Boothbay Harbor is a postcard-perfect rendering of a quintessential Maine fishing community, symbiotically balanced with touristy shops, eateries, galleries, and lodging.
Predominantly a seasonal resort town, things pretty much go dark around here in the off-season…although Mainers are pretty tough customers, and there will always be cold-hardy establishments keeping the lights on throughout those long, dark winter evenings—bars included.
Because what’s better than sipping a Hot Toddy or a tot of whiskey inside a cozy, lively pub while the winter winds howl outside?
Map of Boothbay Habor Bars
Here is a handy map of the various bars in and around Boothbay Harbor:
Boothbay Craft Brewery, Taphouse & RV
Open year-round and featuring a brewery, restaurant, and its “secret,” speakeasy-style Watershed Tavern upstairs, Boothbay Craft Brewery & Taphouse is several experiences in one—and if you’re staying at the on-site RV park, no need for a designated driver.
The atmosphere is warm and woodsy, and the Watershed also has a pool table and several other tabletop games.
If you’re a fan of dark beer, I recommend giving their Steganos New England Imperial Stout a try—it goes perfectly with the Flourless Chocolate Lava Cake.
Location: 301 Adams Pond Rd, Boothbay, ME 04537
Website: Boothbay Craft Brewery
Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar & Restaurant
The Boathouse is only closed for a few weeks in April, thankfully—and while I typically recommend bellying up to the bar in most establishments, this is one of few spots I’ll advise you otherwise if the weather is nice.
That’s because the best place to be when the sun is shining, the ocean is within sight, and you have your favorite drink in hand is in a comfortable seat on a waterfront deck…which the Boathouse conveniently has.
The food/drink menu here is impressive, indeed—and on a hot summer day, nothing goes down better than a Straw Hat: Tito’s with strawberry puree and pink lemonade.
Location: 12 By-Way, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar & Restaurant
Brady’s
Another year-round option, Brady’s is a casual, friendly establishment that feels like a favorite uncle’s hunting cabin.
With an outdoor, waterfront bar (in-season; “The Foofa Bar”) and a full pub-style menu, Brady’s is the type of place that makes you want to pull up a barstool and stay awhile.
The staff is always friendly and welcoming, and no matter where you hail from, you’ll feel like a regular before you leave.
Location: 25 Union St, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: Brady’s
The Dory Pub
This historic pub is located at The Thistle Inn and Tavern—and you will feel as though you’ve stepped back in time when you walk through the door.
The bar itself is an actual dory, topped with glossy hardwood for the bartender to slide your chosen libation of choice along.
There is a delightful pub fare menu and a full complement of beer, wine, and spirits at the ready—keep your eye out for happy hour specials from 4-5.
Location: 55 Oak St, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: The Dory Pub
Footbridge Brewery
This microbrewery/tasting room is open all year crafting their small-batch artisan ales.
“Come for the beer and leave as friends” is the motto at Footbridge, and it’s easy to see why once you’ve visited.
The folks here are friendly and chatty—and they love to talk beer.
Take a peek at the food and drink menu and you’re sure to find a brew that tickles your fancy, even if you’re not usually a beer person, like me.
Prefer full-bodied red wine? Try the Tugboat Coffee Stout. More of a white or rosé type? Go for the Struberry Rhubarb Farmhouse Ale.
Location: 25 Granary Way, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: Footbridge Brewery
Carriage House Restaurant
Open all year except for a week off in April, the Carriage House is an upscale eatery with an unpretentious, cozy vibe.
Also featuring a boat-bar, the repurposed “S.S. Belly-Up” dingy is the perfect spot to do just that.
The creative fare here is described as “modern dishes that capture the flavors of the season,” and the cocktail offerings are just as intriguing.
I recommend the Seaside Spicy Mango: Bacardi, lemon, jalapeño-infused agave, mango puree, and club soda.
Location: 388 Ocean Point Rd, East Boothbay, ME 04544
Website: Carriage House Restaurant
The Seafarer’s Pub
Now we move on to the seasonal spots—of which there are many. Located at the Carousel Marina, the Seafarer’s Pub is the bar portion of the Whale’s Tale Restaurant.
True to its name, it is full of maritime décor and kitsch, and the diminutive corner bar offers seating for eight, in addition to the high-top tables and counters.
There is also waterfront deck seating—perfect for enjoying an ice-cold G&T or beer while watching the sun setting over the harbor.
Location: 125 Atlantic Ave, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: The Seafarer’s Pub
The Deck Bar & Grill
Whether you come by boat, bike, or Batmobile, come as you are to the Linekin Bay Resort’s seasonal waterfront restaurant and bar.
Set just far enough away from the center to be peaceful, The Deck Bar & Grill offers lawn and deck seating if you prefer to be outside—and a bar inside if you’d rather exchange stories with the friendly bartenders.
Location: 92 Wall Point Rd, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: The Deck Bar & Grill
Pier One Pizza and Pub
More of a seasonal sports bar than pizza joint, Pier One is a local favorite for both aspects.
With daily happy hour specials, plenty of local and domestic brews on tap, and a full bar, Pier One is usually pretty busy, regardless of what teams are playing on TV.
The menu is full of sport-centric sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and calzones; there is also a dartboard and jukebox to further add to the lively atmosphere here.
Location: 15 Wharf St, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: Pier One Pizza and Pub
The Marina Lounge
The seasonal Marina Lounge and Top Deck are located at the Tugboat Inn, right on the harbor—so you won’t be lacking water views as you enjoy your drink.
With an extensive beer and wine list to accompany the full bar service, The Marina Lounge is the perfect way to cap off a long day of touring the Boothbay Harbor area.
If you can, grab a seat on the Top Deck for the best views—and check the website for this summer’s live music schedule.
Location: 80 Commercial St, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Website: The Marina Lounge
727 Ocean Sunset Bar
Just a short drive from the hullaballoo of Boothbay Harbor center, this seasonal bar is located at the Smuggler’s Cove Oceanfront Inn.
Enjoy sweeping views of Linekin Bay as you enjoy a craft cocktail, an icy cold local beer, and a bite or two from the creative bar menu, full of elevated pub fare and snacks.
Location: 727 Ocean Point Rd, East Boothbay, ME 04544
Website: 727 Ocean Sunset Bar
As is par for the course, I’ve run out of real estate for this write-up.
So, please, I beg of you—make sure to consider the following seasonal spots as well the next time you’re looking for the best bar in Boothbay.
Speaking of par—Coastal Prime is located at the Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort and is a great, high-end spot for craft cocktails on the waterfront.
Located at one end of the historic footbridge, the HarborSide 1901 Bar & Grill is another fantastic harbor-front option for signature cocktails with a view, as is Mine Oyster, where you can also catch some great live music.
Taka Mediterranean Bar & Grill also features live music and has billiards; and both Fisherman’s Wharf Restaurant and Boothbay Lobster Wharf are classic, pier-side restaurants that feature full bar service and seating.
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