Owls Head Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, dine, stay, hike, and shop in Owls Head, Maine. Learn about local culture and customs, and transportation options to make the most out of your trip.


Introduction to Owls Head

Welcome to Owls Head, a charming coastal town located in Mid Coast, Maine. Owls Head boasts a rich history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Owls Head.

List of Places to Visit in Owls Head

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Owls Head is a treasure trove of museums and historical sites. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s history by visiting:

  • Owls Head Transportation Museum: This museum showcases the evolution of transportation with over 150 classic vehicles, airplanes, motorcycles, bicycles, and engines on display.
  • Owls Head Light Station: Built in 1852, this lighthouse offers scenic vistas of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding areas. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the life of a lighthouse keeper and the history of navigation.
  • Owls Head Village: The historic village is home to several iconic structures, such as the Community Building, the Owls Head General Store, and the Owls Head Baptist Church. Take a leisurely walk through the village and appreciate the architecture.

Natural Attractions of Owls Head: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Owls Head’s natural attractions are a treat for the senses. Visitors can experience the beauty of Maine by:

  • Owls Head State Park: The park offers visitors the chance to relax on the sandy beach, go for a swim, stroll through the woods, or have a picnic with breathtaking views of the Penobscot Bay.
  • Birch Point State Park: This park features a rocky shoreline, tidal pools, and a walking path that provides magnificent views of the neighboring islands.
  • Owls Head Lookout: This scenic lookout offers an incredible panoramic view of Penobscot Bay, Spruce Head Island, and the surrounding islands. Bring your camera for beautiful landscape shots.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Owls Head

Owls Head offers several hiking and biking routes suitable for all levels. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Owls Head Light Trail: This 1-mile loop trail takes visitors on a scenic walk through Owls Head State Park, passing through beaches, woods, and the lighthouse.
  • Ash Point Preserve Trail: This 1.2-mile trail offers stunning views of the surrounding harbors and islands. It is an excellent spot for birdwatchers, as well.
  • Rockland Harbor Trail: This 5.6-mile trail goes through Rockland, Owls Head, and South Thomaston and provides a perfect opportunity to experience the rich seafaring history of the region.

Best Things to Do in Owls Head: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are numerous fun activities to do in Owls Head. Some of the top-rated activities include:

  • Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Visitors can experience the beauty of Penobscot Bay by renting a kayak or a paddleboard and exploring the bay at their own pace.
  • Whale Watching: Whale watching tours from Owls Head Harbor offer visitors a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see humpback, minke, and fin whales up close.
  • Cooking Classes: Local chefs offer cooking classes that give visitors the opportunity to learn about Maine cuisine and prepare their own lobsters.

Week-Long Itinerary for Owls Head

If you have several days to explore Owls Head, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Visit Owls Head Transportation Museum and Owls Head Light Station

Day 2: Go on a whale watching tour in Penobscot Bay

Day 3: Spend a day at Owls Head State Park, exploring the trails and relaxing on the beach.

Day 4: Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare Maine cuisine.

Day 5: Visit Owls Head Village and learn about the history of the town.

Day 6: Go on a kayaking expedition and discover the beauty of Penobscot Bay.

Day 7: Hike the Ash Point Preserve Trail and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Food and Drink Scene of Owls Head

Owls Head has a fantastic food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: This Maine classic is served on a hot dog bun and filled with fresh lobster meat and mayonnaise. The Owls Head General Store serves one of the best in town.
  • Clam Chowder: This creamy soup filled with clams, potatoes, and vegetables is a staple of Maine cuisine. Some of the best clam chowder can be found at the Owls Head Lobster Company.
  • Blueberry Pie: Blueberries are a staple of Maine, and locals love to turn them into pies. Be sure to try one at the Owls Head General Store.

