The number one resource for the Midcoast area is the
Jewel of the Maine Coast guide.
You can request one from their website, or pick one up at the
Chamber of Commerce, located near the docks, when you arrive.
Schooners
A boat ride is not to be missed. There are four main schooners in
Camden, the Appledore,
Lazy Jack,
Olad,
and Surprise. You can get
tickets for them on the dock (ahead of time) or call even earlier. We've
heard that the guy who gives tours on the
Betselma is
extremely entertaining as well, and tells you all about lobstering and
the local sea life.
Mt. Battie
Another Camden must-see. You can either hike up (an easy hike), or drive
up the toll road. There's a lookout tower at the top, and wonderful
views of the harbor and beyond. From downtown Camden, drive 2 miles
north on Route 1. The entrance to the
Camden Hills State Park
will be on your left.
Rockland Breakwater Light
You can hike out on the
Rockland Breakwater
to the lighthouse at
the end. It's not a particularly easy walk, the breakwater being a mile
long and made up of huge, not exactly even stones, but it's certainly
fun to do and you can go up in the lighthouse and learn about the
history of this and other lighthouses in Maine. Go south from Camden on
Route 1 to Rockland, and follow the signs for the Samoset Resort.
Restaurants
Pretty much, you can't go wrong with a Camden restaurant. Just consult
the Jewel of the Maine Coast to find what you're looking for. I do,
however, have 2 tips. The first is, even if you think of "fishy" as a
negative adjective, try some seafood- it doesn't get any fresher than
this! And the second is, have some Gifford's Ice Cream. It's a Maine
thing, and it's the BEST!
Beaches
Maine is famous for its rocky coast. Also, the water is COLD. But if
you're a really determined beach-goer, Lucia
is the best. (Warning: It's hard to find.) For just walking along and
sticking your feet in, Lincolnville Beach is closer. Drive north on
Route 1 and you'll see it right before the Lobster Pound.
Museums
The Farnsworth Museum in Rockland
(south of Camden on Route 1) is a lovely art museum. It features a
collection of works by Andrew, N.C., and Jamie Wyeth. The
Owl's Head Transportation Museum
is another fun one. Owl's Head is located south of Rockland.
Note: Maine, even in summer, can be chilly
(especially at night or out on the water). Don't forget to pack an extra layer!
And don't forget to check out the harbor webcam.
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