Boothbay Harbor Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, along with its natural and cultural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Boothbay Harbor, a quintessential coastal town in Maine, offers a perfect winter escape for those who love outdoor adventure, historical monuments, and beautiful sceneries. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll give you a rundown of everything you need to know and do in Boothbay Harbor.

Introduction to Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a charming town situated in Lincoln County, in Mid Coast Maine, in the New England region, and shortly after you arrive, you’ll understand why it is considered one of the best travel destinations in the North America. Known for its clear blue waters and bountiful lobster, Boothbay Harbor is an ideal place for both those looking for a quiet place to unwind and for adventure seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Boothbay Harbor

Whether you want to explore the cultural attractions, natural beauty, or indulge in outdoor adventures, Boothbay Harbor offers plenty of options to keep you active and entertained. Here are the must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hunt down Boothbay Harbor’s rich history and culture by visiting any of the following museums and historical places:

  • Boothbay Region Historical Society
  • Railway Village
  • Chamberlain Museum
  • Burnt Island Lighthouse

Natural Attractions of Boothbay Harbor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Be captivated by Boothbay Harbor’s picturesque sceneries and indulge in outdoor activities by visiting these natural attractions:

  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
  • Boothbay Harbor Land Trust
  • Barrett Park
  • Linekin Preserve

Hiking/Biking Routes of Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor offers some of the best hiking and biking routes in all of Maine. Here are the best trails to explore:

  • Ocean Point Preserve
  • Porter Preserve at Gregory Hiking Trail
  • Boothbay Region Land Trust and Ovens Mouth Preserve
  • Hendricks Head Preserve

Best Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor: Activities and Tours

The intriguing thing about Boothbay Harbor is that it offers the perfect mix of outdoor activities and tours that you don’t want to miss, such as:

  • Sailing Adventure
  • Lobster Fishing Tour
  • Kayaking Tour in Boothbay Harbor
  • Boothbay Harbor Scenic Boat Cruises

Week-Long Itinerary for Boothbay Harbor

Here’s a proposed itinerary for your week-long stay in Boothbay Harbor:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Boothbay Region Historical Society and Lighthouse
Day 2 Explore the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Day 3 Go for the Linekin Preserve and the Barret Park, enjoy the natural scenery
Day 4 Participate in outdoor activities like kayaking and sailing
Day 5 Go hiking on the Boothbay Region Land Trust and Ovens Mouth Preserve
Day 6 Take a Boothbay Harbor scenic boat cruise
Day 7 Relax and indulge in local dishes and drinks

Food and Drink Scene of Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a true culinary treat with plenty of locally sourced dishes and drinks. Here are the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll
  • Fish Chowder
  • Blueberry Pie
  • Clam Chowder

Local Beverages

  • Maine beer
  • Maine wine
  • Local cider
  • Craft cocktails

Where to Stay in Boothbay Harbor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Boothbay Harbor offers a diverse range of accommodation options that suit all budgets. You can try:

  • Topside Inn
  • Boothbay Harbor Inn
  • Tugboat Inn
  • Harborage Inn

What to Buy in Boothbay Harbor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Don’t leave Boothbay Harbor without taking home a piece of its culture and history. Here are some souvenirs and local products to buy:

  • Lobster and fisherman-themed items
  • Handcrafted jewelry
  • Jam and maple syrup
  • Maine blueberry products

Local Culture and Customs of Boothbay Harbor

The inhabitants of Boothbay Harbor are amiable, welcoming, and take great pride in their culture and history. You can learn about them by visiting any of the museums and cultural centers or attending local festivals and events held throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Boothbay Harbor

The ideal time to visit Boothbay Harbor is during the summer months, between June and August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the activities and events are in full swing. The fall season is another perfect time to visit Boothbay Harbor because of the colorful foliage and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Boothbay Harbor

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Take time to indulge in outdoor adventures
  • Try locally sourced dishes and drinks

Don’t:

  • Litter the environment
  • Ignore posted signs
  • Touch the exhibits in the museums without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a safe place, but it’s always essential to take standard precautions to avoid any mishaps. Look out for occasional slippery surfaces, especially during the winter season.

Health in Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor does not have any specific health concerns, but it is always advisable to maintain general hygiene practices, particularly during the current global pandemic.

Getting to Boothbay Harbor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Boothbay Harbor

There are two airports near Boothbay Harbor that are approximately 45-50 minutes away:

  • Portland International Jetport
  • Knox County Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Boothbay Harbor

The nearest bus station is located in Bath, Maine, which is approximately 35 minutes away from Boothbay Harbor.

Other Options

You can also reach Boothbay Harbor by train or car. Amtrak Downeaster train has a station stop in Brunswick, Maine, which is approximately 45 minutes away from Boothbay Harbor.

How to Get Around in Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a small town, and you can easily navigate your way around by foot. You can also hire a car and explore the surrounding areas at your leisure.

Where to Go Next from Boothbay Harbor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Boothbay Harbor is an excellent base for exploring nearby towns and places. Some recommended destinations include:

  • Portland, Maine
  • Acadia National Park
  • Kennebunkport, Maine

Conclusion

Boothbay Harbor, Maine, is the perfect destination for those seeking outdoor adventures, natural scenery, and cultural attractions. With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to plan out your vacation and make the most of everything Boothbay Harbor has to offer.