Which quaint coastal Maine town

Question

Hi. We are in late 70s and can no longer hike, bike or walk up hills. We are driving from Ohio and open to any coastal town in Maine. We’re thinking mid September. We’d like to be by a beach for short walks, shopping with cute stores, restaurants and coffee shops to sit and people watch or gaze at the water. I’d like some pottery studios, if possible. If there’s an art show or music festival that would be great. Have been to Boothbay Harbor, K’bunk, Ogunquit but, it’s been many years. Perkins Cove sounds cute. We’re thinking 10 days but flexible. Also thinking about stopping in the Berkshires on the way home. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks so much.

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a wonderful trip to coastal Maine! For a relaxed, low-impact vacation with beautiful beaches, art galleries, and quaint shops, there are several great towns that could suit your needs. Based on your interests, I have a few suggestions that should offer the right combination of accessibility, charm, and amenities.

1. Ogunquit: Since you've been to Ogunquit before, it might be worth considering again. Ogunquit is a very walkable town with a lot of accessible attractions. The town is flat, which is perfect for those who have trouble walking up hills. The Marginal Way is a scenic coastal path that is mostly paved and easy to navigate, offering beautiful views of the ocean without too much exertion. Ogunquit has a vibrant arts scene, with pottery studios and art galleries scattered throughout town. The town also offers several great coffee shops, restaurants, and boutiques, particularly in the village center and by Perkins Cove. Since you'll be visiting in mid-September, you'll likely catch some of the local art shows or festivals, as it’s a lovely time for the Ogunquit Arts Festival. You can also enjoy the beach and its lovely, accessible shoreline.

2. Kennebunkport: Just a short drive from Ogunquit, Kennebunkport is another charming town with a lot to offer. It's a bit more upscale, with lots of quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants along its Main Street. The town has beautiful beaches, including Goose Rocks Beach, where you can enjoy a gentle walk by the sea. There's a strong arts community here as well, with pottery studios like the Kennebunkport Art Gallery, and a number of local events in September. The town is flat and very walkable, making it easy to explore without worrying about hills. There are also music festivals and live performances in local venues, so it’s a great choice for a cultural experience while still being relaxing.

3. Camden: Camden is another picturesque coastal town, located further north along the coast. The town is home to beautiful views of the water, charming shops, and art galleries. Camden is known for its vibrant arts scene, so you'll find pottery studios, art galleries, and craft shops that feature local artists. The harbor area is quite flat and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can sit and enjoy the view. While the town is set on a hill, much of the downtown area is easy to explore with short walks, and you can also enjoy a scenic drive up to Camden Hills State Park for a view of the area. Camden is often less crowded than places like Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, offering a more relaxed vibe for your trip.

4. Rockport: Located right next to Camden, Rockport is an equally charming and quieter option. It’s a small town, but it has a picturesque harbor, art galleries, and a slower pace of life. This town offers several accessible spots for short walks along the water, and you’ll find a number of boutique shops and coffee spots to sit and people-watch. The Rockport Art Association & Museum is a highlight, and there are a few pottery studios in the area as well. Rockport is ideal for those looking for a quieter, more peaceful experience without the hustle and bustle of a larger tourist destination.

5. Boothbay Harbor: If you haven't been back to Boothbay Harbor recently, it might be worth a revisit! It offers a lovely, accessible town with scenic views, shopping, and galleries. It’s a charming town with lots of opportunities for short walks, particularly along the waterfront. There are also some beautiful gardens and nature spots that might interest you, such as the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, where you can see the trolls in September. The town has a number of quaint restaurants and cafes, and while it’s not as busy as Ogunquit or Kennebunkport, it still has plenty to see and do.

6. Wells and Wells Beach: If you want a quieter spot with less tourist traffic, Wells is a charming town with a more relaxed vibe. It’s home to several beaches, including Wells Beach, which is great for easy walks along the shore. Wells also has several pottery studios, art galleries, and a few good restaurants and cafes where you can sit and relax. It’s a good base if you want to explore the surrounding towns like Ogunquit or Kennebunkport while still staying in a quieter place.

In the Berkshires: If you’re thinking of stopping in the Berkshires on your way back, I recommend checking out towns like Lenox or Stockbridge. Both towns have beautiful art galleries, quaint shops, and lovely areas for walking. You can explore Norman Rockwell’s museum in Stockbridge or enjoy a peaceful stroll around the town center. Lenox is home to the Tanglewood music festival, which is a great cultural spot, especially if you enjoy classical music.

Summary of Recommendations:

Ogunquit (if you haven’t visited recently, still a top choice for accessible walks and great shopping, art, and restaurants)
Kennebunkport (quaint, with flat streets, lovely beaches, and a vibrant arts scene)
Camden (relaxing with arts galleries and easy walks, plus great views)
Rockport (quiet, scenic, and perfect for short walks and art lovers)
Boothbay Harbor (a charming option for art, nature, and a relaxed vibe)
Wells (if you’re looking for a quieter, peaceful place near the beach)

I hope this helps, and that you have a wonderful time exploring Maine’s beautiful coastline!