Winter Harbor

Winter Harbor, Maine, a classic Downeast fishing village in Hancock County, with a year-round population of fewer than 1,000, is a small town with true coastal Maine appeal. Winter Harbor got its name for the harbor not freezing over in winter. For obvious reasons, this made it an attractive port for the local fishermen and today, it still has a full, active fleet of lobster boats.

A vibrant arts culture, including galleries, studios and shops stocked full of Maine-made items, dot the quaint fishing village of downtown Winter Harbor. Schoodic Arts for All art center hosts art exhibits, concerts, and performances throughout the summer months.

For sight-seers, Winter Harbor has a lot to offer.  The western shore of the attractive Grindstone Neck section of town provides spectacular views of Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island. The southern section, Grindstone Point, has views of Mark Island Lighthouse, Ned Island, Turtle Island, and the Schoodic Peninsula portion of Acadia National Park. A drive along the Schoodic Scenic Byway, 29 miles in length, will take you through Winter Harbor and surrounding communities into the Schoodic section of Acadia National Park. On this drive you will witness the unspoiled landscape that makes Acadia National Park a must-see destination.

Those venturing to Maine hoping to enjoy an iconic Maine lobster will delight in the annual Winter Harbor Lobster festival, held the second Saturday in August each year.  The fun-filled day with many scheduled events draws a large crowd each year. Visitors can enjoy watching the ever-popular lobster boat races, shop at the craft fair with 80+ exhibitors, eat a Maine lobster dinner and stay for the late afternoon parade.