Maine in August: Best Lobsters and Lighthouses

Why Visit Maine in August

In August, as in the rest of the tourist season, the coastal state of Maine comes alive with the sights and smells of fresh lobster and the stark beauty of its towering lighthouses. It may be crowded and difficult to get hotel rooms, but we can help. The summer, and August in particular, is a great time to visit. Furthermore, the first week of August is when the Maine Lobster Festival is held in Midcoast Maine in Rockland.

August in Maine is typically warm and pleasant, making it a good reason to visit. Here are some key points about the weather:

 

• • Average Temperatures: Temperature highs generally range from 70°F to 79°F (21°C to 26°C) along the coast and the evenings start to get a slight chill which is a great opportunity to wear your sweaters.

• • Average Rainfall: August is one of the driest months, with only a few rainy days.

• • Sunny Days: Expect around 8 hours of sunshine each day, with warm days and water temperatures at their best, particularly along low tide in coastal areas.

This makes August an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking, beach visits, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of Maine. In fact, if you visit Maine in late August you might find fewer crowds, as many children have already returned to school, thanks to a school year that starts in August.

However, if you wait to visit until after Labor Day in late September or early October you will run into the early Fall Foliage crowd. This is when Maine can become even more crowded and challenging to make reservations. Check out the likely Fall Foliage dates here.

Start Your Trip from Boston and Explore More of New England

So, join us on a journey through New England’s charming landscapes as we explore the fascinating relationship between Maine’s beloved crustaceans and its iconic lighthouses. From the bustling city of Boston to the rugged shores of Acadia National Park, get ready to experience the best things of Maine’s culture and scenery in the peak of summer. Therefore, get your lobster bibs ready and your cameras charged as we embark on a journey through the best lobsters and lighthouses that Maine has to offer.

Indeed, as you venture on your lobster and lighthouse expedition in Maine, consider starting your journey from the vibrant city of Boston. From here, you can drive along the stunning coastline of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, immersing yourself in the rich history and picturesque landscapes that define this region. However, don’t miss the opportunity to explore more of what New England has to offer as you make your way toward the lobster-filled shores of Maine. Please visit our New England Post to learn more.

Exploring Maine’s Coastal Ecosystem

While indulging in Maine’s world-renowned lobster and iconic lighthouses, take some time to explore the intricate coastal ecosystem that thrives along the shores. The rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and diverse marine life offer a glimpse into the natural beauty that Maine has to offer. Specifically, from tide pools teeming with colorful creatures to expansive salt marshes bustling with birdlife, the coastal ecosystem of Maine is a vibrant and dynamic environment worth experiencing. Furthermore, as you delve into the history of Maine’s famous lobsters and lighthouses, keep in mind the interconnectedness of these elements with the unique coastal landscape that shapes them.

The History of Maine Lobsters and Lighthouses

Specifically, Maine’s rich maritime history is intricately intertwined with the story of its iconic lobsters and lighthouses. Lobstering has been a way of life for Mainers for centuries. The first recorded lobster catch dates back to the early 1600s. Lobsters were initially considered a lowly food source reserved for prisoners and indentured servants. However, lobsters eventually rose in popularity and became a delicacy enjoyed by people worldwide.

On the other hand, lighthouses have long served as beacons of safety for sailors navigating the treacherous waters off the Maine coast. Dating back to the early 18th century, these historic structures have stood the test of time. Specifically, they have guided ships safely to shore and played a crucial role in Maine’s maritime heritage.

Finally, as you delve into the history of Maine’s famous lobsters and lighthouses, remember the interconnectedness of these elements with the unique coastal landscape that shapes them. Therefore, let’s explore the top lighthouses and our suggested path to visit Maine in August. This will result in a truly memorable experience along Maine’s picturesque coastline.

