Are you looking for a retreat, to unwind and relax? Look no further than Boothbay Harbor, a charming seaside town in Maine. Home to rocky shores, a bustling harbor and fresh seafood eateries.
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When to go
Winter
- Average temperature: 17-37 °F
- Average snowfall: 50-70 inches
A lot of hotels and restaurants are in hibernation and are closed for the season. Despite the plummeting temperatures, holiday celebrations like Boothbay Lights which offer everything from s’mores with Santa to fireworks, and enchanting Gardens Aglow event that boasts 750,000+ of twinkling lights, are sure to warm your heart.
Spring
- Average temperature: 42-70 °F
- Average rainfall: 15-17 inches
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens overflow with an array of stunning Spring flowers, and hotels and restaurants open their doors to welcome their guests.
Summer
- Average temperature: 70-85 °F
- Average ocean water temperature: 60-65 °F
The water activities are in full swing and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor dining. The annual Windjammer Days event is celebrated in June, with activities like lobster eating contest, tug of war across the harbor, lighted boat parade and fireworks. This is a peak season for tourism, expect sold out activities and booked out hotels.
Fall
- Average temperature: 38-67 °F
- Average rainfall: 16-19 inches
Don’t let the rainy weather put a damper on your plans. New England Fall is famous for its unmatched vibrant foliage. It’s no surprise, that this is another popular tourist season. The annual Fall Foliage Festival event is celebrated in October, in a small vintage village, featuring dozens of vendor booths, live entertainment and delicious food.
Where to stay
SPI is a secluded oceanfront haven, only minutes away from the town center. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze and the unsurpassed ocean view, as you lounge on a hammock, or take a leisurely bike ride into town for a succulent crab cake.
Amenities: Oceanside pool, spa, restaurants, s’mores station, pet friendly, tennis courts, shuffleboard and rentals (like bicycles, kayaks and paddleboards).
Food: 3 onsite restaurants: Whiteclover, Grandview Deck and Salty Stag.
The oceanfront inn is located in downtown Boothbay Harbor and is within walking distance of shops restaurants and water activities.
Amenities: Oceanside hot tub, free WiFi and free parking.
Food: Full gourmet and organic breakfast is delivered to your room from Memorial Day to Columbus Day.
Where to eat
Casual dining:
A family-friendly restaurant, serves classic sandwiches, fresh seafood and regional specialties, with a side of panoramic ocean views.
Waterfront restaurant with views of the historical footbridge, offers local seafood, sushi and land food options, sourced directly from local farmers and fisherman.
Spanish & American farm-to-table eatery, offers rooftop harbor views, local Maine seafood, steaks and produce, with gluten-free and vegan options.
Fine dining:
A fine dining restaurant with harbor views, serves delicious meals prepared with traditional Maine ingredients and fresh seafood.
Elegant restaurant, offers refined fare using locally sourced ingredients, exceptional service and lovely views of the coastline.
An upscale eatery in what was once a sea captains house, offers delicious meals made with local and fresh ingredients.
Coffee and sweet delights
With over 65 flavors of ice cream to choose from, there is something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Looking to get local with your flavor choice? Try their Blueberry Cheesecake or Whoopie Pie flavors. They also offer sugar-free ice cream, frozen yogurts and vegan sorbets.
What to do
1. Indulge in clambakes
Sail to Cabbage Island past lighthouses and seals and enjoy a traditional clambake – steamed over open fire. After a hearty meal you can explore the island, play horseshoe, volleyball or just relax on the lawn and enjoy the sweeping views of the ocean. The boat ride takes about 1hr each way. Plan ahead, Cabbage Island Clambakes book out fast!
2. Kayak to Burnt Island Lighthouse
Paddle the pristine waters to Burnt Island Lighthouse built in 1821 (the second oldest in Maine) and located on a 5-acre island, accessible only by kayak or boat. Kayak rentals are available at Maine Kayak Boothbay Harbor Shop.
3. Go on a wildlife cruise
Enjoy narrated Cap’n Fish’s Cruises with breathtaking 360-degree views of the coastline. Spot seals, harbor porpoise and other wildlife. The boat rides range from 1.25hrs – 4hrs, depending on the type of tour you choose. Snacks and beverages are available for purchase at the galley. Be sure to bring warm layers, but if you forget, sweatshirts and blankets are available for purchase.
4. Explore Monhegan Island
Catch a ferry and explore the small rocky island with unpaved roads, accessible only by boat. Hike the lush trails that lead to the ocean cliffs, peruse gift shops for handmade souvenirs or soak up the sun relaxing on the beach. The ferry (The Balmy Days II) boat ride can take anywhere between 1hr – 1.5hrs each way.
5. Meander through the gardens
Wander through the largest botanical garden in New England (Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens), featuring 300 acres of gardens, a native butterfly/moth house and giant trolls. See if you can find all five trolls hidden throughout the garden.
6. Set sail and escape the noise
Sail on some of Boothbay Harbor’s oldest windjammers with Schooner Eastwind Applejack, past the outer islands and lobstermen at work. You will even get a chance to help hoist sails and steer the boat. The boat tour takes about 2hrs.
7. Stroll the Pedestrian Footbridge (built in 1901)
Grab an ice cream cone and enjoy it on one of the benches on the iconic pedestrian footbridge built in 1901. Soak in the sea breeze and the lovely views of the bustling harbor.
8. Peruse local shops
Stroll the charming streets lined with local shops and boutiques and discover unique, Maine-themed souvenirs.
1-day sample itinerary
Start your day out on the deck overlooking the harbor as it awakens, with a hot cup of coffee and mouthwatering pancakes loaded with Maine blueberries from Blue Moon Cafe.
Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets and explore the local art galleries, shops and boutiques. For a little more adventure, get in on one of the water activities, like kayaking or whale watching.
For lunch, head to Ports of Italy, an Italian eatery with an extensive wine list, homemade pastas and locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables. Try their Branzino, fish that was imported from Europe.
Finish off your day relaxing on the seaside deck at Coastal Prime, with a refreshing drink and a delectable, freshly-caught lobster as you watch the sunset over the harbor.