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1 Only the Best Places you Want to Visit Along Maine’s Route 1

Only the Best Places you Want to Visit Along Maine’s Route 1

Stretching more than 2,300 miles from Key West, Florida to Fort Kent, Maine, U.S. Route 1 is America’s longest north-south highway. Of that span, over 520 miles cut through Maine, hugging the scenic coast before curving toward the Canadian border. This isn’t just a road—it’s a living postcard of fishing villages, rocky shores, sandy beaches, lighthouses, and lobster shacks--from Kittery & York, Ogunquit, Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunkport, Portland, Boothbay, Rockland & Camden, Maine Lobster Festival, Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park.

While you could drive Maine’s portion of Route 1 in just 11.5 hours nonstop, the real magic lies in slowing down to explore the coastal towns, roadside farm stands, and iconic landmarks (that make this one of the most scenic drives in New England.

So grab your camera, pack your appetite, and set your sights on the coast. Below, you’ll find the best stops along Maine’s U.S. Route 1, from southern beaches to Downeast harbors and beyond.

Here’s a quick roadmap of what to expect as you head north to connect with Route 1:

Southeast to connect with Route 1, arriving first in coastal Kittery and York.
Continue north through Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, and Portland.
Swing into mid-coast gems like Rockland and Boothbay Harbor.
Reach Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island.
Then, head East into Downeast Maine, ending at Lubec before Route 1 veers northwest toward Fort Kent.

Ready to explore Maine’s Coastal Route 1 – Only the Best Stops? Begin your journey with these unforgettable stops:

Stop 1: Kittery & York, Maine

Historic Charm at Maine’s Southern Gateway

Nubble Light (Cape Neddick Lighthouse) Coastal US ! — York, Maine

Kittery and York are two coastal towns in southern Maine, known for their distinct characters. Kittery is the oldest incorporated town in the state and features historic charm and outlet shopping, while York is a classic, multi-part seaside village with beautiful beaches.

Located at the southernmost point of Maine, Kittery is known as the “Gateway to Maine”.

Kittery, Maine

Where Maine Begins

What to Do:

Shopping – Shop at the Kittery Outlets, one of New England’s largest shopping destinations, and for artesian and bespoke products head on over to Kittery Foreside, a downtown and central village area of Kittery, Maine. Located directly across the river from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this vibrant, “hip,” and walkable district is home to a diverse selection of eateries, ranging from upscale restaurants and noodle bars to casual burger spots and coffee shops. Local boutiques sell apparel and other goods.
Relax on the beaches – Long Sands Beach is a vast stretch of sand with great waves and plenty of street parking. For a more tranquil, family-friendly atmosphere, head to the calmer waters of Short Sands Beach, which is right by a playground and shops.

Dining:

Robert’s Maine Grill – A modern twist on Maine classics, celebrated for its farm-to-table approach, fresh lobster rolls, and a convivial atmosphere.
Pepperrell Cove – Scenic waterfront dining offering generous lobster rolls and panoramic views of southern Maine’s Cove.
Weathervane Seafood Restaurant – A beloved family-run seafood classic since 1969, known for its hearty portions and reliably fresh cuisine.
The Black Birch – a gastropub known for its creative, rotating menu.
Weathervane Seafood Restaurant – A beloved family-run seafood chain founded in Kittery in 1969, offering consistent favorites in a casual setting.

Beaches:

Fort Foster – a collection of three small sandy beaches)
Seapoint – a secluded, uncrowded, and rocky beach)
Crescent Beaches – A cluster of serene coastal spots featuring marsh-backed shores, birdwatching opportunities, and quiet walking paths.

Highlights:

Fort Foster Park: Walk the boardwalk at this former military fort, which offers scenic views of Whaleback Lighthouse and the Isles of Shoals.
History & Heritage: Kittery is the oldest incorporated town in Maine.
Traveler Tip: The best time to visit is during the summer for the full beach town experience, but the crowds are thickest then. If you prefer a quieter trip with great deals and scenery, consider traveling in the off-season.
Location: Approx. GPS: 43.1610° N, 70.6483° W (York Village Center, ME 03909)
Website: Kittery.gov

York, Maine

A Classic Beach Getaway

York is a larger town with four distinct areas: York Village, York Harbor, York Beach, and Cape Neddick.

