Boothbay Harbor

Nothing says “vacation” like exploring the great outdoors, and the Boothbay Harbor Region offers countless ways to do just that.

Discover Maine’s rocky coastline by sail, power, or paddle. There are miles of hiking trails just waiting to be discovered that offer everything from relaxed strolls to challenging hikes. Spend a peaceful afternoon amid stunning gardens or at a tranquil park, or explore the seaside village and all its charm with a stroll through Boothbay Harbor.

English fishermen originally discovered this area of Maine, back in the 17th century. Fishing, ice cutting, shipbuilding, and lumber were the local industries in the 18th and 19th century. By the 1800’s visitors started coming to the area to experience its natural beauty in a seaside location. Boothbay is the largest boating harbor north of Boston and is sometimes called the boating capital of New England.

With over 200 artists in this area, you will discover studios and galleries featuring oil paintings, watercolors and other diverse media. Artisans, craftsmen, and merchants offer handmade arts and crafts suitable for gift giving or for collectibles. The Chamber initiated a sculpture trail in 2018. You will soon see why Boothbay Harbor is often considered one of the “Top Small Town Art Places” in America.

Take a tour of one of the lighthouses or sign up for an excursion on one of the sightseeing tours in the area. Particular favorites are the dolphin and whale watching excursions or the puffin cruises, that seek out the unusual looking birds with predominantly black or black and white plumage, a stocky build, and large beaks. If a hands-on experience is what you are looking for, consider a fishing charter boat to take you into the deep waters. A favorite trip for many visitors takes them to Cabbage Island to experience off shore living and, possibly, to have one of its famous clambakes.

The Boothbay Railway Village offers rides on an authentic steam locomotive that winds its way around a recreated Maine coastal village. You’ll learn about the technology of steam engines and automobiles and you might even score a ride in one of the Railway’s Ford Model Ts.

Local Favorite: The Boothbay Region Land Trust provides year-round, public access to 26 nature preserves and over 35 miles of pet-friendly hiking trails. Properties include woodlands, wetlands, salt marshes, islands, seabird and wading bird habitat, feeding areas for migratory birds and butterflies, historical and archaeological sites, and working waterfront.

Must See: The Maine State Aquarium is located on the shore and houses a collection of regional fish and invertebrates. Lobsters of all sizes and colors can be found here and there is a tank holding skates and sharks waiting to be patted by those who dare.