Must-Try Lobster Dishes in Maine in August

Indulge in the state’s culinary delights with some must-try lobster dishes. Whether you prefer classic Maine Lobster Rolls, steamed lobster with melted butter, rich Lobster Mac & Cheese, or decadent Lobster Bisque, the state offers a variety of delicious ways to enjoy this iconic seafood. Don’t forget to try the traditional Lobster Boil, a feast of freshly caught lobster, corn on the cob, steamed clams and red potatoes cooked to perfection. You can immerse yourself in the coastal beauty of Maine by visiting these top lighthouses in August, and then indulge in the state’s culinary delights with some must-try lobster dishes. Emphatically, there are great places to eat lobster everywhere along the Maine Coast from York to the majestic Acadia National Park and beyond. You can eat them in on a lobsterman’s wharf (our favorite), in a waterside restaurant or in a top rated restaurant.

10-Day Trip to See the Top Lighthouses to Visit Maine in August

Therefore, let’s begin our 10-day trip to visit Maine in August. Specifically, using the top lighthouses to visit in August form a truly memorable experience along Maine’s picturesque coastline. From the towering beauty of Portland Head Light to the historic charm of Bass Harbor Head Light, each lighthouse offers its unique history and stunning views of the rugged Maine shoreline. Be sure to visit the iconic Pemaquid Point Light with its panoramic vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and crashing waves. And don’t miss the opportunity to photograph the Cape Neddick Light, also known as the Nubble Light. These historic lighthouses are not only picturesque landmarks but also a testament to Maine’s rich maritime heritage.

Below is a Google Map showing the eight lighthouses and recommended lodging that we suggest you visit on your 10-day tour of Maine. Click on any of the lighthouse indicators for a brief description and picture of that lighthouse. Conversely, click on a lodging indictor to learn more about that particular hotel or resort.

Day 1 -York and Cape Neddick (Nubble) Light

It’s easy to visit all ‘The Yorks’ in a single day. Take York Beach, for example. It’s a tiny, classic village full of funky places to eat, shop and play. York Beach is also a great place to hit the beach or buy salt water taffy at The Goldenrod, started in 1896. Visitors are always fascinated to watch the taffy being made on its mechanical pulls and then cut and wrapped, all automatically.

In addition, there’s Long Sands Beach, 1.5 miles of glorious sand, popular for swimming, sunbathing, and even surfing. Also, Short Sands Beach is a quarter mile long and tucked amid the cliffs.

History fans can revel in York’s antiquities. The town is the second oldest in Maine, having been incorporated in 1652. To learn more, visit the Old York Historical Society.

Where to Stay in York

Cos has stayed at the Union Bluff Hotel during his visits to York. It is reasonably priced and is located in York Beach, just North of Cape Neddick. We also like the look of the B & B Inn at Tanglewood Hall, near the York Harbor Cliff Walk path.

There are other alternatives. In Cape Neddick, there is an expensive hotel resort by the lighthouse with wonderful views, the Cliff House Maine. Also, there are several fine hotels in Ogunquit, just a little north of York on Route 1.

Where to Eat Lobster in York

 

• • Fox’s Lobster House: Located right next to Nubble Lighthouse, it’s a great spot for fresh lobster with a view.

• • The York River Landing: Offers a variety of seafood dishes, including delicious lobster.

Ogunquit and Perkins Cove

Ogunquit, referred to as “Beautiful Place by the Sea”, is a charming coastal town known for its stunning white sand beaches, vibrant arts and performing arts scene and welcoming atmosphere. During the summer through the end of October, it’s always a treat to attend a performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse, a well known summer theatre featuring many Broadway musicals.

One of the most picturesque spots in Ogunquit is Perkins Cove, a quaint fishing village with a scenic cliff walk, great shopping and galleries along with its historic footbridge. If you would like a lunch recommendation in Perkins Cove, we highly recommend M.C. Perkins Cove. In addition, a great stop for a lobster lunch on Route 1 is the rustic Ogunquit Lobster Pound Restaurant.

Kennebunkport

Another 25 minutes along Route One and State Route 9E will bring you to Kennebunkport, summer home of the Bush family at Walkers Point. On your way to see the Bush compound, you will pass St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal summer Church, well worth a visit.