What to Do:

Beaches: Visit York’s beaches for classic coastal fun. Popular options include Long Sands Beach, Short Sands Beach and York Harbor Beach, all with their own unique atmospheres.

Dining:

The Union Bluff Grill – Elevated coastal dining featuring locally sourced seafood and sweeping ocean views.
Sun and Surf Restaurant – The only restaurant right on Long Sands Beach—casual outdoor dining with a perfect surfside view.
Lobster Cove –Features waterfront dining and serves up classic Maine seafood dishes.
The York River Landing – Known for its craft brews, seafood, and beautiful river views.
Rosalie & Phil’s – A modern Italian deli offering hearty sandwiches and house-made desserts.
The Goldenrod – a popular cafe and candy shop since 1896, makes its own salt-water taffy.
Fox’s Lobster House – which offers fresh seafood with views of Nubble Lighthouse.

Beaches:

Long Sands Beach – A sweeping 1.3-mile stretch of soft sand, ideal for walking, sunbathing, swimming, beach games, or surfing. Metered parking is available.
Short Sands Beach – A cozy, quarter-mile pocket beach nestled between rocky cliffs in York Beach Village, offering restrooms, summer lifeguards, a promenade and seasonal events at Ellis Park.
York Harbor Beach & Cape Neddick Beach – Smaller, more secluded spots—Cape.

Highlights: Don’t miss Cape Neddick “Nubble” Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S., perched on a rocky island just offshore.
History & Heritage: One of Maine’s oldest towns, York was settled in 1624 and remains rich with colonial history, historic churches, and seaside charm.
Traveler Tip: Grab saltwater taffy or fried clams at one of the roadside stands to kick off your coastal adventure.
Location: Approx. GPS: 43.1610° N, 70.6483° W (York Village Center, ME 03909)
Website: Yorkmaine.gov

Stop 2: Ogunquit, Maine

“Beautiful Place by the Sea”

Meaning “beautiful place by the sea” in the Abenaki language, Ogunquit truly lives up to its name. Known for its sweeping sandy beach and cliffside Marginal Way footpath, this seaside village feels both vibrant and serene. With its rich artistic heritage, boutique galleries, and legendary summer theater, Ogunquit is as much a cultural destination as it is a beach retreat.

What to Do:

Walk – famous Marginal Way, a mile-long seaside path offering panoramic views of the Atlantic, or relax at Ogunquit Beach, one of the state’s most popular sandy stretches.

Dining:

Jonathan’s – A beloved Ogunquit institution since 1976, offering fine farm-to-table seafood & steaks in a charming setting with live entertainment upstairs.
The Crooked Pine – Chic all-day dining with oysters, small plates, and a globally curated wine list.
M.C. Perkins Cove – Romantic oceanfront dining nestled in Perkins Cove, celebrated for its gourmet menu and sweeping coastal views.
That Place in Ogunquit – upscale American option, this restaurant has a cosmopolitan feel with a lively bar scene.

Did You Know? The word Ogunquit means “beautiful place by the sea” in the Abenaki language. Once an artist colony, it’s now a vibrant coastal escape. Ogunquit has long been an artists’ haven, with galleries and the renowned Ogunquit Playhouse hosting Broadway-caliber shows.
Traveler Tips: For sunset views, dine al fresco along Perkins Cove, a small harbor filled with seafood restaurants and boutiques. Take the trolley between Perkins Cove and the beaches to avoid parking headaches.
Location: Approx. GPS: 43.2487° N, 70.5995° W (Ogunquit Center, ME 03907)

Stop 3: Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Classic Seaside Fun with a Retro Twist

With its lively boardwalk, Palace Playland amusement park, and seven miles of golden sand, Old Orchard Beach captures the spirit of a classic New England beach town. Since the 1800s, families have flocked here for oceanside fun, carnival rides, and fireworks over the Atlantic. It’s the perfect spot to embrace nostalgia while enjoying modern seaside entertainment.

