Lubec Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in Lubec, Maine. Read our expert tips on how to plan your perfect trip to this beautiful town in Down East, Maine.


Introduction to Lubec

Located in Down East, Maine, Lubec is one of the most beautiful destinations in New England. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich history and culture, there’s no shortage of things to see and do here. This charming town boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, a variety of accommodations, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll help you plan your perfect trip to Lubec.

List of Places to Visit in Lubec

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • West Quoddy Head Lighthouse - This historic lighthouse dates back to 1808 and is considered one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. Visitors can climb to the top for stunning views of the bay and the Canadian coastline.

  • The McCurdy Smokehouse Museum - One of the last remaining smokehouses in Lubec, this museum offers a glimpse into the town’s sardine-packing history. Visitors can explore the fishing industry exhibits and learn how the smoked sardines were produced.

  • Mulholland Point Lighthouse - A popular spot for birdwatching, this lighthouse is located on the Canadian border and offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy and Campobello Island.

Natural Attractions of Lubec: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cobscook Bay State Park - With over 888 acres of rugged coastline, this state park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping. Home to a diverse range of wildlife, including eagles, seals, and porcupines, the park is a nature lover’s paradise.

  • Reversing Falls Park - This coastal park features a unique natural phenomenon where the tide creates a powerful current that reverses the flow of water in the Lubec Narrows. Visitors can watch the swirling water from the park’s observation deck or take a guided kayak tour through the narrows.

  • Hamilton Cove Nature Trail - This 1.7-mile trail winds through dense forest, rocky coastline, and a grassy meadow, offering stunning views of the bay and its many islands. Visitors can spot wildlife such as deer, bald eagles, and harbor seals along the way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lubec

  • Bold Coast Trail - A challenging 9.4-mile hike along the rugged coastline of northeastern Maine. The trail offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, secluded beaches, and dense forest.

  • Eastern Trail - A flat, 2-mile trail that runs along the southern edge of Lubec Bay. It’s an ideal route for a leisurely bike ride or stroll, and visitors can spot a variety of seabirds along the way.

Best Things to Do in Lubec: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking Tours - Lubec’s many bays, coves, and islands offer endless opportunities for kayaking adventures. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline, spot wildlife, and learn about the town’s rich history from a local guide.

  • Whale Watching Tours - Lubec is located in one of the richest feeding grounds for whales in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour to spot humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as dolphins, porpoises, and seals.

  • Local Artisan Markets - Lubec is home to a thriving arts community, and visitors can browse a variety of artisan markets and galleries to discover unique handmade crafts and artwork.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lubec

Day 1 - Arrive in Lubec and explore the town’s charming downtown area, including the McCurdy Smokehouse Museum.

Day 2 - Visit West Quoddy Head Lighthouse and take a guided tour of the area.

Day 3 - Explore the natural beauty of Cobscook Bay State Park with a guided hike or kayaking tour.

Day 4 - Take a whale watching tour to spot the many species that inhabit the waters around Lubec.

Day 5 - Rent a bike or take a guided tour of the Eastern Trail.

Day 6 - Visit Hamilton Cove Nature Trail and enjoy a scenic picnic lunch.

Day 7 - Shop for unique souvenirs at Lubec’s artisan markets before departing.

Food and Drink Scene of Lubec

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls - The quintessential Maine dish, lobster rolls are a must-try when visiting Lubec. Many local restaurants and food trucks offer their own unique take on this classic dish.

  • Blueberry Pie - Maine is known for its abundant blueberries, and Lubec is no exception. Visitors should try a slice of homemade blueberry pie during their stay.

  • Smoked Seafood - Lubec’s rich history as a sardine-packing town means that smoked seafood is a popular local delicacy. Visitors shouldn’t miss the chance to try locally smoked herring, salmon, and mackerel.

Local Beverages

  • Maine Craft Beer - Maine is home to a thriving craft beer scene and Lubec has several breweries offering unique local brews.

  • Wild Blueberry Juice - Lubec’s blueberry crop is known for its size and flavor, making wild blueberry juice a popular beverage around town.

Where to Stay in Lubec: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Inn on the Wharf - Located in the heart of downtown Lubec, this historic inn offers stunning views of the waterfront and easy access to local restaurants and shops.

  • West Quoddy Station B&B - This charming bed and breakfast is located just a short walk from the West Quoddy Head lighthouse and offers cozy rooms and homemade breakfasts.

  • Campobello Island Inn - Located just across the Canadian border, this elegant boutique hotel offers stunning ocean views and easy access to the nearby Roosevelt Campobello International Park.

What to Buy in Lubec: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts - Lubec’s thriving arts community means visitors can browse a variety of artisan markets and galleries to discover unique handmade crafts and artwork.

  • Wild Blueberry Products - Lubec’s abundant blueberries means that visitors can find a variety of locally made blueberry jams, syrups, and pies to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Lubec

Lubec is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to embrace the community’s unique culture and customs during their stay. The town has a rich history as a fishing and shipping port, and visitors will find that many locals still work in these industries. The town celebrates its heritage with annual events such as the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse celebration and the Fourth of July parade.

Best Time to Visit Lubec

The best time to visit Lubec is during the summer months when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. However, visitors should be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, and accommodations can fill up quickly. Fall is another popular time to visit, with the changing colors of the leaves providing a stunning backdrop for hiking and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lubec

Do:

  • Do take advantage of Lubec’s many opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.

  • Do try the local seafood and the area’s famous wild blueberries.

  • Do respect the town’s rich history and culture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the town’s natural beauty.

  • Don’t ignore posted signs or regulations in natural areas, such as state parks and wildlife reserves.

  • Don’t forget to pack appropriate clothing for the weather and outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lubec

Lubec is considered a safe and friendly town, but visitors should still exercise caution when exploring the area’s natural beauty. Hiking trails can be slippery and rocky, and water activities can be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Visitors should also be aware of wildlife in the area, including black bears and moose.

Health in Lubec

Lubec has medical facilities to address most common health concerns. Visitors should be aware of the risks associated with ticks, including Lyme disease, and take appropriate precautions such as wearing long pants and using bug spray.

Getting to Lubec: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near Lubec - The closest major airport to Lubec is Bangor International Airport, located approximately three hours away by car.

  • Bus Stations Near Lubec - Concord Coach Lines offers bus service to Bangor and several other cities in Maine, with connections to Lubec via local taxis or rental cars.

  • Other Options - Visitors can also drive to Lubec via the scenic Coastal Route 1 or take a ferry from nearby Campobello Island.

How to Get Around in Lubec

Lubec is a small town that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also rent cars or hire taxis to explore the surrounding areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Lubec: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park - Located just a few hours south of Lubec, Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town and the gateway to the stunning Acadia National Park.

  • St. Andrews, New Brunswick - This charming Canadian town is just across the border and offers stunning architecture, local shopping and dining, and a variety of outdoor activities.

  • Roosevelt Campobello International Park - This unique park is located on a small island just across the border in Canada and is the summer home of former US President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Conclusion

Lubec, Maine, is a stunning destination that offers natural beauty, rich culture, and a welcoming community. From hiking and kayaking to whale watching and local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Lubec. We hope this comprehensive tour guide has helped you plan your perfect trip to this charming Down East town.

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