Washington County, Maine: Bold Coast Beauty, Wild Blueberries, and Unspoiled Downeast Adventure
The Hometowns of Washington County, Maine
Where Maine Begins — Sunrise, Sea Breezes, and Small-Town Spirit Await
Welcome to Washington County, Maine
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the state, Washington County, Maine is where the sun first rises over the U.S. Known for its dramatic Bold Coast, working waterfronts, wild blueberry barrens, and deep-rooted communities, Washington County is a place where nature leads, and authentic Maine culture thrives.
With a population of around 31,000 residents, according to the latest U.S. Census, the county offers more than just scenery — it’s home to historic towns, independent artisans, lobster fisheries, and some of Maine’s most scenic drives and parks.
How Washington County Got Its Name
Established in 1789, Washington County was named in honor of George Washington shortly after the American Revolution. It was one of Maine's original counties and has played key roles in shipbuilding, lumber, agriculture, and cross-border trade with neighboring New Brunswick, Canada.
Top 20 Things to Do in Washington County, Maine
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Explore the Bold Coast Trail in Cutler – A stunning coastal hike with cliffs, ocean views, and seabird sightings.
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Visit Quoddy Head State Park in Lubec – Home to West Quoddy Head Light, the easternmost point in the U.S.
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Walk the Historic Waterfront of Eastport – Enjoy shops, seafood, galleries, and maritime views.
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Paddle Passamaquoddy Bay – Kayak or boat among islands, whales, seals, and powerful tides.
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Tour the Raye’s Mustard Mill in Eastport – America’s last traditional stone-ground mustard mill.
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Attend the Eastport Pirate Festival – One of Maine’s quirkiest and most beloved town-wide celebrations.
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Pick Wild Blueberries on the Barrens – Visit Cherryfield or Deblois during peak season for fresh, iconic Maine fruit.
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Take the Downeast Sunrise Trail – Hike, bike, or snowmobile this 87-mile scenic corridor through forest and fields.
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Explore Shackford Head State Park – Peaceful trails with views of islands, boats, and rugged shoreline.
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Camp at Cobscook Bay State Park – A tidal paradise with dramatic views and excellent wildlife watching.
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Visit the Tides Institute in Eastport – A cultural center for Downeast art, music, and heritage.
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Tour the Wabanaki Cultural Sites – Learn about the Passamaquoddy Tribe’s history and traditions.
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Go Whale Watching or Puffin Cruising – Set sail from Eastport or Lubec to spot ocean wildlife.
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Enjoy the Sunrise Over the Ocean – Be the first in the nation to greet the day from Lubec or Quoddy Head.
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Browse Local Art Galleries and Artisan Markets – From pottery to paintings, creativity thrives here.
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Explore Machiasport’s Fort O’Brien Historic Site – A Revolutionary War site with scenic river views.
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Experience the Machias Wild Blueberry Festival – Food, crafts, and celebration of the county’s famous fruit.
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Drive the Coastal Route 1 Scenic Byway – A winding journey through lighthouses, harbors, and forests.
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Try Lobster Rolls and Clam Chowder – Stop at roadside stands and cafés throughout the county.
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Stargaze in Remote Campsites – With little light pollution, Washington County offers incredible night skies.
Lodging in Washington County, Maine
From oceanfront inns to rustic cabins, lodging options include:
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Cottages in Lubec, Cutler, Eastport, and Machias
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Historic B&Bs like The Peacock House in Lubec
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Motels in Machias, Calais, and Eastport
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Campgrounds at Cobscook Bay, Cutler Coast, and inland lakes
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Vacation rentals with private access to waterfront and forests
Dining in Washington County, Maine
Enjoy Downeast flavors at:
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Helen’s Restaurant (Machias) – Famous for wild blueberry pie and hearty Maine dishes
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Eastport Chowder House – Lobster, clam chowder, and harbor views
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The Inn on the Wharf (Lubec) – Seafood with sweeping ocean scenery
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Seasonal lobster shacks – Dotting the coast with unbeatable freshness
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Local cafés and bakeries – Offering daily specials, sandwiches, and Maine-roasted coffee
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington County, Maine
1. Where is Washington County located?
Easternmost county in Maine, bordering New Brunswick, Canada, and the Atlantic Ocean.
2. What is Washington County known for?
Its Bold Coast, wild blueberries, lobster fishing, and being the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise.
3. How many people live in Washington County?
Around 31,000 residents, spread across small towns, plantations, and rural communities.
4. Can I see whales or puffins?
Yes—seasonal tours from Eastport or Lubec offer incredible wildlife sightings.
5. Is there a beach?
Yes—there are pebble, sand, and rocky beaches along the coast and in parks like Cobscook Bay.
6. Is it family-friendly?
Absolutely—outdoor activities, festivals, and nature exploration make it great for families.
7. Is it pet-friendly?
Yes—many trails, parks, and rentals welcome pets.
8. What’s the best time to visit?
Summer and early fall for optimal weather, festivals, and outdoor fun. Winter offers solitude and snow sports.
9. Are there hiking trails?
Tons—especially the Bold Coast Trail, Sunrise Trail, and local loops in state parks.
10. Is there a Canadian border crossing?
Yes—Calais offers a border crossing into New Brunswick. A passport is required.
Historical Highlights
Washington County has a long and proud legacy, from Wabanaki tribal homelands, to Revolutionary War defenses, to lobster fisheries and blueberry farms that shaped Maine’s rural economy. Towns like Machias, Eastport, and Lubec played pivotal roles in early American independence, trade, and industrial development, much of which can still be explored today through museums, landmarks, and well-preserved architecture.
Summary: Why Visit Washington County, Maine?
Washington County is where Maine gets wild, bold, and breathtaking. With craggy coastlines, sweeping blueberry fields, historic fishing towns, and one-of-a-kind sunrises, this region delivers an experience you won’t find anywhere else in New England.
Perfect for outdoor adventurers, coastal road trippers, history buffs, and those who seek peace in nature, Washington County invites you to explore the real Maine—untamed, unspoiled, and utterly unforgettable.