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ABOUT NEW HARBOR

New Harbor, located just 60 miles north of Portland on the Pemaquid Peninsula, is one of the last working harbors along Maine’s mid-coast. Known for its rich history of fishing, lobstering, and boat building, New Harbor offers visitors a chance to experience a slower pace of life away from the typical tourist destinations. The peninsula is mostly residential, with large areas of undeveloped land, making it the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and simplicity.

WHAT SETS NEW HARBOR APART?

Unlike many other Maine towns, New Harbor doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of t-shirt shops or overcrowded tourist attractions. Instead, it offers a relaxing, authentic Maine experience. Here, visitors can enjoy:

  • Tranquil Atmosphere: New Harbor’s peaceful ambiance attracts visitors seeking to escape the noise of commercialized destinations.

  • Historical Significance: Steeped in maritime history, the harbor and surrounding areas are home to many historical sites.

  • Unspoiled Nature: The area is blessed with large expanses of undeveloped land, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS IN NEW HARBOR

Pemaquid Lighthouse Park

Pemaquid Lighthouse Park is a historic site with an entrance fee that grants access to both the iconic lighthouse and its fascinating museum. While you’re there, you can:

  • Enjoy a picnic with scenic views of the Atlantic.

  • Visit The Pemaquid Art Gallery, showcasing local artwork inspired by the area’s beauty.

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

A short drive from New Harbor, the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is a striking 38-foot stone tower that dates back to 1835. Perched on a dramatic outcropping of striped granite, the lighthouse offers:

  • Breathtaking views of the ocean, especially during low tide.

  • The chance to climb the lighthouse tower (for a small fee) during the summer months to enjoy panoramic views of the coast.

The Fisherman’s Museum

Located next to the lighthouse in the former light keeper’s house, The Fisherman’s Museum offers a fascinating look into the maritime and fishing history of the Pemaquid Peninsula. Donations are accepted at the door. Visitors can explore:

  • Artifacts showcasing the region’s fishing heritage.

  • Educational exhibits that highlight the lives of the area’s early fishermen.

Pemaquid Beach Park

A perfect spot for a relaxing day, Pemaquid Beach Park features a beautiful crescent-shaped beach. Whether you want to swim, beachcomb, or simply soak up the sun, this sandy haven offers:

  • Beachside amenities, including a bathhouse, restrooms, and a snack bar.

  • Picnic tables for a leisurely lunch by the shore.

Colonial Pemaquid

Step back in time with a visit to Colonial Pemaquid, home to Fort William Henry and archaeological digs from the 17th and 18th centuries. At this historical site, you can:

  • Explore the fort’s stone structure, imagining life as one of the early settlers.

  • Visit the museum housing artifacts discovered during digs, and learn about the rich history of the area’s colonial past.

Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve

The Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve, dedicated in 1970, celebrates the environmental contributions of Rachel Carson. Famous for her love of tide pools, this preserve offers:

  • Tide pool exploration, perfect for kids and nature enthusiasts.

  • Low tide is the best time to visit, when the tide pools are fully exposed, revealing an incredible variety of marine life.

Photo by Kirsten Drew on Unsplash
a seal on a rocky beach
a wide angle view of New Harbor, ME with green fields and houses on the water
several puffins standing on a rock near monhegan island
new harbor port view of boats with trees in background
a group of passengers riding on the hardy boat 3 ferry
a herd of sheep grazing on a lush green field
Photo by Yaroslav Muzychenko on Unsplash
Colorful fishing buoys hang on a red wooden wall, arranged vertically.
a man standing next to a boat

HIKING

Preserving open spaces is a priority in New Harbor, with hundreds of acres of public and private lands set aside for exploration. The region is home to some of Maine’s most scenic and accessible hiking trails. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual walker, you’ll find trails suited to all levels of experience.

Visit the Sites Below for Trail Maps: You can easily find directions and detailed trail maps through the following organizations:

FISHING

New Harbor offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities, making it the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day by the water. Whether you’re casting a line from the shore or exploring the local rivers, the area provides excellent fishing experiences.

  • Saltwater Fishing: No license is required, and mackerel can be caught from almost any seaside dock during the summer months. Mackerel are small but lively fish, perfect for beginners and great fun for kids and adults alike.

  • Freshwater Fishing: A fishing license is required, but it’s easily obtainable for just a few dollars at Bristol Town Hall. The Damariscotta, Sheepscot, and Kennebec Rivers offer fantastic striped bass fishing. Fly fishing is also a popular option in the smaller tributaries that feed into the sea.

SCENIC DRIVES

One of the best ways to experience the breathtaking beauty of New Harbor is by taking a scenic drive. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely road trip.

  • South Bristol: Drive through this small, quintessential Maine village. The swing bridge offers beautiful views of the working harbor, where large schooners were once built at Gamage Boat Yard. It’s a great spot to stop, take photos, and soak in the coastal atmosphere.

  • Route 32 to Waldoboro: Heading north from New Harbor, this scenic drive takes you through charming towns and along Maine’s rugged coastline. Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking ocean views and lush forests.

