Down East Maine: Acadia Adjacent

Down East Maine

Where is Down East Maine?

Generally speaking, it describes the  coastal portions of Washington County, Maine.  However, some people believe it continues into Canada. It is a directional term that lacks geographic specifics. Thus, there is no consensus on where its boundaries lie.

What Does Down East Mean?

Downeast is a directional sailing term. It confuses many people because Downeast Maine  seems Northerly. However, in the early 1800’s sailors used the term to describe the down wind trajectory that took ships from Boston to Maine. Down wind and up the East coastline.

Why Do We Like Downeast?

Just Down East from Acadia National Park are beautiful communities with things to do and places to stay away from the tourist crowds.

You will not be bored in cities like Portland or Bar Harbor. However, they are some of the most visited and densely populated areas in Maine. In short, you can have fun but you will not be alone. Additionally, areas like Mount Desert Island can be surprisingly expensive, especially in high season.

Many families like us come to Maine to decompress and reconnect with nature. The optimal locations are quiet and beautiful while still on-grid.

The coastal continuities we write about are super cool, picturesque and low key. Additionally, if money is a concern,  high-season costs are a bargain compared to places like Portland, Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island.

What do we mean by Acadia Adjacent?

Maine is a large state geographically. However, people from away tend to use either Portland or Acadia as a frame of reference for just about everything.  Thus, since many of the places we write about are Downeast, I describe them as Acadia Adjacent. Additionally, we start many articles off by mapping off the distance between Acadia National Park and the location of the post.