What to Do:

Spend the day lounging on the beach or strolling the classic wooden pier, where you’ll find shops, seafood stalls, and arcades. Palace Playland—New England’s only beachfront amusement park—offers rides for kids and thrill-seekers alike. In the evening, catch a beachfront concert or fireworks show that lights up the summer sky.

Dining:

Joseph’s By the Sea – For a more elegant experience, this restaurant features upscale seafood and steak with stunning ocean views. You can dine in the elegant dining room, on the garden terrace, or on the rooftop.
Hooligans Steak and Ale – Located directly on the Old Orchard Beach Pier, this restaurant provides spectacular ocean views and is a popular spot for seafood and steaks.

Did You Know? Old Orchard Beach has long been a melting pot of summer traditions. In the early 1900s it was dubbed “the Coney Island of the North,” attracting visitors from Boston, Montreal, and beyond-for over 170 tears. Today, the town continues that legacy of lively entertainment and warm hospitality, combining nostalgic seaside fun with modern attractions with its amusement pier and carnival rides. Old Orchard Beach is a 7-mile stretch of sandy beach.
Traveler Tip: Arrive early in the day during peak season to grab a parking spot close to the beach—parking fills quickly. If you want a quieter experience, plan a sunrise walk along the southern stretch of the beach, where the sand feels endless and the crowds haven’t yet arrived.
Location: Approx. GPS: 43.5170° N, 70.3773° W (Old Orchard Beach Pier, ME 04064)

Check-out our page about Old Orchard Beach.

Stop 4: Kennebunkport, Maine

Upscale Coastal Retreat

Gooch's Lighthouse, Kennebunkport, Maine — Goat Island Lighthouse, Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport blends historic New England elegance with coastal charm. Its bustling Dock Square offers galleries, shops, and seafood restaurants, while the scenic coastline reveals oceanfront estates—including the Bush family’s Walker’s Point. Known for lobster boat tours and sailing excursions, Kennebunkport offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere for travelers seeking a taste of maritime tradition.

What to Do:

Known for its upscale charm, Kennebunkport offers art galleries, boutique shopping, and lobster shacks like The Clam Shack, famous for its lobster rolls; or cruise the coast on a lobster boat tour. Nearby, you can hike through salt marshes at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge.

Dining:

Earth at Hidden Pond – This restaurant is known for its high-end, locavore cuisine served in a striking, rustic setting that feels both luxurious and intimate. It is a premier dining destination for fresh seafood and seasonal pasta.
Mabel’s Lobster Claw – A local favorite for a traditional Maine dining experience, known for its classic seafood dishes.
Ocean Restaurant – Located inside the Cape Arundel Inn, this refined restaurant serves locally sourced Maine seafood and other seasonal dishes with spectacular ocean views.
Alisson’s Restaurant – A local institution in Dock Square, Alisson’s is a down-to-earth tavern serving classic New England seafood and pub grub. It’s a great spot for casual, delicious food like lobster rolls and chowder.
The Boathouse Restaurant – A chic, dockside eatery at the Boathouse Hotel with water views. It offers a variety of upscale seafood and American dishes with a lovely vibe and patio.
Arundel Wharf – This maritime-themed restaurant sits right on the water and offers plenty of outdoor seating. It’s a casual and scenic spot for lobster and other coastal dishes.

History: Once a shipbuilding hub, Kennebunkport later became a summer haven for wealthy visitors, including the Bush family at Walker’s Point.
Traveler Tip: Try visiting in September for warm weather and fewer tourists.Book a sailing or lobster boat tour for an authentic coastal experience.
Location: Approx. GPS: 43.3616° N, 70.4768° W (Dock Square, Kennebunkport, ME 04046)

Stop 5: Portland, Maine

Maine’s Cultural and Culinary Capital

Maine’s largest city and cultural hub, Portland is a dynamic mix of history and modern flair. Its Old Port district, with cobblestone streets and 19th-century warehouses, is alive with boutique shops, craft breweries, and nationally acclaimed restaurants. Portland is also a gateway to Casco Bay, where ferries depart for scenic islands, making it an ideal base for both urban exploration and coastal adventures.

