Arrival in Portland – A Romantic Beginning to Your Maine Adventure

Landing in Portland

Your Maine honeymoon begins as you arrive at Portland International Jetport (PWM). This small, welcoming airport is conveniently located just a few miles from downtown Portland, making it the perfect starting point for your adventure. As you step off the plane, you'll be greeted by the crisp, fresh air that Maine is known for, setting the tone for the beautiful journey ahead.

Exploring Downtown Portland

Portland, Maine's largest city, offers a delightful mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy. Start your exploration in the Old Port district, where cobblestone streets, brick buildings, and a bustling waterfront create a picturesque setting. After checking into your hotel—whether it’s the stylish Press Hotel or the luxurious Portland Harbor Hotel—take a leisurely stroll through the Old Port. The area is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, all set against the backdrop of Portland’s scenic waterfront.

Don’t miss the Eastern Promenade, a beautiful park offering panoramic views of Casco Bay. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet moment together as you watch the sailboats drift by on the shimmering water.

Downtown Portland boasts and incredible art scene, combined with a focus on turn of the century and modern architecture, even the side street have something worth seeing.

Culinary Delights in Portland

Portland is renowned for its vibrant food scene, making it an ideal destination for a culinary adventure. For a romantic dinner, head to Fore Street, a James Beard Award-winning restaurant known for its farm-to-table cuisine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, meats, and vegetables, all prepared in a wood-fired oven that adds a distinctive flavor to each dish.

If you prefer a more casual dining experience, Eventide Oyster Co. is a must-visit. Famous for its fresh oysters and inventive seafood dishes, Eventide offers a laid-back atmosphere where you can savor one of Maine’s most beloved specialties: the lobster roll. Their brown butter lobster roll is a local favorite and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Duck Fat is a must try for some of the best gastropub options in the city. The menu is small, but the dishes are well crafted and intensely flavorful.

Sipping and Strolling

After dinner, cap off your evening with a visit to one of Portland’s many craft breweries. Allagash Brewing Company is a local favorite, known for its Belgian-style beers. If cocktails are more your style, Portland Hunt + Alpine Club offers a cozy setting and a menu of creative, expertly crafted drinks.

If a small town dive bar is more your style, Tomaso’s Canteen on Hampshire St, is your spot. It has some of the best drink prices in town, and don’t sleep on the mac and cheese dishes. We often found ourselves ending the night at this local hole in the wall, where locals and tourists alike share a beer after hours.

Before turning in for the night, take a stroll along the waterfront, where the twinkling lights of the city reflect off the calm waters of the bay. The serene beauty of Portland at night provides the perfect ending to your first day in Maine.

Day Trip to Kennebunkport – Exploring Maine’s Southern Charm

A Morning Drive to Kennebunkport

The next morning, embark on a scenic drive south to the charming town of Kennebunkport. Located about 45 minutes from Portland, Kennebunkport is one of Maine’s most picturesque coastal towns, known for its historic homes, beautiful beaches, and quaint downtown area.

As you approach Kennebunkport, you’ll be greeted by views of the Kennebunk River and the town’s iconic Cape Porpoise Lighthouse. The drive itself is a delight, taking you through rolling countryside and past charming New England homes.

Discovering Dock Square

Once you arrive in Kennebunkport, head straight to Dock Square, the heart of the town. This lively area is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Spend some time browsing the local shops, where you can find everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to nautical-themed souvenirs.

For a taste of local flavor, stop by The Clam Shack, a legendary spot known for its award-winning lobster rolls. Enjoy your meal by the water, watching as fishing boats come and go in the harbor.

A Romantic Walk on Goose Rocks Beach

After lunch, take a short drive to Goose Rocks Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. With its soft, white sand and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Goose Rocks Beach is a perfect place for a romantic walk. The beach is relatively quiet, offering plenty of space to enjoy the sound of the waves and the refreshing sea breeze.

Exploring the Bush Compound

No visit to Kennebunkport is complete without a glimpse of the Walker’s Point Estate, also known as the Bush Compound. This historic summer home of the Bush family is located on a rocky promontory jutting out into the ocean. While the estate itself is private, you can view it from a distance along Ocean Avenue, a scenic drive that offers stunning views of the coastline.

