Southern Coast Travel Guide
Explore the best things to do, places to stay, and food to eat in Southern Coast, Maine. Discover historical and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, and local culture and customs.
- Introduction to Southern Coast
- List of Places to Visit in Southern Coast
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Coast
- Wells Reserve at Laudholm
- Eastern Trail
- Best Things to Do in Southern Coast: Activities and Tours
- Sailing Tours
- Whale Watching Tours
- Beer and Wine Tasting Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Coast
- Food and Drink Scene of Southern Coast
- Where to Stay in Southern Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Luxury hotels
- Hostels
- Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Southern Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Maine Maple Syrup
- Blueberry Products
- Local Culture and Customs of Southern Coast
- Best Time to Visit Southern Coast
- Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Coast
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Southern Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Southern Coast
- Where to Go Next from Southern Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Acadia National Park
- Portsmouth, New Hampshire
- Conclusion
Introduction to Southern Coast
The Southern Coast of Maine is a breathtaking destination known for its picturesque lighthouses, rustic fishing villages, and sandy beaches. This region offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts visitors all year round. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Southern Coast has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Southern Coast
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Portland Museum of Art
The Portland Museum of Art is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. It showcases over 18,000 works of art, including American and European paintings, sculptures, and photographs. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs.
Ogunquit Museum of American Art
The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is a hidden gem that features a diverse collection of American art from the late 1800s to the present. In addition to the rotating exhibits, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from the sculpture gardens.
Portland Head Light
The Portland Head Light is a historic lighthouse that has been guarding the entrance to Portland Harbor since 1791. It’s a popular spot for photography, picnics, and sightseeing.
Natural Attractions of Southern Coast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Marginal Way
Marginal Way is a breathtaking coastal walkway that spans 1.25 miles along the picturesque town of Ogunquit. This scenic trail offers stunning ocean views, rugged cliffs, and impressive rock formations.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is a 50-mile-long protected area that spans across the Southern Coast of Maine. It is home to a variety of wildlife, such as migratory birds, otters, and moose. Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
Kennebunkport Beaches
Kennebunkport is known for its beautiful beaches that offer a variety of activities, such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Some of the popular sandy stretches include Goose Rocks Beach and Gooch’s Beach.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Coast
Wells Reserve at Laudholm
The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a 2,250-acre nature reserve that offers over 7 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, such as salt marshes, woodlands, and grasslands, and learn about the local ecosystem.
Eastern Trail
The Eastern Trail is a 65-mile-long scenic trail that runs from South Portland to Kittery, passing through the Southern Coast of Maine. It offers a mix of off-road paths and on-road routes, and it’s suitable for all skill levels. Bikers and hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, forests, and farmlands along the way.
Best Things to Do in Southern Coast: Activities and Tours
Sailing Tours
Southern Coast offers a variety of sailing tours that allow visitors to explore the stunning coastline and islands off the coast. Some of the popular tours include sunset cruises, lobstering tours, and island-hopping adventures.
Whale Watching Tours
Whale watching tours are a fun and exciting way to see humpback, finback, and minke whales up close. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour with an experienced naturalist and learn about the local marine life.
Beer and Wine Tasting Tours
Southern Coast is home to some of the best breweries and wineries in Maine. Visitors can enjoy beer and wine tastings, food pairings, and educational tours. Some of the popular spots include Allagash Brewing Company, Shipyard Brewing Company, and Cellardoor Winery.
Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Coast
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of Portland |
| 2 | Hike the scenic trails of Wells Reserve at Laudholm |
| 3 | Visit the charming town of Ogunquit and explore Marginal Way |
| 4 | Take a sailing tour to see the coastal islands and lighthouses |
| 5 | Taste the local beer and wine at Allagash Brewing Company and Cellardoor Winery |
| 6 | Whale watching tour to see the marine life up close |
| 7 | Relax and soak up the sun at Kennebunkport beaches |
Food and Drink Scene of Southern Coast
Must-Try Dishes
Lobster Rolls
Lobster rolls are a classic dish of Southern Coast, featuring fresh lobster meat, mayo, and spices served on a toasted roll. Some of the best places to try lobster rolls include Red’s Eats, Eventide Oyster Co., and The Lobster Shack.
Fried Clams
Fried clams are another popular dish in Southern Coast, featuring tender clams lightly battered and fried to perfection. Some of the best places to try fried clams include Bob’s Clam Hut, The Clam Shack, and Ken’s Place.
Local Beverages
Maine Craft Beer
Maine is known for its thriving craft beer scene, featuring breweries that use local ingredients and experimental brewing techniques. Some of the popular breweries in Southern Coast include Allagash Brewing Company, Foundation Brewing Company, and Bissell Brothers Brewing.
