Castine, Maine

Under the Elms and By the Sea

Overview

Castine has a history like no other town in Maine—it has lived under four different flags (French, Dutch, British, American). Today, it is a pristine village of white clapboard houses and towering elm trees, home to the Maine Maritime Academy and its training ship, the 'State of Maine'.

Key Facts

Population 1,320

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Hancock

Founded 1796

Nearest City Ellsworth (40 mins)

What Castine Is Known For

Castine Local Highlights

Maine Maritime Academy

Home to the prestigious college training the next generation of mariners and engineers.

Rich colonial history

One of the oldest communities in North America, occupied by the French, Dutch, and British over centuries.

Elm-lined streets

Famous for its beautiful village streets lined with historic white homes and majestic trees.

Dyec Cove

A scenic and protected harbor popular with sailors.

Things to Do

Visit the Wilson Museum

Explore local history, geology, and cultures from around the world.

Tour the Maine Maritime Academy campus

See the training ship State of Maine docked at the waterfront.

Walk to Dyce Head Lighthouse

Enjoy scenic views of Penobscot Bay from this historic light station.

Explore the Witherle Woods

Hike trails through forests that were once the site of Revolutionary War fortifications.

Take a historical walking tour

Read the many historical markers that tell the story of Castine's turbulent past.

Living in Castine

Castine is a quiet, academic, and wealthy community. The population swells when MMA is in session. It is very secluded, located at the end of a long peninsula.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool and breezy, 65-75°F

winter

Cold, 20-35°F

spring

Cool, 40-50°F

fall

Beautiful, 50-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Ospreys Seals Eagles

How to Get There

Castine is off the beaten path. It is about 40 minutes southwest of Ellsworth via Route 166.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Castine outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Lighthouse Touring

Year-round (Best: June - Oct)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are the elms real?

Yes, Castine has one of the few remaining stands of American Elms in New England that survived Dutch Elm Disease, thanks to rigorous care.

Can I tour the big ship?

The 'State of Maine' training ship is sometimes open for tours, but security restrictions apply. The waterfront itself is open.

Key Facts

Population 1,320

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Hancock

Founded 1796

Nearest City Ellsworth (40 mins)

Nearby Towns

Explore More

Downeast & Acadia Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature