The Downeast and Acadia region of Maine encompasses the easternmost portion of the state and includes scenic coastline, popular tourist towns, and a variety of outdoor activities. With so much to see and do, staying in Downeast and Acadia vacation rentals are the perfect way to experience everything the area has to offer.
Climate
The best time of year to visit Downeast and Acadia is during the summer when days are warm and sun-filled and evenings are breezy and cool. Temperatures typically top out in the upper-70s at this time of year. Winter months see freezing temperatures, but fewer crowds while the spring and falls seasons are relatively mild in the 50s. Visit during the fall if you’re looking for dry days, comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.
Transit
Most visitors staying in Downeast and Acadia vacation rentals choose to drive a car when getting around the area. For those in need of public transportation, though, the Island Explorer bus runs from June to October. The line provides transportation to local beaches, parks, and hiking trails and costs a minimal fare. For active families, rental bikes are available at many local shops.
Things to do
Some of the most beautiful lakes, beaches, and mountains in the country can be found here, and with so many Downeast and Acadia vacation rentals nearby to choose from, you’ll never be far from the action.
Home to Acadia National Park, this region offers vacationers endless opportunities for exploring coastal Maine’s natural beauty. The 27-mile Park Loop Road here stretches past the scenic landscape and is fun to travel via car or tour bus. The Beehive Trail offers a strenuous mountain hike approximately 0.8 miles long, but it is worth it for its stunning views of the nearby ocean and beaches. Cadillac Mountain is another favorite attraction that can’t be missed – literally – in Acadia National Park. It is the highest point on the North Atlantic Seaboard, and boasts a unique claim to fame as the first place to see the sunrise in the United States from October 7 to March 6.
Sand Beach is one of the most popular parts of Acadia National Park because of its cool water and sands made of shell fragments. This gorgeous beach is framed by towering mountains and blue skies, and is a perfect spot to spend a warm summer day. Another popular beach in the area is Echo Lake Beach, which has warm water from mid-July through September and lifeguards on duty during the summer season.
There are lots of things to do for families in Downeast and Acadia as well. The Mount Desert Oceanarium is a fun way for kids to learn about lobsters. The facility features a lobster hatchery, museum, marsh tour, and discovery pool. Visit West Quoddy Head Light and learn about the lighthouse’s origins or enjoy birdwatching with the family within the park.
Food
Culinary treats in Downeast and Acadia often come in the form of luscious lobster rolls and delicious seafood dishes, as well as sweet berries and blueberry pies fresh from local farm stands. Visit the Union River Lobster Pot for lobster prepared many different ways: boiled and dipped in melted butter, cooked and served in stew, baked and stuffed, or served cold in a bun. Sip on a pint of locally brewed ale at the Atlantic Brewing Company or grab a slice of pie at Ruth & Wimpys Restaurant for a true taste of Downeast and Acadia.
Events
People come from all over the country to see the beautiful sights and participate in unique events that Downeast and Acadia are known for, so be sure to take them into consideration when visiting. In May, locals and tourists can learn about the area’s native birds at the Acadia Birding Festival. With bird walks, seabird trips, and lots of birdwatching tips, you’ll be amazed at how alive the area is with birdlife. During the summer, families will love the nightly Great Maine Lumberjack shows, which offer a re-enactment of what a Maine logging competition would have been like more than a century ago. In September, the Acadia Night Sky Festival aims to bring awareness about the dangers of pollution to Acadia’s beautiful night sky.
Every day spent vacationing in this part of Maine will be better than the last. Make yourself at home in one of the many Downeast and Acadia vacation rentals and consider adding this charming Northeast destination to your must-visit list year after year.
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