Winter in Maine is one of the best times to plan a coastal getaway, with snowy ocean walks and exciting winter activities. I’ve been exploring some of the top winter experiences along the Maine coast. Here are the best things to do in Maine in winter if you’re planning your own cold-weather trip.
Best Things to Do in Maine in Winter
Here are my favorite winter activities and coastal stops in Maine, all based on places I’ve personally visited.
1. Try a Mobile Sauna at Popham Beach
One of the most unique winter experiences I’ve had in Maine was visiting the Cedar Grove Sauna at Popham Beach.
This bright red mobile sauna sits right on the sand in Phippsburg, with ocean views out the window while you warm up inside.
After heating up, you can step outside into the cold sea air or even take a quick plunge into the Atlantic as I did.
Which is definitely a wild thing to do in January.
It’s a bucket list coastal stop and such a memorable way to experience Maine’s shoreline in winter.
2. Hike Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park
If you want one of the best winter hikes along the Maine coast, Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park is a great option.
The trail is short, only 1.1 miles, but hiking it in the snow feels like a completely different experience.
Especially with the quiet forest and views opening up as you climb.
From the summit, you get panoramic overlooks of Penobscot Bay and Camden Harbor, with everything blanketed in winter.
It’s a scenic hike that’s perfect for a cold-weather day trip in Midcoast Maine.
3. Dine in a Heated Fish Shack at Batson River in Kennebunk
One of the most fun winter experiences along the Maine coast is booking a heated fish shack at Batson River in Kennebunk.
These private little shacks let you enjoy a full meal outdoors while staying warm, even on the coldest nights of the season.
Sitting inside with Maine beer, lobster bisque, and comfort food while snow covers downtown Kennebunk, was amazing.
If you’re looking for a memorable coastal dining experience in Maine this winter, this one is absolutely worth reserving.
4. Visit Acadia National Park in Winter
Exploring Acadia National Park in winter is a completely different experience from summer, with snow-covered trails, quiet coastlines, and hardly any crowds.
One of my favorite things about visiting during the colder months is how peaceful everything feels.
From walking along Sand Beach to spotting icy ocean views near Thunder Hole.
You can snowshoe around Jordan Pond, hike easy coastal trails like Wonderland, or simply take in the winter scenery around Bar Harbor.
If you want one of the most scenic outdoor adventures in Maine this winter, Acadia is always worth the trip.
Here are my picks for the 18 Things to Do in Acadia National Park in Winter!
5. Stay Overnight in a Winter Cabin in The Forks
One of my favorite winter getaways in Maine was spending the night in a cabin at Northern Outdoors in The Forks.
Being surrounded by snow and quiet forest views made it feel like a true escape, and it was the perfect place to slow down after a day outside.
The cabins are warm, comfortable, and close to the Kennebec River Brewery.
Where you can grab a beer and sit by the fireplace before heading back to your cabin for the night.
If you want a peaceful Maine winter trip that feels tucked away from everything, this is a great one to add to your list.
6. Hike to Moxie Falls Near The Forks
Not far from our cabin stay in The Forks, we decided to head out for a winter hike to Moxie Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Maine.
The trail is short and easy in warmer months, but in winter it feels completely different with snow-covered paths and icy stairs leading down to the viewing area.
Even though conditions were slippery during our visit, it was still such a beautiful way to experience northern Maine.
If you’re staying in The Forks, Moxie Falls is an easy winter hike to add to your trip.
7. Visit the Cliff House Ice Bar on the Maine Coast
One of the most fun winter events on the Maine coast is the Cliff House Ice Bar in Cape Neddick.
A few times each season, the outdoor space at Nubb’s Lobster Shack transforms into a winter celebration.
With ice sculptures, live music, local beer tastings, fresh oysters, and cocktails poured through an ice luge right by the ocean.
It’s such a unique way to experience Maine in winter!
Especially bundled up with a drink in hand while watching the waves crash below the cliffs.
If you’re looking for a memorable winter night out in southern Maine, this is absolutely worth adding to your list.
8. Walk the Marginal Way in Ogunquit in Winter
Walking the Marginal Way in Ogunquit is one of the prettiest coastal experiences in Maine, and seeing it covered in snow made it feel even more special.
The paved oceanfront path was lined with icy views, crashing waves, and snow along the rocky coastline, turning a classic seaside stroll into a true winter walk by the water.
Along the way, we also spotted the Lobster Point Lighthouse offshore, which looked stunning against the frozen shoreline.
If you’re looking for an easy winter activity near Ogunquit with unforgettable ocean scenery, the Marginal Way is a must.
9. Eat a Maine Lobster Roll in Winter
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean lobster rolls disappear in Maine.
