Are you seeking a touch of authenticity this summer, perhaps paired with salty sea air and fresh breeze in your hair as you set sail under the summer sun? If that sounds enticing, we’d love to welcome you to one of our top Rockland, Maine Inns. From here, it’s easy to not enjoy not just the best things to do in Rockland, but also the best things to do in Camden, Maine, and the entire Midcoast region. From sunset sails on the storied Penobscot Bay and fresh lobster any way you want it to stunning hikes into the hills and scenic tours of lighthouses, there’s no shortage of things to do in this remarkable part of the state.
Summer is magical on Maine’s Midcoast, an area defined by fresh seafood and charming small towns. Rockland is the perfect home base for your Midcoast Maine vacation. It offers easy access to all the top regional attractions while delivering a laid-back coastal vibe that makes you feel like a local. The town is known for its strong arts scene—home to the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Center for Maine Contemporary Art—and a growing number of excellent restaurants, cafes, and waterfront spots. It’s central, walkable, and full of character!
From Rockland, you’re also just minutes away from all the fun things to do in Camden, Maine, a coastal gem that offers a dynamic mix of outdoor adventure, arts, and local flavor. One of the top summer events is the Camden Windjammer Festival, a beloved tradition that fills the harbor with historic schooners, live music, and maritime-themed events. Sailing on Penobscot Bay is an absolute must—it’s the best way to take in the stunning views of the Camden Hills and the lighthouse-dotted coastline. Whether you’re strolling the shops downtown, hiking at Camden Hills State Park, or catching a concert at the Camden Opera House, there’s no shortage of things to do in Camden.
When it comes to lodging, two of the most acclaimed Maine Bed and Breakfasts are right in the heart of Rockland: the Berry Manor Inn and the Rockland Talbot House. Both properties offer elegant accommodations with a welcoming, relaxed feel, perfect for travelers looking for more than just a place to sleep. At the Berry Manor Inn, you’ll find luxurious guest rooms and a serving of our elevated hospitality, while the Rockland Talbot House delivers a more relaxed guest experience with pet-friendly options. Either spot sets the tone for a Midcoast Maine stay packed with authenticity and local charm. Book your summer trip today!
The Best Things to Do in Camden, Maine
One visit to Midcoast Maine, and you’ll understand why families have been coming to these storied shores for generations. Though you’ll find more than enough things to do in Rockland, we encourage you to head to our neighboring town of Camden, too, for even more coastal charm. With its postcard-perfect harbor, historic downtown, and dramatic backdrop of the Camden Hills, it blends classic Maine beauty with just enough edge to keep things interesting.
Whether you’re hopping aboard a schooner for a sail on Penobscot Bay or hiking Mount Battie for sweeping views, Camden offers a seamless mix of adventure, culture, and small-town charm. Spend the morning browsing bookstores and the afternoon on the water—and cap it all off with fresh lobster and craft cocktails at a harborside restaurant. It offers a fantastic mix of polish and authenticity, drawing visitors in from all over the world. Beyond the popular attractions, Camden rewards those who dig a little deeper—with hiking trails that don’t show up on every map, quiet spots to catch the sunset, and quirky local shops that make for more memorable souvenirs than a magnet ever could.
If you’re looking for unforgettable experiences and genuine local flavor, there’s no shortage of things to do in Camden, Maine. We’ve listed just a few of our favorites below.
- Hiking to the top of Mount Battie is one of the most popular things to do in Camden, Maine, and for a good reason! Climb or drive to the summit of this Camden Hills State Park favorite for panoramic views of the harbor, bay, and islands beyond. Early morning or sunset is best for fewer crowds and better light.
- One of the most beautiful things to do in Camden, Maine, is to set sail on a historic windjammer for a half-day or sunset sail on Penobscot Bay. Schooners like Surprise and Appledore offer intimate, authentic experiences with unbeatable coastal views.
- Stroll the Harbor Park & Amphitheatre, scenic green spaces right in town that are perfect for picnics, quiet walks, and summer concerts. These parks can often be overlooked for other, more popular spots, but the panoramic harbor views from here are spectacular.
- Explore Megunticook Lake, one of the most popular things to do in Camden during the warm summer months. Just a few minutes from downtown, this freshwater lake is a local favorite for kayaking, paddleboarding, and quiet swims. Access it from Barrett’s Cove for a more laid-back vibe.
- Visit the Camden Public Library, which is housed in a historic building with stunning architecture and gardens with a view. It’s also a hidden spot for art, hosting events and exhibits throughout the year that highlight local talent.
- The Mount Battie Trail may be one of the most popular things to do in Camden, but another great hike is the Maiden Cliff Trail. This lesser-known hike offers rewarding views of Megunticook Lake and a dramatic white cross marking a local legend. It’s not as busy as Mount Battie, but just as impressive.
- Catch a show at the Camden Opera House. This intimate, beautifully restored venue hosts everything from indie concerts to literary talks. Locals know to check the lineup early—it sells out fast.
- Grab an ice cream cone at River Ducks Ice Cream, a beloved summer tradition in Camden! The ginger or Maine blueberry is worth the wait in line.
- One of our favorite things to do in Camden, Maine, is browse the charming shops in the historic downtown. There are plenty of fantastic local shops, but we love The Smiling Cow, a family-run shop with fun gifts, snacks, and a back porch that hangs over the river—one of the best-kept views in town.
- Take in a summer sunset at Bald Rock Mountain. Drive a little out of town to Lincolnville and take a short hike for a wide-open view of the bay at golden hour. Bring snacks and a blanket—locals love this spot for low-key summer evenings.
Windjammer Festival: Set Sail on Penobscot Bay
We briefly mentioned setting sail on some of the historic schooners that call Penobscot Bay home – but if you’re looking for even more action-packed fun on the water, don’t miss Camden’s popular Windjammer Festival. This festival is one of the most popular things to do in Camden, Maine. Sailing on Penobscot Bay is one of the most iconic ways to experience coastal Maine. With the Camden Hills rising just beyond the harbor and dozens of spruce-topped islands scattered across the water, the views are nothing short of incredible.
Whether you’re cruising past Curtis Island Lighthouse or spotting seals lounging on the rocks, there’s always something to see from the deck of a boat. Many schooners offer half-day, full-day, or sunset sails, each giving you a front-row seat to the natural beauty and maritime history that define this part of the coast. But, aside from these storied experiences, one of the best times to get out on the water is during the annual Camden Windjammer Festival, held every summer over Labor Day weekend.
The Camden Windjammer Festival celebrates Camden’s rich nautical heritage with a gathering of traditional tall ships right in the harbor. These classic schooners aren’t just for show—they’re working vessels with seasoned crews who know Penobscot Bay like the back of their hand. Visitors can watch the boats arrive in formation, take tours, and even join a sail. There’s also a full lineup of shore-side events, including live music, craft fairs, and a lobster crate race that locals love.
Aside from the beautiful boats and an unprecedented opportunity to experience the waters around Midcoast Maine, the Camden Windjammer Festival serves to create a wonderfully charming atmosphere in town. The harbor buzzes with activity, from kids waving flags on the docks to photographers capturing schooners at golden hour. Local businesses join in the celebration with special menus, pop-up shops, and waterfront events. Whether you’re on the water or taking it all in from a bench along the harbor walk, the festival is a highlight of summer in Camden—and a chance to experience the town at its most lively and authentic.
There are more than enough things to do in Camden this summer to keep you as busy as you want to be. Don’t miss out on your chance to experience this charming town or the vibrant energy of the Camden Windjammer Festival. Place yourself in elevated accommodations at two of the best Maine Bed and Breakfasts, and book your stay with us today!