Time for Inspiration: 5 Days in Coastal Maine
A few summers ago, my wife and I traded Columbia’s 100-degree heat for Portland, Maine’s refreshing 75 degrees. What followed was five days of cool breezes, breathtaking views, and unforgettable meals, the perfect reminder of why time well spent matters.
Day 1: Portland to Bar Harbor (Scenic Route)
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Morning: Land in Portland and pick up your rental — we chose a Jeep for top-down coastal views.
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Route Options: I-95 (3 hrs) or Hwy 1 (4 hrs). We chose Hwy 1 for the scenery.
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Stops Along the Way:
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Brunswick: Lunch at Cameron’s Lobster House — lobster rolls worth the detour.
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Roadside Bakery: Fresh “wild Maine blueberry pie” — because you can’t not.
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Evening: Arrive in Bar Harbor, check into your hotel, and stroll the waterfront.
Day 2 & 3: Acadia National Park
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Hikes:
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Beehive Trail: Stunning views with just enough challenge.
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Precipice Trail: Heart-pounding, especially in the fog — iron rungs, ocean waves below.
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Scenic Drive: Summit Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views when the clouds part.
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Evening: Explore Bar Harbor’s shops and restaurants.
Day 4: Bar Harbor to Camden
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En Route: Stop at Fort Knox and take the elevator up the Penobscot Narrows Bridge for sweeping river views.
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Camden: A picture-perfect sailing town. Stay at a waterfront inn, enjoy dinner on a rooftop with harbor views.
Day 5: Camden to Portland
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Morning: Shop at LL Bean Headquarters in Freeport.
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Afternoon & Evening in Portland:
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Wander the waterfront — a charming mix that feels a bit like San Francisco’s Embarcadero.
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Enjoy a final Maine seafood dinner before your flight home.
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Why We Loved It:
From the first bite of lobster roll to the last sunset over Portland Harbor, this trip reminded us how slowing down, choosing the scenic route, and savoring each stop transforms travel into something more than a checklist — it becomes time well spent.