When you live in a region with an abundance of incredible destinations, it’s easy to take for granted the unique traveling opportunities right under your nose. I am guilty of missing out on some of the area’s coolest destinations. So when my husband and I had the opportunity for a quick kid-free weekend getaway, we headed out to one of those very spots: Boothbay Harbor.
Boothbay Harbor Tips & Tricks: The Basics
Situated just a little over two hours north of the Seacoast, Boothbay Harbor welcomes visitors for a trip you can truly make your own. Whether you’re seeking adventure and outdoor activities or a relaxing escape, Boothbay doesn’t disappoint. While we went to relax, there’s a lot to do (even if you have to bring your kids with you!).
We were also looking to keep our trip on a budget with smooth travels. If you have the option to take a few weekdays off for your getaway, you’ll save a few dollars on lodging while fighting with less crowds. While Maine is busy all summer long, off-peak dates ease up the traffic and hotel availability.
Where to Stay in Boothbay Harbor
Plenty of hotels and inns are nestled along the coast as well as around the outskirts of the bay. We stayed at the Flagship Inn, just a mile from the center of Boothbay. Our room was sparkling clean and the staff was gracious and helpful. Continental breakfast is available in the hotel restaurant every morning. And there was a pool. THIS was a lifesaver as our first evening’s temperatures held in the high 90’s with 90% humidity. Not to mention the sheer bliss of frolicking in a pool without monitoring kids is a treasure I haven’t experienced in years. 10 out of 10 would recommend.
Where to Eat & What to Do in Boothbay Harbor
For me, a trip to the seashore is not complete without a sampling of oysters. I enjoyed an oyster plate paired with an Aperol spritzer for the perfect refreshing snack at Fisherman’s Wharf during happy hour while overlooking the boats drifting through the bay.
On our second day we returned to the Pier to embark on the highlight of our trip: the Cabbage Island Clambake. We set sail on for an hour-long sailboat ride to the island as the captain narrated a brief history of some of the spectacular properties we viewed along the way. We even lucked out by spotting a few dolphins bobbing through the waves.
Upon arrival at Cabbage Island we were greeted by a gracious and enthusiastic staff encouraging us to explore the island. Breathtaking views of the harbor awaited around each corner as we trekked around with a beverage in hand. Corn hole, volleyball, and several other lawn games are set up offering entertainment for the whole family.
We stood in line waiting for our meals when the dinner horn blew and picked up our feast of lobster, corn, steamers, potato, and the traditional egg and onion. Our dessert was the specialty Blueberry lemon cake.
Cabbage Island was an experience I’d recommend to anyone visiting the region. The value’s unbeatable and the excellent service of the staff unsurpassed.
Unfortunately we returned to the pier around 4:30 to a steady rain extending into the overnight. But we soaked up the little time we had left in the quaint town sipping reflecting on our time together over blueberry beers at Kaler’s, a casual restaurant with neighborhood bar feels.
*Family Fun
Boothbay Harbor offers a variety of fun activities for the whole family including:
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Comprehensive list of Boating Tours and Excursions (and more)
*More Dining Highlights
Obviously there’s no shortage of seafood offerings. If you’re looking the full waterfront dining experience, some top picks are Tugboat Inn, Mine Oyster, Brown’s Wharf Inn, and the Harborside Tavern
If you’re looking for a break from the seafood, Boathouse Bistro Tapas Lounge & Restaurant features small plates of various Spanish and American samplings as well as vegan and gluten-free options.
For a fine Italian dining experience, visit the well-renowned Ports of Italy. If a slice of pie on a bar stool overlooking the water is more your style, Pier One Pizza hits the spot.
When embarking on a short getaway, I like doing more playing than planning. Boothbay Harbor’s sites and attractions are well contained and easy to navigate, making it an ideal destination for this purpose. As a Mainer for twelve years, it’s hard to believe this was our first visit to Boothbay Harbor. But it’s sure to not be our last!
And maybe next time we’ll invite the kids.
So glad you enjoyed our little town. Next time check out the other side (the East Side)…Brown’s, Whales Tale, Brady’s. Walk across the footbridge and look over toward town for a whole different perspective.
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