a beautiful lighthouse surrounded by dramatic coastline and parks. There is a small fee to enter the grounds, and it’s cash only.

→  Moody’s Diner in Waldsboro  is right on your way on the righthand side, making it  a little too easy  to swing in for one of their famous whoopie pies! It even made my list of the  best whoopie pies in Maine .

→  Marshall Point Lighthouse  in Port Clyde. This famous lighthouse was featured in the movie  Forrest Gump , and it’s such a beautiful area to visit. This is the lighthouse in my homepage photo!

→  Owls Head  is a small town that’s not too far of a detour, and is home to Owls Head Lighthouse, and some beautiful coastal scenery. This is one of my top, most favorite lighthouses in New England.

→  Rockland  is a charming little coastal town with a great Main Street for shopping. Also home to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.

Note s:  You’ll pass by Boothbay Harbor on this portion of the drive, but don’t worry! You’ll be stopping there for a night on the way back  😉  You can also make some of these stops on Day 6 of this itinerary when you drive from Bar Harbor to Boothbay Harbor .

You’ll want to arrive in Camden around dinnertime, so you can get settled into your hotel, and then explore the town a bit before sunset.

Camden, Maine.

Best Things To Do In Camden:

→  Head out on a sunset windjammer tour!

→  Walk around the harbor  to enjoy the idyllic waterfront scenery. Also walk over to the Bay Road Overlook (comes up in Google Maps) for the perfect view of the harbor backdropped by the mountains.

→  Grab dinner at a fabulous restaurant . Some of my favorites are Natalie’s, The Waterfront (yep, that’s the name 😊), and Franny’s Bistro.

→  Get some ice cream for dessert  at River Ducks or Camden Cone.

→  Drive the auto road  in  Camden Hills State Park  to the top of Mt. Battie and enjoy the bird’s-eye views of the harbor. This road is only open seasonally, but usually only closed in the winter.

→  Shop the lovely boutiques  on Main Street and Bay View.

Day 4: Spend The Morning In Camden & Then Drive To Bar Harbor

Refer to the section above for ideas on things to do in Camden the next day. If you weren’t able to take a sailing tour the night before, I do highly suggest booking one for the next day before you leave – this is one of the best places in Maine for a sailing tour!

⛵︎ Here is the Camden sailing tour I recommend:

Windjammer Classic Day Sail

Then, make the drive directly to Bar Harbor. On the way, you’ll cross the  Penobscot Narrows Bridge , which is one of only four bridge observatories in the entire world! If you have time, it’s worth a stop to enjoy the views from the observatory.  Click here for information and fees for exploring the bridge . But it is completely free to drive over if you’re just passing by.

Things To Do Your First Night In Bar Harbor:

→  Walk around the adorable town .

→  Enjoy sunset from Shore Path right in town , with is a coastal walkway.

→  Grab dinner out . I love Geddy’s, Side Street Café, and the Happy Clam Shack for lobster rolls if you’re up for a short drive outside of town.

→ If you have the time, you could also drive up Cadillac Mountain for sunset. While it’s famous for sunrise, I also love sunset on a clear night and it’s usually less crowded.  Note that this requires advanced planning and reservations late May – October.

Sunset on top of Cadillac Mountain.

Day 5: Explore Acadia National Park

Today’s THE day – Acadia National Park! Known as the “Crown Jewel” of New England, the park spans over 70 acres on Mount Desert Island, and offers some of the most iconic and famous scenery in the region.

Best Things To Do In One Day In Acadia :

→  Start with sunrise at the top of Cadillac Mountain . You can also save this for the following morning.Depending on the time of year, you may have to wake up very early for this, so it’s definitely not for everyone. But if it works with your schedule, I do think it’s worth it. It’s one of the most popular activities in the park for a reason!

Note :  Reservations are required late May – October to drive the auto road to the Cadillac Mountain summit . They release 30% of the available reservations 90 days in advance, and 70% of them two days in advance. I recommend setting yourself a reminder to check the weather two days in advance, and if it’s forecasted to be a clear day, making the reservation if this interests you. That way, it’s worth it! If it’s forecasted to be cloudy and foggy, the views won’t be a great.  Click here for reservation info .

