Articles Tagged "Southern Maine Coast"

During the summer, Maine's beaches are lively, crowded places, full of life, and packed with visitors enjoying all that the warm weather has to offer. But what about winter? A beach day may not be the first thing that springs to mind during the winter, but this is actually a fantastic time to see your favorite Maine beaches from a new perspective.

The beaches are much quieter places in the winter, perfect for nature walks, beach combing, nature photography, and quiet contemplation. Our real estate agents have all of the details on some of the best Maine beaches for you to enjoy this winter.

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Maine is a wild place. Some of the most rugged and remote landscapes on the East Coast can be found within Maine's boundaries, and there are few better places for people with a love of the outdoors to call home. 

The four national parks in Maine are a testament to that. They're amazing destinations for camping, hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and a host of other outdoorsy pursuits. Our real estate agents never tire of these wild, amazing places, and today we're thrilled to offer this guide to Maine's national parks. 

Acadia National Park

Spanning more than 48,000 acres, Acadia National Park is the crown jewel of the Northern Atlantic Coast. The park encompasses rugged cliffs and coastlines on the Schoodic Peninsula and a scattering of smaller coastal islands, but the bulk of it lies on the massive Mount Desert Island. Here you'll find a wild landscape that is ripe for exploration in all seasons, with 158 miles of trails, 27 miles of historic motor roads, and 45 miles of carriage roads.

Several campgrounds are available (sites are by reservation only), and the historic Bass Harbor Head Light Station is one of the park's main attractions. Other things to do in Acadia National Park include: 

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If you are looking for a true taste of fall, then our real estate agents have a suggestion that no one should overlook: Apple cider donuts. This special brand of baked good is something you'll spot all across Northern New England, with variations in every state and even in some cities.

Cider is a fermented drink made from fruit, typically apples. It can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic and is a wonderful part of the fall season for families all over the region. With so many family-owned bakeries all over New England, it seems like everyone has their own take on this "can't miss" breakfast staple.

The coming of fall marks the start of cider season, which usually means mulled, spiced cider suitable for all ages. For generations, the people of New England have savored this seasonal specialty in front of the fire. Connoisseurs seek it out with gusto, like fans in other areas might look for their favorite eggnog.

Bakeries, orchards, and farms serve up memorable and one-of-a-kind versions of this treat for a seasonal taste of what the area has to offer.

Get in the fall spirit, and let's take a closer look at just a few places to find delicious apple cider donuts in New England:

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Few things are more majestic than the sight of a whale in its natural habitat. Maine's oceanside location provides valuable opportunities to see whales and other marine wildlife. Hit the high seas with these great boating tour companies recommended by our real estate agents. 

• Cap'n Fish's Cruises - 42 Commercial St., Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
  Founded over 80 years ago, Cap'n Fish's Cruises is the granddaddy of whale-watching excursions along Maine's mid-coast. They have developed extensive knowledge about whale feeding grounds and movement during the various seasons. You'll also get a great look at Boothbay Harbor and its lighthouses, islands, and other points of interest. Trips run approximately 3.5 hours. Want more variety? Choose the four-hour whale watch and puffin combo. The boat's first destination is Eastern Egg Rock, home of the renowned Atlantic puffins. If no whales or puffins are spotted on either of the cruises, you receive a standby ticket good for another cruise. Tickets are $74 for adults and $59 for ages 2-12. Dogs are welcome for an additional $20 fee. Visit the website for pricing and departure information.
  
  
• Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. - 1 West St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. is the largest boating tour company in Maine, with excursions ranging from lighthouse tours to lobster fishing. Since 2012, the company has been a member of Whale SENSE, an organization dedicated to promoting responsible whale watching along with education about ocean stewardship. Whale watching tours can run anywhere from 3.5-5.5 hours. In addition to frequent sightings of baleen, humpback, finback, and minke whales, you're likely to see porpoises, dolphins, seals, and other wildlife. Friendly and knowledgeable guides offer information about the history of the Gulf of Maine, and coloring books and other activities are available to keep kids occupied. Don't see any whales? Get a voucher for another cruise good for three years. Tickets are $77 for adults, $47 for ages 6-14, and $25 for ages 5 and under. Visit the website for full calendar of departure times. 
  
