Town of Boothbay, Maine

One of the most popular destinations in Maine’s “peninsula region,” Boothbay—and its harbor—encapsulates all the best qualities a seaside village should possess…without sacrificing modern amenities and an array of dining, lodging, and unique attractions. Keeping in mind that this region is primarily a summer tourist haven, be sure to check their websites before setting out for your Boothbay vacation, as many are seasonal.

Cabbage Island Clambakes is a prime example of Maine-style creativity and hospitality. Here, you will enjoy a scenic cruise along the rocky coastline before disembarking on Cabbage Island—and that’s just the beginning of your adventure. Your package includes a real, honest-to-goodness clambake meal, and then you’ll have free range of the private island; stroll the wooded trails, play volleyball, badminton, or horseshoes, it’ll be a day you’ll not soon forget.

Exploring Boothbay Maine

Speaking of trails, the Boothbay Region Land Trust has wisely set aside protected areas throughout the Boothbay area for all manner of outdoor activities and interests, including several island preserves accessible only by boat, such as Damariscove Island. This preserve features easy trails that meander along the waterfront and through sunlit fields; there are so many perfect picnic spots with amazing views, you’ll struggle to choose just one.

For live entertainment, check out the performance calendars at the Carousel Music Theater or the Opera House at Boothbay Harbor. The Carousel is a true dinner theater, offering package prices for a full-menu dinner and tickets to the show. The Opera House is actually a community center housed in the historic 1894 Boothbay Opera House; their annual schedule presents over 100 different performances and events.

The Maine State Aquarium is the perfect family-friendly activity for a rainy day. Offering a huge touch-tank and other hands-on learning activities, this Department of Marine Resources gem is a great way to spend an afternoon—and be sure to visit Neptune, their 14-pound male lobster.

If you are interested in the region’s history, stop into the museum at the Boothbay Region Historical Society and stroll through the Elizabeth F. Reed house to enjoy six rooms of informative documentation and memorabilia before taking in the surrounding grounds of Fullerton Park.

And we would be utterly remiss if no mention was made of the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, one of Boothbay’s don’t-miss attractions. During the spring and summer, the Gardens are a true wonder—be sure to set aside time to visit, especially if you have a green thumb. While the gardens themselves are seasonal, their outdoor holiday light display, Gardens Aglow, is another spectacle not to be missed.

Boothbay also has a wide variety of water-centric amusement options—for obvious reasons. For folks that prefer more active participation in the ocean-going effort, Tidal Transit Kayak Adventures puts the power in your hands—and it doesn’t matter if you’ve never even seen a kayak before, because your rental includes a hands-on tutorial from one of their knowledgeable staff members. Or, if you just want to kick back and watch the waves roll by, try Cap’n Fish’s Cruises or Sail Muscongus day tours. Cap’n Fish offers harbor cruises and various “sea-faris”—sea creature spotting tours, if you will—and one of Sail Muscongus’s most popular trips is their sailing lobster boat tour (it’s like a history of Maine lobstering lesson and a scenic ocean joyride all in one).

Shopping and Snacking in Boothbay

As you can imagine, Boothbay doesn’t lack shopping options, either—no matter what you’re on the hunt for. Looking for that perfect artist’s rendition of the harbor to hang in your living room, or an artisan-crafted creation to remind you of the trip? Try Abacus Gallery, Ed Brown’s Wharfside Gallery, or Dirty Bird Pottery.

And beyond galleries, there are myriad gift shops and emporiums in which to while away an afternoon. Stop into Eventide for olive oil and food-related gifts, Coastal Maine Popcorn Company for popcorn-related gifts, Two Salty Dogs for pet-related gifts, or the Mung Bean gift shop for…well, gift-related gifts.

If the idea of shopping doesn’t float your boat, then maybe a little nibble might be in order. In the mood for something sweet? Orne’s Candy Store is sure to have something to take care of your craving. Or, if you’re looking for more of a specialty coffee or tea fix, take your pick: Mama D’s Café, the Blue Moon Café, and the Red Cup Coffee House all offer extensive hot drink menus in addition to fresh and delicious breakfast and lunch items.

When dinnertime rolls around, you won’t be strapped for dining options, either. The Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar and Restaurant is a real find—and is open year-round. The menu is huge, the food is creative and delicious, and the people are warm and welcoming (be sure to check out their rooftop bistro!). If you’re visiting during high season and are just looking for a real, Maine-style seafood fest, go to Kaler’s, and be sure to bring your appetite!

For hand-crafted brews and food to go with them, check out Footbridge Brewery or Boothbay Craft Brewery. Both feature extensive menus of artisan-brewed ales, IPAs, stouts, and lagers; Footbridge offers a small but fantastic light fare menu to accompany your hoppy adventure, and Boothbay Brewery is a farm-to-table, tavern-style restaurant…and, oh yeah—they are also an RV resort, for those of you looking to stay a while.

Stay a While in Boothbay

And while we’re on the topic of staying, there are many lodging options in Boothbay, some of which have fantastic in-house restaurants, as well. The Thistle Inn, Fisherman’s Wharf Inn and Restaurant, Boothbay Harbor Inn, Linekin Bay Resort, Spruce Point Inn and Spa, and the iconic Tugboat Inn and Restaurant all offer at least one full-service restaurant, most of which suggest reservations. Other establishments, such as the Harborage Inn on the Oceanfront, Harbour Towne Inn on the Waterfront, and Blue Heron Seaside Inn offer breakfast options only.

Even if just stopping in on your way north to Bar Harbor, be sure to set aside at least a day to take in the sights and sounds of this seaside haven—and be sure to stroll across the harbor footbridge at sunset. Stop at its center, then slowly spin in a circle to take in the breathtakingly beautiful, postcard-perfect scene around you—and we dare you to try and not take a picture.

Related Posts