Maine is truly one of the most beautiful states in the country. Rich in history and featuring a great deal of different geographical features, there’s a lot more going on in Maine than most people give the state credit for. It’s a great place to live, but it’s also a fantastic vacation destination.
When planning a Maine vacation, most people are quick to make Portland their focal-point. Maine’s largest city certainly is a wonderful place to visit, but it’s far from being all that Maine has to offer. For a different take on leisure time when traveling to Maine, it’s worth considering some of the other, lesser-known gems the state has to offer.
Ogunquit
Tucked away against the shores of southern Maine, Ogunquit is one of the most beautiful towns in the state. Many people come for the sandy beaches and hospitable walking paths, while most stay for the phenomenal restaurants and world-class art & culture. For such a small town, Ogunquit has a great deal to offer to practically anyone who visits.
Ogunquit is also close to a variety of neighboring towns that offer excellent beaches and some of the best fried seafood in the world: York and Wells, for example. With so much to do in the area, it can’t hurt to plan your days ahead of time; visit Ogunquit.com for more information on the town.
Boothbay Harbor
If you’re looking for a quaint seaside village to spend a few days relaxing in the sun, you’ll have a hard time finding a better fit than Boothbay Harbor. Boothbay is somewhat off the beaten path, but still very accessible for those traveling coastal route 1 through Maine. The entire town sits on a rounded bay, making it a sight to be seen for those who are not from the area. It’s quintessential Maine at its best, and without a doubt one of the prettiest towns in New England.
One word of warning, however – Boothbay Harbor is very much a seasonal town, which means there’s little to do once the colder months of the year set in. Still, it’s the perfect getaway for those who would prefer an alternative to the city atmosphere found in Portland.
Eastport
Downeast Maine is certainly a bit of a hike from the bottom of the state, although there’s simply no other part of the country quite like it. This is the “Maine” that many people think of: lobster boats, early sunrises and lots of trees. As far as entertainment activities go, Eastport is not exactly loaded with thrills (although the town does feature a bustling arts community).
What Eastport does offer, however, is an extremely relaxing environment that boils down to the core of the state’s values. The drive or bus trip to Eastport can be an adventure in and of itself, as there are plenty of sights and sounds to enjoy while travelling to the town.
A trip to Maine can be extremely enjoyable, but just as if you were travelling somewhere else, you’ve got to put in the planning time in order to ensure that everything goes off without a hitch.