Maine Wine
Maine may not be as famous as California or New York for wine, but it has some hidden gems that produce award-winning wines made from local grapes. Some of the popular wineries in Southern Coast include Cellardoor Winery, Savage Oakes Vineyard & Winery, and Sweetgrass Winery & Distillery.
Where to Stay in Southern Coast: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Luxury hotels
The Press Hotel
The Press Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel in Portland that features stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a fine dining restaurant. The hotel is housed in a historic newspaper building and offers unique amenities, such as writing desks and vintage typewriters.
Cliff House Maine
Cliff House Maine is a scenic resort located on the edge of a cliff in Cape Neddick. It features modern rooms with panoramic ocean views, spa services, and multiple dining options. Guests can enjoy the private beach, indoor and outdoor pools, and numerous outdoor activities.
Hostels
HI-Portland Hostel
HI-Portland Hostel is a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Portland. It offers dorms and private rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy common area. Guests can enjoy free breakfast, social events, and guided tours of the city.
Guesthouses
The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast
The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast is a charming guesthouse located in a quiet neighborhood in Portland. It features cozy rooms with vintage decor, homemade breakfast, and a beautiful garden with outdoor seating. Guests can enjoy the personalized service and insider tips from the friendly hosts.
What to Buy in Southern Coast: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Maine Maple Syrup
Maine is known for its delicious maple syrup, which is made from the sap of maple trees. Visitors can buy bottles of maple syrup, maple candy, and other maple-based products at local stores and farmers’ markets.
Blueberry Products
Blueberries are a staple of Maine’s agriculture, and visitors can find a variety of blueberry products, such as jams, pies, and wine. Some of the popular stores that sell blueberry products include The Good Table, Wild Maine Blueberry Jam, and Stonewall Kitchen.
Local Culture and Customs of Southern Coast
Southern Coast has a rich history and culture that reflects its maritime heritage and local traditions. Visitors can experience the unique customs and festivals of Maine, such as the Maine Lobster Festival, the Harvest on the Harbor, and the Bath Heritage Days.
Best Time to Visit Southern Coast
The best time to visit Southern Coast is from May to October when the weather is mild, and the attractions are open. The peak season is from July to August, when the beaches and resorts are crowded, and the prices are high. Visitors can also enjoy the fall foliage, outdoor festivals, and holiday events during the shoulder season.
Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Coast
Do:
- Dress in layers for changing weather conditions.
- Respect the local environment and wildlife.
- Try the local seafood and beer/wine.
- Learn about the local history and culture.
- Take plenty of photos of the scenic views.
Don’t:
- Ignore safety rules on beaches and nature reserves.
- Leave trash or litter on the beaches and trails.
- Disturb the marine life or seal watching areas.
- Skip the sunscreen and bug spray.
- Ignore the signs and warnings on the roads and trails.
Safety and Health
Safety in Southern Coast
Southern Coast is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to avoid accidents and emergencies. They should be aware of the weather conditions, the beach safety rules, and the traffic rules. Visitors should also avoid leaving valuables in their cars or unattended on the beaches.
Health in Southern Coast
Southern Coast has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. Visitors should bring their medical insurance cards and necessary medication, such as allergy medicine or asthma inhalers. They should also pack a first aid kit and insect repellent for outdoor activities
Getting to Southern Coast: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Southern Coast
Portland International Jetport is the primary airport serving Southern Coast, located in Portland, Maine. It offers domestic flights to major cities, such as Boston, New York, and Washington D.C. Visitors can also fly into Boston Logan International Airport and take a shuttle or rental car to Southern Coast.
Bus Stations Near Southern Coast
Concord Coach Lines is the main bus company that offers services to Southern Coast, with stops in Portland, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport. Visitors can also take a Greyhound bus from Boston or New York.
Other Options
Visitors can also drive to Southern Coast from nearby states, such as Massachusetts, New Hampshire, or Vermont. They can rent a car at the airport or in Portland and drive to their destination. Some of the popular routes include I-95, I-295, and US-1.
How to Get Around in Southern Coast
The best way to get around Southern Coast is by car, as it offers the most flexibility and convenience for exploring the region. Visitors can also rent bikes or take a taxi for short trips. Some of the popular car rental companies include Enterprise, Avis, and Hertz.
Where to Go Next from Southern Coast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is a stunning destination located 3 hours northeast of Southern Coast. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, boating, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore the rugged coastline, the rocky mountains, and the pristine lakes.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth is a charming town located 1 hour south of Southern Coast. It features a historic downtown, an active arts scene, and a variety of cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Strawbery Banke Museum, the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, and the Prescott Park.
Conclusion
Southern Coast of Maine offers a rich and diverse experience for travelers, from the cultural and historical attractions, to the natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Visitors can soak up the local culture, taste the delicious food and drink, and create unforgettable memories in this scenic and charming destination.