Maine is often associated with iconic coastal destinations like Bar Harbor and Portland, but tucked away from the usual tourist trail are charming small towns brimming with personality, natural beauty, and local culture. These underrated gems offer the perfect getaway for those looking to avoid the crowds while still soaking in the Pine Tree State’s magic. From inland hideaways to coastal corners, here are five of Maine’s best-kept secrets that deserve a spot on your travel list this year.
1. Belfast – A Seaside Escape with Artistic Soul
Nestled along Penobscot Bay, Belfast blends maritime heritage with a thriving arts community. Once a bustling hub for shipbuilding, the town has transformed into a haven for creatives, offering galleries, boutique shops, and vibrant street art.
Why Go?
Belfast’s waterfront is ideal for a peaceful walk along Harbor Walk, where you can watch working boats glide by. The town also boasts an excellent local food scene, including the Belfast Co-op, known for its organic produce and deli, and farm-to-table restaurants like Meanwhile in Belfast, serving wood-fired Italian dishes.
Don’t Miss:
The Belfast Free Library’s public art exhibits and the annual Arts in the Park festival, which brings together dozens of Maine artists for a weekend of creativity and celebration.
2. Stonington – A Hidden Island Gem on Deer Isle
Located on the southern tip of Deer Isle, Stonington is a working fishing village that exudes Down East charm. With fewer crowds than nearby Acadia, it offers pristine views, rugged coastline, and authentic Maine culture.
Why Go?
Stonington is one of Maine’s top lobster ports, so seafood lovers are in for a treat. Visitors can enjoy fresh lobster rolls by the pier or explore the island’s scenic hiking trails, including the ones in Crockett Cove Woods Preserve and Barred Island Preserve.
Don’t Miss:
Take a mailboat cruise with Isle au Haut Boat Services for a unique journey through the archipelago, where you might spot seals, bald eagles, and quiet offshore islands.
3. Hallowell – The Coolest Small Town You’ve Never Heard Of
Just south of Augusta, Hallowell is a pint-sized city packed with personality. With only around 2,500 residents, this town along the Kennebec River is known for its antique shops, live music scene, and warm, welcoming vibe.
Why Go?
Water Street, the heart of downtown Hallowell, is lined with quirky boutiques, vintage bookstores, and lively pubs. The city is also deeply rooted in history, with well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a walkable historic district.
Don’t Miss:
Catch live music at The Quarry Tap Room or join locals for First Fridays Art Walks, where artists open their doors for an evening of culture and community.
4. Lubec – Where the Sun Rises First in the U.S.
Far from the beaten path, Lubec sits on Maine’s easternmost edge, offering an unmatched sense of peace and solitude. With sweeping ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and a connection to Campobello Island via the Roosevelt International Bridge, this border town is a nature lover’s dream.
Why Go?
Lubec’s claim to fame is being the first place in the continental U.S. to see the sunrise. But beyond that, it offers stunning views of the Bay of Fundy, dramatic tides, and access to the bold coast via scenic hiking trails like those in Quoddy Head State Park.
Don’t Miss:
Visit the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, painted in red and white candy stripes, and explore the nearby Roosevelt Campobello International Park, the summer home of Franklin D. Roosevelt.
5. Damariscotta – A Riverside Town Rich in History and Oysters
Often overshadowed by nearby Boothbay Harbor, Damariscotta is a charming riverside village that punches well above its weight. With a perfect blend of historic charm and culinary delights, it’s an ideal stop for both day-trippers and weekend explorers.
Why Go?
Damariscotta is known as the “oyster capital” of Maine. The Damariscotta River produces some of the most prized oysters in the Northeast. Foodies can enjoy them raw, grilled, or baked at local favorites like King Eider’s Pub or Newcastle Publick House.
Don’t Miss:
Take a scenic oyster farm tour by boat, or visit during the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest in October, when the town showcases massive pumpkins in creative displays and even boat races.
Final Thoughts
While Maine’s popular destinations continue to draw tourists, these lesser-known towns offer a more personal, slower-paced way to explore the state’s natural beauty, coastal heritage, and community spirit. Whether you’re watching the sunrise in Lubec or savoring oysters in Damariscotta, these hidden gems remind us that sometimes the best adventures are found off the main road.