Historically, Kennebunkport was a shipbuilding and fishing village, but you wouldn’t know it now, with its upscale shops and restaurants. If you wanted a little walk-up snack, we suggest The Clam Shack where you can order a half pint of delicious fried clams, standing on the bridge as you watch the Kennebunk River on its journey to the ocean.

Day 2 – Freeport in August

We are driving up I-95 and by-passing Portland, where we will return for the end of the 10-day tour. No lighthouses here, but we will stop in one of the great cities in the USA for shopping. Freeport is a town known for L.L. Bean, open 24/7 (no need for locks on the doors!) as well as outlet stores for almost every other retailer. It is a great town to eat and shop. Robin used to own the Jameson Tavern where the papers separating Maine from Massachusetts were signed.

Where to Stay in Freeport

We highly recommend eating and staying at the Harraseeket Inn. Great food and you will begin to feel like you are home in Maine. Also, just a short walk to all that shopping.

Where to Eat Lobster in Freeport

 

• • Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Company: A classic spot right on the water, known for its fresh lobster and casual atmosphere.

• • Day’s Crabmeat & Lobster: Great, little seafood shack on US 1 in Yarmouth on the way into Freeport on Route 1 where you can sit at a picnic table overlooking a salt marsh.

• • Lobster Cooker: Another great option in Freeport for a tasty lobster roll.

Day 3 – Harpswell, Bailey and Orrs Islands, Phippsburg & Sebasco

Harpswell, Bailey Island and Orrs Island

From Brunswick on Route 1, take a right hand turn to see three of our favorites. First, the Giant’s Stairs. Just a short half mile stroll takes you to a truly dramatic scene: the Giant’s Stairs. This is a gorgeous setting with the best views, thanks to unique rock formations resembling a staircase; enjoy the crashing waves and views of Casco Bay that are stunning.

Next, the only cribstone granite bridge in the world. The design came from a bridge in Scotland which was destroyed by enemy artillery in World War II. Connecting Bailey’s Island and Orr’s Island, the Bailey Island Bridge was completed in 1928 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. No mortar or cement was used to build the granite cribs, but pine wedges were driven into the cracks between the stones to prevent rocking and shifting.

The ride to Lands End on Bailey’s Island is filled with quick glimpses of Maine beautiful coves, nooks and crannies. Then you come to the end of the land…just wander around and visit the gift shop. Or grab something to eat at Dolphins Marina & Restaurant. If you could get here early in the morning, you will be treated to the beautiful sunrise over Casco Bay.

Next, follow Route 1 into Bath. Then head south, first visiting the Maine Maritime Museum. Next, continue heading down the finger peninsula to Phippsburg and Sebasco. This part of Maine offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a great introduction to Maine’s charming coastal experiences. Here are some reasons to visit:

Phippsburg

 

1. 1. Popham Beach State Park: One of Maine’s most beautiful sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring tidal pools.

1. 1. Fort Popham: A historic Civil War-era fort offering stunning views of the Kennebec River and the Atlantic Ocean.

1. 1. Hiking and Nature Trails: Enjoy scenic hikes at Morse Mountain and the Basin Preserve, where you can experience diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

1. 1. Kayaking and Boating: The area’s waterways are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and boating, providing a peaceful way to explore the coastline.

Where to Stay in Sebasco

 

1. 1. Sebasco Harbor Resort: A picturesque resort offering a range of activities including golf, fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and tennis. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the coastal scenery. Our preferred place to stay. The resort features amenities like a saltwater pool, lawn games, and a game room, making it perfect for families.

1. 1. Dining with a View: Enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood and other dishes while overlooking the harbor.

1. 1. Proximity to Attractions: Sebasco is close to other attractions in Phippsburg, such as Popham Beach and Fort Popham, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.

