A Lobster-Lover’s Journey Through Lighthouses & Rugged Shores

Spanning 160 miles along Route 1 and Route 1A, the Maine Coast Drive winds from historic fishing villages to granite cliffs and pine-studded islands. This quintessential New England journey blends salty sea air, lobster shacks, and postcard-perfect harbors.

Begin in Kittery, home to Fort Foster Park and the Kittery Trading Post. Fuel up and grab a lobster roll at Bob’s Clam Hut before heading north.

Key Stops & Highlights

1. Portland. Portland Head Light: Maine’s oldest lighthouse (1791), framed by crashing waves in Cape Elizabeth. Old Port District: Cobblestone streets lined with breweries, boutiques, and seafood gems like Eventide Oyster Co.
2. Freeport. Shop at L.L.Bean’s 24-hour flagship store and tour the Desert of Maine a bizarre glacial sand formation.
3. Boothbay Harbor. Sail to Squirrel Island, kayak with harbor seals, or indulge in a lobster bake at Robinson’s Wharf.
4. Pemaquid Point. Climb the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse (1835) for views of the dramatic, wave-sculpted rocks below.
5. Camden. A storybook harbor town. Hike Mount Battie for panoramic Penobscot Bay views or sail aboard a historic schooner.
6. Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor. End at Cadillac Mountain, the first spot in the U.S. to see sunrise. Explore Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, and devour popovers at the Jordan Pond House.

Cap your drive in Bar Harbor, a gateway to Acadia. Detour to Winter Harbor or Deer Isle for quieter coastal charm.

Tips for the Drive

• Season: July–Sept for warm weather; October for fall foliage and fewer crowds.
• Wildlife: Watch for whales (Apr–Oct), puffins (Eastern Egg Rock), and moose (inland).
• Detours: Add the Bold Coast Scenic Byway (Cobscook Bay) or Monhegan Island ferry for rugged isolation.
• Eats: Don’t miss Red’s Eats (Wiscasset) for lobster rolls and Moody’s Diner (Waldoboro) for pie.

For lighthouses, festivals, and road alerts: visitmaine.com/articles/coastal-towns-and-villages/