19 Best Places to Go in Maine in the Summer for Every Vacation Type

Summer in Maine holds a unique charm. The days get longer, the oceans warmer, and a new life is brought to the largest New England state. From picturesque rocky coastlines and iconic lobster rolls to endless outdoor adventures and culturally rich history, this Pine Tree State serves as a perfect vacation destination, earning its moniker of Vacationland. Deciding where to visit can be overwhelming, so let’s break down the absolute best places to go in Maine in the summer.

After vacationing in Maine for over two decades with my family, I have experienced trips fit for all ages and interests. With the little ones, marine life is at the touch of their fingertips with the Maine State Aquarium and Divers Ed boat rides. The Southern Maine coastal towns of York, Wells, Ogunquit, and Old Orchard beach offer miles of sandy beaches.

Natural wonders like Acadia National Park and Rangeley Lake are perfect for those looking for some adventure. Portland has a vibrant food and brewery scene perfect for a weekend getaway.

Kennebunk port harbor at sunset
Sunset at Kennebunkport

Looking for a specific type of trip? Here are my top favorite places:

Best places to Go in Maine in the Summer

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Kittery, ME

Kittery Point ME - Best Places to go in Maine in the summer
View of rocky beach as the sun sets looking over a small lighthouse in the distance
Sunset at Fort Foster in Kittery Point

Being right off the border with New Hampshire, Kittery makes for a great day trip from Boston. This quaint town is known for its extensive outlet malls and historic sites. 

My family will make the day trip from Massachusetts just to go to When Pigs Fly, a delicious Brick oven Pizzeria. Make sure to check out When Pigs Fly Company Store for their sun-dried tomato bread and warm lemon blueberry cookies. Bob’s Clam Hut is another local favorite if you don’t mind waiting in the long lines for his crispy fried clams or fresh lobster rolls.

If you are looking to travel back in time, make your way to Fort Foster State Park on Gerrish Island to explore old military forts. This dog-friendly site offers large green areas to picnic, a calm rocky beach, and a walkable pier offering beautiful views of the mouth of the Piscataqua River. 

York, ME 

York Beach Maine

York is perfect for a weekend getaway with the whole family. This Southern Maine coastal beach town is a perfect place for young kids with York’s Wild Kingdom, both a zoo and an amusement park.

Offering family rides, bouncy houses, mini golf, and petting zoos, this one-stop destination is a full day event. Riding the kiddie dragon roller coaster and seeing the tigers up close, was peak excitement as a young kid.  

Long Sands Beach is more your typical sandy beach with decent waves for boogie boarding and surfing. Short Sands beach is downtown York with an old school arcade, and bowling alley. Stop by The Goldenrod where you can watch up close how salt water taffy is made, and then grab a bag yourself!

Where to Stay: Cliff House is in Cape Neddick and offers luxury accommodations with stunning views. York Harbor Inn is a luxury Inn located on the oceanfront on York Harbor. 

Ogunquit, ME

Boats in Perkins Cove Ogunquit Maine
Boats in Perkins Cove, Ogunquit

This quintessential beachtown will need a bit more than a weekend to explore. Located just north of York on the southern coast lies Ogunquit Beach, one of the top 25 beaches in the U.S. according to TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice. 

Hop on the Trolly and ride down to the Ogunquit Playhouse where you can enjoy theater performances. Then, head down to the ocean and visit the old fishing village of Perkins Cove. 

Explore famous restaurants like Barnacle Billy’s known for their luxury lobster and scenic views. For dessert, stroll over to grab sea salt caramels from Perkins Cove Candies and walk along the drawbridge. 

Some quick things to keep in mind about visiting Ogunquit: 

  • Many accommodations are waterfront on the Ogunquit tidal river instead of Ogunquit beach. At low tide it is possible to walk directly to the beach, but prepare to take the access point via beach street to find parking. 
  • Ogunquit is one of the more touristy locations therefore it is important to plan around big crowds and higher prices for food and parking. 

Where to stay: The Anchorage By the Sea is a nice oceanfront place for families. 

Wells, ME

Another stunning Southern Maine beach town, Wells is great for families. Wells consists of miles of sandy beaches where you can walk, surf, or search around tide pools. Some popular ones include Wells Beach, Moody Beach, and Drakes Island Beach. 

Are you a nature lover? The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge protects salt marshes and local habitats, while offering an immersive and relaxing experience through miles of walkable trails.

You can’t visit Wells without stopping by Congdon’s Doughnuts. These delicious doughnuts are one of the sole things we still remember today from our family vacations. According to recent reviews, the apple fritter is a must try. 

