Did you know Castine is one of the oldest continuously occupied towns in North America, with a history dating back to 1613? This charming coastal village on Maine’s Penobscot Bay has witnessed over 400 years of fascinating history, changing hands between French, Dutch, British, and American control more times than any other place in New England. Today, this historic gem offers visitors a perfect blend of maritime heritage, natural beauty, and small-town New England charm.
Best Time to Visit Castine, Maine
Timing your visit to Castine can significantly impact your experience in this coastal Maine town. Each season offers its own unique charm and activities.
Summer (June-August)
The peak season brings warm temperatures between 18-26°C (65-80°F) and the most vibrant atmosphere. This is when most shops, restaurants, and attractions operate at full capacity. Water activities flourish, and the harbor buzzes with sailing vessels. The Fourth of July celebrations and Castine Classic Yacht Race are summer highlights not to be missed.
Fall (September-October)
Perhaps the most magical time to visit, fall brings spectacular foliage as Castine’s famous elm trees turn brilliant shades of gold and crimson. Temperatures cool to 10-18°C (50-65°F), crowds thin out, and accommodation rates drop. The crisp air makes hiking and exploring the historic sites particularly pleasant.
Spring (April-May)
A quieter time with temperatures ranging from 7-18°C (45-65°F). While some seasonal businesses may still be closed, you’ll enjoy wildflowers blooming and wildlife emerging from winter. The Maine Maritime Academy is in session, bringing youthful energy to town.
Winter (November-March)
For the adventurous traveler, winter offers a peaceful, snow-covered Castine with temperatures between -7 to 4°C (20-40°F). Many businesses close for the season, but cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities abound in Witherle Woods. The historic buildings look particularly charming dusted with snow.
Castine’s picturesque harbor comes alive during the summer months
Getting to Castine & Planning Your Journey
Tucked away on a peninsula in Penobscot Bay, Castine requires some planning to reach, but the journey is part of the charm.
By Car
Most visitors arrive by car. Here are typical driving times:
- From Bangor: 55 minutes (55 km/34 miles)
- From Portland: 2.5 hours (210 km/130 miles)
- From Bar Harbor: 1 hour 10 minutes (70 km/43 miles)
- From Boston: 4 hours (350 km/217 miles)
The drive from Route 1 to Castine along Route 166 and 166A is particularly scenic, winding through coastal forests before revealing stunning water views.
By Air
The nearest airports are:
- Bangor International Airport (BGR) – 55 minutes by car
- Portland International Jetport (PWM) – 2.5 hours by car
By Boat
For nautical travelers, Castine has a well-maintained town dock and moorings available for visitors. The harbormaster can be reached at 207-326-4502 for information and reservations.
Where to Stay in Castine
Despite its small size, Castine offers several charming accommodation options that capture the town’s historic character and coastal ambiance.
The historic Pentagoet Inn offers Victorian charm and harbor views
Historic Inns & B&Bs
Experience authentic New England charm in one of Castine’s historic inns:
- The Castine Inn (1898) – Classic New England elegance with a lovely garden
- Pentagoet Inn (1894) – Victorian charm with a wraparound porch and harbor views
- Manor Inn – Comfortable rooms in a historic setting
Vacation Rentals
For families or extended stays, consider renting a historic home or cottage:
- Harbor-view cottages
- Historic homes in the village center
- Waterfront properties with private docks
Many rentals are available through local agencies or online platforms, with weekly minimums during peak season.
Nearby Options
If Castine’s limited accommodations are booked, consider staying in nearby towns:
- Blue Hill (20 minutes)
- Bucksport (25 minutes)
- Belfast (40 minutes)
These towns offer additional lodging options while keeping Castine within easy day-trip distance.
Top Things to Do in Castine, Maine
From exploring maritime history to enjoying outdoor adventures, Castine offers activities for history buffs, nature lovers, and everyone in between.
The historic Dyce Head Lighthouse offers spectacular views of Penobscot Bay
Historic Sites & Museums
Castine Historical Society
Located in the historic Abbott School on the town common, the Castine Historical Society offers fascinating exhibits on the town’s rich past. Don’t miss the impressive community quilt commemorating Castine’s bicentennial, which tells the town’s story through intricate needlework.
Wilson Museum
This diverse collection includes prehistoric artifacts, maritime exhibits, and a reconstructed 1805 kitchen. The museum grounds also feature the pre-Revolutionary John Perkins House and a working blacksmith shop where demonstrations are often held during summer months.
Dyce Head Lighthouse
Built in 1828, this 12m (39ft) lighthouse stands on a dramatic bluff overlooking Penobscot Bay. While the lighthouse itself is privately owned, visitors can follow a footpath around the property for spectacular views of the coastline.
Fort George & Fort Madison
Explore the earthwork remains of these historic forts that changed hands multiple times during America’s early conflicts. Fort George, built by the British in 1779, was the last fort surrendered by the British at the end of the Revolutionary War.
The Wilson Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Castine’s maritime heritage
Outdoor Activities
Kayaking & Sailing
Explore Castine’s stunning coastline from the water. Castine Kayak Adventures offers guided tours and rentals for paddlers of all skill levels. For sailing enthusiasts, boat tours and charters are available from the town dock during summer months.