→  Drive Park Loop Road , which is one of the most scenic roads in the park that offers so much for little effort. Along this road, you can make stops at Sand Beach, walk the Ocean Path, visit Thunder Hole, and see the Otter Cliffs. Of all these, I recommend parking at Sand Beach and walking Ocean Path to Otter Cliffs and back. It’s flat and easy, and passes by the best views in the park!

→  Lunch at Jordan Pond House . Famous for their popovers and incredible views overlooking Jordan Pond, this is such a fun thing to do in the park. If the weather is forecasted to be nice, I recommend making reservations for outside if you can. They also have a take out café if you want a quicker experience.

This overlook of Monument Beach is along the Ocean Path trail in Acadia.

→  Take a hike, of course!  Some easier to moderate hikes in the park that I love are Great Head, Bubble Rock, and Gorham. If you’re looking for an adventurous hike that’s more challenging, Beehive is the most popular in the park. Great Head is especially nice because you start the trail at Sand Beach, and it offers spectacular views of the coastline. And then you can just leave you car in the parking lot and walk Ocean Path.

→  Head to Bass Harbor Lighthouse for sunset . It’s about 30 minutes from Bar Harbor, but on a nice night, sunset here is really beautiful. You’ll need to climb out onto the coastal rocks to see the lighthouse, and parking fills up fast. But if you come prepared with sturdy footwear and arrive early enough, it’s wonderful!

→ If you don’t feel like driving to Bass Harbor Light, I would head back to Bar Harbor to  relax and enjoy your last night in town  with a dinner out.

→ You can also try to make a reservation for  sunset on top of Cadillac Mountain  in the park if you weren’t able to go for sunrise!

The views at the top of Cadillac Mountain.

Psst!  Do you have longer to explore the park? Want more information on everything mentioned above? You may want to check out my  Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary .

Day 6: Drive To Boothbay Harbor

You have the option to start your day with a sunrise on Cadillac Mountain if you weren’t able to plan it the day prior! If you do, I suggest having breakfast at  Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast  in Bar Harbor afterward before heading out. They usually open early in-season for everyone getting up to see the sunrise ☀️

The drive to Boothbay Harbor is about 2 hours and 45 minutes without stops, and you also have the option to take the more scenic route and visit some of the suggested stops I detailed in the Day 3 portion of this itinerary. I would go back and reference those if you want to break up the drive.

Why do I recommend the night in Boothbay Harbor?  Well, I just love this little coastal town because of its charm, beautiful scenery, slower pace, and all the amazing boat tour options. From Boothbay Harbor, you can take a boat tour out to a puffin colony, head out on a Schooner, or take a lobster trap haul and lighthouse scenic tour. After exploring Acadia the day prior, it’s nice to stop in a town that forces you to slow down a bit, too.

Boothbay Harbor.

Best Things To Do In Boothbay Harbor:

→  Take a boat tour!  In addition to Camden, this is another one of the best places in Maine for some kind of tour out on the water just because of how many different kinds are offered. Plus, the scenery around this area is absolutely beautiful.

The Lobster Haul, Lighthouses & Seals tour in Boothbay Harbor.

These are the top tours I recommend in Boothbay Harbor:

✓  Schooner Day Sail

✓  Schooner Sunset Sail

✓  Lobster Haul, Lighthouses & Seals Tour

→  Cabbage Island Clambakes!  This is SUCH a cool, unique, and authentic Maine experience for dinner. You’ll take a boat from downtown, and be brought to the family’s private island for a traditional New England style clam bake dinner, which includes their famous blueberry cake and gorgeous waterfront scenery.  Advanced reservations required.

→  Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens . Located just outside of the downtown area, this is such a beautiful place to explore. Don’t forget to snap your photo with the giant wood troll sculptures!

→  Explore the cute and colorful downtown area .

→  Walk the footbridge , which connects both sides of the harbor.

→  Grab ice cream from Downeast Ice Cream , which is one of my favorites in New England.

Downtown Boothbay Harbor.

Where To Eat In Boothbay Harbor :

• Boathouse Bistro
• Boothbay Lobster Wharf
• Shannon’s Unshelled
• Robinson’s Wharf in the neighboring town of Southport is also worth it!

Psst!  I have a post all about  things to do in Boothbay Harbor , if you want some more ideas 😉

Day 7: Drive To Portsmouth & The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Making your way back to Boston, there are so many wonderful places you can stop on the way! In fact, it’ll be hard to choose because there’s a lot you can pack in on this portion of the drive, especially along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway in Massachusetts.

