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Maine-squeeze: The Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Midcoast, Maine

The scale of this coast is the thing that stays with you afterwards. Baxter State Park runs over 200,000 acres of wilderness with Mount Katahdin sitting in it. Acadia National Park holds over 120 miles of trail and Cadillac Mountain as well. Camden Hills State Park adds another 30 miles and Mount Battie above the bay. And the whale boats go out after humpback, finback and minke whales.

Are you planning a trip to Midcoast, Maine? If so, get ready for a full run of scenic views, strong seafood, and plenty to do. Midcoast, Maine is known for its rugged coastline, its small towns, and its historic lighthouses. A slow beach vacation or a hard hiking day, Midcoast, Maine has a version of each.

One of the stronger things to do in Midcoast, Maine is work through its beaches. With miles of coastline, there are plenty of spots to take the sun and the ocean breeze. For a family-friendly beach, head to Popham Beach State Park, where you can swim, picnic, and work through the tide pools. For something more secluded, visit Reid State Park, which runs rock formations and quiet coves.

Another activity to take in Midcoast, Maine is a lighthouse tour. With over a dozen lighthouses in the region, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can climb to the top of the historic Portland Head Light, visit the picturesque Owl’s Head Light, or take a boat tour to see several lighthouses at once. Whatever you choose, the scale and history of these landmarks will hold you.

Key Takeaways

• Midcoast, Maine offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers, from beachgoers to hikers.
• The region is known for its beautiful beaches, historic lighthouses, and delicious seafood.
• Whether you’re exploring small towns or attending festivals, there’s always something new to discover in Midcoast, Maine.

The Beauty of Midcoast, Maine

Ah, Midcoast, Maine, where the sea meets the land and the lobsters are always fresh. This coastal find is one to see for anyone after the character of New England.

From the rocky coastline to the quiet seaside towns, Midcoast Maine is a place like no other. You will be held by the views over the Atlantic Ocean, the smell of saltwater in the air, and the sound of seagulls overhead. It is no wonder this area is a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

One of the stronger ways to take Midcoast Maine is a scenic drive along the coast. You pass small fishing villages, historic lighthouses, and miles of rugged coastline. And stop along the way to take the views, because you never know what you will turn up.

For a more active way to work through the area, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from. Hiking, biking, kayaking, and sailing are all busy options. You can even take a whale watching tour and catch sight of these creatures in their natural habitat.

And no visit to Midcoast Maine is complete without sitting down to some of the local cooking. From lobster rolls to clam chowder, the seafood in this area is hard to beat. Visit one of the many seafood shacks along the coast and take the taste of fresh, local seafood.

In short, Midcoast Maine is a place of natural country, small towns, and seafood that holds up. A quiet getaway or a full run at the coast, this place covers a lot of ground.

Top Beaches to Visit

In Midcoast Maine, you are never far from the ocean. And what better way to take the scenic views than by visiting some of the stronger beaches in the state? Here are three beaches to see in Midcoast Maine:

Popham Beach

Popham Beach is one of the busier beaches in Maine, and the reason is clear. With its long stretch of sandy beach, crashing waves, and wide views of the nearby islands, Popham Beach suits swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. And if the day goes your way, you might even spot a seal or two.

Reid State Park

For a more secluded beach, head to Reid State Park. This quieter find runs a long stretch of sandy beach, alongside rocky tide pools and hiking trails. A swim, a hunt for sea glass, or just sitting in the sun, Reid State Park covers a lot of ground.

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a classic Maine beach town, complete with a boardwalk, amusement park, and plenty of souvenir shops. But do not let the touristy feel fool you, because Old Orchard Beach also runs a long stretch of sandy beach, which makes it strong ground for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.

Whichever beach you choose in Midcoast Maine, the day will hold up. Just remember to bring sunscreen, a towel, and a sense of humor, because getting sand in your swimsuit is all part of it.

Lighthouse Tour

Looking for a picturesque way to work through Midcoast Maine? A lighthouse tour is the answer. History buff, fan of coastal views, or just after a good day trip, a lighthouse tour suits a day in Midcoast Maine.

