Town of Gouldsboro, Maine

Gouldsboro is a small coastal town in Hancock County on the Schoodic Peninsula. It is a community made up of many fishing villages giving it an authentic “Downeast” way of life, a much slower pace than the resort area of nearby Bar Harbor.

Gouldsboro includes the villages of Birch Harbor, Corea, Prospect Harbor, South Gouldsboro, West Gouldsboro, Gouldsboro Peninsula, Summer Harbor, Wonsqueak Harbor, Bunker’s Harbor, Chicken Mill, Jone’s Pond, and Westbay.

The slogan here is, “Many Villages, One Community.”

Exploring Gouldsboro Maine

A Little History of Gouldsboro

In 1789 the town of Gouldsboro was established and named for Robert Gould, one of the early settlers to the area. Many of these early settlers were fishermen and farmers (wheat, rye, corn, and potatoes were plentiful).

Because of the close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Canadian border, shipyards were built during the 1800s. The local historical society has an archive (The Blance Archive) of the early families and businesses that thrived here.

The Museum, in the Old Town House on 88 Old Route 1, contains not only the Blance Archive, but also exhibits and artifacts from archeological digs in the area. Interesting to see what life has looked like in this region over time and also to get a glimpse into the past before the land was settled.

A Perfect Vacation Destination

Gouldsboro is a peaceful, tranquil area. When you’re here you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time to a quieter slower pace of life.

Popular activities here include boating, swimming, hiking, fishing, camping and eating (lobster and homemade ice cream especially!). And because Gouldsboro is close to Bar Harbor you also have convenient access to their shops and restaurants (and more lobster and ice cream!).

Beautiful Schoodic Peninsula is a great place to visit to hike, camp, birdwatch or check out one of the many lighthouses in the area. You can view nearby Mount Desert Island from here as well.

The large body of water between Schoodic Peninsula and Mount Desert Island is named Frenchman Bay. It was named for the famous French explorer, Samuel de Champlain, who chartered the area in 1604.

There are many spectacular trails here along the Schoodic Peninsula, such as Corea Heath, Taft Point, and The Frances B Wood Preserve. And the Porcupine Islands here are a kayaker’s dream. Spend a day on the trails and another winding your way from island to island.

If you’re up for an adventure, Acadia National Park is close by and connected by way of Bunker’s Harbor and Bar Island.

Acadia is one of the top ten most visited national parks in the US. Its 47,000 acres of woods, rocky beaches, roads and trails make it unique from other parks.

It’s common to spot moose, bear, whales, and seabirds while driving through the park or hiking through some 158 miles of hiking trails. This is an experience like no other and definitely something you’ll want to add to your vacation plans.

Places to Stay, Eat and Shop Nearby

There are many great places to stay when you visit Gouldsboro.

If you’re interested in backcountry camping and love to sleep outside in your own tent check out Acadia East Campground on Route 1.

Or if down-home comfort is more your thing then these B&Bs might be more to your liking:

• Elsa’s Inn on the Harbor is a comfortable 1800s bed and breakfast located in the heart of Schoodic Peninsula and only two miles from Acadia National Park. Open year round.
• Bluff House Inn is located at 57 Bluff House Rd, Gouldsboro. Enjoy the views from their wraparound porch, both upstairs and downstairs and take a swim in the private beach located here. And pets are welcome to stay.

While you’re visiting you’re sure to get hungry, be sure to check out these local favorites:

• The Pickled Wrinkle is located at 9 E Schoodic Dr, Birch Harbor. Open year round, this location serves seafood, burgers, and pub food.
• Wharf & Gallery Grill is located at 13 Gibbs Lane. Open seasonally, this restaurant anserves yummy lobster rolls, seafood, and homemade ice cream.

Maine is a collectors and antiquer’s dream and this area is rich with history and culture. Check out some local shops for one-of-a-kind finds and handmade decor.

Antique Boutique is located in the newly renovated Old General Store. They offer antique furniture, clothing, jewelry, and home decor here.

Maine Kiln Works offers many beautiful pottery items sold here. This place is the perfect stop for that one of a kind special purchase.

Whether you’re visiting or thinking about moving here, you won’t be disappointed with the area and all it has to offer. Take a step back in time and explore nature.

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