Belfast, ME 

Belfast Harbor Maine
several boats docked in a harbor in front of a rocky beach with buoy
Belfast Harbor lined with rocky beaches and sailboats

Belfast, Maine is my family’s all-time favorite summer vacation destination, staying here for almost a decade. This quaint, artsy, affordable, mid-coastal beach town is nestled into Penobscot bay. The coast here consists of rocky cliffs, and sea glass littered beaches. The water is calm, shallow, and slightly warmer due to the bay. 

Dogs are more than welcome with dog bowls appearing outside shops downtown. Public art structures follow themes downtown, changing annually. Rollie’s Bar and Grill, Young’s Lobster Pound, and Dockside Family Restaurant are top stops for fresh seafood. 

As someone with a strong sweet tooth, I must recommend Chocolate Drop Candy Shop which has a wall with every flavor of jelly bean. Ice cream is also served here in a 1950s dinner style. Perry’s Nut House has divine fudge, a must stop for a sweet treat. 

Take a sunset sailboat ride around Penobscot bay, visit the Blue Alpaca Ranch & Store, or just stroll along the footbridge enjoying the harbor views. Your heart will fall for Belfast’s unique charm. 

Where to stay: Wonderview Cottages is about a ten-minute drive to downtown Belfast and gives you access to a private beach right on Penobscot Bay. The atmosphere is tranquil, the beach is full of rocks and seaglass, and most cottages are dog friendly. 

Rangeley, ME 

view of a mountain range in the distance with pine trees and large rocks in the foreground
Mountain Views from the top of Quill Hill

More of a lake person? Head Northwest to the gorgeous clear water of Rangeley Lake. Nature lovers will love the more remote setting, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Downtown is small but hosts a couple of cute shops like Classic Provisions, where you can enjoy sandwiches, pastries, and smoothies right on the water.  

Quill Hill is a spectacular view point after a short drive up a unique landscape. The drive back into town is heavily populated with moose so drive very slow at dusk and keep your eyes peeled! 

Rangeley Lake State park is a perfect spot for picnics and hiking, and you can stay in the campsite where you have swimming access to Rangeley Lake. Camping here is much closer to nature, far from glamping.

If you are looking for a magical place to hike and swim, visit Cascade Gorge Stream Trail. Once you park, you hike for about 30 minutes until you come across a beautiful natural waterfall and crystal clear water perfect for swimming. 

Where to Stay: Modern Rangeley Cabin is a cozy and spacious cabin located not too far from downtown Rangeley.  

Bar Harbor, ME 

tall ship in bar harbor maine
Windjammer in Bar Harbor

Located on Mount Desert Island, the largest island in Maine, Bar Harbor is one of the most popular summer destinations. This coastal town is right next to Acadia National Park, also the homeland of the Wabanaki. With camping sites, views of Frenchman Bay, and over 150 miles of trails, there are plenty of things to do around Acadia National Park

Drive 3.5 miles up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain on the eastern seaboard of the U.S. (just be sure to make a vehicle reservation if you are visiting from late May through October). Thunder Hole is another great spot where waves crash into the cliffs creating water sprays that reach up to 40 feet! 

Explore the vibrant marine life of Frenchman Bay by booking a trip with Diver Ed’s Dive-In-theater. Diver’s explore wildlife and then bring animals onto the boat in touch tanks where you can experience lobsters, starfish and Sea Cucumbers up close! However a good thing to note, the boat has a Newfoundland dog on board so make sure everyone in your party is comfortable with big dogs. 

The Bar Harbor Whale Watch & Nature Cruise also gives you up close views of seals and bald eagles.

Some things to keep in mind:

  • Bar Harbor attracts large crowds so plan ahead to avoid midday traffic 
  • It is recommended to take the fare-free island explorer bus instead of driving around the island

Where to Stay: Central House has an historic charm and is rumored to be haunted if that is your style.  Smuggler’s Den Campground is a great spot for camping about 30 minutes outside of the Bar Harbor and Terramor is one of the best glamping resorts in New England.

BoothBay Harbor, ME

Boothbay harbor pedestrian bridge
Pedestrian bridge in Boothbay Harbor

Welcome to the midcoast gem of Boothbay Harbor, a quintessential summer destination. This town is full of life from Windjammer cruises, puffin and whale watching tours, and Railway Village rides, to botanical gardens and antique shops. If you are looking for a sweet treat, visit Downeast Ice Cream Factory or try some salt water taffy from Orne’s Candy Store. Both shops have a nice historic touch. 

