November is always a busy month for us, with our wedding anniversary, Thanksgiving, and Jason’s birthday all packed into one month, giving us plenty to celebrate. With Noah now in school, traveling for extended periods has become a bit challenging. So, we’ve decided to combine our vacation time with major school holidays moving forward, allowing us to make the most of our family time while balancing school commitments.
Since Jason’s birthday falls around Thanksgiving, he got to choose the destination, and he picked Maine!
It was a place neither of us had visited before, making it the perfect destination for a completely new adventure to explore, even if it was off-season and as chilly as could be.
We decided to explore the world-famous wilderness of Acadia National Park and its surrounding areas, with the jagged, rocky coastline and Bar Harbor as the focal point of our trip. As usual, we prefer staying in homes rather than hotels, so we booked a charming chalet on the serene shores of Surry, a small town just 30 minutes from Bar Harbor. It was right on Surry Bay, with plenty of space to spread out, and it had a cozy wood-burning stove – a must-have if you’re visiting Maine in the winter!
It’s no wonder why so many people visit Mount Desert Island (MDI) each year to enjoy Acadia National Park and the stunning scenery it offers. Towns like Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Northeast Harbor surround Acadia, each with its own rich history, unique topography, and breathtaking coastal views. We had 10 days to explore the charming neighboring towns, seaside sounds, and peaceful bays. We booked a flight to Bangor, which is main airport to fly in near Acadia. And if you’re planning to visit all these beautiful spots, renting a car is definitely a must.
Mt. Dessert Island and Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is the best known and largest town in the northeast section of the island, and leads to one of the entrances to Acadia National Park. This well-known resort town is famous for its exceptional cuisine, especially its lobster and seafood specialties. In addition to mouthwatering meals, visitors can explore unique shops, enjoy scenic hiking trails, take in stunning vistas, and participate in a variety of activities in different seasons.
During the summer, these areas come alive with music and food festivals, along with a vibrant art and cultural scene, keeping both tourists and locals busy. The tourist season typically ends by the end of October, and many businesses and restaurants close until April. However, we had no trouble finding great food, as some popular restaurants and shops remained open till the end of November, and we didn’t have to deal with the usual crowds and traffic.
Bar Harbor has a charming downtown and Main Street with views of the harbor overlooking the bay. Main Street is lined with all kinds of seafood restaurants, charming shops offering souvenirs, local art galleries, jewelry, as well as tempting candy and ice cream spots. It’s the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the local flavor and artistry. Our go-to spot for most lunches was Geddy’s at the harbor. It’s a local favorite that’s been around for 50 years, with the saying, “You haven’t been to Bar Harbor, until you’ve been to Geddy’s”
We tried all kinds of seafood at Geddy’s and in neighboring towns. From the countless delicious lobster rolls (they’re huge here!), to rich lobster bisque and stews, seafood pies loaded with lobster, Clam Chowder and fresh steamers and mussels, everything was absolutely top-notch in flavor.
We even cooked a whole giant Maine Lobster, which Noah named “Jack-the-lobster”, weighing almost 4 pounds, in our Airbnb kitchen. It was an absolute feast and a dinner to remember for a long time. Along with that, we had Portuguese Clams, which we have shared in our Premium Member’s Section.
Acadia National Park is a stunning natural treasure, offering breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of outdoor experiences. Once you enter the park, you pay a nominal fee for a pass that’s valid for 7 days. We visited the park for a couple of days and spent our time driving the Park Loop Road, making stops at all the scenic spots along the way.
Here are some of the highlights around Bar Harbor:
Sand Beach: A small, beautiful crescent-shaped beach surrounded by rocky cliffs, ideal for a relaxing visit. The contrast between the soft golden sand and the surrounding rugged rocks created a picturesque scene. While the water might be chilly, it’s still a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Thunder Hole: A natural rock formation where waves crash against the rocks, creating a thunderous sound (best visited during high tide). It’s an incredible natural phenomenon and a must-see spot for visitors looking to experience the raw power of the ocean.
Jordan Pond: Next, we visited Jordan Pond, known for its crystal-clear water and the iconic Bubbles, two mountains that rise on either side of the pond. The peaceful atmosphere here made it a perfect spot for a walk along the shore or a relaxing picnic with a stunning view.
Park Loop Road: We then drove along the Park Loop Road, a scenic route that weaves through the park, offering a mix of mountain views, ocean vistas, and dense forests. It’s a great way to see a variety of landscapes in one trip.
Echo Lake: A peaceful lake surrounded by forest, perfect for swimming or a quiet afternoon.
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: A picturesque lighthouse perched on the edge of a cliff, offering stunning views of the coastline, especially at sunset.
Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the east coast, offering panoramic views of the park and the surrounding area, especially breathtaking at sunrise.
Neighboring Towns We Explored
Ellsworth: Ellsworth, Maine, is a charming town located just outside Acadia National Park, known for its small-town atmosphere and proximity to the coast. It’s a hub for local businesses, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and grocery stores. Ellsworth is right next to Surry, where we stayed, and it’s the town we visited every day for groceries. We prefer cooking most nights, as we’re not fans of having heavy three-course meals at restaurants every day. It was great to have a nearby town for all our shopping needs!
Belfast: Belfast, Maine, is a picturesque coastal town known for its vibrant arts scene and charming waterfront. Located along Penobscot Bay, it offers stunning views of the water and nearby islands.
The town is rich in history, with well-preserved architecture with Victorian, Greek revival and Italian style homes built by sea merchants and a lively downtown area filled with boutique shops, cafes, and local galleries. Belfast is also popular for its outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, and exploring the nearby beaches. Its welcoming atmosphere and scenic beauty make it a great destination for those seeking a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.
We had a wonderful lunch at one of Belfast’s waterfront restaurants, enjoying the beautiful views. To beat the cold, we had some cracking cocktails, which I remember calling “cold-beaters.”
Camden: Camden’s slogan is “Where the Mountains Meet the Sea” for its location between rolling hills and the Atlantic Ocean.
In the late 19th century, wealthy people from all over the country started acquiring properties and building summerhouses in Camden. Today, you will see many of these sprawling estates and mansions, many of which have been converted to bed and breakfast inns. Camden’s Main Street is lined with quaint, upscale shops and art galleries, offering a mix of unique finds and local artistry. The town’s rich history and elegant atmosphere make it a delightful destination, with a touch of luxury and culture that sets it apart.
Rockland: Rockland is often referred to as the “Lobster Capital of the World” as it hosts the annual Maine Lobster Festival, a celebration honoring the town’s primary export. At the five-day festival each August, over 25000 pounds of the crustacean is consumed.
It is a lively coastal town known for its rich maritime history and thriving arts scene. Situated on Penobscot Bay, it is home to the Maine Lighthouse Museum and the iconic Rockland Breakwater, which offers stunning views of the bay and nearby islands. The town boasts a vibrant downtown area filled with galleries, unique shops, and delicious seafood restaurants, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Stonington: Stonington, is a picturesque fishing village located on Deer Isle, known for its quiet charm and stunning waterfront views.
The town is renowned for its vibrant lobster fishing industry, with lobster boats filling the harbor and fresh seafood available at local restaurants. We had one of the best New England style Clam Chowders here, and for the first time tried Lobster Mac and Cheese. Their crabby patties and lobster roll were equally spot on.
Stonington offers a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat. The downtown area features a handful of cozy shops, galleries showcasing local art, and small eateries. Stonington’s rugged coastline, historic buildings, and natural beauty make it a hidden gem along Maine’s coast, perfect for a relaxing visit or exploring nearby islands.
Southwest Harbor: Located on Mount Desert Island, it is a quiet, charming town known for its maritime heritage and stunning natural beauty. It’s less touristy than nearby Bar Harbor but offers just as much charm, with its picturesque harbor, boating opportunities, and access to Acadia National Park. The town is home to quaint shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water. Southwest Harbor is also a gateway to the quieter side of the island, where visitors can explore scenic trails, enjoy peaceful beaches, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding islands.
Northeast Harbor, also on Mount Desert Island, is another beautiful coastal town known for its upscale atmosphere and serene charm. It offers stunning views of the water and the nearby mountains. The harbor is dotted with yachts and boats, adding to its elegant, refined character. Northeast Harbor has a mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, and fine dining, offering a more relaxed and luxurious experience. It’s also close to the entrance of Acadia National Park, making it an ideal base for exploring the park’s natural wonders while enjoying the town’s peaceful and scenic surroundings.
Maine Lobster and Some Fun Lobster Trivia
Maine lobster is world-renowned for its sweet, tender meat and is considered one of the finest seafood delicacies. It is a cold-water lobster, typically found in the Gulf of Maine, where the cold, clean waters create the perfect environment for them to thrive. These lobsters are known for their hard, dark shells and are most commonly served boiled or steamed, with clarified butter on the side, though they’re also featured in lobster rolls, bisques, and various other dishes.
Fun Lobster Trivia:
- Maine’s Signature: Maine is home to the largest lobster industry in the U.S., with over 100 million pounds of lobster caught annually.
- Lobster Lifespan: Lobsters can live for a surprisingly long time, with some reaching up to 100 years or more. They grow by molting, shedding their shells, and growing new, larger ones.
- Size Matters: The largest lobster ever recorded weighed in at a whopping 44 pounds and was caught off the coast of Nova Scotia in 1977.
- Maine Lobster Rolls: A Maine lobster roll is a must-try delicacy, often served with fresh lobster meat in a buttery, toasted roll – no lettuce, just lobster!
- Lobster’s Color: While lobsters are typically a greenish-brown color before cooking, they turn bright red when boiled. However, lobsters can also come in rare colors like blue, yellow, or even orange.
Whether you’re enjoying it in a lobster roll, bisque, or on its own, Maine lobster is a symbol of the state’s rich maritime heritage and is a treat loved by many.
Ten days in such a beautiful place went by quickly. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and we got a little lucky with quite a bit of snow that night. This year, we cooked the smallest turkey in our Airbnb kitchen, but Noah had an extensive list for the Thanksgiving menu. From mashed potatoes and gravy to green beans, sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, and stuffing, our bellies were full, and we were about to slip into a turkey coma when Noah squealed, “There’s snow outside!” From Noah’s first snowball fight to his first snowman and snow angel, it was such a joy to watch him play in the snow on our porch. It made our Thanksgiving even more memorable and magical.
Maine in November is definitely a bit subdued, empty, and cold, but it still warmed our hearts with the uniqueness of its rugged coastline, the incredibly friendly locals, and the amazing, delicious food available everywhere you go. Despite the chilly weather, the charm of the place and the warmth of its people made our time there truly special.
As I mentioned earlier, with Noah in school, our travel time is limited, but we’ll make the most of it by combining trips with major school holidays. Until next time, I hope Maine inspires you to explore places unexplored…
Welcome to GypsyPlate! I'm Alpana, former wordwide tour manager and professional caterer, now full time blogger. I love exploring cuisines from around the world, and my recipes have been featured on sites such as MSN, Parade, Brit + Co, CNET and AOL. You can explore my entire collection of sortable recipes in my Recipe Index or learn more about me here.
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