Pembroke, Maine

Reversing Falls and farms on Cobscook Bay

Overview

Pembroke sits on Cobscook Bay between Calais and Lubec. Its claim to fame is Reversing Falls, where strong tides create standing waves. The rest of the town mixes farms, forests, and quiet shoreline roads that feel far from crowds.

Key Facts

Population 1,200

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Washington

Founded 1832

Nearest City Eastport (20 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Pembroke Is Known For

Pembroke Local Highlights

Reversing Falls

A must-see tidal rapid with trails and picnic spots.

Cobscook shoreline

Broad tidal flats rich in wildlife and shellfish history.

Blueberry country

Barrens that turn crimson in late summer and fall.

Things to Do

Watch the tides

Visit Reversing Falls at mid-tide for the strongest standing waves.

Bird and seal spotting

Scan Cobscook Bay for eagles, shorebirds, and seals.

Day-trip the Bold Coast

Pair Pembroke with Lubec lighthouses or Eastport's waterfront.

Explore trails

Walk the coastal paths at Reversing Falls or venture to nearby Shackford Head and Quoddy Head; check the /guides/best-lighthouses-guide while planning.

Living in Pembroke

Pembroke offers quiet rural living; most shopping is in [Calais](/towns/calais) or Machias. Residents value the tides, space, and small-town pace, and rely on Route 1 for commuting.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool, 60-75 F

winter

Cold, 10-28 F with coastal snow

spring

Cool and damp, 38-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with bright barrens

Local Wildlife & Nature

Harbor seals and porpoise in Cobscook Bay Bald eagles and shorebirds along the flats Deer and black bear on inland barrens

How to Get There

On US-1 between Calais and Machias; Route 214 connects inland to Dennysville.

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

Satellite preview

Pembroke outline

Outdoor Recreation

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Sea Kayaking

Summer & Fall (June - October)

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see Reversing Falls?

Visit at mid-tide on strong tidal exchanges; slack tide is quiet while mid-tide produces standing waves and whirlpools.

Where can I launch a kayak?

Hand-carry launches exist at Reversing Falls and nearby Cobscook Bay state sites; consult tide charts and the [/guides/kayaking-guide](/guides/kayaking-guide) for safety tips.