Introduction
Planning the perfect honeymoon can feel overwhelming, but if you crave New England charm, rugged coastline, and intimate moments by the sea, honeymoon destinations in Maine should be at the top of your list. From cozy bed and breakfast inns to luxury resorts with ocean views, Maine delivers seaside cottages, island escapes, and top-notch lobster dinners that make romance effortless. Whether you picture sunrise hikes in Acadia National Park, candlelit waterfront dining in Portland, or a private cabin with fall foliage outside your door, Maine blends tranquil beaches, iconic lighthouses, and outdoor adventure into a memorable romantic getaway.
Why Choose Maine for Your Honeymoon
Maine offers a unique combination of scenic beauty, small-town charm, and activities for every couple. It’s a place where you can swap crowded resorts for intimate bed and breakfast stays, spend mornings exploring lighthouses and afternoons kayaking along rocky shores. The coastline hosts charming towns like Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport, while Portland brings foodie culture and waterfront dining. If you love seafood, particularly Maine lobster, you’ll appreciate the local lobster shacks and waterfront restaurants. For couples who prefer outdoor adventures, there are hiking trails, whale watching tours, scenic drives, and opportunities to paddle, sail, or cycle.
- Variety: From luxury resorts to rustic cabins, there’s a romantic stay for every budget.
- Accessibility: Portland’s airport and scenic drives make most destinations easy to reach.
- Seasonal appeal: Summer beaches and fall foliage both create stunning honeymoon backdrops.
Top Coastal Towns and Romantic Stays
Coastal towns in Maine are ideal for honeymooners who want a blend of dining, culture, and shoreline vistas. Here are a few standout towns to consider, with suggestions for what to do and where to stay.
Portland
Portland blends a lively food scene with historic charm. Stay in a boutique hotel near the Old Port district, explore waterfront dining and craft breweries, and take a sunset cruise. Portland is perfect for couples who want great restaurants, galleries, and day trips to nearby islands.
- Must-do: A lobster dinner at a waterfront restaurant and a stroll along the cobblestone streets.
- Tip: Book a local food tour to taste lobster rolls, seafood chowder, and Maine’s craft beer.
Bar Harbor & Acadia Area
Bar Harbor, on Mount Desert Island, is a classic choice among honeymoon destinations in Maine. It combines access to Acadia National Park with cozy inns and seaside cottages. Start your day with sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, hike carriage roads through forest and shoreline, and enjoy intimate dinners in town.
- Must-do: Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain and a carriage road bike ride.
- Tip: Book a whale watching tour from Bar Harbor for a memorable shared experience.
Kennebunkport & Southern Coast
Kennebunkport and nearby coastal towns offer quaint seaside charm, historic inns, and scenic drives. It’s a great pick for couples seeking a quiet, luxury B&B or a small resort with spa services and easy beach access.
- Must-do: Explore the local shops, take a harbor cruise, and enjoy sunset views from a seaside bench.
- Tip: Try a lobster shack for a relaxed, authentic meal.
Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor is a gem for couples who love boating and gardens. With scenic coastal walks, maritime museums, and island hopping options, it creates a picture-perfect honeymoon setting.
- Must-do: A harbor cruise and a visit to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.
- Tip: Consider a private sail for a romantic afternoon on calm waters.
Island Escapes: Private, Secluded, and Scenic
For honeymooners craving privacy, Maine’s islands provide quiet cottages, lighthouses, and ocean-swept cliffs. Many islands are accessible by ferry and offer rustic charm with a touch of exclusivity.
Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island, home to Bar Harbor and Acadia, is ideal for couples who want both nature and amenities. Choose a seaside cottage or a luxury resort on the island, and spend days exploring tide pools, hiking, and photographing lighthouses.
Monhegan Island
Monhegan is an artists’ island with dramatic cliffs and limited development—a serene place for an unplugged honeymoon. Expect no cars, peaceful walks, and simple accommodations where the ocean is your soundtrack.
Coastal Isles & Smaller Getaways
Isles of Shoals and smaller coastal islands offer bed and breakfasts, historic inns, and ferry service from the mainland. These are perfect for couples wanting a short island hop with lots of charm.
- Tip: Book ferries and accommodations in advance, especially in summer.
- Packing: Bring layers for coastal breezes and comfortable walking shoes for rocky shorelines.
Outdoor Adventures for Active Couples
Maine is made for couples who enjoy fresh air and adventure. Acadia National Park is a highlight for hiking, carriage road biking, and sunrise views. The coastline invites sea kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing, while whale watching tours provide awe-inspiring encounters with marine life.
- Hiking: Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Pond Path offer rewarding views and photo ops.
- Water adventures: Kayak around ledges, sign up for a guided paddle, or join a sailing charter.
- Whale watching: Tour operators from Bar Harbor and other coastal towns run seasonal trips.