Local Beverages

  • Maine Beer: Maine is famous for its craft beer scene, and Owls Head has several breweries worth visiting, such as Rock Harbor Brewing and Oyster River Winegrowers.
  • Blueberry Soda: Many local shops sell blueberry soda made from Maine’s famous fruit.

Where to Stay in Owls Head: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Owls Head offers a range of accommodation options for different budgets. Here are some options to consider:

  • Owls Head Harbor Inn: This inn offers comfortable rooms with beautiful views of the harbor and complimentary breakfast.
  • The Lindsey Hotel: This boutique hotel offers guests luxury suites with fireplaces and private balconies.
  • South Meadow Farm Lodge: This rustic lodge offers affordable rooms overlooking the meadows and fields.

What to Buy in Owls Head: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can find unique gifts and souvenirs to take home from Owls Head. Here are some ideas:

  • Maine Blueberry Jam or Syrup: Blueberries are a symbol of Maine, and visitors can take home a taste of the state by purchasing blueberry jam or syrup.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Owls Head has several artisan studios that produce handmade pottery, vases, and dishes.
  • Lobster Wood Carvings: Lobster wood carvings are a popular souvenir and a reminder of Maine’s coastline.

Local Culture and Customs of Owls Head

Maine has a rich seafaring and fishing history, which is reflected in Owls Head’s culture and customs. Residents of Owls Head are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to respect local customs, such as:

  • Dressing appropriately when visiting places of worship or historical sites.
  • Tipping servers at restaurants and bartenders at bars.
  • Respecting the wildlife and natural resources.

Best Time to Visit Owls Head

The best time to visit Owls Head is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing are in full swing. Visitors can also attend several festivals during this time, such as the Maine Lobster Festival in nearby Rockland.

Do’s and Don’ts of Owls Head

Do:

  • Take a whale watching tour to see these magnificent creatures up close.
  • Try the lobster roll and blueberry pie; they are a must-try.
  • Respect the locals and their customs.

Don’t:

  • Feed the wildlife or litter in the parks.
  • Ignore safety guidelines when hiking or kayaking.
  • Disrespect the environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Owls Head

Owls Head is a safe place for visitors, but it’s always good to keep some safety tips in mind:

  • Always wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water when hiking or spending time outdoors.
  • Keep valuables in a safe place, like a hotel room’s safe, when exploring.
  • Be aware of weather conditions and follow guidelines provided or posted.

Health in Owls Head

Owls Head has a few medical clinics nearby. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Bring any necessary medications with you, as some may not be readily available in local stores.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun to avoid heatstroke or dehydration.
  • Properly dispose of any medications or needles.

Getting to Owls Head: Transportation Options and Logistics

Owls Head is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options to consider:

  • By Car: Owls Head is located just off of US Route 1, making it easily accessible from nearby towns and cities.
  • By Air: Knox County Regional Airport (RKD) is located just 5 miles from Owls Head and offers several daily flights from Boston and other nearby cities.
  • By Bus: Concord Coach Lines offers daily buses from Portland and Boston to nearby Rockland.

How to Get Around in Owls Head

Owls Head is a small town, and visitors can easily navigate it on foot or by bicycle. Bicycles can be rented from several shops in town, such as Owls Head Lobster Co and Owls Head General Store.

Where to Go Next from Owls Head: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Owls Head is located in the heart of Mid Coast, Maine, and there are several nearby destinations worth exploring:

  • Rockland: Rockland is a vibrant coastal town located just 5 miles north of Owls Head. The town features several galleries, museums, and restaurants worth visiting.
  • Camden: Camden is a picturesque harbor town located 20 miles north of Owls Head. The town boasts stunning views of Penobscot Bay and a variety of outdoor activities.
  • Acadia National Park: Acadia National Park is located 140 miles northeast of Owls Head and is home to stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Owls Head, Maine, offers visitors opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. We hope this guide helps you plan your dream trip to this picturesque coastal town and gets the most out of your visit. Remember to respect local customs, follow safety guidelines, and enjoy your stay!