Customize this day how you’d like, but if you’re feeling ambitious and you have enough daylight hours in your day, you can see Portsmouth,  and  all the best towns in the along the Scenic Byway.

Things To Do In Portsmouth In A Few Hours :

Portsmouth is very walkable and compact, so you can see the highlights, even with just an hour or two!

→  Market Square , which is the main shopping area downtown. You’ll find lots of great boutiques and eateries in this section of town.

→  Walk down a cute alleyway to Elephantine Bakery  for a coffee and a sweet treat.

→  Walk over to Prescott Park  for lovely waterfront views and a garden.

→  Visit the   Strawbery Banke Museum  to see history come to life (open seasonally). If you don’t go to the museum, definitely walk around this area because you’ll see lots of historic houses nearby.

Once you’re done in Portsmouth, take a 30 minute drive to Newburyport  and explore there for a bit. This is where I recommend starting the Coastal Byway drive. Follow the Byway through Ipswich, Rockport, Glouster, Manchester By The Sea, and Salem (which is just outside of Boston).

These are the best stops to make along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway:

→  Newburyport : One of my favorite places to visit in New England, it’s home to amazing shops and such a charming downtown area that sits on the waterfront. Allow about an hour to walk around, grab lattes and whoopie pies from Chococoa Café, and explore the shops.

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Newburyport, MA & Plum Island  if you need more info!

Newburyport, Massachusetts.

→  Crane Estate & Crane Beach in Ipswich . This historic estate is so stunningly beautiful, and the beach nearby is the best on the North Shore. Each requires separate admission fees, and you’ll want to budget your time wisely.

Crane Beach in Ipswich.

→  Rockport : One of my all-time favorite coastal towns in New England, Rockport is probably the one place I recommend you don’t miss on the drive. It’s very small, but offers an authentic New England fishing village atmosphere with colorful storefronts, lovely art galleries, great dining, and the most painted building in the country – Motif 1 (which was also featured in the movie  The Proposal ).

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Rockport, MA  if you need more ideas!

Rockport, MA.

→  Gloucester is the best place to stop if you have your heart set on a whale watch tour  (but you can also take one that departs from Newburyport if that’s more convenient). Whale watch tours in this region are world-class, and head out to the famous Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is known for its active marine wildlife.

🐋  Click here to check rates & availability for a whale watch tour from Gloucester

Note : While I do love to visit Gloucester, I think with this amount of time, it’s best to focus your itinerary on the other towns along the drive that I’ve recommended, as I think their scenery is more idyllic than Gloucester. Gloucester is also a city, and is bigger and more spread out, so harder to see on limited time. I do recommend it for a whale watch tour, though! If you take the whale watch tour, just know that it will take at least 3 hours, and likely a bit longer.

→  Manchester-By-The-Sea  is a beautiful coastal town that can easily be seen in about an hour or so. very picturesque scenery, and it’s home to a lovely beach called Singing Sands.

→  Salem . I’m sure you know it as a top Halloween destination, but it’s honestly great year-round. Filled with historic New England charm, waterfront areas, and some fun places to eat, it’s also very walkable!

Psst!  I have an entire guide on taking a  Salem, MA day trip  if you want more information for your visit!

Marblehead, Massachusetts.

→  Marblehead  is such a beautiful town along the North Shore just south of Salem that often gets overlooked, but I absolutely love it here. Also filled with historic charm and lovely waterfront scenery, it’s got a quaint Main Street with some cute shops, a beautiful waterfront park, and some nice places to eat.

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Marblehead, MA  if you’re looking for more ideas 😉

More Optional Stops : If you’re looking to explore more of Maine’s coast, there are a few more stops you can make on your way from Boothbay Harbor to Boston. I know, I know – I’m probably tempting you to expand your trip even further, but I’m okay with that 😂

→  Georgetown Island to visit Five Island Lobster Company , which is one of the best lobster rolls in Maine you can get. They’re only open seasonally, and the scenery around there it is very quintessential Maine.

Doubling Point Lighthouse.

Squirrel Point Lighthouse.

→  The Arrowsic Lighthouses . There are two in this area that I really love: Doubling Point and Squirrel Point. Doubling Point requires a drive down a very bumpy dirt road, and Squirrel Point requires about a 3/4 mile hike through the woods, but they’re both beautiful, small lighthouses on the Kennebec River.