The Maine State Aquarium is a great spot for young kids and animal lovers where you can touch sharks, hold molluscs, and picnic. The space is smaller so not too overwhelming, and there is a little gift shop to pick up some fun knick knacks. 

See more things to do in Boothbay Harbor.

Where to Stay: Harborage Inn on the Oceanfront is a cute bed and breakfast with water views that is a very short walk to all the downtown shops and restaurants.

Portland, ME 

Portland Head Light
Portlandhead Lighthouse

The largest city in Maine, Portland, offers fun for all ages. Old Port is the historic part of the city which has unmatched food options and boutiques for shopping. I usually visit Portland on day trips, but you can easily fill up a weekend of activities.  

Flatbread Pizza is a longtime favorite known for their brick oven pizza, my personal recommendation being the cheese and herb or the homemade sausage pizza. Luke’s Lobster and the Portland Lobster Co. are my go-to spots for lobster rolls and fresh seafood.

The brewery scene is vibrant with beer tasting at Allagash Brewing Company. Museums like the Portland Museum of Art are a great attraction as well.   

Day trips via ferry around Casco bay islands, like Peaks island or Diamond Cove, is a great way to explore. Lobster boat tours are also available. The Portland Head Light located on Cape Elizabeth, is a picturesque lighthouse and museum in Fort Williams Park that is a must for any visitor to Maine (and grab a delicious lobster roll from the Bite into Maine food truck that sets up in the park.) 

Where to Stay: Portland can be pricey in the summer, but luckily there are new hotels such as Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown and the Longfellow Hotel to help ease the accommodation shortage.

Rockland, ME 

Rockland Maine breakwater light
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse

Along the midcoast of Maine lies the artsy town of Rockland. You can find yourself lost in the street art and downtown shopping, or walk along the Rockland Breakwater to see the historic lighthouse overlooking the harbor. Another great lighthouse in the area is Owls Head Lighthouse which gives views of Penobscot Bay. 

The Farnsworth Art Museum focuses on American art, particularly those with ties to Maine, while modern art lovers should plan a visit to the Center for Maine Contemporary Art.

It’s good to keep in mind that Route 1 is the main way to get in and out of Rockland, and it can get quite congested during peak summer months. Also make sure to not miss the Maine Lobster Festival!

Where to Stay: 250 Maine Hotel has a modern touch and views of the water. 

Schoodic Peninsula/ Winter Harbor, ME

sunset in winter harbor maine
Sunset over Winter Harbor

Want to visit Acadia National Park but skip the crowds? Schoodic Peninsula is located across from Mount Desert Island, but still national park land.  

Winter Harbor is located on the northern end of the peninsula and is only about a 45 minute drive to Bar Harbor and has a handful of restaurants and shops and you can board a small boat tour to see puffins.

The nature here is breathtaking, with the quintessential picture of pine trees down to the water. Both of these destinations are much more secluded, a common theme the further you head downeast closer you get to the Canadian border. 

Where to Stay: Mainstay Cottages & RV Park consists of oceanfront cottages on Henry’s Cove. 

Old Orchard Beach, ME

Old Orchard Beach pier
Old Orchard Beach Pier

Seeking an exciting, bustling environment, with fun attractions around every corner? Walk the old school pier reaching out over the ocean where you can enjoy fresh seafood and live music at the Pier Patio Pub. 

New England’s only beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland, consists of thrill rides like the Sea viper roller coaster, but also has rides for the little ones like Convey where you ride a child-sized car. The old school atmosphere brings a nostalgic touch. 

The beach is vast with miles of flat sand fit for sunbathing, swimming, or beach sports, and has fireworks every Thursday starting around 9:45 p.m. during the summer season. It is one of the widest, most traditional sand beaches in the state.

Sebago Lake, ME

Sebago Lake beach front kids swimming in the water close to shore with distant mountains in the horizon
Swimming at Sebago Lake Family Campground

Sebago Lake is a great family friendly spot with a perfect amount of outdoor activities. Compared to lakes like Rangely, Sebago Lake is located in Southern Maine next to Long Lake, making it more accessible from the rest of New England and a fun day trip to Portland. 

When my family was younger, we camped in Sebago Lake Family CampGround which offered a cute community with nice amenities. Playing at the playground, biking around, roasting marshmallows at the campfire, and swimming at the beach were key memories. Sebago Lake water was clear, clean, and calm, and a bit warmer than Maine’s chillier oceans. 

In Naples Maine, we rented a pontoon boat which we took all around Sebago Lake and Long Lake. You can fish, jump off the boat, and swim around in the refreshing water. A perfect day on the lake. 