  
• Robertson Sea Tours - 57 Bayview St., Milbridge, ME 04658
  Find out why Robertson Sea Tours was named as one of the nine best boat tours in the state by Best Things Maine. Travel aboard the 32-foot Kandi Leigh, named after the wife and mother of the Robertson family. Tours are led by her husband, known as "The Captain." Their 2.5-hour puffin and seabird cruise includes Petit Manan Island, which is the site of a national wildlife refuge as well as a beautiful lighthouse that's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Common sightings include terns, razorbills, and black guillemots. During September and October, Robertson offers a three-hour lighthouse and wildlife cruise. Lobster traps are hauled on both trips, giving guests a chance to see this classic Maine activity. A limited number of leashed dogs are accommodated on each trip. Visit the website for the full schedule and pricing. 
  
  
• Acadian Boat Tours - 119 Eden St., Bar Harbor, ME 04609
  With five boats ranging in size from 27- to 70-foot, Acadian Boat Tours can offer a number of different tours accommodating various numbers of passengers. The smallest is the Rambler, or "Fun Boat," which is available for private fishing or fishing/sightseeing cruises. The Acadian and Eden Star are pet-friendly and feature heated indoor cabins. Acadian's two-hour sightseeing cruise travels into Frenchman Bay for spectacular views of waterfront mansions, the Egg Rock lighthouse, Acadia National Park, and various marine mammals and birds. Other options include the puffins, lighthouses, and seabirds cruise along with the VIP harbors tour, featuring a trip into the only fjord on the East Coast. Visit the website for the full schedule and pricing.
  
  
• Bass Harbor Island Cruises - 12 Little Island Way, Bass Harbor, ME 04653
  Bass Harbor is so small and quiet that it hadn't even been named when its first post office was established in the early 1900s. Today, Bass Harbor Island Cruises offers a way to explore Maine's history and culture in a more secluded atmosphere. Their two-hour nature cruise travels past the namesake lighthouse to the outer islands of Blue Hill Way. Guides share information about Maine's iconic fishing industry as you watch for seals, porpoises, and eagles and haul some lobster traps along the way. Tickets are $40 for adults and $25 for ages 11 and under. Visit the website for the full schedule of departures.
  
  
• Camden Harbor Cruises - 15 Public Landing, Camden, ME 04843
  Can anyone mention Maine without thinking of lobsters? Hop aboard the Lively Lady for a one-hour lighthouse and lobster tour from Camden Harbor Cruises. The boat hauls its own lobster traps while passengers get a chance to watch commercial lobstermen ply their trade. Other sights include the Curtis Island lighthouse, Maine's famous rocky coastline, and a rotating lineup of marine wildlife. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for ages 2-12. Visit the website for the full calendar of sailings. 

Whether by land or by sea, life in Maine is exceptional. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at The Masiello Group for friendly and experienced help. 

Every season offers a unique experience in New England. Our real estate agents love the brilliant colors of fall, the warm hazy nights of summer, and the blooming wildflowers of spring. But winter is a particularly special time. 

There's so much to see and do when the snow flies in New England! With all these fun activities awaiting in winter, there's no place we'd rather be. 

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National parks are beautifully scenic spaces protected by the federal government. They offer multiple acres of natural beauty along with abundant recreational opportunities. It's no wonder people want to live near one! 

National Parks Throughout Our Area

New England is home to several of these protected areas.

History buffs, art lovers, and outdoors enthusiasts will all find something to enjoy at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, which is the one and only national park in New Hampshire. Previously the home to Augustus Saint-Gaudens, a renowned American sculptor, the park features his bronze creations throughout the grounds. 

