Maine is a state with a long seafaring history, craggy coastlines, bays, inlets, rolling mountains, inland lakes, bogs, and forests. The “Pine Tree State” is paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors and wildlife. Here’s your chance to see moose, puffins, and whales while chowing down on a lobster roll or two. Let’s get started with the top 5 activities in Maine!
The Great Outdoors
The best way to enjoy Maine’s scenic outdoors is to get out there! One of the best spots to start is Acadia National Park, where you can see a little bit of everything: craggy coastlines, forests, and even a beach or two. Hike, bike, kayak, swim, and watch for wildlife, birds, and whales while you’re here. Another favorite spot is Baxter State Park, home to Mount Kalahdin (the state’s tallest mountain), hiking trails, and majestic moose.
Sailing and More
If you’re a fan of the iconic windjammer, head to Rockland and the largest fleet of windjammers in the country. Sail your own boat along the coast or rent or charter a classic sailboat, sloop, schooner, windjammer, or power boat. Sailing along the coast is a great way to watch for whales, view lighthouses and see the craggy coastline at its best. You can also head inland for kayaking and whitewater rafting.
Wildlife Viewing
For the best chance of seeing whales, puffins, moose, and other Maine wildlife, book a guided tour. Head to Baxter State Park and Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge if you’re on the lookout for moose. For the best chance to see one of these majestic creatures, head out at dusk or dawn to the nearest lake, marsh, or bog. Maine’s coastal islands are the only places in the country where Atlantic puffins nest, and you should start your puffin journey at the Project Puffin Visitor Center in Rockland, then grab a boat tour. Watch humpbacks, minke, pilot, and finback whales in coastal waters from mid-April to October. Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport and Boothbay are all good spots to grab a boat or a kayak tour for the best chance of seeing these large mammals up close.
Lighthouse Tours
While you’re out whale watching or sailing, you’ll see many of the iconic lighthouses that adorn the coastline. To get the best perspective on lighthouses, take a boat tour. Boothbay Harbor, Portland, Camden, Bar Harbor, Rockland and Bath are a few of our favorite spots for lighthouses and more activities in Maine.
Food Festivals & Foodie Fun
Maine is a foodie lover’s paradise. From Portland’s busy farm-to-table and sea-to-table restaurants to clam and lobster shacks lining the coast, there’s something for everyone here. There are food festivals galore, including Maine Maple Sunday, Maine Potato Blossom Festival, Machias Wild Blueberry Festival, Pemaquid Oyster Festival, Maine Whoopie Pie Festival, and the big daddy of them all, the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland.