Explore Maine Counties
Transforming Fisheries & Aquaculture
Washington County
Washington County, Maine, is most known for its rugged natural beauty and scenic coastal areas, and was recently designated as a National Heritage Area for its significant role in the state's history and culture. Washington County has a rich Native American heritage, with the Passamaquoddy Tribe being the indigenous community in the area. The county has a strong tradition of lobstering and commercial fishing, and it's one of the leading lobster-producing areas in Maine. Cobscook Bay State Park and Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge are among the natural areas that provide recreational opportunities.
Hancock County
Hancock County is well known for Acadia National Park, which includes Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the U.S. East Coast. Bar Harbor is the largest town in Hancock County, and is known for its charming downtown area, filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The town of Blue Hill is known for its artistic community and the annual Blue Hill Fair is a popular event in the region. Other notable towns include Southwest Harbor, Northeast Harbor, and Stonington.
Penobscot County
Penobscot County, Maine, is home to part of the Appalachian Trail and encompasses a portion of the Maine Highlands region, where historically timber production and logging have been important economic drivers. The city of Bangor, home of world-famous author Stephen King, is the cultural and commercial hub of the county known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and various events and festivals throughout the year.
Waldo County
Waldo County includes rural, coastal, and inland landscapes, making it a geographically diverse region along the coast of Maine and Penobscot Bay. While there are larger towns like Belfast, with its popular downtown area, Waldo County maintains a largely rural and small-town atmosphere, complete with old mills, shipyards, and colonial-era buildings. Activities across the county include hiking, boating, fishing, and camping, especially in Camden Hills State Park and the Waldo County Trails Coalition network.
Knox County
Knox County includes a significant portion of the scenic Maine coastline along Penobscot Bay and the Gulf of Maine. As such, fishing is an important industry in the area, with lobstering being an important part of the local economy. Knox County has a rich maritime history of shipbuilding, fishing, and maritime trade. The Maine Windjammer Fleet is based in Camden. The area hosts various cultural events, including the Maine Lobster Festival and the North Atlantic Blues Festival.
Kennebec County
Kennebec County, a regional economic hub named after the Kennebec River, is home to Augusta, the capital of Maine. Augusta is known for its role in state government as well as the University of Maine at Augusta. The county has a diverse economy, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and government employment. The Kennebec River offers opportunities for recreational activities like boating, fishing, and kayaking.
York County
York County, located in the southern Maine, is known for the naval shipyard in Kittery as well as its scenic coastal towns, historic sites, beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, and a mix of rural and urban experiences, such as galleries, theaters and cultural events. Like much of the Maine coast, York County is known for its seafood, particularly lobster. York County has a range of outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, boating and golf.
Cumberland County
Cumberland County is an economic hub for the state of Maine, with a diverse economy that includes healthcare, education, technology, and tourism. The county seat, Portland, is known for the Old Port district with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and a vibrant dining and arts scene, and is home to Maine’s largest international airport. Cumberland County, also home to the University of Southern Maine, is often cited for its excellent food, breweries, event venues and cultural richness and is ideal for those wanting a mix of urban experiences and easy access to nature.
Lincoln County
Lincoln County, with coastline on the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Maine, is known for its sailing culture, and the lobster fishing industry, which is a significant part of the local economy. Damariscotta River, which runs through Lincoln County, is known for its high-quality oysters. The region is often referred to as "Maine's Oyster Capital.” Damariscotta Lake State Park, the Boothbay Region Land Trust's trail network, and the Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve provide opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sagadahoc County
Situated along both the Kennebec River and Atlantic Ocean, Sagadahoc County has a strong maritime tradition. Topsham and Bath are popular cities, with riverfront areas for outdoor enjoyment. Bath is known the home of Bath Iron Works, a major employer that builds naval ships for the U.S. Navy. Sagadahoc County is known for its historical significance, cultural and environmental preservation, outdoor recreation opportunities, and charming communities. Reid State Park, located on Georgetown Island, is a popular destination for beachgoers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.
