The Southern Maine Coast Travel and Destination Guide

Southern Maine Coast

The Southern Maine Coast is a stunning region of the state of Maine that stretches along the Atlantic Ocean, from the city of Portland to the New Hampshire border. The Southern Maine Coast is located in the southeastern part of Maine, stretching from Kittery in the south to Portland in the north. The region is easily accessible by car, bus, or train, and is located just a few hours from Boston. The climate of the Southern Maine Coast is generally mild and humid, with temperatures averaging in the mid-70s during the summer months. The region is also known for its foggy mornings and cool sea breezes, which can make for a refreshing break from the summer heat.

This area is renowned for its natural beauty, charming coastal towns, and a wide range of outdoor activities that attract visitors from all over the world. The Southern Maine Coast is a beautiful and popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Here's what you need to know about visiting the Southern Maine Coast:

 

Things to Do

The Southern Maine Coast offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Some of the top activities to do in the region include:

1. Explore Historic Towns

The Southern Maine Coast is home to several historic towns, including Kennebunkport, Ogunquit, and York. These towns are well known for their charming colonial-era buildings, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scenes.

2. Visit Lighthouses

The coast of Maine is dotted with lighthouses, and the Southern Maine Coast is no exception. Some of the most popular lighthouses in the region
include Nubble Lighthouse in York, Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, and Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth. Nubble Lighthouse is located on a small island just off the coast of York. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the lighthouse and the ocean from Sohier Park, which is located just a short walk from the lighthouse.

3. Enjoy the Beaches

The Southern Maine Coast is home to several beautiful beaches, including Ogunquit Beach, Old Orchard Beach, and York Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and surfing at these popular destinations.

4. Take a Hike

The Southern Maine Coast offers several scenic hiking trails, including the Marginal Way in Ogunquit, which offers stunning views of the ocean and several historic landmarks.

5. Visit Museums and Galleries

The Southern Maine Coast is home to several museums and galleries, including the Portland Museum of Art, the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, and the York Historical Society.

6. Go Whale Watching

Visitors to the Southern Maine Coast can go on whale- watching tours, which offer the opportunity to see humpback, finback, and minke whales in their natural habitat.

7. Explore Nature Reserves

The Southern Maine Coast is home to several nature reserves, including the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is located just south of Kennebunkport and offers miles of scenic hiking and biking trails through forests and fields.

8. Shop and Dine

The Southern Maine Coast offers a wide range of shopping and dining options, from the charming boutiques and seafood restaurants in Kennebunkport to the bustling markets and gourmet eateries in Portland.

 

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Accommodations

The Southern Maine Coast offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors, from Southern Maine Coast Vacation Rentals to hotels and resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts and quaint inns. Visitors can choose from waterfront properties with stunning ocean views, historic buildings with character and charm, or modern amenities and conveniences.

 

Places To Visit

There are plenty of places to visit along the Southern Maine Coast. Some of the top attractions to consider during your visit:

Portland

The city of Portland is the largest city in Maine and offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, delicious food, and historic architecture. Some of the top attractions in Portland include the Portland Museum of Art, Old Port, and Casco Bay.

The Kennebunks

The Kennebunks - which comprise two beautiful towns, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport - is a must-visit for tourists who are looking for a peaceful and enchanting getaway. Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town is known for its historic architecture and beautiful beaches. Visitors can take a stroll through the town's historic district, enjoy a lobster dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants in town, or go on a whale-watching tour.

Ogunquit

This picturesque town is located on a peninsula between the Ogunquit River and the Atlantic Ocean. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and dramatic coastal views, as well as its thriving arts scene. Visitors can explore the town's many galleries and art museums, or enjoy a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse.

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a popular beach town known for its soft sand and warm water. This seven mile-long stretch of sandy beach, sparkling ocean water, and all the attractions that Old Orchard Beach and the surrounding City of Portland offers. The beach is surrounded by a lively boardwalk that features amusement parkrides, games, and food vendors, making it a fun and exciting place for the whole family to visit. 

 

 

York

This historic town is located on the southern coast of Maine and is known for its charming colonial-era buildings and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the town's historic district, which features several museums and historic sites, or spend the day at one of the town's many beaches, such as Long Sands Beach or Short Sands Beach.

Marginal Way

This stunning coastal trail stretches along the rocky cliffs between Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and explore several historic landmarks along the way.

Casco Bay

This scenic bay is located off the coast of Portland and is a popular destination for kayaking, sailing, and other water sports. Visitors can explore several small islands in the bay, including Peaks Island and Great Diamond Island.

 

Conclusion

The Southern Maine Coast is a beautiful and popular destination for visitors looking to explore the region's charming coastal towns, stunning beaches, and rich history. Whether you're interested in hiking, shopping, dining, or simply relaxing on the beach, the Southern Maine Coast offers something for everyone. With its mild climate, easy accessibility, and wide range of accommodations, the Southern Maine Coast is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the New England region.

Map of the Southern Maine Coast

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