While many classic lobster shacks close for the season, there are still plenty of places that stay open year-round.
Making it possible to enjoy a fresh Maine lobster roll even in the colder months.
Spots like Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland, Peppers Landing in Brunswick and Ogunquit, and Port Lobster in Kennebunkport.
And even Bar Harbor favorites like The Thirsty Whale are all great winter options.
It’s one of the best ways to experience Maine’s seafood scene without the summer crowds, and nothing beats a lobster roll after a snowy day of exploring.
10. Winter Hike Mackworth Island State Park Near Portland
If you want an easy winter walk with ocean views, Mackworth Island State Park is one of the best places to explore.
Located just 10 minutes north of downtown Portland, this small island is accessible by a bridge and offers a peaceful 1.4-mile loop trail around the shoreline.
In winter, the trail is often covered in snow, making it a great spot for snowshoeing.
You can also visit the island’s famous fairy village tucked into the woods.
11. Attend the U.S. National Toboggan Championships in Camden
One of the most fun winter events in Maine is the U.S. National Toboggan Championships in Camden.
Each February, people gather at the Camden Snow Bowl to watch racers fly down the famous wooden toboggan chute, which drops straight onto the frozen pond below.
It’s a long-running Maine tradition, and even as a spectator, it’s such a unique winter experience.
The snowy mountain setting, the energy of the crowds, and the festival atmosphere make it a fun activity.
12. Chase the Northern Lights in Maine
Seeing the Northern Lights in Maine is one of the most unforgettable winter experiences.
And while it’s rare, it has become more possible in recent years thanks to increased solar activity.
On the right night, the sky can light up with pink, purple, and even green hues, especially along Maine’s darker regions.
Some of the best places to spot them include Popham Beach, Acadia National Park, and remote areas like Aroostook County or Baxter State Park.
Read my full guide, including my pictures, Northern Lights in Maine (2026): Best Spots, Forecast & Tips!
13. Visit Maine’s Lighthouses in Winter
Winter is one of the best times to visit Maine’s famous lighthouses, when the coastline feels quiete.
Many of Maine’s most iconic lighthouse spots stay accessible year-round.
And seeing them surrounded by winter scenery makes the experience feel completely different from summer.
Places like Portland Head Light, Bass Harbor Head Light in Acadia, and the lobster-shaped Nubble Lighthouse in York are all beautiful stops.
Bundling up and walking along the rocky shoreline to admire these landmarks is one of the most classic things to do in Maine in winter.
14. Go Ice Skating at Thompson’s Point in Portland
Ice skating is one of the most fun winter activities in Maine, and Thompson’s Point in Portland is one of the best places to do it.
Each winter, the outdoor rink opens, and it’s such a fun activity to do during a cold day.
You can lace up your skates, glide around under the winter sky, and then warm up afterward with a hot drink or a bite nearby.
Just be sure to check rink hours and conditions before you go, since weather can always impact outdoor skating in Maine.
15. Cross-Country Ski at Oxbow Beer Garden
One of my favorite things to do in Maine in winter is cross-country skiing at Oxbow Beer Garden.
Their ski trails are such a fun way to get outside after a fresh snowfall.
The trails are well-loved by locals, like me, and it is the perfect spot for an easy winter workout without needing a big mountain.
After skiing, you can head back to the beer garden to warm up with a drink and enjoy the full winter experience in one place. I
It is easily one of my top winter activities in Maine.
16. Take a Portland Food Tour in Winter
Portland, Maine, is one of the best food cities in New England, and winter is such a fun time to explore it.
When the cold weather hits, nothing beats spending a day warming up with lobster rolls, chowder, wood-fired pizza, and even ice cream.
A self-guided Portland food tour is one of my favorite winter activities because you can hop between cozy restaurants in the Old Port.
I built my own food tour that I did myself!
Here are all my stops – 22 Best Places to Eat & Drink in Portland, Maine!
If you want a winter day trip that mixes great food with a classic Maine atmosphere, Portland is always a perfect stop.
17. Do a Winter Brewery Crawl in Portland
A winter brewery crawl is one of the best things to do in Maine in winter, especially in Portland.
The city has an incredible craft beer scene, and spending an afternoon hopping between tasting rooms is such a fun way to warm up on a cold day.
Some of the best stops include Allagash Brewing Company, Bissell Brothers, and Belleflower Brewing.
Many of these spots have indoor seating, seasonal pours, and food trucks nearby, making it easy to turn it into a full winter outing.
If you want a laid back winter activity on the Maine coast, exploring Portland’s breweries is always a great choice.
Explore More of Maine
I love exploring Maine during every season!
For summer, make sure to try 21 Best Lobster Rolls in Maine You Need to Try in 2026!
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