ExploringMaine.com

Though Camden is tonier and Rockland earns higher marks for art galleries, Rockport has emerged as the "most improved" coastal community when it comes to scenic summer beauty.

Here are some things that are great about Rockport:

- In recent years the town landing has been vastly improved, providing restrooms, showers and even laundry facilities.

- Unlike Camden, you can get a parking spot.

- It hosts one of the region's best galleries for modern art.

- It has a sand beach for kids, which I didn't know about until last week.

- It offers fishing off town docks, which some communities prohibit.

- It's a good place for a picnic, or just a few minutes rest if you are driving up the coast.

- The harbor is uncluttered and offers plenty of maneuvering room, as shown in the photo below.