Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Birch Point State Park in Maine

If you didn't know Birch Point State Park even exists, I wouldn't blame you — this 62-acre state park along the central southern coast of Maine is one of the Pine Tree State's very best-kept secrets. Not only does it feature a pristine beach with some of the state's best views, but there's a great small town near Birch Point State Park that features some of the most unique sights, attractions, and historic destinations in all of Maine. It's called Owl's Head, and it's pretty much the platonic ideal of a peaceful little Maine village to escape from the crowds.

Owl's Head has a population of just over 1,500 people at last count, and this charming fishing village is an amazing place to spend a day or two and recharge from your travels through the bigger cities. You'll never be more than minutes from the water, but the town has so much more than just beach and an amazing state park. It has one of the most famous lighthouses in the state, a unique museum that's worth a visit on its own — and of course, it's an amazing spot to get some of the state's most famous food!

Why This Town Is the Perfect Base for Birch Point State Park

Birch Point State Park doesn't often get listed among the most famous state parks in Maine, but it's a peaceful little haven that's known for its pristine beach and great bird-watching spots. If you can catch it in the early morning, it's a truly stunning place — but its remote location on the coast means it's best if you're staying nearby. Fortunately, this small state park is nestled perfectly within the small town surrounding it, Owl's Head.

What to Do in Owl's Head, Maine

The most famous sight in Owl's Head is the Owl's Head Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse built in 1825. It's been fully automated since 1989, and the nearby cottage serves as the headquarters of the American Lighthouse Foundation. It still plays a key role in keeping ships safe around the Maine coast, and tours can be scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and weekends for a donation of only $3 a person.

One of the most exciting attractions in the area is the Owl's Head Transportation Museum, a sprawling collection of vehicles ranging from carriages to early airplanes. The museum is open daily, and members are free while visitors pay a reasonable admission fee with discounts for kids and seniors. This is a sport that whole families will enjoy.

Where to Stay Nearby

Owl's Head is a quiet town without any hotels, although a small number of Airbnbs and camping spots will be available during the year. For those looking for hotels, the adjoining town of Rockland is a larger spot with a wide collection of bed-and-breakfasts, inns, and chain hotels for the tourists, and you'll only be a few minutes away by car.

What to Know Before You Go

Owl's Head is primarily a lobster-fishing town, and you'll see the fishermen at work along the dock. As such, many restaurants in the area are famous for their fresh-caught lobster! Surprisingly, though, the town's signature restaurant is the Owl's Head General Store, known for the best burger in Maine. Owl's Head is busiest in the summer, when Maine has its nicest weather, and the town is often enjoyed as a day trip from Rockland.

Have you visited Owl's Head before? If not, this amazing small town near Birch Point State Park is just waiting for more visitors, so make sure to tell a travel buddy about this article and plan your next small -town getaway! You can find out more about Owl's Head on the town government website, and make sure to visit the Maine Parks page for Birch Point State Park to learn more about this small-but-mighty state park.

Looking for more amazing small towns to visit on your next road trip through New England and beyond? Let us create a map for your adventures with Only in Your State's list of the best small-town getaways in the USA.