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The 17 BEST Coastal Towns in Maine to Visit in 2025: Hidden Gems & Must-See Seaside Escapes

  • Writer: Gerry Caron
    Gerry Caron
  • Jun 16
  • 5 min read

17 BEST Coastal Towns in Maine to Visit: Hidden Gems & Must-See Seaside Escapes



The 17 BEST Coastal Towns in Maine to Visit in 2025: Hidden Gems & Must-See Seaside Escapes

Maine’s spectacular 3,500-mile-long coast is dotted with picturesque harbor towns, historic villages, and beachside escapes just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re searching for lobster rolls, hiking trails, sandy beaches, or classic New England charm, these 17 coastal towns deliver an unforgettable Maine getaway experience.





Hidden Gems & Must-See Seaside Escapes


1. Lubec – The Easternmost Escape

Visit Lubec for its untouched beauty, peaceful seascapes, and rich maritime heritage. It’s the easternmost town in the continental U.S., offering sweeping views across the water to Campobello Island in Canada. Great for lighthouse lovers and nature photographers, Lubec’s serene setting is ideal for anyone wanting to truly unplug.


2. Cutler – Cliffside Calm

With nearly 5 miles of dramatic coastal cliffs, Cutler offers hiking trails, blueberry barrens, and unforgettable ocean views. The Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land is a favorite for outdoor adventurers. Ideal for hikers, bird watchers, and peace-seekers alike.


3. Machiasport – History & Natural Wonder

Machiasport combines scenic beauty with rich history. Visit Fort O’Brien, the Machiasport Historical Society, and Jasper Beach — famous for its smooth, musical stones. Ideal for history buffs and geology lovers.


4. Jonesport – Authentic Working Waterfront

This true working fishing village gives you a real taste of coastal Maine. Enjoy peaceful harbor views, small-town hospitality, and some of the freshest seafood in the state. A hidden gem for those seeking authenticity and relaxation.


5. Winter Harbor – Gateway to Schoodic Peninsula

Adjacent to the Schoodic portion of Acadia National Park, Winter Harbor offers kayaking, hiking, and a thriving arts scene. Don’t miss the Schoodic Arts Festival or local lobster bakes. A quieter but equally beautiful alternative to Bar Harbor.


6. Sorrento – Small Town, Big Views

With less than 300 residents, Sorrento is perfect for travelers craving a peaceful coastal retreat. Go boating, golfing, hiking, or just soak in the views of Frenchman Bay. Ideal for couples and nature lovers.


7. Bar Harbor – Buzzing Acadia Hub

As the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers something for everyone. It’s a bustling hub filled with restaurants, art galleries, B&Bs, and plenty of activities like whale watching, hiking, and sailing.


8. Tremont – Tranquil Mount Desert Island Corner

Escape the Bar Harbor crowds in Tremont, where you’ll find working harbors, quiet galleries, hiking trails, and sea kayaking opportunities. The slower pace makes it a wonderful base for exploring Mount Desert Island.


9. Trenton – Rustic Gateway to Acadia

Stay in Trenton for easy access to Mount Desert Island without the hustle. Campgrounds, ocean views, and quiet roads make this town ideal for families and RV travelers heading into Acadia.


10. Castine – Living History on the Coast

Steeped in early American history, Castine is one of New England’s oldest towns. Discover preserved architecture, forts, maritime museums, and scenic views of Penobscot Bay. A cultural gem for history fans.


11. Belfast – Charming Midcoast Village

Explore preserved historic buildings, antique shops, and a scenic harbor trail. Belfast’s artsy vibe, vintage theater, and lively farmers’ market make it a well-rounded destination for art and culture seekers.


12. Freeport – Shopping Meets Shoreline

Home to the famous L.L. Bean flagship store, Freeport offers the best of both retail therapy and natural escapes. After a shopping spree, explore Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park or paddle along the Harraseeket River.


13. Old Orchard Beach – Classic Maine Beach Fun

For family-friendly fun, head to Old Orchard Beach. With its historic pier, amusement park, arcade games, and miles of soft sandy beach, it’s a nostalgic summer vacation spot perfect for kids and adults alike.


14. Kennebunkport – Presidential Seaside Retreat

Kennebunkport combines luxury and charm. Visit Dock Square for upscale shopping and dining, explore the Seashore Trolley Museum, or tour former President Bush’s summer estate. A favorite among celebrities and seasoned travelers.


15. Wells – Antiques, Beaches & Wildlife

Known as “The Friendliest Town in Maine,” Wells offers wide beaches, antique shops, mini golf, and access to the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. Ideal for families, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.


16. Ogunquit – Top-Rated Beaches & Art

Ogunquit Beach is one of the best in the U.S. according to TripAdvisor. Walk the scenic Marginal Way, explore Perkins Cove, and enjoy art galleries, theater shows, and coastal cuisine. Ogunquit blends beach fun with cultural flair.


17. York – Iconic Lighthouse & Seaside Vibe

York is known for Nubble Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S. It’s also home to a zoo, fun boardwalk, arcades, and a variety of beaches — making it the perfect summer vacation town for families and sightseers.


🌊 Plan Your Perfect Coastal Maine Getaway

Whether you're exploring rugged cliffs in Cutler, relaxing on the beach in Ogunquit, or enjoying fresh seafood in Jonesport, there's a coastal Maine town that fits your vacation vibe. Use this guide to start planning your Maine coastal road trip today.


For more travel tips, guides, and seasonal updates, visit VisitMaine.net — your ultimate resource for discovering the best of Maine.


What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions

Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.

Want more insider tips?


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure

Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:

  • Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake

  • 3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7

  • Free WiFi & TV

  • Backup Generator

  • Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs

  • Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails

  • Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports

Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!


Looking at a moose at the top of Mt Kineo from Moose River










These 17 coastal towns deliver an unforgettable Maine getaway experience!!

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