Top 16 Things To Do In Castine, Maine

1. Admire Dyce Head Lighthouse

Charming, well-preserved, and full of history - that’s what Dyce Head Lighthouse is. This little treasure was established in 1829 and was replaced by a 145 m (475 ft) skeleton tower. But, the old lighthouse was reactivated when the site was ruined by a massive storm in 2007. Today, plenty of visitors are allured to see the lighthouse with cameras in their hands. It also gives direct access to the woods to admire the scenic views of the ocean.

Dyce Head Lighthouse

Address: 1 Battle Ave, Castine, ME, United States

Website: Dyce Head Lighthouse

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8:30am - 3:30pm (closed on Sun)

2. Witness the rich military history of Witherle Woods

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Take a break from the world and experience the serenity at Witherle Woods. Offering breathtaking views of Penobscot Bay, this lush, green oasis has witnessed battles during both the War of 1812 and the Revolutionary War. Visitors will be glad to know there are plenty of activities like hiking the 6.5-km (4.04 mi) trails and cross-country skiing during winter here.

Witherle Woods

Address: Castine, ME 04421, United States

3. Have a blast from the past at Castine Historical Society

Visiting Castine Historical Society might be an unexpected highlight of your escapade. This gorgeous museum is home to tons of House and Garden Tours’ documents from way back, even as early as 1924. Grab the opportunity to admire the views of 18 Castine properties from the early Federal era to the Modern era. Castine Historical Society features a glimpse of history about the 1850 Samuel P. Grindle House, the 1763 John Perkins House, and more.

Castine Historical Society

Address: 17 School St, Castine, ME 04421, United States

Website: Castine Historical Society

4. See interesting items from around the world at Wilson Museum

The collection of Dr. John Howard Wilson (a well-renowned geologist), which came from all around the world is what makes up the fascinating Wilson Museum. This splendid museum presents you with a tour from the past and gives you a glimpse of what various cultures were like during those times. The rocks and fossils during the geologic era will amaze you. Explore the rich culture of different continents in the world when you see wonderful displays - there’s so much to see and learn at Wilson Museum. Make it a part of your visit.

Wilson Museum

Address: 120 Perkins St, Castine, ME 04421, United States

Website: Wilson Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 2pm - 5pm

Price: Free admission

5. Learn about a piece of revolutionary history at Fort George

Known also as Fort Majabigwaduce, Fort George is one of Castine’s historic landmarks. During the American Revolutionary War in 1779, this palisaded earthwork was built by Great Britain. Situated above the Bagaduce Peninsula, the fort served as the British defense during the expedition of the Massachusetts-organized Penobscot. If you want to dig deep into the history of Castine, this is a good base to start your crash course.

Fort George

Address: Wadsworth St. off Battle Ave., Castine, Maine

6. Hike through Rene Henderson Natural Area

If hiking is your game, Rene Henderson Natural Area is one of the favorite spots for hiking in Castine, Maine. It is a trafficked loop trail that has a size of about 2.57 km (1.6 mi) and offers a wonderful forest setting. Accessible year-round, the trail gives plenty of opportunities for activities, from hiking to strolling. The best part? Dogs are also welcome.

Rene Henderson Natural Area

Address: 210 The Shore Rd, Castine, ME 04421, United States

Website: Rene Henderson Natural Area

7. Indulge in some delicious seafood at The Captain's Catch

Seafood is the name of the game at The Captain’s Catch. Situated at the stunning coastal town, this splendid restaurant offers fresh seafood, from lobster to clam strips, from shrimp tacos to crab pie. Of course, classics are offered to satisfy you. They also serve hamburgers and hot dogs. Oh, did we mention ice cream and specialty salads too? The whole place is cozy with a family-friendly ambiance, plus the staff is courteous.

The Captain's Catch

Address: 5 Sea Street Castine, Maine

Website: The Captain’s Catch

8. Go on an escapade with Castine Kayak Adventures

Castine Kayak Adventures has become known as a consistently exceptional companion for a Castine escapade. Experience Maine’s best offer with the serene and magnificent Penobscot Bay. Embark on a one-of-a-kind night experience by trying bioluminescent paddling and witness the ocean glow. The good news? You don’t have to be superfit to try this excursion. Everyone is welcome no matter your skill level is as long as you want to have fun. This tour has got you covered from head to toe. Modern gear (kayaks and paddles), safety equipment, experience tour guide - all are included in the package.

Castine Kayak Adventures

Address: 17 Sea St, Castine, ME, United States

Website: Castine Kayak Adventures

Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)

9. Relax at Danny Murphy's Pub

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Whether you are looking for a relaxed night, an amazing sandwich, or a cold beer - Danny Murphy’s Pub got you covered! This local pub is a combination of a laidback atmosphere, impeccable service, fantastic food, and great drinks. It features a nice full bar with a great selection of drinks, plus a television is also available.

