About halfway up the middle of Maine’s coastline is Rockland, Maine; Considered part of Maine’s Midcoast, with a surprisingly booming restaurant and art scene. Rockland is known as a fishing community and boasts beautiful ocean views of Penobscot Bay. In particular, Rockland is a lobster fishing community, and unbeknownst to many, is consider the Lobster Capital of America.
I’m slightly biased because I call this area home and grew up there. Rockland is definitely a hidden gem of Maine, and lesser known than places such as Portland, Bar Harbor, Camden, and Kennebunkport. Keep scrolling to check out my Rockland, Maine Travel Guide. Including where to stay in Rockland, Maine, where to eat, and what to do in Rockland, Maine. Hope you enjoy!
I’m lucky enough to call the area of Rockland, Maine my hometown – specifically, the neighboring town Owls Head, but since the towns neighbor each other and are both so small, when you’re from there, the entire area feels like your hometown. I went to high school in Rockland which is virtually where every store is located since Owls Head doesn’t even have a traffic light; Proud to say it does have an airport though! Sometimes I wonder how this small town girl ended up in Boston?!
This past weekend, driving into town with the windows down, the smell of ocean water and wild flowers hit my senses, and being fully present in the moment, I thought, there can’t be much better than this! Midcoast Maine is truly magic in the summertime. It’s a unique place you must experience at least once; and something tells me you’ll look forward to coming back for decades to come.
The Local’s Travel Guide to Rockland, Maine
Views of the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse from 250 Main Hotel’s rooftop deck. You can walk to the end of this lighthouse and it’s 7/8 of a mile each way!
So who would enjoy Rockland, Maine?! Everyone! If you want me to get specific, Rockland, Maine is the perfect summer destination for the person who enjoys being near the ocean, appreciates an impressive food scene, likes to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city every once and awhile, and can appreciate great art. Truth be told, it’s a destination you should visit any time of year, but it’s particularly impressive during the late summer months.
Where to Stay
250 Main Hotel in Rockland, Maine
250 Main is the perfect location for exploring downtown Rockland and is located at the start of Rockland’s Main Street. 250 Main is pet friendly and feels like true luxury. You can read about my stay at 250 Main Hotel here.
I’ve stayed there twice now, and each time is truly unforgettable and the most relaxing, luxurious experience. Think rain shower, heated towel racks, the most amazing, comfiest beds ever (like a cloud), and happy hour every evening (one drink included per person), and Rockland’s only roof deck to name just a few reasons I love it! 250 Main Hotel is a great choice for couples who want to truly relax and take the time to explore Rockland’s downtown Main Street area. If you appreciate art, you’ll love this spot as the hotel has a mini art gallery throughout.
I worked here in high school and it has truly amazing views. A great choice if you have kids as there’s an indoor and outdoor pool (outdoor pool open seasonally that overlooks the Rockland Breakwater). There’s a spa, fitness center (with group classes), two restaurants (one for the more casual diner in a lounge area, one more formal), and an amazing brunch every Sunday. This is a great spot if you enjoy a resort experience and want to stay put in Rockland, Maine with possibly less exploring downtown – although it’s still certainly possible as everything’s a short 5 minute drive away.
One of the best lobster rolls I’ve ever had at McLoons Lobster in Spruce Head, Maine. You can read more about it here.
Where to Eat
The outdoor patio at Fog Bar & Café
Acaí bowls at Main Street Markets on Main Street
Breakfast/Coffee
It wouldn’t be a Rockland, Maine Travel Guide without this spot being on the list. Home Kitchen Café has the best breakfast in Rockland (they serve breakfast all day and also have a great lunch menu)! It was voted Best Breakfast in 2014 by Yankee Magazine. Locals go here, tourists go here, and everyone agrees it’s the best breakfast in Rockland.
I recommend getting there early and sitting on the upstairs, outdoor deck during the summer months. A few of my favorites are the Two Eggs, the Oatmeal Brûlée (ask for it with blueberries) which is oatmeal meets crème brûlée. It’s steel cut oats with a brown sugar topping that’s torched (so, so good!). I also love the Sausage Gravy, their Breakfast Sandwiches, and Geoff loves their Huevos Rancheros. Truly can’t go wrong with anything you order. Also – their Sinny Buns are legendary. If you’re a bread snob like me (I seriously looooove artisan bread, what’s wrong with me?! ☺️ ) they have great bread here.
The perfect spot to go if you want a quick breakfast such as a smoothie, avocado toast, a cup of coffee, and/or an acaí bowl. They have some indoor seating and a few tables outside on the sidewalk. They also have a great beer and wine section, healthy snacks, and produce (think of it as a small Whole Foods of Rockland). New to Rockland in the past couple of years and a truly amazing addition! Insider tip: Main Street Markets is closed on Sundays!
The best coffee in Rockland, hands down! This was always a favorite local hangout in high school when it had a different name – Second Read. This is a great coffee shop to get work done (lots of tables), a great one to go to alone, with a group, or even to grab a coffee to go. What I’m saying is, it’s the total package.
