Maine is perfect for a couple’s getaway, so perfect it’s hard to know where to start. Each town or coastal enclave is excellent for a romantic escape, and there’s something for every type of personality, from the explorers to the loungers. So if you’re craving a few days away with your honeybun, you can accomplish a lot in these couple-friendly towns in Maine.
Deer Isle
Deer Isle branches away from the faster-paced life of places like Bar Harbor. Once you cross over the bridge, quaint shops and a pleasant peacefulness greet you. Downtown Stonington meets all the basic needs, from a hearty breakfast at Harbor Cafe to a lobster dinner at Stonecutters. There couldn’t be more romantic accommodations than at the Pilgrim’s Inn, a historic establishment with the Select Registry stamp of approval. Authentic decor, garden-sourced meals, and little touches like afternoon cookies will have you wonder why independently-run inns aren’t on your travel radar more often.
Camden
Camden sits in the middle of Maine’s Coastal region and is one of the top places to visit in Maine. It has an undeniable charm we all hope for when visiting the quaint state. Adorable shops with local goodies, restaurants with Penobscot Bay views, and historical landmarks make for dreamy walks downtown. While the accommodation scene is on point, it doesn’t get better than the ultra-luxurious yet simultaneously warm and welcoming Camden Harbor Inn. All we need to say is that rooms have their own sauna and fireplace, and there’s a champagne breakfast. That’s pure romance right there.
Portland
Portland, Maine, is bustling, but there are those couples out there who find the twinkling city lights to be their version of a perfect weekend. Plus, there are so many things to see and do, and the airport is nearby. Visit the International Cryptozoology Museum and relish in all things Big Foot and Mothman with your honey, then dine waterside at the Portland Lobster Company, which has the most lovely water-facing porch. It’s not your typical “lovey-dovey” getaway, but we can get on board with it.
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor and its charming collection of attractions shouldn’t be ruled out because even though busy in the height of the season (which begins to take off around June), it’s totally majestic. Along the streets are cozy inns, restaurants and bars, and it just all seems too perfect. Frenchman’s Bay peeks out over the horizon when walking down the street, and a lovely little path wraps against the water. Bar Harbor Inn and Spa features balconies that face directly toward the fishing boats, so you can order a bottle of wine and soak in the scenery. Bar Harbor is also very walkable, so indulge a bit at all the nearby bars, like Geddy’s—try the ginormous Volcano Bowl for two!
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is basically in Bar Harbor, but it’s a vastly separate thing for the outdoor enthusiast couples out there. Not only is the mountain-slash-ocean landscape completely magical, but cozy campgrounds are abundant. What’s more romantic than listening to crashing waves while gazing at vibrant stars?
Winter Harbor/Schoodic Peninsula
Winter Harbor is near one of the less explored portions of Acadia National Park, the Schoodic Peninsula. Here, you can traverse out onto the smooth rock and have a picnic while watching aqua-blue water crash into a stunning eruption. Lodging is sparse, so you may want to opt to stay in a bigger town like Bar Harbor, but a day trip to this harbor is special. Stop at The Pickled Wrinkle for long-held traditional snacks like the namesake pickled sea snails or crispy, green fiddleheads.
Bangor
We have to pull ourselves away from the crazy beautiful coast a bit and tell you about Bangor. Any couple that loves Stephen King should know that Derry, the town in the spine-chilling IT, was lovingly inspired by Bangor, which is still King’s hometown. Hop on an ultra-fun sightseeing adventure with SK Tours that stops by filming sites for Pet Cemetery, as well as other places related to the writer. The giant Paul Bunion tower, and Stephen King, of course, make for a book nerd’s dream romantic escape.
Ogunquit
Ogunquit is for beach lovers, as there’s plenty of sand to frolic in and accessible electric blue water. Beautiful hotels and inns are abundant, and a mixture of fresh high-end seafood and cheap eats provides a pleasant amount of choices. But truly, the great beaches are the main draw for couples.
Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is picture-perfect. No building exudes any amount of industrialism, and the surrounding environment presents opportunities for couples kayaking, biking, and ship gazing. It’s like Kennebunkport has been frozen in time, and it’s truly a place to escape with your baby. The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, Nonantum Resort, The Kennebunkport Inn and the breathtaking White Barn Inn are just a drop in the bucket to the number of dreamy lodging options available. Share a giant heap of clam bellies from the Clam Shack for lunch, and go for the best real-deal lobster dinner at Nunan’s Lobster Hut. Note that the very best blueberry pie over all that exists in the area comes from Alisson’s Restaurant—enjoy a delicious warm slice as the sweet ending to your trip.
