Stay and Play in Maine: Summer Staycation Ideas

With picture-perfect coastlines, pristine glacial lakes, towering mountain regions, and miles upon miles of wilderness to explore, how does a Mainer ever have time to travel anywhere else? Instead of booking plane tickets for your next getaway, consider following one of these summer staycation ideas to experience a different side of the Pine Tree State.

From the Water to the Wilderness: Summer Staycation Ideas in Maine

Float on the Lake

Mainers who live along the coast are no strangers to water, but when was the last time you could really wade into it? For your summer staycation, trade the waves for the peaceful waters that dot the Lakes and Mountains region. Bring a book or camera along to the picturesque Rangeley Lake area where you can rent a canoe or kayak to paddle in peace amongst the pines.

Soak up Sun by the Sea

The smell of balsam fir and the sound of the breeze running through pine needles is indeed relaxing, but the coastal shoreline is equally sensational. Plan your summer staycation in a spot like Ogunquit Beach to feel soft white sand between your toes, listen the waves wash ashore, and breathe in that refreshing salt air. Summer staycation ideas along Maine’s beaches aren’t limited to the sandbar, though. You’ll find a diverse selection of activities like shopping and historic sightseeing in Portland or indulging in your own lighthouse tour to popular spots like Cape Elizabeth or Cape Neddick.

Track Down Wildlife by Boat or Land

Does Maine really have more moose than people? If you live by the coast, you probably aren’t running into them too often. Spend part of your summer staycation up north on a Maine moose watching tour. If it’s been on your Maine bucket list, this may be your best bet to set eyes on that elusive state mascot.

If land animals aren’t your cup of chowder, take to the water on a boating excursion instead. Travel north for a Bar Harbor whale watching expedition to search for humpback, finback and Minke whales. For added animal variety, opt for a tour that will take you to an area frequented by puffins, seals, dolphins, and more.

Follow the Carriage Roads Through Acadia National Park

If you live in Maine and have yet to visit Acadia National Park, no other summer staycation ideas will compare to these must-see views. The park is home to over 120 miles of hiking trails, but for the sake of seeing as much of the park as you can on this trip, stick to the carriage roads for a wonderful scenic drive. We recommend the 27-mile Park Loop Road that brings visitors to breathtaking views of Sand Beach, Otter Cliffs, and Cadillac Mountain.

Tap Into the Tastes of Maine

Craft the perfect summer staycation with a focus on your favorite brews. Maine has nearly 90 active breweries throughout the state, so you can take your pick of one hoppy location or fashion your own Maine brewery tour. If you want to start with big-name brews before sipping your way to the small-town staples, begin in Portland with Allagash Brewing Company and Shipyard Brewery.

Get on the Trails

We encouraged the woodland Mainers to head to the coast, so it’s only fair that we do the same for the seafaring folks. Nearly 90% of Maine is forested, so you certainly have options as far as hiking possibilities. If you prefer sticking to southern Maine, climb the state’s second tallest peak at Sugarloaf Mountain or tackle the Appalachian Trail section that runs through the Lakes and Mountains region. Experienced trekkers that seek a challenge on their summer staycation can head north to explore the Hundred-Mile Wilderness or tackle Maine’s 5,267-foot Mount Katahdin, the largest peak in the state.

The biggest summer staycation myth is believing that you have to stay home to have one. Pack a bag and relax in luxury or boutique peace on a Maine getaway that will give you a new appreciation for the state that you call home.

You might also like ...