Danny Murphy's Pub

Address: 5 Sea St Castine, Maine

Website: Danny Murphy’s Pub

Opening hours: 4pm - 11pm (daily)

10. Discover the military history of Castine at Fort Madison State Park

Amazing artillery cannons, earthen fortifications, the US flag proudly flying along with the winds - that’s what makes Fort Madison State Park one of the most must-see historic parks in Castine. It is also a good starting point to learn about the early military history of Castine. Situated just right off the Castine Harbor, this park is a perfect spot to admire the scenic Penobscot Bay and have a picnic with your family or friends. All-year-round, it presents breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset during winter.

Fort Madison State Park

Address: Perkins St, Castine, ME 04421, United States

11. Search for unique and beautiful artworks at Gallery B

Gallery B is a classy place to search for some unique and beautiful pieces. It features everything that can make you feel upbeat and inspired, from spectacular paintings to shimmering pieces of jewelry, to lovely figurines. All artists have unique styles and techniques, but one thing is common - all of their arts are created with love. You can definitely see this up-close at Gallery B.

Gallery B

Address: 5 Main Street, PO Box 409 Castine, Maine

Website: Gallery B

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed from Sun - Thu)

12. Enjoy the beauty of Maine's coast by joining Castine Harbor Tour

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Come aboard! Experience the crisp sea air and admire the Maine coast. Guildive Cruise allows you to escape the hustle and bustle by taking you on a water adventure that you will never forget. The motor sailboat named Guildive has a size of 17 km (56 ft). The ship is well-maintained, built in top-tier quality, and has been under sail for 80 long years. What makes this tour more exciting is the skilled and friendly captain and crew. During the one-and-a-half-hour tours, Captain Xander will shed some light on the important and historical facts about Castine and its stunning waters. Whether you are looking for a memorable way to enjoy Penobscot Bay, aiming for relaxation, or craving some vitamin sea, this Castine harbor tour has got you covered!

Castine Harbor Tour

Address: 15 Sea St Castine, Maine

Website: Castine Harbor Tour

Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)

Price: 42.50 USD

13. Look for some fresh produce at Windmill Hill Gardens and Market

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There is something unique for everyone in Windmill Hill Gardens and Market. Fresh produce, hydroponic veggies, staples, wine, cheese, herbs, not to mention their out-of-this-world ribs, to name a few - all are worth checking out. With that being said, this market is considered as one of Castine’s treasures. If green is your thing, a splendid salad bar with all veggies grown in the shop is waiting. What’s more, the staff and the owner are known for their hospitality and impeccable service.

Windmill Hill Gardens and Market

Address: 5 Castine Rd Castine, Maine

Website: Windmill Hill Gardens and Market

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

14. Relax and read a good book at Compass Rose Books

Situated in the stunning coastal town of Castine, Compass Rose Books is a well-known and wonderfully curated bookstore, featuring environmental and maritime history writing and promoting coastal Maine-based writers. Compass Rose Books gives a great opportunity to enjoy reading a good book and savoring a delicious hot coffee. Not only that, plenty of surprises await, from different kinds of journals to a selection of European candy, from fine chocolate to cut flowers and more unique and quirky items.

Compass Rose Books

Address: 3 Main St Castine, Maine

Website: Compass Rose Books

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 9am - 2pm (closed on Mon)

15. Discover a wide range of activities at Castine Golf Club

If golf is your thing, Castine Golf Club is here for you. It presents well-maintained and gorgeous 9-hole par with 35 challenging courses. The whole place is laidback with greenery and offers sweeping views of Blue Hill and Castine Harbor. It encourages plenty of activities, as their Castine Tennis Club has four Har-Tru tennis courts. If you want more, Junior and Adult Sailing Program, Mercury races, Castine Class races, and more are available for you to explore.

Castine Golf Club

Address: 200 Battle Ave, Castine, ME, United States

Website: Castine Golf Club

16. Try some water activities at Backshore Beach

The stretch of sand, shells, and rocks at the border of Wadsworth Cove gives many possibilities of adventure. Whether you’re after a short nap under the sun, a stroll to Elephant Rock at low tide, or to try some water excursions like kayaking and canoeing - Backshore Beach has got you covered. What makes this beach more fabulous is the spectacular sunset and this place is one of the favorite spots of windsurfers.

A trip to Castine is a trip of a lifetime

Adventures like kayaking and sailing, rich history, great seafood - Castine is a beautiful town that is full of surprises. With that being said, a trip to Castine is indeed a trip of a lifetime. Use this list of things to do when coming to this magical part of Maine.