Note :  Doubling Point is closed until further notice for repairs. I’m monitoring this and will update once renovations are complete!

→  Bailey Island , which is a very small little island that’s accessible by car, and about a 20-minute detour each way. The best thing to see here is the Giant’s Stairs Trail, which offers beautiful coastal views, and giant rocks you can climb around (just practice caution, of course!). There’s also a cute little place to eat right by the bridge called Sundrenched, which is waterfront and has outdoor seating. This is a nice place to get off-the-beaten-path.

Giant’s Stairs on Bailey Island.

Day 8: Head Back To Boston

It’s the end of your trip! Depending on when you need to make your way back home, or to the airport, you may have some time in the morning to explore a few of the places I mentioned above, but I left this day open in case you have to catch an early flight, or start your drive back home early.

If you do happen to have some time on this day to explore, I would suggest you end the previous day in Rockport, and then explore Salem and Marblehead on this day before heading back to the airport.

Optional Itinerary Adjustments

→ If you have more time and are a city person, I would recommend adding a night to Portland and Boston.

→ If you have extra time and don’t want to add a night to a city, I have two suggestions.  First option : add a night to Camden to spend a day exploring the nearby attractions (lighthouses, Rockland, etc.) to make the drive from Portland to Camden easier.  Second option : add a night to Bar Harbor to see more of the park, and enjoy more hiking.

→ If you have even longer, you could make this a 2-week adventure by driving up the coast of Maine to Lubec, and then crossing the Canada border to the charming town of St. Andrews by the Sea, and Campobello Island. You could also take the CAT ferry from Bar Harbor to Nova Scotia.

I have a detailed guide on  visiting Lubec, Maine , if you wanted to explore places further north!

Best Towns To Stay In On The Drive

For an overnight stay, these are my suggestions on the best places to stay based on experience when it comes to options for dining and accommodations (plus, lovely scenery, of course!). You’ll just want to pick where you stay based on how far you want to drive each day.

As you saw in my itinerary, I included some suggestions for overnight stops, but you may want to customize this trip to your liking (which I encourage!), so I wanted to provide you with more options. It’s also good to know that you won’t have time to stay overnight in all these places unless you extend your trip, but you  will  be able to, at the very least, drive through them all.

→  Rockport, MA : Not far from Boston, and if you’re looking get a leisurely start or slow-burn end to your trip, I really love to recommend a stay in Rockport. Most everything is pretty walkable, with cool shopping, nice hotel options, and idyllic scenery.

Where To Stay In Rockport :

✓  The Cove at Rockport

✓  Addison Choate Boutique Hotel

→  Portsmouth, NH : As mentioned, fantastic dining and shopping, with lots to keep you busy in the evening after you arrive! Plus, the historic charm is really quite lovely.

Where To Stay In Portsmouth :

✓  The Hotel Portsmouth

✓  Hotel Thaxter

→  Kennebunkport OR Ogunquit : Both of these charming coastal towns that are very close to on another, and both make for a great overnight stay. Kennebunkport has more options for nicer accommodations, but Ogunquit has a gorgeous beach. Both have very charming downtowns that are easily walkable with lots of places to eat and shop! Just pick based on what vibe you’re going for: beachy or just traditional coastal.

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport :

✓  Captains Collection Historic Inns

✓  The Boathouse

Where To Stay In Ogunquit :

✓  Anchorage By The Sea

✓  Cliff House : Technically in York, but a short 10-minute drive to Ogunquit. I like to suggest it because it’s a fantastic resort with amazing coastal views, and worth the splurge! It also makes my list of the top  New England resorts and spas  😉

→  Boothbay Harbor : I love stopping here for a night or two every time I make this drive. It’s very small and easily seen in a few hours, and I like to stay the night so I have the option to take a boat tour. I also find the shops and restaurants really great.

Where To Stay In Boothbay Harbor :

✓  Harborage Inn On The Waterfront

✓  Spruce Point Inn

→  Camden : Lastly, I think Camden is the best place to stay before reaching Bar Harbor. Built around a gorgeous harbor, the coastal scenery here is beautiful, and it’s a known sailing destination. There’s also a great Main Street for shopping and dining.

Where To Stay In Camden :

✓  Camden Harbour Inn

✓  Lord Camden Inn

Where To See Fall Foliage Between Boston & Bar Harbor

Manchester By The Sea in the fall season.

