The Perfect Maine Getaway to Take if You Have Been Dreaming of Ireland

My partner and I were lucky enough to visit Ireland last summer to attend a family member's wedding, and boy, oh boy, has the beauty of the Irish coastline stayed with us both. Unfortunately, flights these days are expensive, so we've had to get creative with how we get our fix of Ireland's endless charm.

That's why I recommend visiting Camden for a weekend getaway in Maine. Particularly off-season, this breathtaking community is an excellent dupe for the Irish coast.

A Slice of Ireland in Maine

Though the inland landscape is decidedly different, looking far more pastoral than rugged, you can't deny that communities like Lahinch, Ireland, share something in common with Maine's fishing towns. This influence could be credited to the surfeit of Irish immigrants who traveled to Maine in the 1800s, bringing with them an aesthetic sensibility that would become imprinted on our state's coastline. With its narrow streets and antique charm, Camden has a lot in common with the seaside Irish towns I visited.

What Makes Camden Such a Charming Small Town

Like those villages across the pond, Camden's identity has been entirely wrapped up in the ocean since its founding in the 1700s. Even Camden's popularity as a summertime destination mirrors Ireland's fishing towns, which often struggle to accommodate the annual influx of seasonal tourists. That's why I recommend visiting Camden off-season when the streets are relatively empty, and you'll likely get better deals on lodging. Worried about not getting the optimal weather? In truth, Ireland isn't exactly known for its sunny days. A little rain and mist will only make your Irish vacation dupe more authentic.

Things to Do in Camden, Maine

In its snug downtown, you can spend hours popping in and out of quaint local shops. Save room to try several of Camden's restaurants, many of which are housed in the town's historic buildings. Some of the best, most loved restaurants in Maine include the Waterfront Restaurant and Winona's.

There's no denying that most of Ireland's seaside towns are far older than Camden, Maine, imbuing them with a sense of atmosphere that can't be replicated except through the passage of time. However, Camden is still a community that's rich in history. Local spots like the Harbor Park and Amphitheatre evoke the character found in European city parks.

So, in my opinion, if you're looking for the Irish experience on an in-state budget, you can't do better than this idyllic town. Particularly during the off-season, this picturesque town oozes the same charm as Irish seaside villages. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip through Maine using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.