Instagram Worthy Spots in the MidCoast

A Guide to Some of Maine’s Most Sharable and Likable Places

MidCoast Maine is well-known for its many breathtaking, scenic views. The ocean, mountains, historic villages, and harbors make for amazing photos and even better Instagram images! The stunning photo ops are too numerous to even begin to list, but we’ve selected a sampling of the best photo locations in the MidCoast that will make your friends and followers wish they were in Maine, too. We’ve mixed a few famous spots with spectacular and lesser-known, hidden gems. For an amazing ‘instafamous’ image, be sure to head out early to capture an unforgettable, ocean sunrise photo.

 

 

Giant’s Stairs – Harpswell

Photo by Ryan Constable

It’s easy to imagine that giants once roamed South Harpswell thanks to the oversize rock formations that tumble into the ocean. A very short trail offers gorgeous views of the sea and many surrounding islands. Explore the tidal pools at low tide and look for seal swimming and sunbathing nearby. Giant’s Stairs is not ADA compliant, but wheelchair users can enjoy this access trail along the rocky Atlantic shore. Parking is at the Episcopal Church, please avoid parking here when the church is in use. Want a few more insta-stunning images? Drive a little further south to Potts Point Preserve with its dramatic views of Casco Bay and over a hundred small islands.

 

 

Marshall Point Lighthouse – Port Clyde

Yes, it’s one of Maine’s most famous lighthouses, but it’s rarely crowded, thanks to the long, wandering drive that leads to its location. For the actor, Tom Hanks, the lighthouse came at the end of his long, cross-country run in the Academy Award winning movie, Forest Gump. Today, Marshall Point Lighthouse and the 1880’s Keeper’s House and Museum are lovingly maintained entirely by volunteers. “Scenic” barely describes the lighthouse and the walkway to it. You’ll be treated to even more iconic Maine images in the quiet fishing village of Port Clyde just a short hike away.

 

 

Norton Pond and Megunticook Lake – Lincolnville and Camden

With the towering, 800-ft. rugged, Maiden’s Cliff visible from most any vantage point, Megunticook Lake offers spectacular views from the shore or from canoes and small boats. There are hiking trails to the top of Maiden’s Cliff and other, less strenuous trails that explore over three miles of shoreline in Fernald’s Neck, a Nature Conservancy preserve. For an “On Golden Pond” experience, paddle your way to the many islands of Norton Pond which is connected by a narrow channel. Be sure to bring a bathing suit and towel! Norton Pond and Megunticook are idyllic places to swim.

 

 

Five Islands – Georgetown

Photo from Instagram @Hungryhungryhoboken by Corinne

The little lobstering village of Five Islands sits at the edge of what has been called “the prettiest harbor in Maine.” Everything you imagine about what a beautiful Maine harbor should be is here – rocky headlands, the islands of course, fishing and pleasure boats, classic summer homes, and one of the best lobster spots on the planet. Located on a working wharf, Five Island Lobster Co. is as ‘picnic-table-casual’ as it gets. It’s hard to find fresher lobster anywhere.

 

 

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse – Bristol

The historic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse has inspired artists and photographers for decades. The famed American painter, Edward Hopper, made a small watercolor of the lighthouse in 1929 call “Pemaquid Light,” which is now recognized worldwide. The lighthouse tower is one of the few towers that can be climbed in the state. While visiting the park, make sure you visit the Fisherman’s Museum and the Learning Center Art Gallery.

 

 

Popham Beach State Park – Phippsburg

Photo by Anne Brown

Known for its rugged shorelines, Maine also has a few, long sandy beaches. The least crowded and arguably, the most scenic, is Popham Beach that stretches from the mouths of the Kennebec and Morse Rivers. It’s also the site of the historic Popham Colony, which was founded in 1607. Today, the best adventure here is a walk out to Fox Island, which is only accessible at low tide. Once you get out there, scramble up the rocks, explore tidepools, and look for the two lighthouses on nearby Pond and Seguin Islands (which you can also visit). Talk to a local or use a tide calendar to plan your trip so you don’t end up marooned.

 

 

Sears Island – Searsport

Little known outside of Maine, Sears Island is one of the largest, undeveloped islands on the eastern coast of the United States. Accessible by a causeway with parking, Sears Island has miles of quiet, wild shoreline to explore. The Shoreline Trail around the entire island is about five miles, but consider the tide if you want to make the entire hike – some places are impassible at high tide. No matter what the tide is, there are other trails to explore forests, beaches and abundant wildlife and botanical features.

 

 

Belfast – Belfast

Of the many historic towns and villages in the MidCoast, Belfast perhaps offers more classic ornate architecture and waterfront scenes than most. Once a ship building seaport, the city has become known for its arts, small shops, galleries, local food, hip breweries and well-attended events. The downtown is considered so beautiful that it is designated as a National Main Street Community and Working Waterfront. At most every turn in Belfast, you’ll find ‘instafamous’ worthy photos that say, ”don’t you wish you were here!”