Suggestions for Daytrips-coastal villages

I thought I would suggest a few daytrips for the kind souls whose google searches led to this site. I was going to rate them, organize them etc...I'll just give you two before I go to work.

Ogunquit is the loveliest little tourist trap. I"m told it is like a mini P-town. If you go on a day when there isn't to many people you won't be dissapointed. (If you are going during the weekend book a hotel or arrive early in the morning, traffic and parking are a bitch). I would highly suggest you walk the Marginal Way, a mindblowingly beautiful walk around the coast that connects the two sides of Ogunquit, Perkins Cove and downtown Ogunquit. In the summer there is a Trolley service to nearby coastal towns like Kennebunkport and York Beach.

The two side of town have distinct personalities. Downtown has a more artsy feel, with bars, galleries and theatres and a slightly bohemian vibe. There are also tons of shops and Ogunquit beach is right nearby. On the other side of Marginal Way, Perkins Cove offeres a grand vista of rocks and water and seagulls, you really have to see it to realize why it is so popular. There are plenty of restaraunts and shops, but my favorite stop is "Breaking New Grounds" the coffee shop. Where else can you sip your coffee and have a scone looking out at views you thought were only possible in your dreams.

Here are some pictures I took, but trust me when I say they don't do the place justice- Link

I swear I'll take more this year.


Rockland has really come into it's own over the last few years, and it's one of the few coastal villages that still feels a bit like "Real Maine". (Which I personally define as the State I grew up in, other people have their own romantic definitions I'm sure). There is a great walk along the beach, and walking the breakwater, a long strip of land to the breakwater light, is a real summer time trip.

My family went on on of the many Windjammer tours that they offer in Rockland. They went around the coast and parked near an island for the night. The crew cooked for us, sang us songs, told us stories, it was truly a one of a kind experience. Sometimes I like to take one of the ferries to Vinahaven, Northhaven or Monhegan, three islands that have plenty of shops, galleries, places to eat, and trails to walk. Remember to bundle up whenever you go on the water. No matter how warm you are on land you'll get chilly on the ocean.

Don't forget to researve a couple of hours for the Farnsworth, well worth the trip if you are fans of the Wyeth's and other coastal and international artistis. I try to go at least once a year, their are exhibits are never disappointing. One ticket gives you entrance to the main museum, the Farnworth house and the Wyeth center.

I always end up, at the Second Read, the grasshopper shop, the art store and the other bookshop.I can't remember the name of my favorite restaurant there, but they are all pretty good. I hear they opened up the Strand Theatre again. It used to be the only movie house nearby when I was growing up, but now that we have the Flagship Cinemas, they've made it into a theatre, music, arts center. Happy story all around:)

I have found memories of going to the Lobster Festival as a child.They have a blues festival now as well.. I will put on some more info later for the lazy.Until then, here are the few pics I have of Rockland- Link