PLACES TO EAT IN NEW HARBOR

Whether you’re craving freshly caught seafood, comfort food, or fine dining, New Harbor and the surrounding area offer a range of dining options that highlight the best of Maine’s culinary traditions. From casual dockside dining to upscale restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget.

THE ANCHOR RESTAURANT, ROUND POND

Enjoy a delicious meal while overlooking the harbor. This charming restaurant offers grilled seafood, mouthwatering steaks, and fresh salads, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal by the water.

📞 Phone: 207-529-2600

BRADLEY INN RESTAURANT, PEMAQUID POINT

Award-winning cuisine served in an elegant atmosphere. Enjoy some of the best food in the region, featuring seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce. A must-visit for food lovers seeking exceptional fine dining.

📞 Phone: 207-677-2105

CONTENTED SOLE, NEW HARBOR

Located at Colonial Pemaquid. Local, casual fare served on the dock or in the historic canning building that is now the restaurant. Location, location, location!

📞 Phone: 207-677-3000

THE CUPBOARD CAFÉ, NEW HARBOR

The best down home cooking you’ll ever get. Everything made from scratch from soups and salads to yummy desserts and their world famous cinnamon buns!

📞 Phone: 207-677-3911

DAMARISCOTTA RIVER GRILL, DAMARISCOTTA

Located on Main Street in Damariscotta. Wonderful seafood, flat breads and pasta dishes. Nice pub atmosphere upstairs too!

📞 Phone: 207-563-2992

KING EIDER’S PUB, DAMARISCOTTA

Pub downstairs and dining up. Steaks, seafood and their famous crab cakes.

📞 Phone: 207-563-6008

MOODY’S DINER, WALDOBORO

Classic diner food for over 80 years. A must stop, see and eat destination.

📞 Phone: 207-832-7785

MUSCONGUS BAY LOBSTER, ROUND POND

Lobster in the rough. Grab a picnic table and order up steamed lobsters, corn on the cob, clams and oysters on the ½ shell. They supply the paper towels too!

📞 Phone: 207-529-2251

PEMAQUID FISHERMAN’S CO-OP, PEMAQUID HARBOR

The oldest fisherman’s co-op around. Lobster in the rough with a spectacular view of Colonial Pemaquid.

📞 Phone: 207-677-2642

SHAW’S FISH & LOBSTER WHARF RESTAURANT, NEW HARBOR

Serving lunch and dinner on the harbor. That’s right, on the dock over the harbor. Lobster, of course, fried clams, chowders, steamers, onion rings, steaks, burgers and a raw bar. No wonder this place is packed all summer!

📞 Phone: 207-677-2200

THE NEWCASTLE PUBLICK HOUSE, NEWCASTLE

True pub fare, including the large servings! The atmosphere is warm and social and the food is great!

📞 Phone: 207-563-3434

THE SEA GULL SHOP, PEMAQUID POINT

Breakfast, lunch and dinner served while you watch the surf at Pemaquid Point. The best blueberry pancakes and Eggs Pemaquid (Like Eggs Benedict but with crabmeat) you’ll ever have!

📞 Phone: 207-677-2374

New Harbor FAQS

Q: Is New Harbor a good place for families?
A: Yes! New Harbor is perfect for families looking for a peaceful vacation. The area offers outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and fishing that are suitable for all ages. Kids can enjoy visiting the Pemaquid Lighthouse, exploring tide pools at Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve, and fishing off the docks.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit New Harbor?
A: The best time to visit New Harbor is from late spring to early fall (May–September), when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and beachcombing are most enjoyable. Summer is the peak season, so expect more visitors, but it’s a great time for enjoying the local seafood, beaches, and scenic drives. Fall also offers quieter visits and stunning foliage.

Q: How can I get to New Harbor from Portland?
A: New Harbor is only 60 miles north of Portland, making it an easy drive for a day trip or weekend getaway. Simply take Route 1 north, and then follow signs to the Pemaquid Peninsula. The scenic drive offers beautiful views of the coast, and there are several charming towns to explore along the way.

Q: Can I find accommodations in New Harbor?
A: Yes, New Harbor offers a variety of cozy accommodations ranging from historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts to quaint cottages. Many of the accommodations offer stunning views of the harbor and are within walking distance of local attractions. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

Q: When is the best time to see puffins in New Harbor?
A: The best time to see puffins in New Harbor is from mid-May to mid-August. During these months, puffins come to the area to nest, and you’ll have the best chance of seeing them up close. For a memorable experience, we recommend taking the Puffin Watching Cruise, which offers a guided tour to some of the best puffin habitats along the coast.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • Accessibility: New Harbor’s streets and historical sites are accessible by car, and the area is perfect for walking and cycling.

  • Weather: Be prepared for quickly changing weather, especially along the coast. Bring layers and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.

  • Seasonal Tips: Some attractions may have limited hours during the off-season (late fall to early spring), so check ahead if you’re visiting during these months.