Boothbay Harbor is the jewel of the Maine midcoast — a picture-perfect harbor town where lobster boats and windjammers share the water and the smell of the sea is constant. Situated on a peninsula jutting into the Atlantic, Boothbay Harbor has been welcoming visitors since the 19th century and remains one of Maine’s most beloved destinations.
On the Water
The harbor is the heart of Boothbay Harbor and the focus of most visitor activity. Whale watching cruises, fishing charters, sailing excursions, and puffin-watching trips all depart from the town docks in season. The iconic footbridge connects the east and west sides of the harbor and is one of the most photographed spots on the Maine coast.
Things to Do
The Maine State Aquarium offers a great introduction to the marine life of the Gulf of Maine, including a touch tank and live lobsters. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, just outside of town, is one of the largest botanical gardens in the country and spectacular in every season. The town itself is walkable and packed with galleries, boutiques, and ice cream shops.
Where to Stay
Boothbay Harbor has a wide range of lodging from waterfront inns and motels to charming bed and breakfasts tucked into the surrounding woods. The Spruce Point Inn is a classic Maine resort with sweeping ocean views. Many properties are within walking distance of the harbor and village shops.
Getting There
Boothbay Harbor is about 60 miles north of Portland via US-1 and Route 27. The drive south from Bangor takes about 90 minutes. There is no public transit to Boothbay Harbor, so a car is essential.
Best Restaurants in Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Boothbay Harbor has a wonderful selection of seafood restaurants and casual dining spots clustered around the harbor. Robinson’s Wharf in nearby Southport is a classic Maine lobster pound right on the water — the quintessential Maine seafood experience. Cabbage Island Clambakes offers a uniquely Maine experience — a boat ride to a private island for a traditional clambake feast. Kaler’s Restaurant is a Boothbay Harbor institution for classic Maine seafood at reasonable prices. Footbridge Brewery serves craft beers and casual fare steps from the famous footbridge. Tugboat Inn offers harborside dining with beautiful views of the busy harbor.
Best Hotels in Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Boothbay Harbor has a lovely range of waterfront inns and resorts. Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa is the grande dame of Boothbay Harbor — a full-service oceanfront resort on a stunning peninsula with sweeping views of the open Atlantic. Ocean Gate Resort offers comfortable cottage-style accommodations on the water. Topside Inn sits high on a hill above the harbor with panoramic views and is one of the most photographed inns in Maine. Harbour Towne Inn on the Waterfront puts you right in the heart of the village steps from the shops and restaurants. Linekin Bay Resort offers a classic Maine sporting camp experience on a beautiful protected cove.
Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Boothbay Harbor is all about the water. Balmy Days Cruises offers a variety of boat trips including lighthouse tours, sunset cruises, and trips to Monhegan Island — one of Maine’s most magical destinations. Cap’n Fish’s Boat Trips runs whale watching excursions and scenic harbor tours. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in nearby Boothbay is one of the largest public gardens in New England and absolutely stunning in summer and fall. Boothbay Railway Village is a wonderful family attraction with a narrow-gauge steam train and antique vehicle collection. The Burnt Island Lighthouse offers living history tours by boat in summer.
Boothbay Harbor in Summer & Fall
Summer is the prime season in Boothbay Harbor, when the harbor is packed with lobster boats, windjammers, and pleasure craft. The Boothbay Harbor region hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the summer including Windjammer Days in late June — one of Maine’s most beloved maritime celebrations. Fall brings spectacular foliage to the spruce-lined shores of the Boothbay peninsula, and the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens hosts its magical Gardens Aglow event each November and December, drawing visitors from across New England.
Day Trips from Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor sits at the tip of a scenic peninsula off Route 1 and is well positioned for exploring the Midcoast. Camden is about 45 minutes north along the coast. Portland is about 90 minutes south. The charming towns of Damariscotta and Wiscasset — known as “the prettiest village in Maine” — are both within 30 minutes along Route 1 and well worth a stop.