THINGS TO DO ON-THE-WATER
Scenic Cruises – Whale Watches – Fishing – Canoeing – Kayaking Surfing – Stand-up Paddleboarding – Sailing – Swimming
There ’ s nothing like having unlimited access to the Atlantic Ocean , and a Maine Beaches vacation gives you that . From the moment you step out onto the sand , the ocean ’ s vast beauty fixes your gaze on the distant horizon .
Spending time at the beach is a treat for anyone at any age , from the childlike joy that comes from riding on swells to swimming and body surfing . Even the simple act of walking along the beach as the tide recedes can change your whole outlook . If constant action is what you are looking for , add a surf , skim , or boogie board to the mix or head to a waterpark and put the fun on repeat .
Numerous sightseeing tour boats are available for the many kinds of on-the-water pleasure trips to enjoy here . Maybe you ’ d like to hoist the mainsail for an authentic nautical adventure ?
Those who seek something with a more local feel might choose to spend time aboard a working lobster boat . Along the way , the skipper will regale you with legends of the sea while demonstrating lobstering skills , including pulling up traps bursting with our state ’ s favorite crustacean and other creatures like starfish and crabs .
Take a whale watch out of Kennebunk for a chance to spot huge finbacks , minkes , or humpbacks ; or look for harbor and gray seals on an eco-tour . While you are out to sea , take a moment to cast your gaze inland for a new perspective on our historic seaside villages , lined with the restored sea captains ’ homes , architectural masterworks , and coastal estates like the Bush family compound at Walker ’ s Point .
If deep-sea angling is your thing , book a charter . The offshore waters offer plenty of excitement as you seek a perfect spot for striped bass , bluefish , mackerel , or haddock . Last summer , a couple of teenagers hauled in a 750-lb tuna just off the coast .
Many outfits even offer family trips — making it easy for kids to gear up while catching sight of friendly porpoise diving among the waves . Try your hand at surfcasting from shore or jetty , saltwater fishing does not require a license , but plan to bring some bait and tackle .
Sea kayaking is a great way to poke along the coast . Check out the Maine Island Trail , which connects an endless number of barrier islands . Make a day trip of it and relax in a cooling breeze on a hot summer day . Venture into the many marshes and estuaries in the area , many of which are protected reserves or conservation land .
Those into kite surfing should take a ride to Ferry Beach , with jet skiing and parasailing services available in Old Orchard Beach .
Stand-up paddleboarding ( aka SUP ) is easy to learn and offers a great workout ( without feeling like it ). With its exploding popularity , visitors can take SUP tours , lessons , or rent a board to use while they are here .