Maine
Maine offers a scenic escape along the East Coast, known for its rugged coastline, crisp ocean waters, and abundant lobster and seafood. The state’s natural beauty shines through forested hiking trails and ski slopes that stretch across the landscape. Each summer, crowds flock to southern coastal towns like Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, and Portland for their charm and coastal appeal. For a deeper experience, head farther up the coast to Mount Desert Island and Bar Harbor—home to Acadia National Park, one of America’s most stunning and beloved national parks.
Our recommendations follow the coastline. We've traveled to Maine twice in our van and found the state to be welcoming and accommodating to our lifestyle, especially as you head further up the coast. In the southern part of the state, we recommend sticking to campgrounds, as boondocking tends to be discouraged. However, the northern coastline offers more flexibility, with options for wooded campsites or stays in small towns.
If your journey takes you all the way to the top of Maine, don’t turn back just yet. Keep going. The Canadian Maritime provinces lie just beyond and are well worth exploring.
Recommendations
Towns, Counties and Islands
Mount Desert Island
Eastport
Portland
York County (York, Ogunquit, Wells, Kennebunkport)
National Parks
Acadia National Park
Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island is the location of Maine’s National Park, Acadia. Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town has many restaurants to choose from, a local theatre, and tourist shops. Visit here after a hike or day at the beach. The western side of the island is a bit quieter, but also worth a visit for views or cuisine.
Bar Harbor
2Cats - A popular breakfast spot on the edge of town that draws a busy crowd
Atlantic Brewing Company - a centrally located brewery offering tasty bites and a welcoming indoor-outdoor atmosphere
Mount Desert Island Ice Cream - handcrafted small-batch ice cream inspired by local flavors
Southwest Harbor
Peter Trout’s Tavern & Inn - tucked away in the island’s quieter corner, this no-frills spot serves simple, satisfying food and a true taste of Maine
Beal’s Lobster Pier - this pier side gem serves fresh seafood and has long been a crowd favorite in town
Acadia National Park
Jordan Pond House - known for their popovers, with the option to get carry-out and enjoy them on the green overlooking Jordan Pond
See more on Park under Acadia National Park
Food
Portland
Portland, Maine is best known for its coastal city vibe, vibrant food and arts scene, and scenic waterfront views. It's well worth a stop when traveling up the coast, even if just for a lunch break and a quick stroll through town.
Food
Duckfat - this might just be our favorite restaurant in the country. Start with the Duckfat poutine and finish with the doughnut holes and a milkshake, you won’t be disappointed
Attractions
Old Orchard Beach - just south of Portland, you’ll find Old Orchard Beach. It can be a good spot to surf depending on the day’s conditions.
Duckfat Poutine
Duckfat Caesar and House Smoked Pulled Pork Cubano
York County (South to North
The first area you’ll enter when arriving in Maine from the south is York County. Known for its scenic coastline, seafood-centric cuisine, and welcoming locals, this region sets the tone for a quintessential Maine experience. In this section, we’ll highlight a few of its charming seaside towns, including York, Ogunquit, Wells, Kennebunkport, and Old Orchard Beach.
York
A charming seaside town known for its coastal walkway the Marginal Way, Perkins Cove fishing village, and a vibrant art and music scene. Relax on a sandy beach, stroll through town, or treat yourself to a lobster roll and a scoop of ice cream.
Campground
Cape Neddick Oceanside Campground - oceanside yet woodsy in some spots, they had availability night of when we stayed.
Beaches
Long Sands Beach - a wide, sandy stretch of beach that’s occasionally surfable, depending on the conditions.
Short Sands Beach - a cozy, tucked beach where you can unwind and maybe even find some surf.
Note: This area has paid parking and officially does not allow overnight stays in your vehicle. While we’ve occasionally gotten away with overnighting in York, staying at a campground is the recommended and more reliable option.
Cape Neddick Oceanside Campground
Cape Neddick River
Long Sands Beach on a Cloudy Day
Ogunquit
A charming seaside town known for cozy motels, coastal path “the Marginal Way”, Perkins Cove fishing village, and a vibrant art and music scene. This town is very popular for summer tourism. Relax on a sandy beach, stroll through town, or treat yourself to a lobster roll and a scoop of ice cream.
Food & Drink
Foodbridge Lobster - a standout location for a lobster roll, located in Perkin’s Cove, you can enjoy your food by the water
The Front Porch - a lively piano bar with options for food and drink, this is a great option if you’re looking to have dinner or a drink with entertainment
Anchorage by the Sea - seaside resort and restaurant located along the Marginal Way, great spot for elevated eats with a view
Sweat Pea’s Ice Cream Shop & Dig Daddy’s Ice Cream - Both are centrally located in town, right next to each other. Try them both and choose your favorite!
Attractions
The Marginal Way - seaside walk along the rocky shore of Ogunquit. Use the walkway to get from town to Perkin’s Cove
Ogunquit Beach - sandy shores to relax, paddle, and swim; it’s an easy walk from the main strip
Perkin’s Cove - a historic fishing cove with restaurant’s and shops, our favorite pick is Foodbridge Lobster
Note: This area has paid parking and does not allow overnight stays in your vehicle.
View From Anchorage by the Sea
The Marginal Way, Rocky Seashore
Foot Bridge Lobster
Foot Bridge Lobster Rolls
Wells
Another charming seaside town, this area is a bit quieter than other mainstream destinations. Marshland provides sweeping views for sightseeing just inland of the beach.
Food
The Fisherman’s Catch - a favorite to return to each time in the area, indulge on a classic Maine lobster or friend seafood platter. Sit inside the restaurant or on the patio overlooking the marsh with your pup
Scoop Deck - tasty ice cream with a wide offering of flavors
The Fisherman's Catch - Lobster and Clam Chowder
The Fisherman's Catch - Haddock Sandwich
View from The Fisherman's Catch
Scoop Deck
Scoop Deck - Chocolate Ice Cream Flight
Kennebunkport
A popular summer getaway; Kennebunkport is a historic coastal town known for its charming architecture, beach access, and great restaurants
Food
Alisson’s Restaurant - another great spot for a classic New England plate, try to poutine lobster fries
Pinsa Kennebunk - excellent pizza, the mortadella sandwich is worth a try
Port Lobster Co Inc. - lobster, lobster rolls, and more! (it is under new management as of 2025, check recent reviews to make your decision)
Beaches
Gooch’s, Middle and Mother’s Beach - strip of sandy beaches; daily, weekly, and seasonal parking permits available at the Town Office or kiosks.
Note: This area has paid parking and does not allow overnight stays in your vehicle.
Alisson's Restaurant - Lobster Roll, Fries, and Lobster Bisque
Alisson's Restaurant - Poutine Lobster Fries
Port Lobster Co Inc. - Take Home Lobster