Explore – the Old Port District, where cobblestone streets are lined with shops, breweries, and eateries. Portland is also home to one of the nation’s hottest food scenes.

Dining:

Becky’s Diner An iconic, 24/7 waterfront diner serving hearty comfort classics since 1991. A Portland staple loved for its lobster rolls, soulful breakfasts, and late-night charm.
An iconic, 24/7 waterfront diner serving hearty comfort classics since 1991. A Portland staple loved for its lobster rolls, soulful breakfasts, and late-night charm.
Fore Street Restaurant: A Portland classic, this rustic spot uses a wood-fired grill, oven, and spit to lend smoky flavors to its upscale American fare. The menu is updated daily based on fresh, local ingredients.
Scales: This waterfront restaurant on Commercial Street offers a spacious setting with harbor views. It specializes in local seafood, with a raw bar and New England comfort classics.
Eventide Oyster Co.: A destination for oyster lovers, Eventide is celebrated for its fresh oysters and innovative New England seafood dishes. It has a lively atmosphere and is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
Green Elephant Vegetarian Bistro A vibrant, all-vegetarian Thai–inspired bistro nestled in Portland’s Arts District, combining flavors from Malaysia, Thailand, China, and India. A standout for creative, plant-based fare and health-conscious innovations.

Highlights: Visit Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, Maine’s oldest lighthouse.
Did You Know? Portland boasts one of the highest restaurant-to-resident ratios in the U.S., making it a foodie’s paradise with James Beard-winning chefs and world-class breweries.
Traveler Tip: Portland is a craft beer capital—stop at breweries like Allagash or Shipyard before continuing your drive. Hop on a ferry from Casco Bay Lines for an easy day trip to one of the picturesque nearby islands.
Location: Approx. GPS 43.6591° N, 70.2568° W

Visit our: Best Things to do in Portland

Stop 6: Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Quintessential Midcoast Maine

Boothbay Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Charming and quintessentially coastal, Boothbay Harbor is known for its scenic waterfront, boat excursions, and thriving arts community. Visitors can enjoy whale-watching tours, sailing trips, and the stunning Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, one of New England’s finest. Its working harbor, dotted with fishing boats and yachts, creates the perfect backdrop for fresh seafood dining and waterfront strolls.

What to Do:

Take a whale-watching cruise, or enjoy kayaking around the islands of this lively harbor town. Boothbay’s Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are a must-visit, with expansive flower displays and sculptures and don’t forget to checkout the harbor’s artisan boutiques.

Dining:

Boothbay Lobster Wharf – Working lobster dock where you pick your catch.
Tugboat Inn’s Boothbay Harbor Restaurant – Waterfront dining with panoramic harbor views. Tugboat Inn – Boothbay Harbor Hotel
Ports of Italy – Boothbay Harbor – Upscale Italian dining by the water.

History & Heritage: Once a bustling fishing port, Boothbay Harbor is now famed for summer tourism, maritime traditions, and one of the largest boat parades in Maine.
Seasonal Event: From June 22–28, enjoy Windjammer Days—a weeklong maritime festival with schooner parades, lobster eating contests, and fireworks
Traveler Tip(s):
- The harbor is especially magical at night when boats twinkle against the water; why not take a harbor cruise to spot puffins, seals and whales!
- Time your trip for late June’s Windjammer Days festival for a spectacular fleet of tall ships.
Location: Approx. GPS 43.8529° N, 69.6280° W

Stop 7 & 8: Rockland & Camden: Midcoast Maine’s Twin Coastal Gems

Harbor Towns with a Creative Edge

Though not officially “twin towns,” Rockland and Camden are often experienced together by travelers thanks to their close proximity—just a 10-minute drive apart along the shores of Penobscot Bay. Each offers its own distinct character, yet together they form one of the most beloved stretches along Maine’s Coastal Route 1.

