Facing the sun at day’s end, a little red house at New Harbor, Maine.
There’s no such thing, at least in our book, as the prettiest fishing village in Maine. Each one is prettier than the last, and all are unique. But the most photographed one, according to Moon Travel Guide: Maine (July 2017), is New Harbor in the Pemaquid Region. And we happened upon it by accident.
New Harbor boats waiting for day’s end.
Our goal? Drive from Newcastle to Pemaquid Point for a view of the lighthouse at sunset. But, once we had taken pictures and walked around long enough to satisfy everyone in our party, there was enough light remaining in the day for a quick stopover in New Harbor. We had no expectations. No knowledge of what was there. And no timeframe, except to avoid winding roads after dark. But now, having seen New Harbor, we can safely say, “There’s just no reason to miss it.”
Whether it’s truthfully the most photographed fishing village of all is moot. New Harbor at sunset offers views of quaint seaside homes, weathered buildings, and boats standing up to the sun, ready for photographers to snap.
Authentic. Real. And totally unpretentious. Just the way we like Maine harbors to be. And add to the scenery a place to pick your own lobster and have it steamed on the spot (That would be Shaw’s Wharf), and you’ve got a Down East evening made for picture books.
Always work to be done at a seaside restaurant. This is Shaw’s Wharf getting a little attention.
So maybe New Harbor IS the most photographed fishing village — but who’s giving prizes? They’re all pretty lovely — especially at sundown.
Sunset view of New Harbor, Maine — the most photographed fishing village? Could be!
For more of our Travel Series on Maine in October, go to Travel Series: Autumn Down East.
Green Global Trek
Love Maine! I was there decades ago and it is nice to see that at least this spot does not appear to have changed very much. Beautiful photographs indeed.
Peta
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks for the compliment! And you’re right — not much has changed in Maine. Isn’t that why we all return? We love the past, the romantic, and the beautiful! I appreciate your comments so very much!
Curt Mekemson
That red, red home set off against blue, blue water… perfect, Rusha. –Curt
Oh, the Places We See
I wish you could see me taking pictures. I’m almost in tears with the beauty I see, especially in our early morning visits to the harbor in Castine. This trip is truly a godsend, one that was an unexpected happenstance. I’m going to catch up on my reading of your blogs about Burning Man soon. I want to savor each one!
Curt Mekemson
I understand the feeling! Sometimes, I just think, WOW. I was that way with fall colors around here this week. Next up I will feature the pumpkins of Rhode Island’s Jack-0-Lantern Spectacular. Now there is a festival you would love. –Curt
Oh, the Places We See
Well, it is this year. Temps are mild, and colors are rich. But maybe in other years, it has been very cold. We brought long johns and heavy coats and gloves, but haven’t had to wear any of that. So, I would plan a return trip if the opportunity presented itself. Here’s to traveling Maine!
dawnkinster
Love Maine! These are beautiful shots! We were there a couple years ago and I kept wondering how people were making a living in these beautiful villages. So many piles of lobster traps, boats in yards. But such beautiful country.
Oh, the Places We See
It has been a glorious October and unseasonably warm, according to the locals. We feel fortunate to be here — and wish we could return more often. It’s a gem of a state.
Sue
Looks good, Rusha!
Oh, the Places We See
Thanks, Sue. You’d love the photo ops in this state!
Sue
Mmm, I think I would! Is October a good month?