Lubec, Maine

Lubec, Maine is a vacation paradise located in an area known as the Down East Coast. This area is for anyone who prefers a vacation in a natural land of plenty where age old traditions are as alive today as they were one hundred years ago. Lobstering, scalloping, and logging are still significant sources of income and visitors have their choice of historical, cultural, or active pastimes. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking, fishing, sailing, boating, sea kayaking, whale watching, and nature related activities.

Vacationers with an interest in American heritage will want to visit the Burnham Tavern in Machias. It was here in 1775 that a group of local patriots met to plot revolution against the British. Their discussions led to the first naval battle of the American Revolution, fought just offshore. A tour of the tavern gives the details of the battle, and visitors can see some of the plunder that the patriots recovered after defeating the Margaretta, the British schooner that was the object of their plot. An original sign outside the tavern reads, "Drink for the thirsty, food for the hungry, lodging for the weary, and good keeping for their horses-Job Burnham."

If it is outdoor fun you seek, a good place to find it is in Quoddy Head State Park, located just outside of Lubec. Beachcombing, hiking, picnicking, and a close-up view of Maine's only red and white lighthouse are the big draws in this 480-acre park. There is a fairly difficult 1.75 mile trail that follows the coastline to Carrying Place Cove, which yields incredible views. An easier 1 mile long boardwalk meanders through a unique moss and heath bog. More scenic wonders can be viewed from the grounds around West Quoddy Head Light, which was built in 1808, and is located on the most eastern land point in the United States.

More outdoor fun and nature observation can be found at the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge near Steuben. This 2,166 acre park occupies a peninsula with 10 miles of rocky shoreline as well as three offshore islands. One of the most popular trails that makes it way through the refuge is the Hollingsworth Trail, a 1.5 mile easy hike that takes visitors along the shore. On a clear day you can see the 123-foot lighthouse on Petit Manan Island, 2.5 miles offshore. There are plenty of opportunities to view the local wildlife that resides in the refuge's fields, forests, and marshland areas.

Lubec is perfectly positioned for discovering all the wonders of the Down East Coast. See some of the most incredible views of the coast as you hike along the Cutler Coastal Trail near Cutler. Take a trip out to Machias Seal Island for a close look at Maine's most beloved bird, the Atlantic puffin. See the Ruggles House in Columbia Falls, built for lumber baron Judge Thomas Ruggles, famous for its unsupported "flying staircase" and intricately carved moldings. Birding enthusiasts will want to make a beeline for the Great Wass Preserve near Jonesport. The Down East Coast will give memories that will last a lifetime!