In this article, we uncover 5 exciting locations for SUP in Maine so you can start planning your next trip into the wild!
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Maine is wild. Its population totals just 1.3 million people. For comparison, the population of New York City is heading towards 9 million people and counting. As you can see, there are vast quantities of land to explore in the northern state of Maine.
With ample opportunity to explore them on your SUP. However, even with so much room to explore, most people know very little of Maine. And most people, have no idea where to go.
To help you plan your next adventure into the wilderness of Maine, we’re counting down five exciting locations for SUP in Maine – and including directions on where to go so, you don’t get lost in the woods and end up the subject of a new Stephen King novel (he’s from Maine) while you’re there!
Let’s get into it.
Casco Bay
Casco Bay is located in southern Maine. It features everything you’d expect from a SUP spot in Maine – lighthouses, sailboats anchored in the bay, calm waters, rocky shores, and overcast skies. The only thing that’s missing is a fresh grilled Maine lobster (but we’re sure you can find one of those at a local restaurant in the area).
The water here is a bay so it’s relatively calm – especially in the mornings or late afternoons. During the day it can get windy so always check the wind and weather forecast before heading out. One great thing about paddling here is the bay encompasses two of Maine’s largest cities – Portland and South Portland. That means, when you’re off the water, you’ll still have plenty to explore.
Some of the best launch locations for your board include East End Beach in Portland – this is a very easy launch location. You can take off right from the sandy beach – perfect for beginners!
And the other spot we recommend is Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth. This is an absolutely beautiful location with lighthouses, flowers, and impressive geological features. In addition, you can camp in this location for ultra convenience.
However, the shore here is rocky. You need proper foot gear to launch your board. Keep that in mind when you decide which place to head to.
For more information about East End Beach, check out this site. And for directions, head here.
If you’re more interested in camping at Two Lights State Park, head here + for directions click here.
Penobscot Bay
Our next exciting location for SUP in Maine takes us to the mid-coast at Penobscot Bay. This spot is a popular destination for kayaking and paddle boarding alike. And with its scenic views of the surrounding islands and mountains it’s easy to understand why.
There are a few great places to launch your board while here, but we recommend checking out Camden Harbor Park in Camden. There are a series of docks at this spot that make this an easy location for launching. And the paddling here is calm and perfect for beginners.
If that’s not to your liking then Owls Head State Park is a great second option. While the launch is a little trickier here (the shoreline is rocky) the ability to walk along the trails inside the state park more than make up for it. In fact, it’s a beautiful location to camp, hang out, and relax for a fun weekend getaway.
Whichever location you decide to head to, you’re guaranteed to have a great time.
Sebago Lake
Our next location for exciting locations to SUP in Maine happens to be our first lake location with Sebago Lake. Sebago is the second largest lake in Maine and is located in the southern part of the state. That means, if you’re traveling from a nearby southern state, you don’t have to travel to far north to reach this beautiful location.
The large body of water features a calm flatwater location perfect for the beginner paddle around near the shoreline. Or for the adventurer to explore the nearby islands right off the coast. W
While there are a few excellent locations to launch from, we suggest heading to Sebago Lake State Park in Standish. There you’ll find sandy beaches with easy access to the water. Plus, with camping accomodations, you’re set!
Moosehead Lake
While Sebago Lake is the second largest lake in Maine Moosehead takes the prize for largest lake in the state! Since it’s the largest, you’ll have plenty of places to find a private launch location for easy access to this flatwater location. And with views of the mountains and forests right on the shore, you’re guaranteed to have a great time exploring this beautiful location.
Moosehead Lake is so big that you can find multiple launch locations in nearby towns that dot the landscape. While we believe any place you head to will be a great time, we recommend heading to Lily Bay State Park.
Lily Bay State Park is located on the northern shore of Moosehead Lake and offers a public boat launch, picnic area, and campsites. This is a popular spot for paddlers and offers access to the lake and several protected bays for calm water paddling. And with easy access to the water and amenities, it’s a great place for a weekend getaway.
Allagash Wilderness Waterway
Do you want to go on an adventure? Want to experience the wild? Then a trip down the Allagash Wilderness Waterway should be your number one choice!
This stretch of river is a 92-mile long river that winds through the heart of northern Maine. The river is known for its scenic beauty, wildlife, and challenging rapids, making it a popular destination for experienced paddlers.
And if you’re the real adventurer type, you can experience a multi-day paddling excursion down the river with camping in between sessions. But we have to warn you – only attempt if you’re an experienced paddler and an experienced outdoorsman. Otherwise, you’re putting yourself in serious harm.
In order to have the best (and safest) trip here, we won’t recommend any specific launch locations. Instead, we’ll point you to a few resources to start your own research for your trip:
Outside Chronicles YouTube Video About a Canoe Trip
Allagash Hunting On Planning Details For A Canoe (or SUP) Trip
Conclusion
As you can see, Maine has a ton to offer the wildlife enthusiast. And with such wide open spaces to explore, the opportunity for adventure is seemingly endless!
Have any questions? Comments? Ready to grab your own ultimate adventure board – an Atoll iSUP? Drop us a message. Our inbox is always open. And until next time, remember to adventure on!
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