Both Phippsburg and Sebasco offer a quintessential Maine experience with their stunning coastal landscapes, rich history, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to relax by the beach, explore historic sites, or enjoy family-friendly fun, these destinations have something for everyone.

Phippsburg & Sebasco Lighthouses

There are two lighthouses in this area: Sequin Island Lighthouse and Doubling Point Lighthouse. However, we do not recommend visiting them. Sequin Island requires a boat ride from Bath and a small dingy ride including wading ashore and walking up a steep slippery hill. This is not recommended for senior travelers. In addition, the Doubling Point Lighthouse is closed as the walkway was washed out.

Where to Eat Lobster in Phippsburg

 

• • Spinney’s Oceanfront Restaurant: Offers stunning views of Popham Beach along with delicious lobster.

 

• • Anna’s Water’s Edge Restaurant: Known for its beautiful views and fresh lobster.

Alternative Days 2 & 3 – Monhegan Island in August

Monhegan is a small, rocky island, ten miles from the nearest mainland and scarcely a square mile in area.  Lobster traps line the unpaved roads that lead to the village where you can find lodging, gift shops, refreshments and artists studios.  We booked our ferry from New Harbor and our rooms at Island Inn.

Day 4 – Boothbay Harbor

As you leave the Bath Finger Peninsula (our term!) and begin to make your way to Boothbay you will pass the town of Wiscasset. Wiscasset is home to two of Maine’s most famous lobster tourist traps:

 

• • Red’s Eats – Famous for its lobster rolls and a variety of other seafood dishes.

• • Sprague’s Lobster – Another popular spot known for its fresh lobster and scenic views.

The lines at Red’s are usually quite long. While the lobster rolls are good, frankly we believe there are better choices, and this is definitely a tourist trap. As far as Sprague’s goes we are not very knowledgeable about it; we suggest driving through to Boothbay Harbor.

Places to go in Boothbay Harbor

There are two places we recommend visiting in Boothbay: The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and the Burnt Island Lighthouse.

Coastal Maine Botanical Garden – We first visited the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden after visiting Iceland and becoming interested in trolls.

Burnt Island Lighthouse – Approximately one mile from the port of Boothbay Harbor, this historic site is an exceptional educational and recreational facility for teachers, school children, summer visitors, and boaters.

We would recommend you book a boat tour through Get Your Guide along the Kennebec River. You will likely see 7 lighthouses, Fort Popham, Bath Iron Works and go through Hells Gates (trust us on this!).

Where to Stay in Boothbay Harbor

The Spruce Point Inn is our recommended lodging in Boothbay. Located in Boothbay Harbor, Spruce Point Inn is on the waterfront, a 4-minute walk from Linekin Bay, and within a 5-minute drive of Fisherman’s Memorial Park. It is also close to the Maine State Aquarium.

Where to Eat Lobster in Boothbay

 

• • Boothbay Lobster Wharf: A true Lobster Co-op and a popular spot for fresh lobster right on the water.

• • Robinson’s Wharf: Offers a great dining experience with fresh seafood and lobster.

Alternative Days 4 & 5 – Camden

If you want to speed up the trip, we suggest going from Monhegan Island on days 2 & 3 to Camden on Days 4 & 5.  This would essentially replace Boothbay with this side-trip.  We hate to miss any part of our beloved Maine, but this side trip is a gem.  See Rockland/Camden on Day 6 below.

Day 5 – New Harbor – Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

After you leave Boothbay, you will continue along US 1 to the town of Damariscotta. Here you can proceed down another finger peninsula. Side note here: while the general coastline of Maine only measures to be 228 miles, the tide coastline measures to be 3,478 miles of shoreline and keeps watch over nearly two thousand islands!

The Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, the Glidden Point Oyster Farm, the South Bristol Lobster Co-op, Pemaquid Seafood Co-op and the Round Pond Lobster Co-op are all places we have visited and totally enjoyed. This is by far our favorite way to eat our lobsters, corn and clams.