Further up north, you'll find Maine's stunning Acadia National Park, which is one of the top ten most visited national parks in the country. Or start your journey on the Appalachian Trail, a national scenic trail, at Maine's Mount Katahdin.

If you're lucky enough to live near one of these protected areas, you'll reap many benefits from being close by. Our real estate agents share some of the benefits of living near a national park.

6 Benefits of Living Near a National Park  

1. Greater Employment Opportunities and Income
   A national park needs employees to operate and also attracts other businesses – who also need employees – that serve visitors to the park. These can include stores, restaurants, and more. The economy of the area around a national park is usually vibrant, with greater employment opportunities that lead to greater incomes.
     
2. Improved Environmental Conditions
   With acres of land being protected from development, the area around national parks tends to have less traffic and pollution than many other sites. Instead, you'll be close to acres of natural beauty. As a nearby property owner, you'll know that the park near you is federally protected. When you move into a home, its surroundings may change over the years. The immediate area may become more developed in ways that can change your enjoyment of your property. Since a national park's land is protected by the federal government, you'll have acres of pristine natural beauty nearby for years and years to come.
     
3. Increased Recreational Opportunities    
   By living near a national park, you'll have a variety of recreational opportunities within close distance. Activities such as camping, hiking, skiing, and fishing will be readily accessible, offering you and your family or friends the chance to spend time together and be active as you explore the park. For example, living near Acadia National Park will give you access to many trails perfect for exploring by foot or mountain bike. Or, if you are looking for a longer adventure, start your journey on the Appalachian Trail, which stretches 14 states for a total of 2,190 miles.
   
   
4. Health Benefits of Living Near a National Park
   Easy access to national parks and all the recreational opportunities encourages many people who live nearby to get moving. With beautiful trails to explore, it's no wonder this proximity helps foster a healthy lifestyle. In fact, studies do show people living near national parks tend to be healthier.
     
5. Improved Property Values
   If you decide to sell your home that's located near a national park, it's likely to be very desirable to potential buyers. The benefits that you've enjoyed may appeal to buyers, and they'll be a significant selling point. The value of your property is also likely to increase over time.
   
   
6. Outstanding Natural Beauty
   Living near a national park means you'll have acres of natural beauty nearby. Each park has its own special characteristics, but you may be living near gorgeous forests, sparkling lakes, or other desirable characteristics common in national parks. They create one-of-a-kind views that are a pleasure to see.

Contact us to see homes for sale in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, including some near national parks and other beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities. The area's natural beauty provides numerous benefits to its residents and makes it a wonderful place to call home.

Many of us are still spending more time than usual at home, which may continue for a while. If you're finding you've got time for extra cleaning projects, try to make the most of it and let your home's natural sparkle come out. Our real estate agents can always recommend cleaning tasks that homeowners may overlook when preparing a home for the market.

Here are some tips for enhanced cleaning in your home.

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Covid-19 has taught us a lot this year, including how well many of us are able to adapt to a remote working environment. While many companies and employees believed working from home would be a temporary arrangement early on in the pandemic, it's becoming more and more clear that the virus has simply accelerated the inevitable shift to remote work. You can argue that working from home has benefits and disadvantages; however, many people, including our real estate agents, believe it is here to stay. Below are several reasons why.

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Our real estate agents have always loved living by the water, but is it possible that it's actually good for our health? We asked ourselves that question, and our research yielded some fascinating results. 

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One thing our York real estate agents have come to appreciate about living on the Maine coast is that we are spoiled when it comes to lighthouses. From the towering Portland Head Lighthouse and the candy-striped West Quoddy Head Lighthouse to the stark granite bricks of the Whaleback Light, Maine lighthouse hunters have enough choices to keep them busy for a lifetime. 

Today, we want to focus on one of lour local favorites – Nubble Lighthouse. Built in 1879 and still in use today, the Nubble Lighthouse is also known as the Cape Neddick Light, and is one of the most picturesque attractions in the York, Maine area.

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