One Southern transplant’s take on The Maine Beaches Region, from lighthouses to lobster boils, seaside strolls to biscuit bliss.
As a Kentucky native who’s found himself happily rooted in the Northeast, I can tell you that coastal Maine doesn’t just charm visitors. It converts them. There’s something about the smell of salt in the air, the crash of the Atlantic, and the way a lobster roll just tastes different up here that draws you in. My wife and I have made it a point to explore every nook of the Pine Tree State, but there’s one region we now call home: The Maine Beaches.
You’ll find this region tucked into the southern tip of the state. It’s a string of classic seaside towns, charming harbors, weather-worn lighthouses, and some of the best walking, eating, and day-tripping in all of New England. Here’s my inside scoop on how to experience it like a local who wasn’t born here, but sure as heck fell in love with it.
Lighthouses, Legends, and That Ocean Air
If you’re starting in the southernmost corner of the state, head to Cape Neddick and visit Nubble Lighthouse. It’s the quintessential Maine lighthouse. It’s perched dramatically on its own rocky island just offshore. There’s something cinematic about it. Locals and photographers flock here, especially at sunset when the sky glows and the Atlantic looks endless.
Not far up the coast is another heavy hitter: Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth. Not only is it the oldest lighthouse in the state, its one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. You don’t have to be a lighthouse fanatic to appreciate the view. It’s the kind of place where you take a deep breath and remember why you came.
The Marginal Way: Where the Proposal Happened
Some people propose in fancy restaurants. I proposed on The Marginal Way, a mile-long coastal path that snakes between Ogunquit and Perkins Cove. It’s more than a walk. It’s a mood reset. Cliffs and crashing surf one side and multi-million dollar homes and resorts in the other side. Benches, flat rocks and sandy coves all along the way when you just want to sit and take it in.
We’ve walked it in every season. Early spring when the breeze still bites. Midsummer with the scent of beach roses in the air. And that one perfect May day when I asked the biggest question of my life. If you’ve got someone special, bring them here. If you’re flying solo, it’s still one of the best ways to clear your head and reconnect with the rhythm of the coast.
Sweet Stops: Bakeries, Biscuits, and Ice Cream
There’s something about salt air that gives you a craving for carbs. Maine delivers.
Let’s talk about Tandem Bakery in Portland. As a Southerner, I take my biscuits seriously — buttery, flakey, and the size of a cat’s head. Now, Tandem’s take is different, but I’ll admit, they’ve won me over. Their biscuits are oversized, golden-crusted, and stuffed with things you’d never find on a table back home: miso scallion, cheddar jalapeño, or dark chocolate sea salt. It’s biscuit meets bakery artistry, and somehow it works. Grab one with a strong cup of coffee and just embrace the Northeast spin. It’s a must-stop for any Southern soul curious about how Maine does comfort food.
Further south, Wells has become a ritual stop thanks to one specific spot: The Scoop Deck Ice Cream. I consider myself an ice cream aficionado, and The Scoop Deck deserves the praise. Homemade flavors, generous scoops, and that perfect cone-on-the-front-porch vibe. On a hot July afternoon, nothing hits quite like their blueberry pie, but my fave is banana creme pie and pistachio!
And let’s not skip the bakeries. Nearly every coastal town in the Maine Beaches region has at least one standout spot: gooey cinnamon rolls in Kennebunkport, pistachio muffins Ogunquit, popovers in Kittery, maple bacon doughnuts in Wells. If you see a line out the door at 6 a.m., don’t hesitate. That’s your spot. Some of my favs are Bread and Roses, Bake Maine, The Greenery, and Lils Cafe.
Walk. Shop. Repeat.
If you like to walk, you’re in luck. If you like to walk and shop, even better.
- Ogunquit is artsy, colorful, and full of unexpected finds — from handmade jewelry to local pottery to gallery-level art.
- Perkins Cove, at the end of the Marginal Way, has that old harbor feel with little footbridges, fishing boats, and shops tucked into weathered shingle buildings.
- Kennebunkport balances coastal charm with upscale boutiques. This is where you go for linen shirts, beachy home goods, and really good coffee.
Each town is walkable, photo-worthy, and full of those “we don’t have this back home” moments that make traveling fun.
Portland: The Foodie Capital of New England
Yes, The Maine Beaches are full of great food. But Portland? Portland’s a whole other level.
I’ve had better meals here than in most big cities. You’ve got James Beard winners, hidden hole-in-the-walls, and everything in between. Tacos, Thai, oysters, and inventive cocktails.
My personal tip? Walk through the Old Port with no plan. Pop into whatever smells good. Just make sure you stop at Tandem Bakery (again — yes, it’s that good) and Eventide Oyster Co. for their brown butter lobster roll.
Even if you’re staying further south, Portland’s close enough for a day trip or a dinner detour. Just bring your appetite and maybe stretchy pants.
Roadtrip: The Cabbage Island Clam Bake
If you want to experience lobster like a Mainer, do it off the mainland.
The Cabbage Island Clambake is more than a meal, it’s an event. You board a boat in Boothbay Harbor and cruise out to Cabbage Island, where an old-school lobster bake is waiting. We’re talking lobster, steamers, corn on the cob, chowder, blueberry cake, and views that make you wish you had a second stomach.
They cook it over open fires using seaweed and seawater, just like it’s been done for generations. It’s communal, unpretentious, and one of the most satisfying meals I’ve ever had. Worth every minute of the boat ride.
Bonus: A Day in Boston, Courtesy of the Amtrak Downeaster
One of the best kept secrets of staying in southern Maine? You’re only a train ride from Boston.
The Amtrak Downeaster runs from Brunswick down through Portland, Old Orchard Beach, Wells, Dover and into Boston’s North Station. No traffic, no parking headaches, just a smooth ride into the city.
Spend the day walking the Freedom Trail, hitting up Fenway, or checking out the Seaport District. Then ride the train back with a coffee and your feet up. It’s the best of both worlds: big city energy with coastal Maine as your basecamp.
Final Thoughts From a Southern Guy in New England
I’ve not lived here long enough to trade “you guys” for “y’all”, but I still get a kick out of playing up the twang for the curious onlookers. I find a little southern hospitality is appreciated wherever I go here. What I love about The Maine Beaches region is that it’s friendly, open, and full of character. It’s not just a place to visit, it’s a place to settle in, even if just for a weekend.
Whether you’re watching waves crash at Nubble Lighthouse, digging into a biscuit at Tandem, or sitting on a bench along the Marginal Way trying to work up the nerve to propose, this stretch of coast has a way of sticking with you.
Let Weekend Getaway Planner find your Perfect Maine Getaway
These are just a few of my favorite attractions in Maine, there is still so much to see and do. Our Weekend Getaway Planner can help plan the trip prefect for you!