Camden was our third stop on our Maine Summer Road Trip. Camden is known to be one of the prettiest towns in Maine, complete with a picturesque harbor and mountains that serve as a backdrop to Penobscot Bay. There is a lot to do in Camden and it is a great home base for exploring the rest of Midcoast Maine. However, many of the restaurants and shops in the area are only open seasonally and have limited hours so keep that in mind when planning your trip. I hope this weekend guide to Camden, Maine inspires you to plan your next weekend getaway or even your own Maine Summer Road Trip!
Snapshot
2+ DAYS
Best TIme to Visit – June through August for the best weather, October for fall foliage
Weather – Highs of 70-80F in the summer with cooler evenings
Getting Around – Rental Car
Nearby Airports – Boston Logan (BOS), Portland International (pdx)
Where to Stay
Lincolnville Motel $ – a refreshed version of a classic motel located a short drive from Camden. You can book traditional rooms or private cabins. We stayed here and enjoyed the onsite sauna in the evenings.
Whitehall $$ – a cozy hotel that feels more like a bed & breakfast
16 Bay View $$$ – a beautifully designed property with a stunning rooftop bar located steps from Laite Beach. A perfect stay for couples!
Where to Eat
Zoot Cafe – delicious coffee and espresso to start your day
Sea Dog Brewing – come for the Blueberry Ales (not the food) and enjoy them on the deck overlooking the water
Long Grain – Asian-inspired locavore restaurant using local, seasonal ingredients
Waterfront – fresh seafood on Camden Harbor
Mcloon’s Lobster Shack – delicious lobster rolls and other fresh seafood located on Spruce Head Island. Be sure to stop here if you are exploring the midcoast.
Red’s Eats – Another noteworthy lobster shack located in Wiscasset. Stop here on your way up to Camden and compare it to Mcloon’s
Primo – an award-winning Mediterranean-Italian restaurant located in nearby Rockland. Be sure to go here for a date night or a special occasion
River Duck’s Ice Cream – the perfect afternoon treat with an extensive flavor selection (but when in Maine, you have to go with Moose Tracks, right?)
What to Do
Swim or sunbathe at Laite Beach – a small stretch of sand with a platform in the water you can swim out to and jump off of. There is also a grassy park nearby with grills and swings if you are traveling with kids and want to spend the day here!
Hike Mt. Battie – a short, 1-mile hike that rewards you with stunning views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. If hiking on vacation is not your thing, you can also drive up to the summit for a small fee.
Take a sunset sail – Maine Schooner’s Sailing Vessel Owl is the perfect way to get out on the water without the crowds that sometimes come with a group excursion. The Owl is limited to a maximum of 6 people plus your captain. I recommend going for the sunset sail! Tip: bring your own wine, beer, and light snacks for the perfect appetizer
Glendarragh Lavender Farm – take a scenic drive to this quaint lavender farm. You can walk through the gardens and take some lavender products home with you from their onsite shop (located in the barn)
Owl’s Head State Park – take a mini road trip to explore this beautiful state park. It’s a short stroll out to the lighthouse
If you enjoyed this Weeknd Guide to Camden, Maine or you are planning to travel to Maine soon, check out my Weekend Guide to Kennebunkport, Maine, and my Weekend Guide to Portland, Maine