Maine is the easternmost state in the U.S., borded by Canada and the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its rocky coastlines, dense forests, busy harbors, and wild blueberry fields. Portland and Bar Harbor get all the glory, but there are beautiful towns, like Lubec, Stonington, and Dover-Foxcroft, that hold the kind of classic small-town character not included on any cruise or tour. These towns offer proximity to lighthouses, serene walks, historic shipyards, and decadent seafood—all with elbow room and space to breathe.

Lubec is perched way up in the Northeast within a stone’s throw of New Brunswick, Canada. The headliner here is West Quoddy Head Light, a red-and-white striped lighthouse with views of the Atlantic and cliffside trails within walking distance. Photographs and artifacts celebrating Lubec’s history as a sardine canning and fish smoking hot spot are on display at Lubec Historical Society and Museum. Not far from town, Cobscook Shores, a series of 20 privately-owned parkland preserves, offers ocean strolls with few others in view.

Speaking of strolls, you can cross the border on foot via the FDR International Bridge onto Campobello Island to visit Roosevelt Campobello International Park. Don’t forget your passport! To top it all off, Monica’s Chocolates serves up Peruvian-type truffles from a family-owned shop right on County Road in town. With saltwater spray swirling about and working wharfs behind you, Lubec is Maine as it used to be—weathered, peaceful, and authentic.

Stonington is located on Deer Isle, and is the state’s largest lobster port. Its harbor is blanketed with buoys and traps, not yachts. The Deer Isle-Stonington Historical Society walks you through the island’s seafaring history, as well as a collection of Native American artifacts and a 19th Century printing press. Y ou can catch an independent film or a live show in restored 1912 theater and community hub, Opera House Arts or, for a more natural spectacle, take the short drive to Crockett Cove Woods Preserve and walk through fir forests draped in moss. If you love coffee the way locals get it, head over to 44 North in the downtown area. All things Stonington appear earthy and genuine, as if built for people living according to the tides’ beat.