Damariscotta, Maine

The Oyster Capital of Maine

Overview

Damariscotta is a charming village that serves as the commercial hub for the Pemaquid Peninsula. It is synonymous with oysters, which grow in the nutrient-rich Damariscotta River. The town is also famous for its ancient shell middens (oyster shell heaps left by Indigenous people) and its whimsical Pumpkinfest.

Key Facts

Population 2,297

Region Midcoast

County Lincoln

Founded 1848

Nearest City Portland (1 hour)

Town Office Visit official website

What Damariscotta Is Known For

Damariscotta Local Highlights

Damariscotta River Oysters

Famous for the Damariscotta River, the premier oyster-growing region in Maine.

Shell Middens

Home to ancient shell middens, massive piles of oyster shells left by indigenous peoples over thousands of years.

Pumpkinfest

Host of the famous Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta, featuring giant pumpkins and boat races.

Historic downtown

A picturesque village center with brick buildings along the river.

Things to Do

Eat fresh oysters

Sample the world-famous local oysters at a riverfront raw bar or farm tour.

Visit the Whaleback Shell Midden

Hike to see the massive ancient oyster shell heaps left by the Wabanaki people.

Attend the Pumpkinfest in October

Watch giant pumpkins be transformed into boats and raced in the river.

Shop at the Rising Tide Co-op

Find local organic foods and goods in this community market.

Kayak the Damariscotta River

Paddle the tidal river to see oyster farms and wildlife up close.

Living in Damariscotta

Damariscotta is a quiet, affluent community popular with retirees and summer residents. It has a high quality of life with excellent library and hospital facilities for its size.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Pleasant, 70-80°F

winter

Cold, 20-35°F

spring

Cool, 45-60°F

fall

Beautiful foliage, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Horseshoe Crabs Ospreys Eagles Striped Bass

How to Get There

Damariscotta is located just off Route 1, about an hour north of Portland. It is the gateway to the Bristol and Pemaquid peninsulas.

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

Satellite preview

Damariscotta outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Damariscotta

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the shell middens?

They are massive piles of oyster shells left by Native Americans over thousands of years of harvesting. The Glidden Midden is one of the largest on the East Coast.

Do people really race pumpkins?

Yes! During Pumpkinfest in October, hollowed-out giant pumpkins (some weighing hundreds of pounds) are fitted with motors or paddles and raced in the harbor.