Mainers don’t have to travel far to enjoy beautiful sights and exciting attractions. From Eastport to Kennebunkport, there are wonderful things to do and see along the Maine Coast. Whether you want to explore the natural beauty of a national park or enjoy the charm of small towns, there are countless points of interest along these coastal roads. Mainers (New Hampshire and Vermonters too!) can easily explore all that the seacoast area has to offer with a Maine Coast road trip! Each coastal region, from Acadia National Park to Downeast and Mid-Coast to the wide sandy beaches of Southern Maine, has its own special allure and unique features. You’ll want to plan for at least a couple of overnight stays as you make your way down the coastline. Read on to learn more about five of our favorite stops along the route and where to rest when your journey is complete.
When you’re ready to start planning your road trip along the Maine coast, request our free Kennebunkport Vacation Guide. This helpful tool is filled with local insight into what to do, where to stay, and more in our coastal town!
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5 Stops Along Your Maine Coast Road Trip
Below are five of our favorite small towns to visit on a journey along the Maine Coast. Browse each description, then discover even more Maine Coast attractions to add to your road trip bucket list!
1. Eastport, Maine
Eastport Maine is the northernmost town along the coast. Naturally, we recommend starting your journey here. Eastport is home to Shackford Head State Park which is a great place for hiking. Along the miles of hiking trails here, you can discover hidden beaches, protected coves, native wildlife, and more!
2. Northeast Harbor, Maine
Make Northeast Harbor the next stop on your coastal road trip. This village on Mount Desert Island boasts several exciting attractions, like Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park. Cadillac Mountain is one of the most popular attractions at the park because it’s the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the United States. From this vantage point, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline. The viewing point is accessible by car or via a short trail loop through the park.
3. Boothbay Harbor, Maine
As you head into MidCoast Maine, be sure to stop in Boothbay Harbor. This quintessential seaside town is filled with activities to suit everyone’s interests. From strolls through a renowned botanical garden to waterfront shop–hopping to sailing excursions and historic tours, there are many options for getting acquainted with this area.
4. Portland, Maine
Just a quick half hour’s drive from Kennebunkport, Portland could be another stop along the way, or you may choose to continue straight to the Kennebunks and visit Portland and Cape Elizabeth as a day trip during your stay. Portland is booming with award-winning restaurants, historic sights, boutique shopping and more – even old cobblestone streets! Foodies should check out this culinary road trip guide from Portland to Kennebunkport. If you’re planning a summer road trip, we recommend picking up a lobster roll for the road from Portland Lobster Company, which is the town’s premier lobster shack.
Between Portland and Kennebunkport, a stop in Cape Elizabeth to visit historic Portland Head Light will offer stunning scenery of the lighthouse and Casco Bay as well as an opportunity to hike around Fort Williams Park.
5. Kennebunkport, Maine
Make Kennebunkport the final stop on your Maine Coast road trip. Our historic coastal town is filled with gorgeous beaches for sunning or surfing, ocean adventures, and fabulous food – whether you’re in the mood for white tablecloth fine dining or chillaxing at a lobster shack picnic table. From Kennebunk Lower Village to Dock Square to Cape Porpoise, you’ll find art galleries, quaint shops, cafes, kayak, bicycle and lobster boat tours, and more — sure to satisfy both the sight–seer and the thrill-seeker.
After a day of strolling along the beach or exploring the town, enjoy a tranquil stay at the Inn at English Meadows. Our Kennebunkport, Maine bed and breakfast boasts a dozen fabulous accommodations that create the perfect home away from home for travelers passing through. Overnight stays at the Inn at English Meadows include our luxurious amenities and wonderful full-service freshly prepared breakfast served daily. During your stay, you will experience the relaxed lifestyle and beauty of the Maine Coast – which will keep you coming back again and again.
Check our availability to start planning your trip! For more Maine coastal itineraries and recommendations for longer stays throughout this beautiful region, be sure to also visit www.innsalongthecoast.com.
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