Explore

The Boothbay Region Land Trust is a great place to start your outdoor adventure. This non-profit conservation organization is dedicated to preserving natural habitat, scenic beauty, and working land on the Boothbay Penisula. Its 20 preserves and over 30 miles of trails are open to the public, year-round, free of charge. BRLT properties include woodlands, wetlands, salt marshes, islands, seabird and wading bird habitat, feeding areas for migratory birds and butterflies, historical and archaeological sites, and working waterfront. Three of our favorites are Oak Point Farm, Porters Preserve, and Oven’s Mouth.

If you prefer beaches to hiking, Goldfinch Cottage is less than 10 minutes from two public beaches, Hendricks Head beach and the beach at Barrett Park. Owned and managed by the town of Southport, Hendricks Head beach, also known as Dogfish Head beach, is a beautiful, sandy beach with a small climbable outcrop called Kitten Island and views of the nearby Hendricks Head lighthouse. Barrett Park, on the east side of Boothbay Harbor and overlooking Lewis Cove, is a perfect spot to bring a book and picnic. Relax on its grassy lawns with shade trees, benches and tables, and a gazebo, or explore its rocky shoreline and go for a swim. There is a small boat launch if you’d like to kayak in the calm and protected waters, and the public restrooms are a nice amenity. Slightly farther, but well worth the extra 10 minutes of driving, is the beach at Ocean Point in East Boothbay. Sun yourself on the large smooth rocks at high tide, or park a beach chair at low tide and enjoy views of the Ram Island Lighthouse.

One of the best ways to experience Boothbay Harbor is to get out on the water. Tidal Transit Company can get you paddling in no time, either in a sea kayak or on a stand-up paddleboard. From their location beside the iconic Boothbay Harbor footbridge, you can explore the coastline or venture to Burnt Island to see the historic lighthouse.

For a less strenuous water adventure, hop aboard one of the many boat tours that depart from the town. Whether you want to see whales and puffins, cruise past lighthouses, charter a fishing excursion, or spend a day exploring picturesque Monhegan Island, Balmy Day Cruises, the Lazy Jack Schooner, Cap’n Fish’s Cruises, or Midcoast Sailing can provide the experience you are looking for.

From Goldfinch Cottage, it is a lovely twenty-minute walk to the shops and restaurants of Boothbay Harbor. Parking can be scarce during peak season, so we suggest you leave your car in the driveway and enjoy the water views at every turn as you circle around the head of Mill Cove into town.