When to go
Maine is a “choose-your-season” destination. Summer is classic coastline weather and peak lobster season, fall brings crisp hikes + foliage, and late spring is quieter with great value.
- June–August: Best for beaches, boat rides, lobster rolls, and long daylight.
- September–October: Cooler air, fewer crowds, foliage inland and in Acadia.
- May: Shoulder season—good deals and calm roads (pack layers).
Where to stay
If it’s your first trip, split your time between the coast and a national-park base. For a simple plan, pick one “city base” + one “nature base.”
Best bases (first-timers)
Portland: Food, walkable neighborhoods, day trips to lighthouses and beaches.
Bar Harbor / Mount Desert Island: Best base for Acadia National Park.
Camden: Classic harbor-town vibe, scenic drives, and coastal hikes.
Top things to do
The best Maine trips are a blend: slow mornings, one big outdoor moment per day, and a great meal at night.
Coast classics
Lighthouses, harbor walks, boat rides, beach sunsets, small-town main streets.
Acadia highlights
Sunrise viewpoints, ocean-side trails, carriage roads, and scenic drives.
Small-town Maine
Antique shops, quiet coves, local bakeries, and slow afternoons by the water.
Suggested itinerary (3–5 days)
Use this as a flexible plan. You can do it in reverse, stretch it to a week, or swap stops based on where you find the best stay.
- Arrive + check in, then explore a walkable neighborhood.
- Early dinner + sunset walk along the waterfront.
- Optional: quick lighthouse stop if you arrive early.
- Pick one coastal loop: beaches + lighthouse + small harbor town.
- Lunch: seafood shack (simple, local, no fuss).
- Evening: breweries, bookstores, or a slow neighborhood stroll.
- Drive toward Mount Desert Island, stopping at one scenic point.
- Afternoon: an easy Acadia trail to set the tone.
- Evening: early dinner + plan the next day’s “big hike.”
- Sunrise (optional) + one signature hike or viewpoint.
- Midday: carriage roads / lake-side calm / picnic.
- Golden hour: coastal overlook + relaxed dinner.
- Either stop in Camden on the way back or add a slow morning in Acadia.
- Grab bakery snacks for the drive.
- Return to Portland (or head to the airport) with time to spare.
What to eat
Maine food is simple and satisfying. Prioritize freshness, local spots, and “one great meal” per day.
Don’t overplan—your best finds often come from a sign on the road and a line of locals.
Day trips
If you want to build more internal content later, turn each of these into a dedicated post.
Example: “A perfect day trip from Portland” → link it from here.
Budget & costs
Summer weekends cost more. If you’re flexible, shoulder season gives you the same scenery for less. Book your stay first—everything else can be improvised.
Practical tips
- Pack layers even in summer—coastal air can turn cool fast.
- Start early in Acadia to avoid parking stress.
- For road trips: download offline maps for spotty areas.
- Give yourself one “no-plan” afternoon—Maine is best slow.
FAQ
How many days do you need in Maine?
For first-timers, 4–6 days is ideal: 2 days coast/city + 2–3 days Acadia.
Is Maine good to visit in the fall?
Yes—September and early October are excellent for hiking, foliage, and fewer crowds.
Where should I base myself for Acadia?
Bar Harbor and nearby Mount Desert Island areas are the most convenient bases.
Do I need a car in Maine?
For a coastline + Acadia trip, yes. A car makes everything easier and more flexible.