Town of Naples, Maine

Naples is a scenic town in Cumberland County and about 30 miles outside of Portland. The town itself consists of Naples, South Naples, Edes Falls, and Kimballs Corner and is very much a resort area.

Visitors from all over flock to this fast-growing Lake and Mountain region to play and relax all year long. Swim, boat, fish, hike, bike, ski, golf, shop for antiques and try the local flavors at the many restaurants located here.

The History of Naples, Maine

The area was first settled in 1790 and was named for Naples in Italy in 1834. The beautiful lakes quickly drew in visitors from all over and tourism became their #1 industry. Some notable visitors of the time were Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Nathaniel Hawthorne.

The Naples Historical Society maintains some of that early history and you can get a glimpse of this early tourism boom in their museum located at 19 Village Green. They also have a small complex of buildings including an old jail.

Two houses also worth checking out if you have an interest and the time are the Manor House, which is a 1790s well preserved Federal-style home. Another location to visit is the Sam Perley Farm, which is a prime example of an early 19th century New England farm.

Exploring Naples Maine

Naples is a beautiful area to visit with gorgeous views of the water and mountains. And its small-town appeal. It’s a great place to live too!

There are many bodies of water in Naples and the surrounding area, including Long Lake Sebago Lake, Brandy Pond, Chute River, Holt Pond Nature Reserve, and Sebago Lake State Park, which includes 1400 acres of woodlands, trails, beach, ponds, and a river.

Plan ahead to include a couple of these on your visit to Naples as well as including a stop at one or more of the following attractions.

Songo River Queen II lets you take a scenic riverboat tour of Long Lake in this replica of the famous Mississippi River Paddle Wheeler. It has two decks and can accommodate large groups and private charters.

Since 1929 seaplane tourism has been popular in this area. Naples Seaplane Adventures continues this tradition with scenic flights over Naples and beyond including views of the lakes and mountains. You can choose your adventure and distance, whether it’s close by or a 25 to 50-mile flight.

Songo Locks is the original hand-operated lock system was built in the 1830s and the part located in Naples is still in use today. The locks linked Long Lake to the Atlantic Ocean near Portland via the Oxford-Cumberland Canal at one time. It’s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and you can learn more about it at the Naples Historical Society Museum.

Things To Do in Naples, Maine

The Maine Blues is always held over Father’s Day Weekend in June. This popular music venue also features vendors, art and a raffle.

The Classic Antique Wooden Boat Show offers several days of fun and live entertainment every August.

The Naples Causway allows you to walk along the water and shop, eat or relax on one of the benches overlooking the water.

Where To Stay in Naples, Maine

There are many places to stay in and around Naples. And most have scenic lake views.

Lakeview Inn is a Bed and Breakfast that was built in 1906 and was originally a boarding house for young women who worked at the many nearby resorts. It was turned into a B&B during the 1980s and then in 2014 it was completely renovated and became a seasonal inn. Now The Lakeview Inn is open year-round.

The Inn has 16 unique Guest Rooms with lake views. They offer a 3-course breakfast for their guests and are conveniently located near the marina where there are many shops and restaurants to visit.

Fox Hollow Cottages is located at 50 Fox Hollow Rd and on Brandy Pond. Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and lake. Guests are allowed free use of the owner’s canoe, rowboat, and kayaks. On the property, there is also a nice sandy beach, picnic tables in a wooded area, and a fireplace perfect for roasting marshmallows.

Augustus Bove House was built in 1890 and originally named The Naples Hotel. This year-round Bed and Breakfast has both rooms in the main house and smaller cottages that you can rent. Several rooms have private porches and spectacular views of Long Lake and The Causeway, and they are within walking distance to the many shops and restaurants located there.

Where to Eat in Naples, Maine

There are many wonderful restaurants here in Naples. Whether you are looking for seafood, burgers, ice cream, fine dining, or casual you’re sure to find it here.

Freedom Cafe and Pub is a seasonal restaurant offers waterfront dining and live music.

Gary’s Olde Towne Tavern is a casual pub cuisine in a 1860s farmhouse setting. There’s live music here during the summer.

Rick’s Cafe is located on The Causeway and offers a full menu, live music, and indoor and outdoor seating.

Naples Lobster Pound offers delicious fresh lobster in season, as well as other seafood choices to take out.

Come visit Naples, you’ll love it!

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