The rocky coastline of Maine provides many interesting beaches for sunning, swimming and boating. Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor is probably the best known beach region in the state. Featuring sand- and rock-lined beaches for hiking, swimming, sunning and boating, the region is also known for natural wonders such as Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole. Cadillac Mountain is perfect for easy climbs, or drive to the top for incredibly scenic views. Thunder Hole is a rock formation where the water crashes in, causing thunderous roars, and has long thrilled visitors of all ages.
In the southern part of the state, Old Orchard Beach is a teenager's paradise. In addition to a clean and sandy beach, the boardwalk features amusement rides, games and vendors, and fireworks are on the roster most weekends.
Mount Katahdin is the highest mountain in Maine, and is in Baxter State Park. Known for its ample hiking trails and campgrounds, Baxter State Park also features lakes for fishing, boating and swimming, and has many family accommodations. A fun weekend vacation for teenagers might include hiking on a Katahdin trail, then spending a few days camping and swimming at a nearby campground. Round the weekend out with a boat rental and some fishing while staying at an inn in nearby Millinockett.
In winter, Maine mountains such as Sugarloaf and Sunday River offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in New England. The many ski lodges nearby also feature indoor pools and live music on weekends.
Maine's two largest cities are Bangor and Portland. Bangor is in the northcentral part of the state and features its famous Bangor State Fair every summer. A midway of rides, games, 4-H exhibits and horse racing, teens can easily spend two days at the fair. In addition Bangor is home to the American Folk Festival every August, which draws nationally renown musicians and thousands of guests to enjoy the performances alongside the Penobscot River.
Portland is less than an hour from the New Hampshire border and is an incredibly cultural city. Its waterfront is known for eclectic dining and shopping, and it is home to the Cumberland County Civic Center where international talent performs regularly. Teens will love the whale-watching cruises from the city pier and dining on fresh seafood at one of the numerous waterfront restaurants. Take in a concert and do some shopping, and your teen will enjoy the perfect Maine vacation.