Rockland brims with authenticity and energy, known for its working waterfront, thriving arts scene, and iconic events like the Maine Lobster Festival and the North Atlantic Blues Festival. Camden, on the other hand, is often described as one of the most beautiful small towns in America, with its postcard-perfect harbor, boutique shops, fine dining, and the dramatic backdrop of Camden Hills State Park. Together, they represent the best of Midcoast Maine—where rugged maritime traditions meet refined coastal living.

Stop 7: Rockland, Maine

Rockland is often called the Lobster Capital of the World, home to the celebrated Lobster Festival and the Farnsworth Art Museum. Just up the road, Camden offers a postcard-perfect harbor framed by hills that burst with color in the fall. With its combination of sailing excursions, boutique shops, and access to Camden Hills State Park, this midcoast pair delivers both cultural vibrancy and natural beauty.

What to Do:

Famous for the Maine Lobster Festival and the Farnsworth Art Museum, with its impressive collection of American art including Andrew Wyeth. Walk the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, and savor fresh lobster rolls right on the pier.

Dining:

Primo Restaurant – Rockland – Mediterranean-Italian dishes with refined service.
Archers on the Pier – Rockland – Fresh seafood with stunning harbor views.
13 Oak – Rockland – Global fare from local ingredients, wood-fired flavors.

History & Heritage: Famous as the “Lobster Capital of the World,” Rockland honors its maritime roots with the Maine Lobster Festival each August.
Seasonal Event: Attend the Maine Lobster Festival—a five-day seafood party during the first weekend of August, with parades, cooking contests, and coastal community fun
Traveler Tips: The Maine Lobster Festival is five days of fun and feasting on the fabulous coast of Maine. This annual event takes place during the first weekend of August, from Wednesday through Sunday. The Rockland & Camden are the perfect harbor towns for photography—think sailboats, historic inns, and mountain-meets-sea landscapes.
Location: Approx. GPS 44.1031° N, 69.1130° W

Stop 8: Camden, Maine

Where Every Trail Ends at the Ocean

Camden is a picturesque coastal town in Maine’s Mid-Coast region, known for its scenic harbor, mountains, and affluent summer community. Often called the “Jewel of the Coast,” the town offers a blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and a rich arts and culture scene.

What to Do:

Hike up Mount Battie – for sweeping views of Penobscot Bay, take a sailing trip aboard a windjammer schooner, or wander through the charming downtown lined with galleries and gourmet restaurants.

Dining:

Salt Wharf – Camden – Waterfront dining, cocktails, and local seafood.
Natalie’s at Camden Harbour Inn – Awarded fine dining with harbor views.
Peter Ott’s on the Water – Camden – Casual, authentic harbor-side fare.
Fresh & Co – Camden – Eclectic global cuisine crafted from Maine-grown ingredients.

Did You Know? Known as the “Jewel of the Coast,” Camden is one of the few places in the world where the mountains meet the sea.
Traveler Tips: Fall foliage from Mount Battie is a can’t-miss view — the harbor glows against fiery autumn hillsides. Try the local delicacy “lobster ice cream” at a downtown shop — a quirky Rockland tradition. The Rockland & Camden are the perfect harbor towns for photography—think sailboats, historic inns, and mountain-meets-sea landscapes. Visit during Camden Windjammer Festival, an annual event every Labor Day weekend.
Location: Approx. GPS 44.2098° N, 69.0648° W

Stop 9: Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Gateway to Adventure

As the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is both lively and scenic, with bustling streets full of cafés, shops, and galleries. Just beyond town, Acadia’s rugged cliffs, mountain trails, and sweeping vistas showcase the best of Maine’s wilderness. From sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain to serene walks along Jordan Pond, Bar Harbor offers the perfect blend of seaside charm and outdoor adventure.

