How to Plan the Perfect Maine Road Trip

Planning a road trip through Maine is one of the best ways to experience the state’s incredible diversity—from rocky coastlines to mountain peaks, lighthouses to lakes. Here’s your complete guide to planning an unforgettable Maine road trip.

Step 1: Choose Your Route and Timeline

The Coastal Classic (7-10 Days) Start in Kittery, work your way up Route 1 through Portland, Rockland, Camden, and Bar Harbor, ending in Eastport. This route covers 300+ miles of spectacular coastline.

The Mountain Loop (4-6 Days) Focus on the Western Mountains: Bethel, Rangeley, Kingfield, and Greenville. Perfect for fall foliage, hiking, and skiing (depending on season).

The Grand Tour (2 Weeks) Combine coast and mountains: Southern Maine beaches → Portland → Midcoast → Acadia → Downeast → Baxter State Park → Western Mountains.

Step 2: Timing Your Trip

Peak Summer (July-August)

Warmest weather, best beach conditions
Most crowded and expensive
Book accommodations 3-6 months ahead
Expect traffic in tourist hotspots

Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October)

Lower prices, fewer crowds
Fall foliage peaks late September/early October
Some seasonal businesses may be closed
Best value for money

Winter (December-March)

Skiing, snowmobiling, winter sports
Many coastal businesses closed
Lowest prices on accommodations
Authentic “locals” experience

Step 3: Budget Planning

Daily Budget Estimates (per person):

Budget: $80-120/day (camping, casual dining, free activities)
Mid-Range: $150-250/day (motels/inns, mix of dining, paid attractions)
Luxury: $300+/day (upscale lodging, fine dining, guided experiences)

Major Expenses:

Gas: ~$150-300 for full coastal loop
Lodging: $80-400/night depending on style
Food: $30-100/day per person
Activities: $0-50/day (many hiking trails are free!)
Acadia National Park Pass: $30/vehicle (7 days)

Step 4: Essential Stops

Can’t-Miss Destinations:

Portland - Old Port, lighthouses, food scene (2-3 days)
Acadia National Park - Hiking, Cadillac Mountain, carriage roads (3-4 days)
Camden - Classic Maine coastal town, Mount Battie views (1-2 days)
Boothbay Harbor - Working harbor, boat tours (1 day)
Kennebunkport - Beaches, Bush compound, charm (1-2 days)

Hidden Gems:

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
Rangeley Lakes region
Stonington fishing village
Blue Hill Peninsula
Schoodic Peninsula (quiet side of Acadia)

Step 5: Packing Essentials

Year-Round Necessities:

Layers (weather changes quickly)
Rain jacket and waterproof boots
Sunscreen and bug spray
Reusable water bottle
Binoculars (for wildlife and lighthouses)
Camera/phone with good battery

Seasonal Additions:

Summer: Swimsuit, beach towel, sandals
Fall: Warm jacket, long pants, hiking boots
Winter: Heavy coat, winter boots, gloves, hat

Step 6: Reservations & Bookings

Book in Advance:

Acadia campgrounds (6 months ahead for July/August)
Popular inns and B&Bs in peak season
Windjammer cruises
Whale watching tours
Dinner reservations at top restaurants

Can Be Spontaneous:

Most restaurants (except fine dining)
Hiking trails (no reservations needed)
Beach access
Lighthouse visits
Many motels have walk-in availability off-season

Essential Apps:

AllTrails - Hiking trail maps and reviews
GasBuddy - Find cheapest gas
Maine DOT 511 - Real-time traffic and road conditions
Tide charts - Essential for coastal exploring

Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be spotty in rural Maine. Download Google Maps offline or carry a paper atlas.

Step 8: Local Tips

Know Before You Go:

Many coastal businesses close November-April
“Rotaries” (roundabouts) are common—yield to traffic already in the circle
Lobster prices are cheapest at working harbors, not touristy spots
State liquor stores close at specific hours; plan accordingly
Moose are most active at dawn/dusk—drive carefully

Maine Etiquette:

Mainers are friendly but reserved—don’t be pushy
Tipping: 18-20% at restaurants
Leave no trace on hiking trails
Respect private property (many waterfront areas are private)

Sample 7-Day Coastal Itinerary

Day 1: Portland - Old Port, lighthouse tour, dinner at Eventide Day 2: Freeport (L.L.Bean) → Bath (Maritime Museum) → Brunswick Day 3: Boothbay Harbor - boat tour, Pemaquid lighthouse Day 4: Rockland - lobster, art galleries → Camden (Mount Battie sunset) Day 5-6: Acadia National Park - Park Loop Road, hiking, Cadillac sunrise Day 7: Bar Harbor - shopping, whale watching, departure

Money-Saving Tips

Camp Instead of Hotels - Maine has excellent state park campgrounds ($20-35/night)
Lobster from Docks - Buy directly from lobstermen or co-ops
Free Activities - Most beaches, hiking trails, and lighthouses are free
Shoulder Season Travel - Save 30-50% on everything
Picnic Lunches - Stock up at grocery stores instead of eating out for every meal
State Park Pass - If visiting multiple parks, buy annual pass ($70) instead of daily fees

Final Checklist

Before you leave:

Maine rewards the prepared traveler. Take time to plan, but leave room for spontaneity—the best memories often come from unexpected detours down scenic backroads.