For fall honeymoons, scenic drives reveal vibrant fall foliage, turning the coastline and inland forests into a tapestry of color. Many couples combine a few days of active exploration with slower, romantic evenings enjoying seafood and spa treatments.
Romantic Stays, Dining, and Experiences
Maine’s lodging ranges from intimate bed and breakfasts to upscale resorts and private cottages. Many inns emphasize personal touches—champagne on arrival, warm fireplaces, and fresh local breakfasts. Waterfront dining is a highlight of any Maine honeymoon: fresh seafood, particularly lobster, stars on menus from casual lobster shacks to fine-dining restaurants. Try a seaside picnic or a sunset dinner cruise for a special moment.
- Where to stay: Boutique hotels in Portland, historic inns in Kennebunkport, luxury resorts near Acadia, and secluded cabins for privacy.
- Dining experiences: Waterfront restaurants, lobster rolls from a beach shack, and chef-driven tasting menus in Portland.
- Spa and relaxation: Many resorts offer couples’ spa packages—perfect after long days of hiking or boating.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Maine Honeymoon
When planning honeymoon destinations in Maine, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are practical tips to make your trip stress-free.
- Best time to go: Summer (June–August) for warm beaches and island ferries; early fall for foliage and fewer crowds; late spring for wildflowers and quieter towns.
- Transportation: Renting a car offers flexibility for scenic drives. Portland International Jetport is the main commercial airport, and smaller regional airports serve Acadia and northern areas.
- Booking: Reserve popular inns, lobster cruises, and whale watching tours well in advance, especially for summer dates.
- Packing: Layers are essential—coastal breezes can be cool even in summer. Include rain layers, comfortable hiking shoes, and a dressy outfit for upscale dining.
- Budgeting: Mix splurges (a few nights at a luxury resort or a private sail) with more affordable options (B&B stays and local seafood shacks).
Sample 7-Day Honeymoon Itinerary
Want a sample plan? Here’s a balanced week that mixes adventure, relaxation, and foodie moments—ideal for many honeymooners.
- Day 1: Arrive in Portland, stroll the Old Port, enjoy waterfront dining and a lobster roll.
- Day 2: Morning harbor cruise, afternoon drive to Kennebunkport, sunset walk on the beach.
- Day 3: Travel north to Boothbay Harbor, visit the botanical gardens, overnight in a seaside inn.
- Day 4: Ferry to an island getaway or spend the day sailing and exploring coastal villages.
- Day 5: Head to Bar Harbor, relax in a cottage, and enjoy a quiet dinner by the water.
- Day 6: Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, explore Acadia National Park carriage roads, and go whale watching.
- Day 7: Slow morning, spa treatment or beach time, depart with memories and photos of lighthouses and lobster dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best months for honeymoon destinations in Maine?
The best months are June through September for warm weather and active ferry schedules. Early fall (September–October) is ideal for spectacular fall foliage and fewer crowds.
2. Are there luxury resorts and bed and breakfasts suitable for honeymoons?
Yes—Maine has a mix of upscale resorts, boutique hotels, and romantic bed and breakfasts. You can find spa services, ocean-view suites, and private cottages for a luxurious experience or a cozy, personalized B&B stay.
3. Can we combine outdoor activities with relaxing beach time?
Absolutely. Many honeymoon destinations in Maine offer easy access to both: hike in Acadia National Park in the morning, relax on a nearby beach in the afternoon, and enjoy seafood at dusk.
4. Is Maine good for food-loving couples?
Maine is a foodie’s delight, especially for seafood lovers. Portland is a culinary hub with chef-driven restaurants, while coastal towns serve fresh lobster, clam chowder, and local specialties at casual shacks and fine dining spots.
5. What should we pack for a Maine honeymoon?
Pack layers, a warm jacket for coastal evenings, waterproof footwear if you plan on hiking, sun protection for beach days, and one dressier outfit for a special dinner. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring lighthouses and rocky shorelines.
Conclusion
Honeymoon destinations in Maine offer a rare blend of rugged coastal beauty, intimate lodging, and memorable experiences—from sunrise hikes in Acadia National Park to island escapes, waterfront dining, and lobster dinners. Whether you prefer the cultural energy of Portland, the classic charm of Bar Harbor, or a secluded island cottage, Maine provides romantic settings for every couple. With thoughtful planning, a mix of adventure and relaxation, and a few booked tours or special dinners, your Maine honeymoon can become the perfect beginning to married life—full of scenic drives, lighthouses, and cozy nights by the sea.
Recommended next step: Choose the tone of honeymoon you want—relaxed or adventurous—and pick 2–3 towns or islands to explore. Book accommodations early and plan one splurge experience, like a private sail or a couples’ spa, to make the trip unforgettable.
