Maine offers outdoor recreational activities of all kinds during the warmer months. If you're in the mood for a slow, relaxing outdoor experience, we've got it, along with your adrenaline-rush, such as whitewater rafting or motorboating.
Kayaking
For those visitors who enjoy a peaceful excursion on a gorgeous Maine summer day, kayaking is common throughout the state—in the ocean as well as the local lakes. There are many common kayaking "routes” around the state, and lessons are available at many of the locations where kayaks can be rented out for the day or longer. A popular scene for kayaking is Maine's Saco River where visitors can rent out either a canoe or a kayak for day trips. Camping is also popular along the beautiful river's shoreline. Or, head out on Casco Bay Lines to Peaks Island and explore the salty sea of the beautiful Casco Bay with Maine Island Kayak.
White-water Rafting
Spend the day white water rafting along the Kennebec River or at one of Maine's great outdoor adventure centers: New England Outdoor Center and Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort. White-water rafting provides a thrill for even the heartiest outdoor adventurer.
Sailing
A visit to Maine wouldn't be complete without a sailing trip on Casco Bay or also in a nearby lake. Known for its gorgeous rocky coast and plethora of seaside beaches and secluded islands, visitors to Maine can rent boats, just as they can rent kayaks or canoes. In Acadia National Park, rent a sailboat for two hours at a time (lessons are available if needed) at the various rental facilities in and around Mt. Desert Island. This is the perfect way to explore the scenery, as the waves beat against the boat and you navigate your way through the sea or lake water. If you're in the mood for a faster, windier ride, rent a motorboat to explore rivers and inlets.
Motorboating
Tubing and water skiing are popular once you've rented the motorboat — if you don't have one of your own. Locals often securely tie a rubber tube to the back of the boat and drive around while the waves bounce the tube up and down for the ultimate adrenaline-rush! Don't be dismayed if you fall off, as the whole point of the tubing experience is to get right back in the tube and begin again! Flying across the water has a feeling of surrealism to it. You may wonder if you're actually flying at points, as the water flashes under you. Water skiing takes some practice, but also makes one feel immeasurably free and excited. Just imagine skiing on water. It's possible with the help of a fast boat and an experienced driver! Once you get on your feet and stay up for some minutes, you'll feel like you've got this down. And it's addicting. You may find yourself back out on the water the very next day. It's the perfect activity for the summer heat.
By Heather Clarke