Midcoast Maine in Style: Luxury Stays & Local Charm in Camden & Rockport

Hike Mount Battie. Park at the Megunticook Street trailhead instead of driving to the top. The hike takes about an hour, and is a bit steep over some boulders at the top, but a relatively easy hike. If time permits, extend your hike over to Mt. Megunticook and Maiden’s Cliff.

Take a kayak tour through the harbor. This allows you to explore the bustling harbor of Camden, where you may encounter an 8-year-old at the helm of their own little boat, or stop off at Curtis Island, where, if you’re lucky, the lighthouse keeper may be on-island and available to open up the lighthouse for you!

Go on a schooner sail out of Camden Harbor. Most tours are 2 or 3 hours, and give you a beautiful view of this area from the water. Most boats are kid-friendly, and their sunset tours are especially lovely, as you will get to see the sun setting behind the mountains.

Walk around Beauchamp Point. This is a beautiful walk that not many tourists stumble upon. There is a small parking lot on Calderwood Lane near the golf club that is a public lot. From there, walk around the point and, if you are lucky, you will stumble into the Children’s Chapel, a small, beautiful outdoor chapel hidden in the woods of the point. Around the corner, when the road skirts the ocean, look for a trail down to the rocks and take a dip in the very refreshing (note: freezing) Maine ocean. On your way back to the car, take a detour through Rockport and grab a coffee and scone from Seafolk Coffee.

Hike Beech Hill. This is a very quick, easy hike, and is a great way to start the morning. The views from the top of the bay are almost as good as Mount Battie, and I’ve successfully done this hike with 3-4 toddlers in tow. Park at the Beech Hill Road lot for the fastest way up, or for a lengthier hike, park at Emmerson Field or the South Street lot.

Have a drink and apps at Barrens Distillery, followed by dinner at Salt Wharf. Located right on the wharf, these shops and restaurants are part of the working waterfront in Camden Harbor. You will be right in the thick of the boat scene and feel like you’re one of the locals. Hot tip: go during the last week of July and first week of August, and you will see some of the most beautiful wooden yachts in the world (though you may be battling some crowds that week!)

Go for an art walk. Camden has a lot of great art galleries on some of its side streets and by the town wharf. You will find some very talented local artists, many of whom may be in the galleries.

18 Central Oyster Bar & Grill - Located in downtown Rockport, this oyster bar and grill is known for its locally sourced dishes and inviting ambiance. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Nina June - Offering a Mediterranean spin on Maine's finest ingredients, Nina June provides a fresh and tasty dining experience in downtown Rockport.

Salt Wharf - Located on the waterfront, Salt Wharf offers fresh, local cuisine with a Southern Creole twist, thanks to Executive Chef Sydney Garns. Enjoy craft cocktails and panoramic harbor views from their rooftop bar, which reopens on May 23rd.

Long Grain A beloved local spot for Thai cuisine, Long Grain is renowned for its authentic flavors and has been praised as the best Thai restaurant in Maine. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity.

Waterfront Restaurant - True to its name, Waterfront offers stunning views of Camden Harbor paired with a menu emphasizing fresh seafood and classic New England fare. The relaxed yet upscale environment makes it ideal for both casual dinners and celebratory meals. Hot tip: ask for a table on the deck when making your reservation for true over-the-water dining.

The Bagel Cafe - Located on Main Street in Camden, these bagels are baked fresh on-site every day. And if you are a cream cheese lover like me, you will appreciate their servings! Italiano toasted with veggie cream cheese? They don’t get better than here.

Camden Deli - Located right downtown, this is your classic deli. Head upstairs instead of ordering from the counter for a full-service experience. Grab a seat on the deck overlooking the harbor and enjoy a great deli sandwich and local craft brew.