A Sunset Dinner at Hurricane Restaurant

As the day winds down, enjoy a memorable dinner at Hurricane Restaurant, a beloved local spot known for its fresh seafood, creative dishes, and warm, inviting atmosphere. Located in the heart of Dock Square, Hurricane offers stunning views of the river and an intimate setting perfect for a romantic meal. The menu features a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and the wine list is carefully curated to complement the flavors of the region.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Kennebunkport before heading back to Portland for the night. If you prefer to stay in town, consider booking a room at one of Kennebunkport’s charming inns, such as the Kennebunkport Inn or the Cape Arundel Inn, both of which offer cozy accommodations and a touch of luxury.

The Road to Acadia – Coastal Beauty and Charming Towns

Setting Off for Acadia

The next morning, after a leisurely breakfast, it’s time to pick up your rental car and begin your journey north to Acadia National Park. The drive from Portland to Acadia is about three hours, but there are several enchanting stops along the way that make the trip a memorable part of your honeymoon adventure.

The Scenic Route Along US-1

For the most picturesque drive, take US-1, which meanders along the coast, passing through charming towns and offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Your first stop could be Freeport, just 20 minutes north of Portland. This town is home to the flagship store of L.L.Bean, an iconic Maine brand. Even if shopping isn’t on your agenda, it’s worth a visit to see the impressive displays and perhaps pick up some outdoor gear for your time in Acadia.

Historic Brunswick and Bath

Continuing north, you’ll reach Brunswick, a historic town with a lively downtown area. Brunswick is home to Bowdoin College, one of the oldest liberal arts colleges in the country. Take a stroll through the beautiful campus, which features classic New England architecture and a museum of art with an impressive collection of American and European works.

A short drive from Brunswick is Bath, known as the “City of Ships” due to its rich shipbuilding history. The Maine Maritime Museum in Bath offers fascinating exhibits on the state’s maritime heritage, including interactive displays and outdoor exhibits like a full-size replica of a historic shipyard.

Wiscasset – A Picture-Perfect Village

As you continue your journey, make a stop in Wiscasset, often called the “Prettiest Village in Maine.” Wiscasset’s well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture and its scenic setting on the Sheepscot River make it a delightful place to explore. Don’t miss the chance to try a lobster roll at Red’s Eats, a roadside stand that’s famous for its massive, butter-drenched lobster rolls. There’s often a line, but the wait is worth it.

Camden – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

Your next major stop is Camden, one of Maine’s most picturesque coastal towns. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Camden offers stunning natural beauty and a charming downtown area filled with shops, galleries, and cafes.

One of the best ways to experience Camden is by taking a walk along the harbor, where you can see the town’s fleet of historic schooners. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a hike up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park. The trail is moderately challenging, but the views from the summit—overlooking Camden, Penobscot Bay, and the surrounding islands—are truly breathtaking.

For lunch, stop by Camden Deli, a local favorite that offers delicious sandwiches and salads with a view of the harbor. Afterward, spend some time exploring the town’s unique shops and galleries. Camden is known for its arts and crafts scene, and you’re sure to find some beautiful souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Rockport and Rockland – Artistic Coastal Towns

Just south of Camden are the towns of Rockport and Rockland, both of which are worth a visit. Rockport is a small, picturesque town with a beautiful harbor and several art galleries. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art in Rockport is a great place to see works by local artists.

Rockland, known as the “Art Capital of Maine,” is home to the Farnsworth Art Museum, which features a comprehensive collection of American art, with a special focus on works by artists connected to Maine. The Maine Lighthouse Museum in Rockland is another interesting stop, offering insights into the state’s maritime history.

Arrival in Bar Harbor

Finally, after a scenic drive along the coast, you’ll arrive in Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia National Park. This charming town is a hub of activity, with bustling shops, restaurants, and galleries lining the streets. After checking into your accommodation—whether it’s a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxury hotel—take some time to explore Bar Harbor.

A stroll along the Shore Path, which runs along the edge of town and offers stunning views of Frenchman Bay, is a great way to unwind after your drive. You can also take a sunset cruise to see the coastline from the water and possibly spot some wildlife, such as seals or even whales.

Exploring Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island along the rugged coast of Maine, is a breathtaking sanctuary of natural beauty and a must-visit destination for any nature lover. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, which include rocky shorelines, dense forests, and majestic granite peaks like Cadillac Mountain—the highest point on the U.S. East Coast. Visitors can explore a network of scenic hiking trails, take in panoramic views from the park’s winding carriage roads, and witness the dramatic rise and fall of the tides at places like Thunder Hole. Acadia's diverse ecosystems support a wide array of wildlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching, while its pristine lakes and ponds offer tranquil settings for kayaking or canoeing. Whether you’re looking for adventure or serenity, Acadia National Park provides an unforgettable experience, showcasing the raw, untouched beauty of Maine's natural world.