What to Do:

Stroll Bar Harbor’s lively waterfront, then venture into Acadia National Park. Drive the Park Loop Road or hike Cadillac Mountain, where sunrise is first seen in the U.S.

Dining:

Jordan Pond House Restaurant – This historic restaurant is famous for its afternoon tea, including fresh-baked popovers with strawberry jam and tea, served on the lawn overlooking Jordan Pond. It also offers lunch and dinner, though note that it can be very crowded, especially during peak season. The restaurant is typically open from mid-May through late October.
Side Street Cafe – A popular spot with a cozy, inviting atmosphere and outdoor seating. The menu features burgers and a variety of lobster dishes, including a local-favorite lobster roll.
Havana – Bar Harbor – Latin-inspired fine dining with an acclaimed wine program.
The Looking Glass Restaurant – Bar Harbor – Breakfast & lunch with unbeatable coastal views.

Did You Know? Cadillac Mountain is the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise in fall and winter.
Highlights: Acadia offers everything from sandy beaches to dramatic cliffs. Once a retreat for America’s elite families, Bar Harbor is now a hub for travelers from around the world.
Traveler Tips:
- Book park entry and sunrise reservations well in advance during peak season.
- Visit in early morning to beat the crowds at Acadia’s top attractions, and book whale-watching tours in advance.
- Buy your Acadia entry pass online ahead of time to avoid queues. Purchase your pass: National Park Service – Acadia
Location: Approx. GPS 44.3876° N, 68.2039° W

Stop 10: Lubec & Downeast Maine

Unspoiled coast, unforgettable Downeast

West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, Downeast, Maine

Lubec is a quiet, picturesque town in the heart of Downeast Maine, a rugged and scenic region known for its dramatic coastline and maritime heritage. As the easternmost town in the contiguous U.S., Lubec is an ideal base for exploring the area’s natural beauty and visiting the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse.

What to Do:

Visit West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, the easternmost point in the continental U.S. Explore Campobello Island, once the summer home of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Dining:

Water Street Tavern & Inn – Lubec – Waterfront casual fare with bay views and local ambiance.
Cohill’s Inn and Irish Pub – Lubec – Comfort food, pub fare, and a cozy atmosphere.
Fisherman’s Wharf Seafood & Restaurant – Lubec – Fresh local fish and seafood directly from the docks.

Highlights: This quiet area embodies Maine’s wild, unspoiled charm, with fewer crowds and dramatic coastal scenery.
Did You Know: Lubec is the easternmost town in the contiguous U.S.—a rugged endpoint filled with maritime history.
Traveler Tip: Arrive at sunrise to be one of the first people in the continental U.S. to greet the day. If you want to experience Maine at its most peaceful, plan to spend a night in Lubec or nearby.

What Makes Maine Coastal Route 1 Special

Seafood Heaven – Lobster shacks and clam huts dot the roadside.
Historic Lighthouses – Over 60 along the Maine coast, many visible from Route 1 detours.
Quaint Towns & Villages – Each stop feels like stepping into a postcard.
Four Seasons of Beauty – Summer beach days, autumn foliage by the sea, winter coastal quiet, and spring blossoms.

Traveler Tips

Best Time to Visit: Summer and early fall bring the most activity and scenery.
Plan Ahead: Popular towns like Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport book out early—secure lodging well in advance.
Scenic Detours: Look for side roads leading to hidden coves, state parks, and lighthouses.

Stay at Center Lovell Inn on Your Route 1 Adventure

While Route 1 hugs Maine’s coast, the Center Lovell Inn offers a peaceful inland retreat in the foothills of the White Mountains—perfect for travelers who want both coastal day trips and quiet mountain evenings. Located within easy reach of Fryeburg, North Conway, and Bridgton, our historic inn combines old-world New England charm with modern comfort.

Book your stay at Center Lovell Inn to enjoy cozy rooms, hearty breakfasts, and breathtaking sunsets over Kezar Lake—then set out to explore Maine’s legendary coastal highway.

🍽️ Check-out our Curated – Food & Beverage Guide for Lovell, Fryeburg & Bridgton, Maine