{"id":14326,"date":"2026-06-03T11:03:42","date_gmt":"2026-06-03T11:03:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=14326"},"modified":"2026-06-03T11:03:42","modified_gmt":"2026-06-03T11:03:42","slug":"what-to-do-in-maine-this-summer-according-to-a-local","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wildgreenquest.com\/?p=14326","title":{"rendered":"What to Do in Maine This Summer, According to a Local"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Published June 3, 2026 03:08AM<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Maine has been celebrated as \u201cVacationland,\u201d a nickname that appears on license plates, signs, and graphic T-shirts, since the 1930s. And planning a trip to Maine in the summer is more popular than ever: the state expects more than 7 million visitors before Labor Day<\/a>. But what makes this largely rural state (89 percent<\/a> forestland!) such a great place to explore, unwind, and have fun?<\/p>\n

I was born and raised in Maine, have been a Registered Maine Guide for five years, and I\u2019ve written three guidebooks about hikes in Maine. I also lead guided hikes and adventures throughout the state\u2014and whether you\u2019re traveling from out of state or you\u2019re a Maine resident looking for the ultimate \u201cstaycation,\u201d I\u2019ve got some recommendations for a memorable summer.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s what to do in Maine this summer, from one-of-a-kind guided adventures to local cuisine you have to try (hello, lobster rolls).<\/p>\n

The 7 Best Summer Adventures in Maine<\/h2>\n

1. Search for Whales, Puffins, and Moose By Boat<\/h3>\n
(Photo: Gallo Images\/Delimont, Herbig and Associates\/Getty)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Some of Maine\u2019s most exciting wild animals can be hard to find on your own. Whether you\u2019re hoping to glimpse a massive moose or charismatic puffin, booking a tour is a great way to increase your chances and take the stress out of the search.<\/p>\n

Near the beautiful lakeside town of Greenville, moose safaris by van and canoe are offered by various outfits including Northeast Whitewater Guide Service<\/a> and Young\u2019s Guide Service<\/a>. Moose spend much of the summer wading in ponds to eat wetland plants, escape bugs, and cool off. Can you blame them?<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, just outside of Acadia National Park, the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.<\/a> carries passengers out onto the ocean in search of humpback whales, harbor seals, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, and other marine creatures.<\/p>\n

For bird lovers, Maine is the only state in the United States you will\u00a0find the Atlantic puffin, a colorful seabird and a huge conservation success story<\/a>.\u00a0What\u2019s more, summer is the best time to spot these birds as they congregate to nests on select offshore islands. A number of boat tours visit puffins, including Capt\u2019n Fish\u2019s Cruises<\/a> out of Boothbay, Hardy Boat Cruises<\/a> out of New Harbor, and Isle Au Haut Boat Services<\/a> out of Stonington. Just beware, puffin cruises are popular, so you should book them far in advance.<\/p>\n

2. Hike in Acadia National Park With Your Dog<\/h3>\n
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The author walks her dog in Acadia National Park. (Photo: Cavan Images \/ Chris Bennett)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A top hiking destination in Maine is Acadia National Park<\/a>, and for good reason. With mountains of pink granite and dramatic ocean cliffs, this park features more than 120 miles of historic hiking trails with interesting features like rock staircases and whimsical footbridges. The bulk of this mountainous park is located on scenic Mount Desert Island, accessible by causeway, with a quieter mainland section (well worth the visit) on the Schoodic Peninsula.<\/p>\n

Acadia is one of the few national parks across America that allows dogs. If kept on leash (measuring no longer than six feet), dogs are permitted on most trails. In fact, dogs can become Acadia \u201cBark Rangers\u201d<\/a> if their owners complete a short program about the rules of B.A.R.K.:<\/p>\n