Coastal Towns and Villages

Maine has many gorgeous seaside towns and villages along the East and Mid-Coasts as well as along the Kennebunk River.

Among the most famous are the Kennebunks, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport; this charming seaside town was first settled in the 1600s and was where rich sea captains built their mansions, some of which still exist today in the form of inns and museums. There are also many sandy beaches to choose from ;Colony, Parson’s and Mother’s to name but a few.

The town of Kittery is the oldest town in Maine, where English settlers came to stay in 1623 and home to the First Congregational Church, the oldest church building in continuous use in Maine, as well as two seaside forts. For many though the highlight is the Kittery Outlets, with over 120 outlet stores.

One of the world’s most photographed lighthouses is Portland Head Light, in the town of Cape Elizabeth. Dating back to 1791, it is just one of 65 working lighthouses in the state.

The sophisticated town of Ogunquit is home to the Museum of American Art with its small yet excellent collection as well as a terrific ocean view, while the town of Bath on the edge of the Kennebunk River reflects on the shipbuilding and seafaring history of Maine at the Maine Maritime Museum. As well as seeing historic craft, you can take a cruise on the Kennebec River or a trolley tour of the nearby US Navy shipyard

Camden, one of the prettiest seaside towns around, sits at the foot of Mount Battie and overlooks Penobscot Bay and many of the original old homes are now romantic B&Bs. There are also fun little boutiques and antique shops as well several windjammers (schooners) that call this home.

More windjammers are to be found along the coast in Rockland, where local art depicting Maine’s natural beauty can be found at the Farnsworth Art Museum. Rockland is probably most famous for the annual Maine Lobster Festival, held every August.