Many people are aware of Maine oysters, but few realize how many oyster farms there are in Maine. Some prefer to follow the Maine Oyster Trail. In addition, mussels are also a great sea farming product from the cool waters of Maine, competing with the better known Prince Edward Island mussels.

We learned to shuck our own oysters at Glidden Point where there is a thriving oyster farm. When we first visited in 2017 it was only $1 an oyster. Inflation has had an impact, but it still is a great value and a great way to learn to shuck oysters.

 

 

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

The Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is one of the finest Lighthouses we have ever visited. It is located in the town of Bristol and is run and maintained by the Bristol Parks and Recreation Department. The park is open to visitors 9am-5pm everyday from the Middle of May until mid to late October.  When it is open, you can climb the tower, which we highly recommend. Other attractions at the Park include:

 

• • Learning Center

• • Fishermen’s Museum

• • Art Gallery with art displayed and for sale from Pemaquid Group of Artists

• • There are public restrooms on site

Where to Eat Lobster in New Harbor

The two Lobster Co-ops that we mentioned above (Round Pond and South Bristol) are the real thing. Here you can eat a lobster right off the boat, bring your salad and bottle of wine and enjoy the Maine Coast in a royal way. To be honest, it doesn’t get any better than this. Round Pond, located in Bristol is our favorite and we have visited it on every trip to Maine, including trips to Maine in August, our favorite month to visit.

Other restaurants that are recommended are:

 

• • Pemaquid Seafood: Known for its fresh lobster and beautiful harbor views. Grab your lobster, find a picnic bench, and enjoy life!

• • Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf: A great place to enjoy lobster with a scenic view; live music on most weekends, depending on time of year.

Days 6 & 7 – Rockland/Camden

We recommend staying two days in the Rockland/Camden area as there is plenty to do in this part of the Maine Coast. There are three lighthouses that we recommend you visit. There are also several museums, including the world class Farnsworth Art Museum. It offers a nationally recognized collection of works from many of America’s greatest artists, with 20,000 square feet of gallery space and over 15,000 works in the collection. It has one of the largest public collections of works by sculptor Louise Nevelson, while its Wyeth Center features works of N.C. Andrew and Jamie Wyeth, artists the state of Maine claims as her own.

We love The Norumbega Inn, the castle by the sea. It’s a little more money, but it’s a charmer.  On our newest trip, we opted to stay at the Camden Windward House upon recommendation of good friends.

On your way to Rockland and Camden, we recommend a stop (breakfast?) at Moody’s Diner in Waldoboro on Route One. This is a classic old-fashioned coffee shop where you’ll get a very good breakfasts. However, their coconut cream pie is the bomb! Grab a slice and bring it with you for later.

Maine Lobster Festival

The Maine Lobster Festival is five days of fun and feasting on the fabulous coast of Maine! This unique seafood festival takes place annually during the first weekend of August, from Wednesday through Sunday. The Festival site, located at Rockland’s Harbor Park, is easy to find on Main Street.

Lighthouses to Visit in Rockland Area

 

• • Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – (Top Picture) The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is located at the end of a 7/8-mile long breakwater. However, we did it and the walk was worth it.

• • Marshall Point Lighthouse – (Lower Left Picture) Marshall Point is south of Rockland and a nice drive along the coast to visit it. The lighthouse property includes the light tower, accessible via a walkway, the lovingly restored 1880’s Keeper’s House, summer kitchen, recently reconstructed late 19th century barn and the original oil house. Housed within the keeper’s house and summer kitchen is a museum featuring exhibits which highlight not only the history of the lighthouse but explore the industries and history of the peninsula. The lighthouse was featured in the movie Forest Gump featuring Tom Hanks, whose character concluded his cross-country run on the runway of Marshall Point Lighthouse.

• • Owl’s Head – (Lower Right Picture)The Owls Head Light Station’s tower was constructed in 1825 and rebuilt in 1852. It stands atop a steep rise near Rockland Harbor, 100 feet above the water. The keeper’s house, built in the 1850s, is down a steep set of stairs from the light. The old station still has plenty of stories – tales of ghosts, shipwrecks, and bell-ringing dogs. Spirits were said to have visited the keeper’s house kitchen, living rooms, and bed!

