The Bold Coast
Easily accessed along the Bold CoastĀ NationalĀ Scenic Byway, the area is defined by its rugged landscape and working waterfronts.
The Bold Coast is rich in unspoiled vistas and strong cultural traditions. Wild blueberry barrens and mossy forests yield to tidal marshes and bays. Sparkling lakes, rivers, and streams flow into active fishing harbors. Historic towns and villages speak of the wealth of 19th Century shipbuilding, lumber processing, and sardine canning industries.
Visitors here can experience first-hand working waterfronts, communities that are not flashy, and local people who are proud, resourceful, and humble.
travel the Bold Coast
Experience The Bold Coast region as drive along theĀ Bold Coast National Scenic Byway. This 147-mile byway covers coastal scenery and offers a culturalĀ experience unlike any other.Ā Experience coastal and inland routes where the glacial influence on this rugged landscape is made evident.
Your journey will take you through the bustling working waterfronts the likes of Milbridge, Beals and Jonesport, in addition to the historic riverside villages of Cherryfield, Columbia Falls, and Machias. Take inĀ Cutler Harbor and the Cutler Coast whose rugged shore is shaped by the rise and fall of the Bay of Fundy.Ā
Eastport’s historic fishing port and artist community offer dining and culture opportunities, plus whale watching and sunset cruises. A ferry connects Eastport the charming town of Lubec. Finally, the tiny city of Calais marks the northernmost end of the Bold Coast.
stops along the way
The Bold Coast is not just about the views and natural beauty, it is also about the things to do along the way.Ā
The area offers excellent bicycling opportunities for riders of all abilities who enjoy on-road, off-road, or single track riding. With many parks, preserves, or reserved land areas, take a hike develops a whole new meaning. Or grab a paddle and chose from an inland lake or a sheltered harbor.
Spend a day at the beach.Ā Roque Bluffs State ParkĀ has a freshwater pond for swimming, picnic tables with fire pits, and a long gravel ocean beach lined with wild roses.Ā Dig clams atĀ Cobscook Bay State Park.Ā Snap a selfie at theĀ West Quoddy Head LighthouseĀ in Lubec or as you stand at theĀ 45th parallel marker.
Visitor Resources:Ā Ā Cobscook Bay State ParkĀ |Ā Roque Bluffs State ParkĀ |Ā Shackford Head State ParkĀ Ā |Ā Quoddy Head State Park | Ā The Downeast Fisheries Trail | Discover Bold Coast | Bold Coast Chambers include:Ā Machias Bay | Eastport | Lubec | St. Croix Valley
Planning Tools
To help you plan your trip we provideĀ information on drive time and distances to and around the region. Plus info on other commercial transportation options.
Once you arrive in DownEast Acadia, you will want to access local sources of visitor information, state laws, recreation rules, and road conditions.
To help you pack or plan your day, check out the current weather in the region or learn about year-round averages of temperature and precipitation.
Paid for by Maine Office of Tourism with support from our member organizations. | Ā©2023, DownEast Acadia Regional Tourism | Design and Development: Thalo Blue Destination Marketing