Damariscotta & PemaquidThings to do

Things to do in Damariscotta & Pemaquid

  1. Fishermen’s Museum Lighthouse

    Along a 3500-mile coastline famed for its natural beauty, Pemaquid Point stands out because of its tortuous, grainy, igneous rock formations pounded by restless, treacherous seas. Perched on top of the rocks is the 11,000-candlepower Pemaquid Light, built in 1827. It’s one of the 61 surviving lighthouses along the Maine coast, 52 of which are still in operation. The keeper’s house now serves as the Fishermen’s Museum Lighthouse, displaying fishing paraphernalia and photos, as well as a nautical chart of the entire Maine coast with all the lighthouses marked.

    reviewed

  2. Pemaquid Beach

    Believe it or not, there are a few stretches of sandy beach along this rockbound coast, and Pemaquid Beach is one of them. As ME 130 approaches Pemaquid Neck, watch for signs on the right (west) for Pemaquid Beach and make a right onto Huddle Rd (which turns into Snowball Hill Rd). The beach is set in a park, and the water is usually very cold for swimming. (Remember, this is Maine!) The Pemaquid Trail, a paved dead-end road, heads south from Snowball Hill Rd just east of the Pemaquid Beach ­access road.

    reviewed

  3. Fort William Henry

    A quarter-mile south of Pemaquid Beach lies the remains of Fort William Henry. A replica of a 17th century fort, this circular stone structure boasts commanding views, old foundations from the 1600s, a burial ground with interesting tombstones, an archaeological dig and a small museum.

    reviewed

  4. Midcoast Kayak

    Midcoast Kayak offers an enticing selection of kayaking tours (full-moon paddles, sunset excursions) and classes, as well as rentals ($39 to $49 full day). Among the attractions on the water: Muscongus Bay, the Damariscotta River, Franklin Island Light and Damariscove Island.

    reviewed

  5. Schooner Landing

    Overlooking the river, Schooner’s patio is the prettiest spot in town for an al fresco meal during the summer months. You’ll find top-notch fish and chips, lobster and other seafood favorites at this popular restaurant.

    reviewed

  6. Lighthouse Park

    The 7-acre Lighthouse Park is the 11,000 candle power Pemaquid Light, built in 1827. A climb to the top will reward you with a fine coastal view.

    reviewed