Owls Head Lighthouse

One of the lighthouses to see in the area is the Owls Head Lighthouse. In Owls Head State Park, this lighthouse opens out over Penobscot Bay and the surrounding coastline. But do not let the scenery fool you, because this lighthouse carries a storied past.

Legend has it that the ghost of a former lighthouse keeper walks the tower, and visitors have reported hearing strange noises and feeling cold spots. But do not worry, because the ghost is said to be friendly.

If ghost stories are not your thing, the Owls Head Lighthouse also runs tours of the tower and keeper’s house. You can climb the stairs to the top of the tower for a wide view or work through the keeper’s house and pick up the history of the lighthouse.

So grab the camera and head to Owls Head Lighthouse for a spooky day out.

Hiking Adventures

If you want a good way to work through the outdoors in Midcoast Maine, hiking is the answer. With plenty of hiking trails to choose from, you will not run out of options. Here are the hiking destinations to work through:

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park is a strong place to start your hiking. With over 30 miles of hiking trails, you can work the rugged coastline of the park, climb to the top of Mount Battie, or take the views over Penobscot Bay. And do not forget the camera, because you will want the views from the top of the mountain.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one to see for any hiking enthusiast. With over 120 miles of hiking trails, you can work the rugged coastline of the park, climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain, or take the views over the Atlantic Ocean. And do not forget the binoculars, because you will want to keep an eye out for the varied wildlife of the park.

Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is strong ground for a harder hiking day. With over 200,000 acres of wilderness, you can work the rugged terrain of the park, climb to the top of Mount Katahdin, or take the views over the many lakes and ponds. And do not forget the hiking boots, because you will want to be ready for the terrain.

Seasoned hiker or beginner, there is a hiking trail in Midcoast Maine that suits you. So grab the hiking boots, pack a picnic lunch, and hit the trails for a full day in the outdoors.

Delicious Seafood Spots

In Midcoast Maine you cannot miss the seafood spots. From lobster to seafood chowder, the options run long. Here are two spots that you do not want to miss:

The Clam Shack

For the full lobster roll experience, The Clam Shack is the place to be. Their lobster rolls are good enough that they were featured on “Food Wars” on the Travel Channel. The Clam Shack sits in Kennebunkport, but it is worth the drive if you are in the area.

Their lobster rolls are made with fresh lobster meat, served on a toasted bun with a side of butter. They also run other seafood options like fried clams and battered fish. The Clam Shack is one to see for any seafood lover.

Jordan Pond House

For a more upscale meal, Jordan Pond House is the spot. In Acadia National Park, this restaurant opens out over Jordan Pond while you eat your seafood.

Their seafood chowder is the dish to order. It is made with fresh seafood and served with a side of warm popovers. Jordan Pond House also runs other seafood options like lobster stew and crab cakes.

And save room for dessert, because their popovers with strawberry jam hold up against anything. Jordan Pond House suits a quiet date or a special occasion.

So a casual lobster roll or an upscale seafood dinner, Midcoast Maine has you covered. Do not miss these two seafood spots, The Clam Shack and Jordan Pond House.

Almost everything worth eating around here comes off the same stretch of water. The lobster in the rolls is landed and served fresh right along this coast. The seafood chowder at Jordan Pond House is built in exactly the same way. Bath grew up on shipbuilding and the Maine Maritime Museum tells that story. And the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland runs across the better part of a week.

Art and Culture

In Midcoast Maine you are surrounded by art and culture. From local galleries to serious museums, this place covers a lot of ground. Here are our favorite places to work through:

Farnsworth Art Museum

The Farnsworth Art Museum is one to see for any art lover. With over 15,000 works in its collection, the museum holds a broad spread of American art, from the 18th century to the present day. You will find everything from paintings and sculptures to photographs and decorative arts. And take the Wyeth Center, which is given over to the work of three generations of the Wyeth family.

Center for Maine Contemporary Art

For something a little more modern, head to the Center for Maine Contemporary Art. This non-profit organization works to promote contemporary art in Maine and beyond. The museum runs rotating exhibitions of both local and national artists, alongside educational programs for all ages.

