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.