Midcoast Maine is known for its incredible views of the ocean, quaint New England lighthouses, and, of course, everyone’s favorite Pine State meal: lobster! Book an intimate stay at The Squire Tarbox Inn and spend the day exploring all this region has to offer, from local breweries to adventurous hikes, shopping, and more. Here are some of our favorite spots to hit up on your next visit to the area.

Boothbay

The Boothbay region, located in Lincoln County, comes to life each summer as visitors arrive from near and far to get a taste of life in coastal Maine. Explore stunning displays of greenery and horticulture at The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, or see colorful marine life at the Maine State Aquarium. Make the most of your adventure and hop on the ferry to Monhegan Island for a day trip full of incredible hiking trails and panoramic views of the ocean.

If you prefer history to hiking, plan a stop at Fort Edgecomb on Davis Island for an up-close look at the octagonal blockhouse that housed American troops during both the Civil War and the War of 1812. When hunger hits, grab a fresh pie at Ports Pizzeria or pick up a bahn mi from the East Boothbay General Store. Stop by Boothbay Craft Brewery for a Thirsty Botanist beer, or make your way to Glidden Point for some fresh-from-the-ocean oysters on your way out of town.

Damariscotta

Fondly known as the oyster capital of New England, Damariscotta is a small town full of authentic New England charm. Grab a bite to eat at King Eider’s Pub or Shuck Station and see for yourself why Damariscotta’s oysters reign supreme. At Whaleback Shell Midden Historic Site, you can see the remnants of discarded oyster shells from Native Americans who lived in the area nearly 5,000 years ago.

When you’re ready to get moving, rent a kayak, paddle board, or canoe at Midcoast Kayak and make your way down the Damariscotta River, or hop on a Damariscotta River Cruise and enjoy wine and oysters while taking in beautiful views of Maine’s breathtaking coast. Support the local community with a trip to Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop, one of the oldest book stores in the state. Leave time for a stop in neighboring Newcastle on your way out, and head to Oxbow Brewing for an authentic farmhouse ale.

Rockland & Camden

Home of both the Rockland Blues Festival and the Maine Lobster Festival, this region is known for its rocky shoreline and incredible harbors. Visit Main Street Markets for a bite to eat or purchase locally made snacks and beverages to take home after your trip. Shop for vintage clothing at Daughters in Rockland, then make your way to Lincolnville for a wine tasting at Cellar Door Winery.

Spend an afternoon hiking Mount Battie in Camden, then relax and enjoy  award-winning Asian cuisine at Long Grain or a sushi boat at Suzuki. Finish your trip with a visit to the rotating exhibits at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art and stop at Bixby & Co. for a sweet treat for the road.

Wiscasset & Westport Island

After a relaxing stay at The Squire Tarbox Inn, spend the day exploring Wiscasset and Westport Island. With a variety of nature preserves to pick from (Bonyun is our favorite!), it’s easy to see why Mainers love the region. Take a break from your trek and find your new favorite accessory at In The Clover, then peruse the menu of drinks and small plates at In a Silent Way Wine Bar or head to Sasanoa Brewing for a cold beer.

Grab a melt-in-your-mouth pastry or a cup of coffee from Treats and end your day with a delicious meal at Water Street Kitchen and Bar or a famous lobster roll at Sprague’s.

Bath & Phippsburg

This area’s rich shipbuilding history is waiting to be explored at the Maine Maritime Museum. After getting your marine history fix, visit Fort Popham and Fort Baldwin to see military fortifications from the late 1800s. Enjoy a walk on the beach or go clam digging at Popham Beach, then stop at Bath Brewing Company on the banks of the Kennebec River.

Head to Bohemian Rose in Bath for some light shopping before grabbing an afternoon pick-me-up consisting of pastries and coffee at Café Crème. Finally, stop at Beale St. BBQ for authentic Memphis-style grub in the heart of midcoast Maine.