Where to Eat Lobster in the Rockland/Camden Area

 

• • Claws: Offers a variety of lobster dishes in a casual setting.

• • Primo Restaurant: A bit more upscale, but known for its excellent seafood, including lobster. One of our top 50 world restaurant choices.

• • Camden Lobster Pound: A classic spot for fresh lobster in Camden/Lincolnville.

• • Waterfront Restaurant: Offers great views and delicious lobster dishes.

• • 18 Central Oyster Bar & Grill: Excellent creative dishes in a cozy spot high above Rockport’s working harbor.

Also, please see our post on 19 places to eat in the Rockland/Camden area.

A highlight when in Camden is to book a two-hour sail on one of Camden’s famous schooners. We particularly love the Appledore which you can easily book through Get Your Guide.

 

• •  

Days 8 & 9 – DownEast Maine in August: Acadia, Mt. Desert Island, Northeast Harbor

Mount Desert Island is the largest island off the coast of Maine, with an area of 108 square miles. It is the 52nd-largest island in the United States, the sixth-largest island in the contiguous United States, and the second-largest island on the Eastern Seaboard, behind Long Island and ahead of Martha’s Vineyard. According to the 2010 census, the island has a year-round population of slightly more than 10,000. But, it has an estimated 3 to 4 million tourists who visit Acadia National Park each year.  The island is home to numerous well-known summer colonies such as Northeast Harbor and Bar Harbor.

Must Visit Maine in August: Acadia National Park

Continue your journey through Maine’s wonders by exploring the stunning Acadia National Park. This natural gem offers breathtaking views of rocky shorelines, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle the challenging trails that lead to Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the East Coast, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque carriage roads. Wildlife lovers will have the opportunity to spot seals, whales, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Throughout the park, you will find carriage roads, built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. The roads span 57 miles and include 17 elaborately designed stone bridges for horse-drawn carriages. Today, travelers use these roads to explore the park by hike or bike. Most people are surprised when they learn at Acadia is in the top 10 most visited national parks in the United States.

With its diverse landscapes and outdoor recreational activities, Acadia National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. One of our favorites is Thunder Hole, where waves pull back just before lunging forward, resulting in a sound like distant thunder. Start planning your trip to experience the beauty and tranquility of this iconic national park.

Many visitors make a point to eat lunch at the Jordan Pond House while in the park . Although its menu is authentic Maine, it is known for its fluffy popovers served hot and slathered with butter and strawberry jam.

Bass Harbor Lighthouse

Among about 80 lighthouses across Maine, it is one of three lights managed by Acadia National Park, including two others on Baker Island and Bear Island. It appeared on the America the Beautiful quarter in 2012, the NPS centennial postage stamp in 2016, and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Lobster Places Near Acadia

 

• • Abels Lobster:  An all-time favorite located near Acadia.  A top 10 best restaurant in Mount Desert by Restaurant Guru 2023.
  • Thurston’s Lobster Pound: Located in Bernard, near Acadia, it’s a must-visit for lobster lovers.

• • Beal’s Lobster Pier: Another fantastic spot near Acadia for fresh lobster.

Northeast Harbor and Southwest Harbor

Northeast Harbor is a village on Mount Desert Island. The village has a significant summer population and has long been a quiet enclave of the rich and famous. The village was once so popular as a summer resort among Philadelphians, that is was sometimes known as “Philadelphia on the rocks.”

Northeast Harbor is home to two lovely gardens, the Thuya Garden and the Asticou Azalea Garden. In addition, for a sample of a couple of islands just offshore, you could try to catch the Beal & Bunker Mail Boat and Ferry. You will have an hour or so on Big Cranberry Island. Or simply enjoy walking through town and watching the boat activity in the harbor.

Southwest Harbor, just 20 minutes from Bar Harbor, this is a quaint village with shops, art galleries and restaurant.  In addition to visiting Acadia, you also have access to Somes Sound, a magnificent bay with over 175 feet of depth at its deepest point.  Many refer to this as a fjord, but according to Scandinavian definition, it is more accurately a fjard.  We opted to stay at The Moorings Inn in Southwest Harbor.

Many travelers like to stay in Bar Harbor. To be honest, it’s not our favorite…a little too touristy for us. However, accommodations may be more plentiful or lower in price; it’s just a place to get a good night’s sleep, so don’t count it out!

Day 10 – Portland, Maine in August

Portland, Maine, is a lively city along Casco Bay with a world-class dining scene, a magnificent art museum, and a scenic rocky coast. Visitors can explore historic red-brick buildings, cobbled streets, and century-old monuments. The city offers whale-watching cruises, ferry tours, and fishing trips on Maine’s blue seas. Portland is also known for its excellent restaurants, art galleries, and access to Southern Maine beaches and state parks.

To experience Casco Bay from Portland, consider booking a sunset cruise through Get Your Guide; bring beer or wine and a snack. Alternatively, take the Casco Bay Lines ferry to Peaks Island where you can rent a golf cart and tool around the island.

No first time trip to Portland is complete without a visit to the Portland Museum of Art. With a robust collection of 22,000 works of art, it features such artists as Picasso and Monet as well as New England’s own Winslow Homer. Homer painted not too far away in Prouts Neck, where you can still see his studio and imagine his painting.

In fact, let’s make it easy and plan to stay in one of our favorite places, the Black Point Inn in Scarborough. From there, you can easily walk to his studio and, if you’re so inclined, follow a cliff walk back to the inn. Enjoy the sunset over the harbor, with a lobster roll or lobster dinner. If it gets a little chilly, the innkeepers will gladly provide a warm blanket. If you like to play golf, there is a private course along the marsh and harbor that’s fun to play and available to guests of the inn.

For a perfect central location instead of Prouts Neck, we suggest the Portland Harbor Hotel.  Just make sure you ask for a quiet room, preferably overlooking the garden.  Portland has a loud late crowd and some complain their rooms are noisy.

Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth

Inside the former Keepers’ Quarters, visitors can find the award-winning Museum at Portland Head Light. The museum houses several lighthouse lenses and informative displays. Additionally, there is a seasonal shop that offers Maine-related gifts.

The lighthouse tower is open to the public only once a year, on Maine Open Lighthouse Day.

Fort Williams Park is a vast ninety-acre park adjacent to the lighthouse, offering picnic facilities, hiking opportunities, sports and recreation areas, historic structures, and endless ocean views. Perched on a grassy rise, Bite into Maine‘s popular lobster truck, serving tasty lobster rolls within the park.

Best Places to Eat lobster in Portland

 

• • Eventide Oyster Co.: Famous for its brown butter lobster roll.

• • The Highroller Lobster Co.: Known for its creative lobster dishes and fun atmosphere.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a trip to Maine in August offers a perfect blend of delicious lobster and captivating lighthouses that define the state’s rich culture and history. From exploring the coastal ecosystem to indulging in the must-try lobster dishes, there is no shortage of unique experiences waiting for you.

If you can’t take a 10-day tour, you can reduce our recommended tour to 7 days. We suggest only staying one day in each of Rockland and Mt. Desert Island. Also, you can eliminate the Day 3 stop in Phippsburg/Sebasco. You can still visit the Maine Maritime Museum after your stop in Freeport or on the Kennebec River cruise from Boothbay Harbor.

Make sure to visit Acadia National Park to complete your coastal adventure. So, why wait? Plan your trip now and savor the best of Maine’s charms this summer. As the saying goes, “Maine is more than just lobster and lighthouses, it’s an experience like no other.”

In any case, enjoy your lobster adventures in Maine!  Travel smarter, dine better and explore deeper: we’d love to share our handpicked insights and exclusive guides in our monthly newsletter below.