They also serve food, have pie by the slice, baked goods, and have a book store in the back! (Also note that there’s a second Rock City Coffee shop located just next to 250 Main Hotel. It’s more of a grab and go style shop and just coffee rather than lattes and food orders with very limited seating). Insider tip: If you’re looking for a photo op for Instagram, there’s a really cute mural just outside of their coffee shop (see below!).
Perfect spot to grab a quick loaf of bread or any other baked goods!
Homemade old fashioned donuts. If you get there early you just may get them while they’re still warm. The shop is located a bit out of town compared to everything else and borders Rockport/Rockland. They also sell Willow Bake Shoppe donut holes at local grocery stores in Rockland (specifically Hannaford, but maybe other spots too!).
I’ve yet to try Ruckus Donuts – they’re new to Rockland as of late 2021, but people rave about them!
Scallops and lobster tacos, both from Fog Bar + Café.
Lunch
Cash only but the best hot dogs you’ll ever have. The locals (including myself) have a soft spot for Wasses. It’s no-frills. It’s essentially a food stand, but I promise you won’t be disappointed! I don’t like to make a trip home without stopping here! There’s also a stand on Route 1 in Thomaston near the car dealerships.
One of my favorite lobster rolls (ever) and an authentic Maine spot. McLoons is located in nearby Spruce Head. Despite it being out of town, it’s 100% worth driving to (just 15-20 minutes outside Rockland). Think picnic tables, no fuss, amazing lobster! You can find my post here to see more. This is a must stop on your lobster eating journey! Also depending on what time of year you’re visiting, just know this spot is seasonal so check their website/call before stopping by!
The views outside of Archer’s
Dinner
Looking to have one of the best meals of your life?! Primo is one of those spots you have to go at least once – and you’ll be going back every time you visit Rockland. What started with a garden, a few chickens, and pigs has become Primo. What makes Primo stand out from the rest is its unique stance on farm to table. Produce is literally grown on property as well as the animals. Nothing is wasted and the menu is ever changing.
If you’re someone who enjoys a unique experience and the story behind your meal, Primo is your spot; although I recommend it to everyone. Executive Chef and owner, Melissa Kelly has won 2 James Beard awards, and is actually the first to have won it twice (1999 + 2013). Get there early to walk the grounds before your meal, and get ready for an unforgettable meal. Primo is on the Owls Head / Rockland border. Highly recommend making reservations. Insider tip: If you’re looking for a more casual, hip dining experience, check out the upstairs lounge/bar. A large portion of the seating is first come, first serve.
Craving sushi? You’re in luck because this is one of the best sushi spots on the entire East Coast. Suzuki’s is unique because they use mostly local fish. Suzuki’s has been nominated for 2 James Beard awards, so you know they’re legit. I recommend making reservations.
One of the best dinners in Rockland! Seating is first come, first serve except for parties of 6 or more. In Good Company makes a great date night spot and is romantic and cozy. Their steak is one of the best I’ve ever had (like butter!).
Another local favorite! Café Miranda is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. They have a huge dinner menu, so you’re bound to find something you’ll love. They also have outdoor patio seating.
Ada’s Kitchen is a new-ish Italian spot on Main Street in Rockland. Owned by the same owners as Main Street Markets, and located in what used to be 3Crow if you know Rockland well. This is a great spot to grab a glass of wine and an appetizer or stay for dinner. They have a nice bar and if you just want a drink and an appetizer, they also have cozy couches to lounge on.
Craving Italian? This is your spot. I’m a sucker for their Sautéed Mussels (unique because they have pesto, bacon, and a touch of cream. I crave these constantly because they’re so good! They’re also the only mussels my mom will eat.), their Chicken Parmigiana, and their Penne alla Bolognese is darn good too! This is a favorite of my family.
This is one of my favorite dinner spots in Rockland, and in my mind, underrated! If you’ll be visiting during the summer months, make sure to grab a bite on their new outdoor patio which sits just next to Lulu’s Gelato and Café Miranda. If you’d rather dine inside, they play old fashioned, black and white movies on a huge projector on the wall; Super cozy and romantic during the winter months!
A few of my favorites on the menu – Duck Dusted French Fries, Mushroom Truffle Popcorn, their Cod Cakes, Scallops, and they serve a great burger! You’ll also find great cocktails here. Their Orange Blossom Kir is one of my favorites! Note: They have been closed since the start of the pandemic, but we’re hopeful they’ll open back up!
Looking for the best spot to enjoy a meal outdoors in Rockland? This is your spot! Archer’s has beautiful ocean views and the only outdoor bar in Rockland. This is another one of those spots in Rockland that locals and tourists alike, love. Insider Tip: After your meal, take a walk on the Rockland Boardwalk (FYI not a traditional boardwalk by any means) and walk off your meal.
