Maine is as scenic as coastal regions come. There are few things as pleasing as gorging on the state's famously good lobster, on a sunny afternoon, in one the charming seaside villages. Once you've had your fill of crustaceans, you could explore the other historic villages, hike along the trails in Acadia National Park, or kayak along the bays passing noisy seals. Whether you nab a Maine vacation rental along the shore, or in the pine-forested interior, this is a place to leave your cellphone at home and get on with the job of living.
With such a long coastline and maritime heritage, it's hardly surprising that Maine is often called "The Lighthouse State". More than 60 beacons still dot the coast and while most have retired from warding passing ships away from the jagged cliffs, they have new jobs as popular historical attractions. If you're lucky enough to have nabbed a coastal Maine vacation rental, you're not going to want to miss the state's beaches, some of the prettiest in North America. Nor should you skip a visit to the 270-acre Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, or the Maine Maritime Museum.
You'd need a long time to list everything there is to do when you stay in a Maine vacation rental, but there are a few standouts that sit high on most peoples' bucket list. Maine is seriously kid-friendly and there are few places as good to bring them on vacation. With the young ones in tow, you can spend your days white-water rafting down the rapids, cycling along the glorious coastline, or enjoying a night under the stars. If you've brought your rod, consider chartering a fishing boat and heading out to sea to hook in a big one.
When you choose to stay in a Maine vacation rental completely depends on what you plan to do while you're there. It's true that the most gorgeous New England weather is seen during the summer, between June and October, but this is also the busiest season. Those in the know are visiting in the shoulder months of spring and fall, when the climate is more comfortable, the prices lower and the crowds have yet to come or have left already. Don't discount winter. It may be cold, but with rock-bottom vacation rental prices and plenty of snowy fun to be had, some people swear it's the best season.
The state might not be known for its wildlife, but those who come to stay in Maine's vacation rentals are usually pleasantly surprised. The northern interior is thought to have almost 30,000 wild moose, gentle giants best seen on one of the year-round guided safaris. Along Maine's marine-rich coastline, whales annually migrate through. While they're in the bays, they often leap out and crash back into the sea, resulting in much oohing and aahing from eager spectators. Sitting on the crossroads, between the colder lands of North America and the more temperate forests of the south, means that creatures from both reside in the state.
Fly into Bangor Intl. Airport (BGR), the closest airport, located 43.5 mi (70 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you could also fly into Millinocket, ME (MLT-Millinocket Municipal), which is 45.5 mi (73.2 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Belfast Station, Brunswick Station and Freeport Station are the main stations that serve the city.
The culinary culture in Maine is heavily influenced by English cuisine and the abundance of seafood and dairy farms in the inland regions. Two prominent foods are maple syrup and cranberries, though lobster and potato crops are also common. You can also find a range of other New England and ethnic cuisine in Maine restaurants near your vacation rental, especially in the cities.
The beauty, charm, and relaxing atmosphere of Maine make it perfect for a couple’s getaway. Romantic vacation homes are available near Acadia National Park, a woodland park with granite peaks, rocky shorelines, hiking trails, and campsites, and Cadillac Mountain, a mountain summit with expansive wilderness views. You could also visit Old Port, a quaint historic district with cobblestone streets, clothing boutiques, gourmet food stores, and souvenir shops.
There's no nicer way to spend a weekend than at the seaside. If you're up for a couple of days near the ocean, check out our vacation rentals at East End Beach. This popular strip is located in East End and is perfect for a quick fix of fun under the sun.