On the coast and in the heart of Maine’s famed Downeast region sits the town of Machias – a Native American word that means “bad little falls.” These inspiring falls still run furiously today, and can be enjoyed from a park at the bottom of College Hill in downtown Machias.

 

Washington County is one of the largest counties in the east - bigger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined! As the hub of Washington County, Machias is a classic New England town situated about 90 minutes east of Bangor, and 70 minutes south of Saint Stephen, New Brunswick, Canada.

 

This quiet part of New England presents a real opportunity for those longing to find “the traditional Maine way of life.”


 

 

Boats in the Bay, Down East Maine


Brightly colored blueberry barrens stretch between the granite ledges for thousands of acres. Fresh water lakes, winding rivers and streams streak the scenic landscape, providing sanctuary for a large variety of wildlife. Deer and moose are often seen, and the saltwater bays and tidal areas are natural habitats for many species of birds. Puffins are a favorite draw for the tourism industry that offers wonderful half-day tours for viewing these brightly beaked birds.

                                                                               

Appealing to the outdoor enthusiast and the weekend wanderer, Downeast Maine has a lot to offer: From craggy coastlines to spectacular vistas, from the surf and sand at Roque Bluffs State Park, to the world’s highest tides at the Bay of Fundy (sometimes more than 50 feet!), locals and visitors have myriad opportunities for fun across the region. 

 

This picturesque community harbors various fishing and recreational craft. The region is also home to historic sites predating the Revolutionary War. In town, browse the many antique and other shops, art galleries, and fabulous restaurants.

 

Scholars have a number of opportunities to expand their knowledge. A strong primary school system prepares youngsters to choose from four options: two public high schools, a local parochial school, and Washington Academy – a private high school offering an excellent student-teacher ratio in small classes, with access to high-end technology tools and training, and dozens of extracurricular activities. Three local colleges offer career training, degree programs and courses of general interest: the University of Maine at Machias, Washington County Technical College, and the WCTC Marine Technology Center – together offering a range of events and entertainment for the young and old alike.



                    West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, Lubec, Maine
   























               


Ocean vistas greet hikers often on local trails, well used in both warm and cold seasons. Cycling is superb in this handsome region, and the local golf courses are both affordable and pleasurable. Recreational facilities are readily available for tennis, basketball, and softball – and a public boat launch on the Machias River is the gateway to water sports of all sorts. Kayaking is particularly popular, and the lakes are great for swimming (or opt for the public indoor pool). Local winter sports include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, skating and ice fishing – along with snowshoeing across the scenic plains, or through the local woods.

 

Coastal View

Coastal View - Roque Bluffs State Park near Machias, Maine

 

Lobster Trap Christmas Tree

Famous Lobster Trap Christmas Tree



Jasper Beach







Fascinating Jasper Beach, just south of Machias, is one of only two beaches in the world composed entirely of stones! These smooth stones clatter musically in the surf, making for a memorable visit.



Soon after Machias was settled in 1763, the town earned fame for being the site of the First Naval Battle of the Revolutionary War, on June 12, 1775. The story is presented at the Gates House Museum in Machiasport, where local historians maintain the bond to the area’s fascinating seafaring past.

                     

Known as the “Blueberry Capital of the World,” Machias hosts the annual Machias Maine Wild Blueberry Festival each August. The streets of downtown come alive with delicious food, art, crafts, and entertainment for the whole family. Another local crop of note is the balsam fir – branches of which are woven into high quality wreaths offered by fine stores like LL Bean, Harry & David, and Martha Stewart. Each year, monuments in Arlington National Cemetery are decorated with firs grown in Maine.

 

When it comes to choosing a home in Downeast Maine, many options are available. Plenty of people enjoy living in town, where beautiful and affordable homes are available in all shapes and sizes. The Machias Bay area remains one of the most affordable parts of New England for those seeking an ocean view! Or, select an affordable lakefront home. Building lots of all sizes are likewise available for those who want to do their own thing. Others are drawn to the spaciousness of a historic farmhouse with acreage. One never knows what opportunities might be available on any given day!

 

Machias is 65 miles from Acadia National Park, 200 miles from Portland, 300 miles from Boston, 380 miles from Montreal, Canada, and 500 miles from New York City.

 

Machias offers an immense quality of life, and is one of the safest small towns in New England. Whether you are a history buff, enjoy outdoor recreation, or you’re just looking for a simpler way of Maine living, you can find your future in Machias! This scenic part of Downeast Maine is worth your consideration.