Hiking & Nature
Witherle Woods offers 6.5km (4 miles) of trails through 193 acres of preserved forest, with spectacular views of Penobscot Bay from Blockhouse Point. In winter, the trails are groomed for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Beaches & Swimming
Wadsworth Cove Beach offers a pebbly shoreline perfect for beachcombing and gentle swimming during summer months. The western exposure makes it an ideal spot to watch the sunset over the water.
Golfing
The Castine Golf Club features a scenic 9-hole course designed in 1921 by Willie Park Jr. Visitors are welcome, and the club also offers tennis courts for those preferring racquet sports.
Kayaking in Penobscot Bay offers a unique perspective of Castine’s scenic coastline
Dining & Local Cuisine in Castine
Despite its small size, Castine offers several delightful dining options featuring fresh Maine seafood and locally-sourced ingredients.
No visit to Castine is complete without sampling a traditional Maine lobster roll
Waterfront Dining
Enjoy fresh seafood with harbor views at these local favorites:
- Dennett’s Wharf – Waterfront dining with fresh seafood and harbor views
- Safe Harbor Cafe – Casual food stand on the town pier serving breakfast and lunch
Both locations offer the quintessential Maine dining experience with lobster rolls, clam chowder, and daily seafood specials.
Village Eateries
Explore these charming options in the village center:
- Pentagoet Inn Restaurant – Fine dining featuring seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients
- Danny Murphy’s Pub – Casual pub fare with a welcoming atmosphere
- The Breeze & Castine Variety – Chef-owned takeout with homemade specialties
Local Specialties
Don’t miss these Maine culinary classics:
- Lobster rolls – Cold lobster meat lightly dressed with mayo on a toasted roll
- Clam chowder – Creamy New England style with fresh local clams
- Blueberry desserts – Maine wild blueberries in pies, muffins, and more
- Craft beer – Maine’s renowned brewing tradition represented in local pubs
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Castine’s calendar is filled with community events that visitors are warmly welcomed to join.
Castine’s Fourth of July celebration features a charming small-town parade and festivities
Summer Events
- Fourth of July Celebration – Parade, fireworks, and community activities
- Castine Classic Yacht Race (August) – Spectacular gathering of classic wooden yachts
- Bastille Day & Picnic en Blanc (July 14) – French-themed celebration honoring Castine’s heritage
- Concerts on the Town Dock – Weekly summer music series
Year-Round Activities
- Maine Open Lighthouse Day (September) – Special access to Dyce Head Light
- Holiday Festivities (December) – Tree lighting and seasonal celebrations
- Winter Carnival (February) – Community winter activities
- Farmers Market (May-October) – Local produce and crafts
Check the or visit the Castine Visitor Center on Main Street for the most up-to-date event information during your stay.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Castine
Make the most of your Castine adventure with these helpful local insights.
Castine’s Main Street is lined with historic buildings and the town’s famous elm trees
Getting Around
- Walking – The village center is compact and easily explored on foot
- Biking – Rent bicycles from Castine Kayak Adventures
- Castine Touring Company – Guided golf cart tours of historic sites
- Car – Needed for exploring beyond the village center
Local Services
- Castine Visitor Center – 1 Main Street (seasonal)
- Compass Rose Bookstore – Books, maps, and local information
- Castine Post Office – Oldest continuously operating post office in the US
- Castine Variety – Basic groceries and supplies
- ATM – Located at Castine Variety
Good to Know
- Cell service can be spotty in some areas
- Many businesses operate seasonally (May-October)
- Reservations recommended for dining and accommodations during peak season
- Public restrooms available near the town dock
- Free parking throughout town, but limited during special events
Castine’s famous elm trees create a spectacular display of fall foliage
Day Trips from Castine
While Castine offers plenty to explore, its central location makes it an excellent base for discovering more of Maine’s coastal treasures.
Acadia National Park is just over an hour’s drive from Castine
Acadia National Park
Just 70 km (43 miles) east of Castine, Acadia National Park offers spectacular mountain and coastal scenery. Hike Cadillac Mountain, drive the Park Loop Road, or explore the charming town of Bar Harbor.
Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Blue Hill Peninsula
Just across the Bagaduce River, the Blue Hill Peninsula offers artist galleries, farm stands, and the charming town of Blue Hill with its excellent dining options and summer concert series.
Travel time: 20-30 minutes
Camden & Rockland
Head south to explore these classic Maine coastal towns. Camden offers mountain-to-sea views and a picturesque harbor, while Rockland is home to the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Center for Maine Contemporary Art.
Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Experience the Magic of Castine
With its rich maritime history, stunning coastal scenery, and authentic New England charm, Castine offers a truly special Maine experience. Whether you’re exploring centuries-old forts, kayaking along the rocky shoreline, or simply relaxing on a porch overlooking the harbor, Castine invites you to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of coastal Maine life.
Unlike more touristy destinations, Castine retains an authentic character that connects visitors to Maine’s deep maritime heritage. As you walk beneath the town’s majestic elms or watch the sunset paint the harbor in golden hues, you’ll understand why this hidden gem has captivated visitors for generations.
The above is subject to change.
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