HIKING
Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve
Open year-round — Route 32, a few miles south of Shaw’s Restaurant (#129 State Route 32)
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g40759-d2262961-r139209138-Rachel_Carson_Salt_Pond_Preserve-New_Harbor_Maine.html <https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g40759-d2262961-r139209138-Rachel_Carson_Salt_Pond_Preserve-New_Harbor_Maine.html>
NOTE: A tiny sign marks this charming crescent of a beach, where environmentalist Rachel Carson observed the tidal pools and the natural beauty of the area. Go at low tide (there’s a link to the tidal chart website at the beginning of this guide). Wear shoes with good traction and bring your binoculars!
BOAT CRUISES
Hardy Boat Cruises
Ferry to Monhegan Island, and specialty cruises (Puffin Watch; Seal Watch, etc) — 2017: Open May 20th to October 9th
132 State Route 32 • 207-677-2026
www.hardyboat.com <http://www.hardyboat.com>
NOTE: Park your car a short walk away in a ball-field ($4, and CASH only), and board at the Shaw’s Restaurant dock. All instructions are given when you reserve your ticket. Note that in the summer and fall seasons you may pay the parking fee at the ticket booth at the dock.
BEACHES
Damariscotta Lake State Park — Crescent Beach
8 State Park Road Jefferson, ME 04348
207-549-7600 (park season) • 207-941-4014 (off season)
http://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/online/doc/parksearch/details.pl?park_id=5 <http://www.maine.gov/cgi-bin/online/doc/parksearch/details.pl?park_id=5>
NOTE: “Enjoy picnicking and swimming at one of midcoast Maine's most popular day use parks located on beautiful Damariscotta Lake in Jefferson. Damariscotta Lake State Park is a short drive from the state's capitol, Augusta. A large freshwater lake with a sandy beach provide a relaxing location for beach goers. Of course a trip to a state park wouldn't be complete without a picnic lunch. Picnic tables and grills are available for this popular summertime activites.”