4 Ways to Enjoy Late Summer in Maine
We can’t stop singing its praises, and for good reason – summer in Maine is pure bliss! Now that we are nearing the end of the season, there is a new type of summer we get to revel in, which includes more temperate days, cozy nights and fewer crowds. There are seemingly endless ways to take advantage of late summer in Maine, so we’ve put together a few suggestions below to get you started!
Grab Lobster Rolls
One major plus of late summer in Maine? Now that the touristy crowds have started to disperse, you don’t have to worry about waiting in long, snaking lines to order at your favorite restaurants. This leaves ample opportunity for you to enjoy what Maine is known for: lobster rolls!
You may already have your go-to favorite spot (don’t all Mainers?) but if you’re looking to try something new, there are plenty to choose from! The lobster rolls at Bite Into Maine food truck, located in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, near the Portland Headlight, are classic and delicious. For an elevated spin, try the Brown Butter Lobster Roll at Eventide in Portland, which comes on a steamed bun and will melt in your mouth. Feeling like lobster but not necessarily on a roll? Head to Highroller Lobster Co., another Portland venue, for a variety of lobster-packed meals like lobster grilled cheese or lobster tail on a stick.
Plan a Picnic
Comfortable, warm temperatures means it’s much more enjoyable to be outside! Take your next meal al fresco and soak in every last ray of sun.
Remember the lobster rolls we just mentioned at Fort Williams Park? That is the perfect scenic picnic spot to experience the ocean, historic forts and a Maine lighthouse! Another great way to make the most of Portland’s incredible food scene is to order takeout from your restaurant of choice and bring it to the Eastern Promenade for another breathtaking ocean view.
Relax by the Water
Freshwater or saltwater – either is perfect for this time of year! Both beaches and lakes are starting to slow down as we near the late season, so it’s ideal if you want a little space.
For lakes, head up to Sebago (Big or Little!) for clear water and sand beaches. If you’re looking to go a little farther north and really experience Maine, try Rangeley Lake or Moosehead Lake, both of which boast amazing wildlife sightings.
If you’re in the mood for the beach, head to Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth or Scarborough State Park Beach for easy parking, facilities and plenty of room. Higgins Beach and Ferry Beach, both in Scarborough, have a smaller feel but plenty of space. If you’re in Portland, the East End Beach is dog friendly and great for a morning walk!
Explore the Forests
Whether you fancy a leisurely nature walk or would prefer a more challenging hike, Maine has endless trails for you to explore!
The Chebeague & Cumberland Land Trust in Cumberland conserves hundreds of acres of natural resources, including forests and other scenic spaces that provide a stunning backdrop for your next adventure. Bradbury Mountain in Pownal is an excellent option for an easy to moderate hike, depending on how you want to experience it – the mountain offers more than 20 miles of trails that vary in difficulty. Blackstrap Hill Community Forest is another wonderful option if you are looking for a longer or more challenging hike.
Cumberland Crossing by OceanView is an active retirement community centrally located and just a few miles from Portland and the ocean, so you have easy access to a variety of beaches, lakes, nature trails and mountains to enjoy. To learn more about our community at Cumberland Crossing, please contact us today!
