New Harbor Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to New Harbor, a scenic coastal town in Mid Coast Maine, with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink options, and more.


Introduction to New Harbor

Nestled in the heart of Mid Coast Maine, New Harbor is a charming coastal town that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. This picturesque destination is surrounded by stunning rocky coasts, sandy beaches, and lush forests that make it a paradise for nature lovers. At the same time, it is home to several museums, galleries, and historical landmarks that offer insight into the town’s rich culture and history. If you’re planning a trip to New Harbor, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in New Harbor

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site: This historic site is a must-visit destination for history buffs as it features a reconstructed 17th-century English fort, an archaeological site, and a museum that offers fascinating insights into the town’s colonial history.

  • The Old Bristol Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the town’s rich history and culture by displaying a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, documents, and other memorabilia from the past.

Natural Attractions of New Harbor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park: This iconic lighthouse offers a beautiful view of the surrounding rocky coastline of Maine and is also a popular spot for picnicking, hiking, and fishing.

  • Damariscotta Lake State Park: This state park is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters of Damariscotta Lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of New Harbor

New Harbor is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Pemaquid Trail: This 2.5-mile round-trip trail offers stunning views of the coastline and takes you through dense forests and rocky hills.

  • Pemaquid Point Loop Trail: This moderate-level hike covers a distance of around 1.5 miles and offers breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and the Pemaquid Point lighthouse.

Best Things to Do in New Harbor: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a history buff, there’s no shortage of activities and tours in New Harbor. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Boothbay Harbor Scenic Cruise: This scenic cruise takes you through the beautiful Boothbay Harbor, offering panoramic views of the coastline, lighthouses, and wildlife.

  • Damariscotta River Cruise: This ecological river cruise takes you through the picturesque Damariscotta River, offering a chance to view bald eagles, ospreys, seals, and other wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for New Harbor

Day 1: Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site and Bristol Historical Society Museum

Day 2: Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park and Pemaquid Trail hike

Day 3: Boothbay Harbor Scenic Cruise

Day 4: Damariscotta Lake State Park and Damariscotta River Cruise

Day 5: Kayaking in Muscongus Bay

Day 6: Whale watching tour

Day 7: Relax and enjoy the beach

Food and Drink Scene of New Harbor

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls: A classic Maine dish that consists of buttery lobster served on a toasted hot dog bun with mayo, celery, and lemon juice.

  • Clam Chowder: A creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, cream, and other ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Maine Beer: Known for their variety of craft beers, Maine is a must-stop for beer lovers.

  • Wine Tasting at the Sweetgrass Farm Winery and Distillery: This local winery offers a tasting room where you can sample their selection of wines and enjoy sweeping views of the rolling hills.

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

  • The Bradley Inn: This charming inn offers cozy rooms, a restaurant with farm-to-table cuisine, and a scenic view of the harbor.

  • The Lodge at Wiscasset: This luxurious lodge offers comfortable rooms, a spa, and horseback riding on its 500-acre property.

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

  • Lobster Pottery: Handcrafted pottery that features Maine’s signature lobster.

  • Blueberry Jam: Made with handpicked Maine blueberries, this jam is a perfect souvenir to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of New Harbor

New Harbor is a town that values its history, traditions, and natural resources. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs by following basic etiquette.

Best Time to Visit New Harbor

The best time to visit New Harbor is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is at its best for outdoor activities and the town hosts several festivals and events. Fall is also a great time to visit when the foliage turns into a beautiful golden-yellow color.

Do’s and Don’ts of New Harbor

Do:

  • Respect the natural resources and wildlife of the town.

  • Explore the local culture and history.

Don’t:

  • Litter or destroy the natural resources of the town.

Safety and Health

Safety in New Harbor

New Harbor is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should take basic precautions like locking their cars and securing their belongings.

Health in New Harbor

Visitors should be aware of Lyme Disease, which is prevalent in the area due to the high tick population. It is recommended to wear protective clothing and check for ticks after outdoor activities.

Getting to New Harbor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near New Harbor

The nearest airport is Portland International Jetport, which is around 1.5 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near New Harbor

Greyhound Bus Lines and Concord Coach Lines have bus stations in nearby cities like Portland and Augusta.

Other Options

Renting a car is the best option to explore New Harbor and the surrounding areas at your own pace.

How to Get Around in New Harbor

Visitors can either rent a car or bike, or explore the town on foot. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.

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

  • Boothbay Harbor: Located around 30 minutes away from New Harbor, this charming fishing village offers scenic beauty and a variety of outdoor activities like whale watching and kayaking.

  • Portland: Located around 1.5 hours away by car, Portland is a bustling city that offers a blend of history, culture, food, and entertainment.

Conclusion

New Harbor is a hidden gem in Mid Coast Maine that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or want to explore the local culture and history, New Harbor has something for every type of traveler. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan an unforgettable trip to this charming coastal town.