Portland Museum of Art

While not technically in Midcoast Maine, the Portland Museum of Art is worth the trip. In the largest city in Maine, the museum holds over 18,000 works of art, paintings, sculptures and photographs among them. You will find everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces, with a focus on American and European art.

Die-hard art fan or just after something to do, Midcoast Maine has plenty. So grab friends and family and start working through it.

Exploring Small Towns

In Midcoast Maine you will want to take some of the small towns that sit along the coastline. Here are a few of our favorites:

Bath

For a town with a deep shipbuilding history, Bath is the place for you. This small town is home to the Maine Maritime Museum, where you can pick up the seafaring past of the state. But that is not all Bath runs. You can also walk along the Kennebec River, work through the historic downtown district, and even take a dip in the natural hot springs of the town.

Camden

Camden is a town that will get you. With its picturesque harbor, small shops, and strong seafood restaurants, it is no wonder this town has been called the “Jewel of the Maine Coast.” You can take a scenic hike up Mount Battie for wide views over the harbor, or head out on a sailing excursion to see the coast from a different angle.

Rockland

Rockland suits art lovers. This small town is home to the Farnsworth Art Museum, which holds a serious collection of American art. But that is not all Rockland runs. You can also visit the Maine Lighthouse Museum, take a walk along the harbor, or sit down to some fresh lobster at one of the many seafood restaurants in town.

Freeport

If you want to do some shopping, Freeport is the town for you. This small town is home to the well-known L.L. Bean flagship store, alongside a spread of other outlet shops. But Freeport is not only about shopping. You can also take a hike in the nearby Bradbury Mountain State Park, or visit the Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park for some wide coastal views.

So history, art, nature, or shopping, the small towns of Midcoast Maine have a version of each. Do not miss the chance to work through these coastal communities.

Fun Activities

Looking for some strong things to do in Midcoast Maine? You are in the right place. Here are the activities you can take in this region.

Whale Watching

Are you ready to see some of the largest creatures on earth? Then hop on a boat and go whale watching. Midcoast Maine is home to a spread of whale species, humpback, finback, and minke whales among them. You may even spot some dolphins and porpoises along the way. And do not forget the camera, because you will want to catch these creatures in action.

Golfing

Looking to work on your swing? Midcoast Maine runs some of the stronger golf courses in the state. Beginner or pro, you will find a course that suits your skill level. Some of the top courses include Samoset Resort Golf Course, Boothbay Harbor Country Club, and Rockland Golf Club. So grab the clubs and hit the links.

Wine Tasting

Wine lovers will not want to miss the chance to visit some of the wineries in Midcoast Maine. You get to sample some of the finer wines in the region while taking the scenery. Some of the top wineries include Cellardoor Winery, Savage Oakes Vineyard and Winery, and Sweetgrass Farm Winery and Distillery. Cheers to a full day of wine tasting.

Festivals and Events

When it comes to festivals and events, Midcoast Maine has you covered. From food to music to art, there is always something on in this region. Here are the festivals and events to take during the visit:

Maine Lobster Festival

Seafood lovers should see the Maine Lobster Festival. This five-day festival in Rockland celebrates all things lobster, with plenty of chances to sit down to this crustacean. Work through lobster rolls, lobster bisque, lobster mac and cheese, and more. There is also a parade, live music, and a carnival with rides and games. Just be sure to bring your bib and a healthy appetite.

That is it for sub-sections. But there is more. Alongside the Maine Lobster Festival, there are plenty of other festivals and events to take in Midcoast Maine. Here are a few more:

• Camden Windjammer Festival: Celebrate the region’s nautical heritage with a weekend of tall ships, boat parades, and maritime demonstrations.
• Common Ground Country Fair: This annual fair in Unity showcases Maine’s agricultural traditions, with exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations on everything from beekeeping to cheese making.
• Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors Show: If you’re into boats and architecture, then this show in Rockland is for you. Check out the latest in boat design, tour beautiful homes, and enjoy live music and local food.

So lobster lover, boat enthusiast, or just after some good old-fashioned fun, Midcoast Maine has you covered. Get out there and take everything this region runs.

