ExploringMaine.com

Beach Going

Maine has some of the coolest beaches in America. That's a literal boast. The Atlantic Ocean is relatively cold. But on a hot day, you can't beat it for a place to hang out.

Biking

Maine doesn't have a lot of traffic but it has plenty of roads for great biking. If pavement isn't your style, there are trails for avid mountain bikers and casual pedalers.

Culture & History

Mainers love their history and their art, and they seem to have a lot of trouble throwing things away. The result is a lot of museums and historic homes in the state. And don't forget the forts.

Dining

You won't go hungry visiting Maine. Whether you have a hankering for a lobster dinner, a fine micro-brew, maple sugar, blueberries or all four, Maine has you covered - and then some.

Fairs & Festivals

From blueberries and maple sugaring to hot-air balloons and seasonal festivals, whether you're visiting Maine in January or July, there's bound to be a fair or festival happening.

Fishing

This state is full of "the one that got away." There is so much shoreline, you can find a place to cast blindfolded. Finding a fish is another story... Regulations & Seasons

Golf

Maine is a swinging state. Public and private courses can be found in every region.

Hiking

There are trails for almost every ability. Some take you through Maine's remote wilderness. Others wind through towns and urban centers. Hiking Trails

Hunting

Maine's 33,215 square miles offer exceptional hunting for deer, bear, moose, small game and waterfowl. Since Maine's natural landscape includes coast, wetlands, forest and mountains, there is a wide blend of wildlife species, many at the northern and southern limits of their range. Licenses are required to hunt wild animals or birds in Maine. Specific permits are required for some species.Hunting licenses & regulations

Lighthouses

Today, virtually all of Maine's working lights have been mechanized and many lighthouse keeper's cottages have become privately owned. But it's still possible to enjoy the heritage of a keeper's life - many lights are open to visitors as museums, offering memorabilia and accounts of the "wicking" life.

Lodging

Maine has plenty of choices for places to stay - from world-class resorts to bed and breakfasts to rural camps.

Paddling

Whether you like fast-moving whitewater or just a gentle paddle on a quiet pond, Maine has plenty of water for your boat. Paddling Trips

Scenic Views

You don't have to go far to find a great view. Maine boasts fantastic scenery - mountains, forests, rivers, coastline. It's all good.

Whale Watching

For a true experience into nature's wonders, there is little to compare with the excitement of a whale watch. You might see a variety of whales, including humpback, minkes and finbacks, Atlantic white-sided dolpins, basking sharks and giant sunfish. Witness whales feeding, playing and resting, all within their natural habitat. A real treat!

Windjammer Cruises

Built before the age of powerful engines, schooners once relied on the skills of sailors and the winds that weather offered. Around the turn of the century, these vessels transported heavy and valuable cargo between ports and were built for strength and speed. You are bound to make new friends as you cruise Maine's beautiful coastline.