Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Classic harbor village

Overview

Boothbay Harbor is often called the 'Boating Capital of New England.' It is a protected harbor filled with lobster boats, pleasure yachts, and excursion vessels. The town is famous for its winding streets, footbridge across the harbor, and the nearby world-class Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Key Facts

Population 2,205

Region Midcoast

County Lincoln

Founded 1764

Nearest City Portland (1.25 hours)

Town Office Visit official website

What Boothbay Harbor Is Known For

Boothbay Harbor Local Highlights

Boating and sailing

Ideally situated for sailing, kayaking, and boat tours, with a deep, protected harbor.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

The largest botanical garden in New England, featuring stunning stonework, native plants, and giant trolls.

The Footbridge

The historic wooden footbridge spanning the harbor is an iconic landmark and pedestrian connector.

Windjammer Days

An annual festival celebrating Maine's maritime history with a parade of tall ships.

Things to Do

Explore the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Wander through acres of themed gardens, trails, and the popular 'Guardians of the Seeds' trolls.

Take a puffin or whale watching cruise

Head out to Eastern Egg Rock to see puffins or search for whales offshore.

Walk across the historic footbridge

Enjoy a unique perspective of the harbor and easy access to shops on both sides.

Visit the Maine State Aquarium

Get hands-on with marine life at the touch tank and learn about local fisheries.

Shop and dine in the village

Browse the many galleries, gift shops, and seafood restaurants that line the harbor.

Living in Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor has a small but active year-round population. The community swells significantly in the summer. It offers a relaxed pace of life with a strong connection to the maritime trades and tourism industry.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Breezy and mild, 65-75°F

winter

Cold and icy, 20-35°F

spring

Cool with fog, 45-55°F

fall

Clear and crisp, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Atlantic Puffins (offshore) Harbor Porpoises Ospreys Seals

How to Get There

Boothbay Harbor is located at the tip of a peninsula off US Route 1. It is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes northeast of Portland. Having a car is essential for reaching the town and exploring the surrounding peninsula.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Boothbay Harbor outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Boothbay Harbor

5 Days

Midcoast Magic: 5 Days Through Maine's Iconic Coast

Explore the quintessential Maine coast from Brunswick to Belfast, with lobster pounds, lighthouses, islands, and working harbors.

8 Stops View Plan

Outdoor Recreation

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Lighthouse Touring

Year-round (Best: June - Oct)

Frequently Asked Questions

When are the puffins visible?

Puffin tours typically run from late May through mid-August. You cannot see them from land in Boothbay Harbor; you must take a boat tour to their nesting islands.

Is the Botanical Gardens worth it?

Absolutely. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is one of the top attractions in the state, featuring massive trolls, butterfly houses, and stunning waterfront gardens.

Can I park in downtown Boothbay Harbor?

Parking can be tight in peak summer. There are several paid lots and street parking, but many visitors choose to use the seasonal trolley service to get around.