Where to Stay

Planning a trip to Midcoast, Maine? You are in luck. The area runs a broad spread of places to pitch your tent or pull up your RV. Here is a quick rundown of the top places to stay in the Midcoast area.

Sandy Pines Campground

Looking for a camping trip out of the ordinary? Sandy Pines Campground is the answer. This glamping destination runs a spread of accommodations, safari tents, Airstream trailers, and even an old-fashioned VW bus among them. You camp in style with amenities like electricity, heat, and even a private bathroom. And the on-site restaurant and bar means you do not have to cook over a campfire unless you want to.

For something a bit more traditional, Sandy Pines also runs tent and RV sites. The sites are spacious and well-maintained, with easy access to the beach and other amenities. And if you are traveling with your dog, you will be happy to know that Sandy Pines is pet-friendly.

Whichever type of accommodation you choose, the laid-back feel and the surroundings at Sandy Pines Campground will hold up. So pack the bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready for a full stay in Midcoast, Maine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most fun way to spend a weekend in Midcoast Maine?

Well, that depends on what you are into. Beach person, head to one of the many beaches in the area. Anyone who eats well, take some of the strong seafood restaurants and lobster shacks. And adventurers should take a hike in one of the many state parks or go kayaking along the coast. Whatever you choose, take the scenery while you are at it.

What are some hidden gems to visit on the coast of Maine?

We cannot spill all the secrets, but we will give you a few hints. Take the small town of Wiscasset, which is home to some strong antique shops and a historic fort. Or head to the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse for wide ocean views. And if you are feeling bold, take a ferry out to one of the many islands off the coast, because you never know what you will turn up.

What’s the best way to experience the charm of Midcoast Maine?

Get out and work through it. Take a scenic drive along the coast, stopping at small towns and fishing villages along the way. Visit a local farmers’ market and try some fresh, locally grown produce. And do not forget to talk with the friendly locals, because they will be happy to share their favorite spots and stories with you.

Where can you find the best lobster rolls in Midcoast Maine?

Ah, the age-old question. Everyone has their own favorite spot, but we will give you a few to try. Take Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, where the lobster meat is piled high on a buttery roll. Or head to McLoons Lobster Shack in South Thomaston, which runs some of the freshest lobster around. And for an unusual twist, try the lobster BLT at Morse’s Sauerkraut in Waldoboro.

What are some romantic things to do in Midcoast Maine for couples?

Take a sunset sail along the coast, settled in with your sweetheart and a glass of wine. Or head to one of the many warm bed and breakfasts in the area, where you can sit down to a quiet dinner and a soak in a whirlpool tub. And for something genuinely special, book a private lobster bake on the beach, because nothing says romance like fresh seafood and a wide ocean view.

What’s the craziest adventure you can have in Midcoast Maine?

If you are looking for a thrill, try sea kayaking along the coast or take a zipline tour through the trees. And for the properly daring, head to the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland, where you can join the lobster crate races or the Great International Lobster Crate Race. Just be prepared to get wet.

Frequently asked questions about Midcoast, Maine

Which Midcoast beach suits a full family day out?

Popham Beach, comfortably. It is a long stretch of sandy beach with crashing waves, wide views of the nearby islands, and tide pools the children can work through for an hour. Reid State Park is the quieter option a short way down the coast instead. That one runs sand plus rocky tide pools and hiking trails. Old Orchard Beach adds a boardwalk and an amusement park on top.

Which Midcoast park is worth pulling the boots on for?

Baxter State Park, if you want the hard version. It covers over 200,000 acres of wilderness with Mount Katahdin at the center of it, and the terrain will ask a great deal of you. Acadia National Park runs over 120 miles of trail instead of that. That one takes you up Cadillac Mountain and out over the Atlantic Ocean. Camden Hills keeps it down to 30 miles and Mount Battie.

Which Midcoast museum is worth a whole afternoon inside?

The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland. It holds over 15,000 works of American art running from the 18th century to the present day, and the Wyeth Center inside it covers three generations of one family. The Portland Museum of Art holds over 18,000 works instead of that. That one is worth the drive out of the Midcoast entirely. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art handles the modern side of it.

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