Where to Stay: Sebago Lake Family Campground

Fryeburg, ME

Heading west closer to the White Mountains is Oxford County’s oldest town, Fryeburg. This town is great for people who prefer lakes and mountains. Weston’s Beach is a highly recommended spot to relax on and swim in the calm Saco River. There are several water activities like tubing, kayaking, or paddle boarding in Saco River or Kezer Pond.

Bradley Memorial Park hosts concerts on Tuesdays, where you can also enjoy picnicking. If you are craving some delicious gourmet food, make a reservation at the Oxford House Inn restaurant, one of the top 100 restaurants in America according to Opentable! The cuisine is contemporary American styles with mixes of Asian, United States Southwestern, and French. 

Where to Stay: Oxford House Inn is higher end and centrally located. 

Camden, ME

Schooners in Camden Maine
Camden harbor

This midcoast beauty is upscale and a popular filming place for Hollywood movies. A cute harbor full of sailboats and a culturally rich downtown, makes for a perfect weekend getaway. 

Camden offers several festivals year-round, but in the summer you cannot miss Camden’s Jazz In June music festival. If you are looking to experience the nearby nature make sure to visit Camden Hills State Park. Hike Mt. Battie for beautiful views of Penobscot Bay. It is dog friendly and has a small tower at the summit where you can eat lunch. 

Where to Stay: Lord Camden Inn  

MooseHead Lake/ Maine Highlands, ME

Moose near Moosehead Lake in Maine

Escape the bustle of crowds and venture deep into Maine to Moosehead Lake. As the largest body of water in Maine, Moosehead Lake stands as an oasis for wildlife and outdoor adventures. 

Lily Bay State Park is a popular spot with a fine pebble beach for swimming, two campgrounds, a playground, and docks for boating. 

Within the Maine Highlands, Baxter State Park is a beautiful place to hike and enjoy nature. Keep in mind that if you want to climb Mt. Katahdin, this is no breezy climb. Round trips on Mt. Katahdin ranges from 8 to 12 hours, so make sure to research and prepare and book a parking permit in advance.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Moosehead Lake is a beautiful spot with fine dining and outdoor activities and Blair Hill Inn is another good choice. For more space, there are plenty of cabin rentals in this area as well.

Scarborough, ME

Located in between Old Orchard Beach and Portland, this cute Southern Maine town is a great family destination close to popular attractions. As a kid, my family vacationed at Bayley’s Camping Resort for three years. In true glamping fashion, the campsite had three pools, a movie theater, and a camp store where my siblings and I would practice our independence by using walkie talkies to get candy. Very safe, spacious, and private. Plus, adults get a hot tub!

Funtown Splashtown USA is only a ten minute drive away in Saco. Ride Maine’s only wooden roller coaster Excalibur, and then race down the water slide Amphitrite’s Challenge. Within Scarborough you can also enjoy Scarborough Beach State Park and Higgins Beach. 

Where to Stay: Bayley’s Camping Resort

Belgrade Lakes, ME

colorful sky reflected in water with trees on the horizon
Sunset views from cabin dock

If you are seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway, the Belgrade Lakes are for you. It is conveniently located about 10 miles from the capital, Augusta. Made up of a total of seven lakes, this area offers several water sports like boating, swimming, or fishing. 

When I visited, the dock outside our cabin was a perfect spot to fish as the sun set, located on a river that led into Messalonskee Lake. If you are a big golf fan you will love the nationally ranked Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, an immersive nature and golf experience. 

Where to Stay: Maine Cabin on the Water  is a cozy and spacious cabin with a dock for kayaking and fishing.  

Monhegan Island, ME 

Hop on a ferry from Boothbay Harbor or New Harbor and make your way to this square mile piece of magic. Monhegan Island is a charming small island full of rocky cliffs, and cozy cottages. Cathedral Woods consists of walking trails that attract artists to the island. Many visitors account for seeing fairy houses in the woods!

Visit the coffee shop The Mooring Chain for coffee, tea, bagels, and pastries. The local owners get fresh bagels from the Trailing Yew every morning.

Where to Stay: Monhegan House is a bed & breakfast which offers the sound of ocean waves, scenic coastal views, and the opportunity to see artists. 

Find the place that speaks to you and plan your dream Maine summer vacation!

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Dreaming of exploring Maine’s rocky coastlines, lighthouses, and fresh seafood on a Maine vacation? Make your Maine trip a reality, choose from one of these best places to go to in Maine in the summer. Whether you are looking for a New England family vacation or a weekend getaway, Maine has something for everyone from rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, gorgeous lakes, and climbable mountains.

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    Publish Date: January 23, 2024

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