Camden and Rockland, Maine Travel Guide

Camden and Rockland, Maine are small neighboring coastal towns perfect for foodies, art lovers, and those just looking to relax by the water. Each has a charming downtown area with many shops, art galleries, and top notch restaurants. It is also only an hour and a half drive from Portland, Maine, and one of our favorite Maine towns.

Do

• Explore Downtown Camden: Stroll through the charming downtown Camden, and check out its variety of boutique shops, art galleries, and more. 
• Hike or Drive Up Mount Battie at Camden Hills State Park (Camden): Visitors will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. The park offers several hiking trails and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy, making it a fun and family-friendly destination. Find more information here (and note this page also includes information for nearby Mount Megunticook, which we have not visited yet, but also seems like a great option).
• Explore Downtown Rockland: Rockland has a little less of the charm and vacation feel than Camden, but the quality of the shops, museums (including in particular the one mentioned below), and restaurants are worth a visit.
• Visit the Farnsworth Museum (Rockland): Although there are plenty of museums in the area, this one is a must for art enthusiasts. It features impressive collections, including works of Alex Katz, who has close ties to Maine and whose works can be found in renowned museums across the globe. (Kasey saw an entire Katz exhibit in the famous Albertina museum in Vienna, Austria.)
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse: This nearly mile-long breakwater beginning at the Samoset Resort provides a scenic walk out to a lighthouse featuring panoramic views of the coastline. Note: The breakwater walking path is essentially entirely large (but flat) rocks, so it may not be accessible for everyone.
• Schooner Sail: There are multiple companies offering schooner sails in Camden and Rockland. It’s a great way to enjoy Maine’s picturesque coastline, islands, and lighthouses.

Downtown Camden

Eat & Drink

• The Place Bakery (Camden): A micro-bakery with some of the best baked goods we’ve ever had! They offer the option to order ahead or walk-in. They often sell out on busy weekends.
• Buttermilk Kitchen (Camden): This classic American breakfast spot does not disappoint, and although we’ve only had breakfast, it offers lunch too.
• The View Rooftop at 16 Bay View (Camden): The View features gorgeous bay views, craft cocktails, and small bites. This is a must for every weather-permitting visit. Note: 16 Bay View is a popular spot for weddings and private events, so be sure to confirm which days the rooftop is open to the public during your stay.
• Long Grain (Camden): Long Grain is a favorite in Camden. They offer an upscale version of Southeast Asian food with a full bar and excellent service. Reservations are recommended and you can call the restaurant during business hours to make one.
• Paper Plane (Camden): Paper Plane is our favorite cocktail and wine bar to open at the Lyman-Morse wharf boardwalk on the opposite side of Camden Harbor. The views of the harbor make this one of the best places for a drink! 
• Salt Wharf (Camden): Salt Wharf is also located at the Lyman-Morse wharf boardwalk and offers waterfront dining and a rooftop bar. The rooftop bar is a great place to enjoy the beautiful views of Camden Harbor.
• Nina June (Rockport): Just a few minutes from Camden, Nina June has a neighborhood feel, fantastic views from the deck, and delicious food, including homemade pasta.
• Primo Restaurant (Rockland): Primo Restaurant is one of the best, if not the best, restaurants in Maine. The elegant farm-to-table restaurant features ingredients grown directly on the property. Its chef and owner has won multiple James Beard awards and previously had a cook off with Gordon Ramsay. It is only open seasonally, but if you are visiting the area when open, you cannot miss it. We highly suggest making reservations as early as possible.
• Ada’s Kitchen (Rockland): One of our favorite Italian food options in Maine, Ada’s Kitchen serves fresh pasta, handmade pizza, & craft cocktails. Our favorite was the carbonara. On top of the delicious food, it also frequently features live music. Be sure to check out its live events schedule.
• Cellardoor Winery (Lincolnville): Located just a short drive from Camden and Rockland, Cellardoor offers a scenic option for a glass of wine or two on the deck. You can also take a tour to learn about the history of the winery and its winemaking process.
• On our list for our next trip: Fresh & Co.! We haven’t visited yet, but heard great things.

View from The View at 16 Bay View

View from patio at Paper Plane

Stay

Generally, if you are trying to decide whether to stay in Rockland or Camden, we’d pick Camden. But there may be more affordable places in Rockland during the peak season. Here are our specific recommendations:

• The Norumbega (Camden): This 11-room hotel in a restored 19th-century Castle is a bucket list destination in and of itself every season of the year. From the many cozy nooks and fireplaces, to the stunning designs in each unique room, we honestly could not get enough.
• 16 Bay View (Camden): A boutique hotel featuring private balconies and fireplaces in the rooms, 16 Bay View Hotel is a wonderful option. The hotel’s location in the heart of Camden’s downtown district allows for easy, walkable access to the charming downtown. As noted above, it also features a stylish rooftop.
• Samoset Resort (Rockland): If you are looking for an expansive, oceanfront hotel, the Samoset Resort is for you. It has wide range of amenities and activities, including a golf course and onsite dining options. Although there are plenty of activities on site, the downtown areas of Camden and Rockland are not walkable.
• 250 Main Hotel (Rockland): A stylish boutique hotel right in downtown Rockland. You are walking distance to the downtown Rockland shops and restaurants and a short drive to Primo Restaurant and downtown Camden.
• Inn at Ocean’s Edge (Lincolnville): This hotel is perfect for peak relaxation. A little off the beaten path, this hotel offers spacious rooms and a stunning infinity pool with ocean views.

The Norumbega

The Norumbega

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– Karen & Kasey