Where to stay June 2025
We are planning to spend a week in Acadia next June. I think the week after we want to split between a couple other places on the coast. My teenager likes looking for sea glass, tide pools, and hiking. I like lighthouses and photography.
Would Deer Isle or Lubec be a better place to visit?
Further south where to you recommend? Georgetown, Popham, Goose Rocks, Ogunquit, York, some place else?
Thanks!
That sounds like a fantastic trip! Both Deer Isle and Lubec are unique coastal destinations in Maine, and each offers distinct experiences that could suit your interests. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Deer Isle – This picturesque island offers a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s a great choice if you want a peaceful retreat and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, tide pooling, and exploring nature. The island is known for its stunning coastline, which is perfect for photography, and there are several lighthouses in the region. Your teenager will enjoy the beaches, sea glass hunting, and tide pools, while you can explore photography opportunities along the rocky shorelines and lighthouse vistas. Deer Isle is relatively small, but its charm lies in the slower pace and natural beauty. It’s an excellent option for a quiet retreat in nature.
Lubec – If you want to venture a bit further east, Lubec is the easternmost town in the U.S. and offers a more rugged and historic atmosphere. It’s great for hiking, photography, and especially exploring lighthouses. You can visit the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, and the surrounding area is rich in sea glass and tide pools. Lubec is more remote compared to Deer Isle, but it’s an ideal spot for those seeking a mix of outdoor adventures and history. Lubec also has nearby nature reserves for hiking and wildlife watching.
Now, if you’re looking for additional places further south, here are some recommendations:
- Georgetown – Georgetown is a charming little town with beautiful coastlines, and it’s home to the famous Burnt Island Lighthouse. It’s ideal for both photography and lighthouse enthusiasts. The town is quieter than some of the more tourist-heavy areas but offers great hiking and photography opportunities along the water. A perfect spot for a laid-back coastal experience.
- Popham Beach – Located near the mouth of the Kennebec River, Popham Beach is great for beachcombing, sea glass hunting, and photography. The wide sandy beaches are a perfect spot for a relaxing day. There’s also Popham Beach State Park, with great hiking options. The nearby Sabino River Lighthouse is an added bonus for lighthouse lovers.
- Goose Rocks Beach – Located in Kennebunkport, Goose Rocks Beach is an excellent spot for beachcombing, walking, and photography. It’s not as crowded as some of the more popular beaches in the area, so you can enjoy a quieter experience. Your teenager will enjoy searching for sea glass along the shore, and you’ll get great photo ops of the coastline.
- Ogunquit – If you’re looking for a more lively and accessible town with plenty to do, Ogunquit is a classic Maine beach town. It’s known for its scenic beaches, beautiful coastal cliffs, and access to the Marginal Way trail, a 1.25-mile coastal path with incredible views. Ogunquit also offers a lively arts scene and lots of places to dine, shop, and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. It’s a great choice for families with diverse interests.
- York – York offers a mix of natural beauty, beach access, and historic sites. Short Sands Beach is great for families, and nearby Nubble Lighthouse is a popular spot for photography. York is quieter than Ogunquit but still offers a good variety of coastal activities, including hiking, beaches, and tidal pools.
Each of these places has its own charm and would make for an excellent destination depending on the type of experience you're looking for. If you want a quieter, nature-focused experience with hiking and sea glass hunting, Deer Isle or Lubec would be great. If you're looking for more activity and a lively coastal atmosphere with lots of options for dining and shopping, then Ogunquit or York would be excellent choices.
For a good mix of both quiet and lively, Popham Beach or Georgetown might strike the right balance.
Whichever places you decide to visit, it’s sure to be a beautiful and memorable trip along Maine’s stunning coastline!