This spot just opened up in Rockland, and I finally got the chance to stop in. If you’re looking for oysters, an appetizer, and/or a cold beer or cocktail, this is your spot. Unfortunately, they’re only open for dinner, but it’s a great spot to stop in to the bar for oysters and a cocktail before heading out for your dinner on Main Street in Rockland. If you’ve been to Eventide in Portland, it seems to have a similar vibe. Locals who have been to both – fill me in and let me know what you think! Edit: I recently
Drinks/Bars
A local favorite, but be prepared, this is very much a dive bar, NOT an Instagrammable spot. You wouldn’t want to order a Cosmo here 😉. They have live music and karaoke on the weekends. This is where you should go if you’d like to truly experience Rockland like a local!
Downstairs at the Samoset has a cute lounge and an amazing outdoor deck overlooking the golf course and the ocean. During the day, you can also get drinks outside next to the outdoor pool (phenomenal views).
Things to Do
The Rockland Breakwater lighthouse (7/8 of a mile each way)
Walk the Rockland Breakwater (make sure to wear sneakers and/or comfortable shoes. There are little cracks in between the rocks).
Go to the Farnsworth Art Museum.
Check out the local Owls Head Transportation Museum.
Go to the Owls Head Lighthouse + have a picnic on the beach.
Check out Fiore at the end of Rockland’s Main Street for an olive oil and vinegar tasting. I always stock up on them every time I visit home!
Go to a wine tasting at the Cellardoor Winery in Lincolnville (30 min. drive or so from Rockland).
See a show or movie at The Strand on Main Street.
Want a beach day? Check out Birch Point State Park (locals know it as Lucia Beach) in Owls Head.
Check out the many art galleries on Rockland’s Main Street and the Center for Contemporary Art.
Walk down Main Street and check out the local shops.
Venture to nearby Camden. My Camden Travel Guide can be found here!
Lulu’s Ice Cream
Where to Shop
Fiore Artisan Olive Oils + Vinegars
You can sample the olive oils and vinegars. I always stop in and stock up on these when I visit home.
Have you been to Rockland, Maine – or is it on your list? Happy to help with additional recommendations. Think I’ve missed a favorite spot?! Send me a DM and let me know on Instagram! Try a spot from this Rockland Maine Travel Guide and love it?! Let me know in the comments!! xx
Friend is visiting New Hampshire and we have 3 days to explore Maine. I was thinking Bar Harbor and Acadia but Rockland is a lot closer. Are there big rocky areas like further north? Sandy beaches like south? Appreciate any advice
Hi Pam!! Thank you so much for reading. If you’re thinking of staying near the Rockland area there are a couple beaches that are sandy (Crescent Beach in Owls Head) and then Popham Beach which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Rockland so it would be a bit of a drive but is also sandy. Lucia Beach also known as Birch Point State Park in South Thomaston is just minutes from Rockland and is sandy on the beach (although wet sand with lots of seaweed) and has big rocks on both sides of the beach so that might give you the best of both worlds. Drift Inn Beach in St. George (20 min. or so from Rockland is a hidden gem that not too many people know about. Parking is bad because you have to park on the side of the road but it’s an amazing beach when it’s low tide (sandy but rocks on the side). It requires planning though because if you go at high tide there’s almost no beach.
For more Southern Maine, Willard Beach and Crescent Beach in Portland are both sandy!
Why wasn’t Rockland Cafe included? They have been on Main st.for 25 years now. Amazing for breakfast, lunch or dinner!
Love all your tips! How do I dress for Rockland Maine in Late August?
Thank you so much Karla! Rockland can be a bit on the chilly side even in the summer since it’s right on the water. Usually only a high of 80, tops. I’m not sure where you’re coming from and what is considered hot weather to you, but I would bring a little bit of everything! You can usually get away with shorts and a t-shirt during the day and a light sweater or light sweatshirt for at night! Maybe one pair of jeans just to be safe. Also, Rockland is very casual! No need to bring anything fancy unless you’re into it!! Have fun!
You’re spot on. Primo is one of my absolute favorite restaurants. Reading your post has got me thinking it’s time for another trip to Rockland!
Hi Tenni!! Thank you so much for reading. So happy to hear you feel the same about Primo. Definitely a special place!!! You must come back!!! Have a great rest of your summer!
Where can I get the “Musings from Maine” notebook? It’s so adorable!
Hi Angie! 250 Main Hotel has these in the hotel rooms for guests.
MACKENZIE,
I will be coming into the cruise port and there are 6 of us that need transportation to Mt. Batty and Fort Knox. Can you recommend a private driver for the day or know of a car rental place near port?
thank you,
M
Hi Mark, I would check with the Knox County Regional Airport to see if they have any rental cars available. Otherwise, you could potentially reach out to Joe’s Taxi or Schooner Bay Taxi. Have a great time!
We arrive by cruise ship for a brief Fall Coloursvisit, are there lovely vistas of Rockland if we walk to Owls Head Light House? Are there services in the area on an October Tuesday where we can get coffee or use a restroom?
Sadly McLoons is closed Tuesdays.
Hi there! You wouldn’t be able to walk to Owls Head Lighthouse from Rockland. However, you could walk throughout Main Street in Rockland and Sandy Beach in Rockland. Perhaps consider getting a taxi to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse or Owls Head Lighthouse. Check out Rock City Coffee for a coffee and restroom.