Town of Castine, Maine

Castine is a small historic town in Hancock County. Its location is often described as ‘under the Elms and by the Sea’ by residents and visitors to this lovely area.

And it is one of the oldest communities in North America dating back to the early 1600s.

Castine is part of the Downeast Maine Acadia Region which includes the area between the Kennebec and St Croix Rivers. This area contains a lot of rich history as it was settled by the French in the 1630s, the Dutch around 1674 and the English around 1713.

This scenic town of about 1500 residents lies on a peninsula in beautiful Penobscot Bay. The harbor here is one of the deepest in all of New England.

There is always something going on at this picturesque waterfront venue: weddings, celebrations, foliage cruises, sailing and kayaking.

Exploring Castine Maine

Visitors flock here from Spring to Fall each year to take in the sights, play on or in the water, or visit nearby Bar Harbor or Acadia National Park. And residents are proud of their community and highly rated schools, including the Maine Maritime Academy.

A Little History Of Castine

Castine officially became a town in 1796 after many years of conflict and land disputes. There were many forts and missions here throughout the years from early 1600 on.

Finally the town was established and named for Baron Jean Vincent de St Castin, a French nobleman and adventurer. Castin was one of the first to settle here and set up a trading post in the 1670s. He went on to marry the daughter of Madockawondo, chief of a local tribe, and was well respected and revered.

Castine is a historic town with a lot of French and Greek revival homes. And many of its 18th and 19th century Georgian and Federal style houses are still in great condition because of the loving care that has been put into preserving their heritage.

Throughout the town you’ll find signs and markers highlighting places of importance. The Castine Historical Society hosts walking tours to offer visitors a glimpse into this other time period.

These tours operate from July until mid October each year. You can find more information on their website.

Another interesting activity to check out here is the House and Garden Tour. Since 1924, the Historical Society has offered an up close view of the houses here in this almost island-like seaside village where time appears to have stood still.

Also check out their Living History collection, covering 40 years of video and audio interviews of local stories.

Another interesting place to visit while in Castine is the Wilson Museum and Campus, located at 120 Perkins St and open May through September.

This campus was founded in 1921 by geologist Dr John Howard Wilson to preserve all of the many artifacts, rocks and fossils that he had collected from his travels all over the world.

Also located here are The Village Blacksmith and The John Perkins House, which is a perfectly preserved colonial American home.

Lodging In Castine

If you’re looking for someplace to stay near town and near the sea then look no further than these two historic inns:

The Pentagoet Inn and Wine Bar Located at 26 Main St and built in 1894, this landmark lodging is the oldest original summer inn still in operation today.

The inn is of the Queen Anne Victorian style with a beautiful wraparound porch. This porch is a great place to sit and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Enjoy a relaxing glass of wine and sample one of their small plates of local flavor while you’re taking in the spectacular views.

And after you are well rested, take a short walk over to Dyce Head Lighthouse. This lighthouse was built in 1829 and is part of the United States Lighthouse Society’s Tour.

Nearby Castine Inn offers similar views and comfort (and also a wraparound porch).

The historic Castine Inn, built in 1898, is located at 33 Maine St close to downtown and overlooking the sea. Inside you’ll find The Madockawando pub with its cozy atmosphere, full bar and light snacks.

Arts and Entertainment In Castine

If you plan to visit during the summer you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained on top of the normal summer activities such as swimming, boating, hiking and sightseeing. There is also golfing, outdoor concerts, shopping and lots of food.

One notable place to check out for both shopping and food is The Compass Rose Bookstore and Cafe, located at 3 Main St.

And if you’re able to, come check out the Plein Air Festival. Plein air translates into painting outside and is a chance for local artists to hone their craft and sell some of their pieces in this annual fundraiser for The Castine Arts Association.

The Association was created in 1995 as a way of promoting awareness and appreciation for visual, literary and performing arts of the local area.

Castine is a beautiful place to visit or live, with its breathtaking views of the sea and its small town appeal. You’ll enjoy your stay here whatever time of the year.

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