Recommend us a 4 night stay on the coast

Question

I’m trying to plan a trip for my wife and I, she’s never been to Maine. We’re planning to fly into Boston, spend 3 nights there (really only 2 full days), then pick up a rental car and spend 4 nights on the Maine coast. We like to drive and do day trips to explore, then return to our accommodations, park the car, and enjoy happy hours.

Prefer not to be in Portland, rather would enjoy being on the ocean. Kennebunkport, Camden??

This will be early August, Friday thru Monday nites.

Any suggestions, lobster roll destinations (Red Eats), lighthouses, great beach walks - would be greatly appreciated.

I know I need to get busy making reservations.

Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like you and your wife are in for an amazing trip to Maine! The coast of Maine is stunning, and August is a perfect time to explore. Based on your preferences for a relaxing stay by the ocean with day trips and great happy hours, I’d recommend the following itinerary with accommodations in places like Kennebunkport and Camden. Both offer charming coastal vibes, plenty of activities, and are a bit quieter than Portland, making them great options for a peaceful, yet adventurous getaway.

Here’s a suggested plan for your 4-night stay along the Maine coast, focusing on scenic drives, beautiful beaches, and classic Maine experiences:

Kennebunkport: This iconic Maine town is known for its picturesque waterfront, charming shops, and top-notch seafood. It’s the perfect place to begin your Maine coastal experience, and it’s only about an hour’s drive from Boston.
Camden: A bit further up the coast, Camden is a beautiful town with a stunning harbor, perfect for a peaceful retreat. It's often referred to as the "Jewel of the Maine Coast." Camden is surrounded by hills and offers fantastic views of Penobscot Bay, along with great walking trails.
Acadia National Park (Optional day trip): If you're up for a longer drive, Acadia is about 2.5 to 3 hours north of Camden. It offers some of the most scenic drives and trails in New England, but if time doesn’t allow for an overnight trip, you can always explore smaller local parks in the Camden area.

Here are some activities and places to explore in the region:

Lobster Rolls: You can’t visit Maine without trying a lobster roll! Here are a few famous spots to try:
- Red’s Eats in Wiscasset—this iconic lobster shack is often ranked as having one of the best lobster rolls in Maine. It's a bit of a drive, but totally worth it.
- The Clam Shack in Kennebunkport—another great option for fresh lobster rolls right by the water.
- Portland Lobster Company in Portland (if you venture back toward the city)—great lobster rolls with a view of the harbor.
Lighthouses: Maine is home to some stunning lighthouses. Make sure to visit at least a couple on your coastal drive.
- Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth—probably the most photographed lighthouse in Maine, located just south of Portland.
- Rockland Breakwater Light—this lighthouse sits at the end of a long breakwater and offers beautiful views of the coast. It's a fun walk out to the lighthouse in Camden.
Beaches & Walks: Maine has some of the most serene and scenic beaches, perfect for quiet walks and relaxation.
- Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport—beautiful, sandy, and less crowded than other beaches along the coast.
- Camden Hills State Park—while not exactly a beach, the park offers some excellent hiking trails with incredible views of the bay and surrounding islands.
- Megunticook Lake near Camden—if you enjoy hiking, the view from Mount Megunticook is one of the best in the area.

For happy hours and evening relaxation, both Kennebunkport and Camden have several cozy bars and restaurants to enjoy after a day of exploration:

The Kennebunk Inn in Kennebunkport—perfect for a low-key happy hour with some great Maine beers on tap.
Union Hall in Camden—another great spot for a post-day happy hour, offering fantastic cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere.
Down East Lobster Company in Camden—great for enjoying a meal and drinks with a view of the harbor.

In terms of accommodations, consider staying in charming inns or boutique hotels in both Kennebunkport and Camden for a cozy, romantic vibe. Some good options include:

In Kennebunkport:
- Hidden Pond—an upscale, rustic retreat with beautiful cottages and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for couples.
- Nonantum Resort—this resort is located on the water, with stunning views and easy access to the town’s shops and restaurants.
In Camden:
- Lord Camden Inn—a charming and well-located inn with a cozy atmosphere and easy access to downtown Camden.
- The Camden Harbour Inn—an elegant boutique hotel with stunning views of the harbor, perfect for a romantic stay.

Be sure to book your accommodations soon, as places tend to fill up fast in early August. With a combination of scenic drives, delicious seafood, lighthouse visits, and quiet beach walks, this will surely be a memorable Maine coast adventure!

Recommend us a 4 night stay on the coast

More Maine (ME) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions