Maine Travel Guide: Essential Tips Before You Go

Planning a Maine vacation is almost as fun as experiencing one. With all the cities, shopping, outdoor adventures and picturesque landmarks, the hardest part will be narrowing down your itinerary. Carefully planning out your top Maine destinations and experiences will ensure you have enough time to enjoy the attractions that appeal most to you.

Determine the Best Season to Travel –- Essential Travel

Maine offers unique vacation excursions during every season of the year. In the spring and summer, the pristine coastline is the main attraction. Lounge on the beach, go swimming in the refreshing water or take boating tours around the numerous bays and coves. When the temperature starts to drop, fall foliage lights up the vast forests of Maine. Go hiking, biking or kayaking. Or, visit one of the charming apple orchards to go apple picking and sip on delicious warm cider. In the winter, some of the best skiing and snowboarding can be encountered in Maine's towering mountains. You can also enjoy the festive towns and villages that are decked out in holiday lights and decorations.

Essential Maine Travel Tips -- Chart Your Course for Adventure

Would you prefer the convenience of exploring a variety of intriguing Maine vacation activities, or would you rather hit several towns so that you can enjoy a little bit of everything that Maine has to offer? Of course, time and budget constraints could limit your itinerary options, but there are numerous prime locations that offer something for everyone.

For a taste of the coast, Ogunquit, Bar Harbor and York are all excellent options for Maine tourism. Here, you can relax on the beach, witness a majestic lighthouse or two and enjoy succulent lobster at one of the many seaside restaurants. If you prefer a shopping excursion, Kittery and Freeport are top contenders. In Kittery's designer outlet mall, you'll encounter name-brand clothing and goods at bargain basement prices. To the delight of visitors to Freeport, L.L. Bean's signature store is open 24 hours a day for every day of the year.

Maine Travel Guide -- Book your Lodging Early

Maine's healthy year-round tourist industry means the most desirable lodging facilities fill up fast. Whether you're planning on staying at a hotel, bed and breakfast, home rental or camping site, it's suggested you book your room as soon as possible. As far as choosing the type of lodging that is right for you, it depends on the type of Maine travel you are seeking. The hallmark addition to any couples getaway is a charming stay in one of the quaint bed and breakfasts that dot the countryside. For more family-oriented excursions, a typical hotel is probably your best bet.