If you happen to be planning your trip to coincide with fall foliage, then I would love for you to consider adjusting the itinerary slightly (but don’t worry, it’s not too different!). Most places already on the itinerary offer amazing foliage color. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

→  The Essex Coastal Byway in Massachusetts is GORGEOUS in the fall  with lots of foliage color. I’ve done this drive during peak foliage, and I was shocked at how beautiful it was. Manchester-By-The-Sea, Essex, Salem, and Newburyport are especially beautiful in the fall. And, of course, Salem is  famous  for its October festivities!

→  Portsmouth offers some really lovely fall foliage  during this time of the year. It’s also an especially cozy place to visit because of all the historic New England architecture.

→  Boothbay Harbor  is also amazing in the fall, and the entire harbor is surrounded in fall color. Head out on a boat tour to see even more beautiful fall foliage! Tours usually end around mid-October, so there are typically opportunities that coincide with peak foliage.

→  Camden is also spectacular in the fall . I definitely recommend hiking or driving up the Mt. Battie Auto Road to take in the views of the harbor from above. It’s the best during foliage season!

→  Kennebunkport  also offers some beautiful fall foliage. Having been in October a few times, the fall season always impresses me in this coastal town.

Kennebunkport, Maine in October.

→ Of course,  the starting and end points on this road trip are stand-outs in the fall, too.   Acadia National Park  is stunning in the fall season with foliage color, and  Boston  is also amazing this time of the year. Although, it’s good to know that Boston tends to peak later in October, so in the fall, you may want to plan to spend more time in Boston at the end of your trip to get a glimpse of some foliage color.

What To Pack For This Road Trip

This will depend entirely on what time of year you visit, so plan accordingly based on the season when it comes to clothing and footwear. Beyond that, here are some things I recommend you bring regardless of what time of year you visit.

→  Light sweater or jacket  – even in the summer! If you plan to take any boat tours or get up for sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, you’ll want this to stay warm.

→  Reusable water bottle  to stay hydrated.

→  Dramamine  if you plan to hop on a boat tour and tend to get seasick.

→  Comfortable shoes  – I know this seems obvious, but you can leave your fancy shoes at home. I usually wear a really comfortable pair of sandals in the summer, or sneakers in the spring/fall. If you take a boat tour, they may have some requirements on the type of footwear you wear, so double check that, too.

→  Hiking boots  if you plan to tackle any trails in Acadia. You’ll be happy to have the ankle support.

→  Camera, of course!  You’re going to see so much incredible scenery on this trip, you’ll want to capture the best memories along the way. This is a good trip to get a tripod if you don’t have one – they even make inexpensive ones for iPhones that are perfect for just about anyone.

Tips For This Road Trip

→  Offline maps  on your GPS! You’ll have cell phone service in most places, but when you’re near a beach or inside Acadia National Park, you may lose service.

→  Be ready to pay tolls on the roads . If you’re renting a car for the trip, I suggest making sure your rental comes with an EZ Pass for the toll roads to make things easier. Most of them in this area are now cashless and don’t require you to stop – you just get a bill for the tolls instead, which you can work out with your rental company.

→  Bring Some Cash  – I know this seems obvious, but as someone who  never  carries around cash, I’m always reminded when I make this road trip that some places still don’t take credit cards! Usually places like ice cream stands and seafood shacks are the ones that may be cash only, so it’s good to have a small amount on you at all times. Better yet, get a debit card that reimburses you for ATM fees, like the Charles Schwab checking card. Most places will take cards, though.

→  Prepare for crowds at popular places . Depending on the time of year you take this trip, most places will bring in some level of crowds. The most popular destination is Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, and this is where you can expect the biggest crowds. If you travel in spring or fall, you’ll see fewer people, but places will still be lively.

→  Prepare for the cost . New England in general is just an expensive region to visit, unfortunately, and prices tend to be higher than other parts of the country.

More posts you may enjoy:

• The BEST 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary
• The PERFECT Fall Foliage New England Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Time To Visit New England
• Incredible Lighthouses In New England To See
• Maine Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary
• Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting

That’s A Wrap On The Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip!

And there you have it! After years of perfecting it, I’m thrilled to finally share my unforgettable Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine road trip itinerary with you. I truly believe that the New England coast is such a special and memorable region to experience for yourself, and with this guide, you’ll see the very best it has to offer. Happy planning!