Introduction
Welcome to Maine, a state renowned for its rugged coastlines, picturesque lighthouses, and rich maritime heritage. In this 7-day itinerary, we’ll embark on a journey to discover the natural wonders, charming towns, and delectable seafood that make Maine a unique and unforgettable destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Portland
Morning: Arrival and Portland Head Light
- Arrival: Fly into Portland International Jetport and kick off your adventure in Maine’s largest city.
- Portland Head Light: Visit the iconic Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse, and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Afternoon: Old Port District
- Lunch in Old Port: Dine at a seafood restaurant in the historic Old Port district, known for its lobster rolls and fresh catches.
- Exploration: Stroll through Old Port’s cobblestone streets, browse boutique shops, and admire the waterfront.
Evening: Sunset Cruise and Dinner
- Sunset Cruise: Embark on a scenic sunset cruise from Portland Harbor, watching the sun set over Casco Bay.
- Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Portland’s renowned eateries, savoring Maine specialties like clam chowder or blueberry pie.
Day 2: Acadia National Park
Morning: Drive to Acadia
- Drive to Acadia: Head northeast to Acadia National Park, a stunning coastal wilderness renowned for its granite peaks and ocean views.
Afternoon: Cadillac Mountain and Park Exploration
- Cadillac Mountain: Ascend Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, for breathtaking views of Frenchman Bay and the surrounding islands.
- Park Activities: Explore Acadia’s hiking trails, visit Sand Beach, or take a scenic drive along Park Loop Road.
Evening: Bar Harbor and Seafood Feast
- Bar Harbor: Check into a hotel or inn in Bar Harbor, a charming coastal town known for its quaint shops and seafood restaurants.
- Dinner: Indulge in a seafood feast at a waterfront restaurant, sampling lobster, scallops, and fresh fish dishes.
Day 3: Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island
Morning: Whale Watching or Kayaking
- Whale Watching: Embark on a thrilling whale-watching excursion from Bar Harbor, spotting humpback whales, dolphins, and seabirds.
- Kayaking: Alternatively, explore the coastline by kayak, paddling around Mount Desert Island’s scenic coves and rocky shores.
Afternoon: Acadia National Park Continued
- Jordan Pond: Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Jordan Pond, known for its clear waters and scenic trails.
- Tea and Popovers: Indulge in tea and popovers at the Jordan Pond House, a beloved tradition in Acadia.
Evening: Lobster Bake and Sunset
- Lobster Bake: Experience a traditional Maine lobster bake, complete with lobster, corn on the cob, and steamed clams.
- Sunset: Watch the sunset from Bar Harbor’s shoreline, capturing the colorful hues over the Atlantic.
Day 4: Camden and Midcoast Maine
Morning: Drive to Camden
- Drive to Camden: Head south along the coast to Camden, a picturesque town known for its sailing heritage and Camden Hills State Park.
Afternoon: Camden Hills State Park
- Hiking or Scenic Drive: Explore Camden Hills State Park with its hiking trails and panoramic overlooks. Or take a scenic drive along the coastal Route 1.
Evening: Camden Harbor and Dinner
- Camden Harbor: Stroll along Camden Harbor, admiring the sailboats and waterfront views.
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local ingredients.
Day 5: Kennebunkport and Coastal Delights
Morning: Drive to Kennebunkport
- Drive to Kennebunkport: Travel south to Kennebunkport, a charming coastal town with a rich history and picturesque beaches.
Afternoon: Beach Time and Dock Square
- Beach Day: Spend the afternoon at Kennebunkport’s beaches, such as Goose Rocks Beach or Gooch’s Beach, for sun and relaxation.
- Dock Square: Explore Dock Square’s boutiques, art galleries, and seafood shacks, soaking in the coastal ambiance.
Evening: Cape Porpoise Sunset and Dinner
- Cape Porpoise: Watch the sunset from Cape Porpoise Pier, a serene spot overlooking the ocean.
- Dinner: Dine at one of Kennebunkport’s renowned restaurants, indulging in lobster rolls or seafood chowder.
Day 6: Portland Exploration
Morning: Portland Art and Culture
- Museum Visit: Explore Portland’s art and culture scene with a visit to the Portland Museum of Art or other galleries.
- Coffee and Pastries: Enjoy coffee and pastries at a local café, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Afternoon: Portland’s Gardens and Shopping
- Public Gardens: Stroll through Portland’s public gardens, such as the Portland Japanese Garden or Longfellow Garden.
- Shopping: Browse boutique shops and artisanal stores for unique souvenirs and gifts.
Evening: Portland’s Culinary Scene
- Dinner: End your day with a memorable dinner at one of Portland’s acclaimed restaurants, sampling farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails.
Day 7: Portland Head Light and Departure
Morning: Portland Head Light Visit
- Portland Head Light: Before departing, visit Portland Head Light once more for a morning view and last-minute photos.
Afternoon: Departure from Portland
- Airport Transfer: Head to Portland International Jetport for your departure, reminiscing about your Maine adventure and planning your next visit.
Conclusion
This 7-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Maine’s diverse landscapes, coastal towns, and cultural treasures. From the historic lighthouses of Portland to the natural beauty of Acadia National Park and the charming harbors of Camden and Kennebunkport, each day brings new discoveries and unforgettable experiences in the Pine Tree State. Maine’s maritime heritage, fresh seafood, and scenic vistas make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.