Maine Summer Bucket List
The summer in Maine is truly spectacular. It is no wonder so many visitors fall in love with our state during their summer vacations. Growing up in Maine there are certain traditions that I look forward to every summer. No matter what I never get tired of the beauty of Maine summers. I’m sharing with you my top 10 bucket list items that I have to do every year to make my summer feel complete.
Eat Seafood by the Ocean
Fried clams are my favorite or a delicious lobster roll can’t be beat while sitting by the crashing waves of the Atlantic. The Lobster Shack in Cape Elizabeth is one of my favorite places to get a plate of seafood and enjoy the spectacular views. The best part is exploring the rocky landscape after a delicious plate of Maine seafood.
*Image By TCC @ Portland Lobster Co.
Camping
Camping is one of my all-time favorite summertime traditions! I have camped basically every summer since I was a kid. I’m more of a family campground person, although my family and I did try some remote camping last summer and had a blast! One of my all-time favorite spots for a few days with the family is Sebago Lake State Park.
*Image By TCC @ Baxter State Park
A Refreshing Dip in a Lake
There is nothing more refreshing than a dip in the lake on a hot summer day or evening. Regardless of where you are in Maine, there is likely to be a freshwater lake or pond nearby that you can dip your toes in on steamy days. Sebago Lake is definitely a favorite for Greater Portland residents, but Moosehead Lake is actually the largest lake in Maine and a more remote Maine experience.
*Image By TCC @ Moosehead Lake
Beach Days
A visit to one of Maine’s iconic beaches is also a must for summer. Whether it’s to have a picnic, swim, or just go for a stroll Kettle Cove, Higgins Beach, and Willard Beach are some popular spots to check out and southern Maine.
*Image By TCC @ Kettle Cove
Hiking
Going for a hike along Maine’s rocky coast provides an opportunity for exploration, sightseeing, and great photos. Wolfe Neck State Park in Freeport is one of my favorites because you will see wildlife, in addition to stunning views of the main coastline.
Visiting State Parks
Checking out one of Maine’s state parks should top your summer to-do list. If you are a local you can take advantage of a state park pass so you can visit them all.
*Image By TCC @ Damariscotta Lake State Park
Farmer’s Markets
Visiting a local farmers market to taste the fresh harvest of Maine is a must. Particularly those juicy native Maine strawberries.
Funtown Splashtown
It’s a Maine kid's right of passage to make a visit to Funtown/Splashtown or Aquauboggan on a hot steamy summer day.
*Image By Visit Portland
Festivals
Some popular Maine festivals happen in the summertime and provide an opportunity to check out a new area in addition to seeing the festival. The Lobster Festival, the Union Fair, and The Blues Festival are some popular festivals that occur throughout the summer.
Campfires
At the absolute top of the Maine summer bucket list is a campfire in your own backyard! There’s nothing quite like the smell, and feel of having your own campfire!
