June: the month where spring starts to slowly transform into summer. I love staying put in New England for the summer. There’s a plethora of shellfish, rocky shorelines, fresh salty ocean air, and historic ambiance. And summer isn’t complete without a proper lobster shack experience. From Connecticut’s hidden gems to the sandy shores of Rhode Island and Martha’s Vineyard, to New Hampshire’s serene lakes to the Maine’s charm, join me as I take you on a journey across this wonderful region I call home. So grab your sunnies and explore these 7 New England summer vacation spots that truly define the best summer getaways in New England.
1. Greenwich, Connecticut
A Weekend or More in Greenwich, CT: 2 – 6 Day Itinerary
To experience a New England summer, you don’t need to venture too far from NYC. Greenwich, CT is called The Gateway of New England because it is the first town you drive into when entering New England. Summering in Greenwich is like summering in Newport or the Hamptons. It is a scene. It’s hard to figure out what to do when here since it is primarily a residential neighborhood, but if you speak to a local, such as myself, you’ll learn there is plenty to do in the summer. Fine dining, Sunday polo matches, beaches and islands, kayak and catamaran rentals, concerts and comedians, car shows, high end shopping, farms, golf…there’s enough to do here to fill a full week believe it or not. And while we may not have the iconic lobster shacks of the rest of the New England, we have our fair share of high quality eateries that stand up to them. Although if you’re craving a proper lobster shack, a drive up to Guilford to the famous Lobster Pound isn’t too far away.
2. Newport & Farm Coast, Rhode Island
A Weekend in Rhode Island: Newport & Farm Coast Guide
Ok, you’ve likely visited Newport already, but have you heard of the authentic and lesser known Farm Coast next door? Juxtapose the lavishness of Newport with the down-to-earth authentic farming side of the state. The rolling landscapes and farmhouses make you feel like you’re driving back into history. Just an hour drive from Newport, Boston, and Providence, it’s very different from it’s neighbor. It’s as local as it gets, it’s the real Rhode Island, the raw and authentic rural version. And remember, that’s what my goal at Svadore is: to share with you both the stereotypical and iconic destinations, like Newport, as well as the more raw and authentic. This is a mix of both.
3. Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island: The Hidden Gem Easily Accessible from CT, NY, and RI
Who said all islands are located in Massachusetts and are a trip to get to? For some reason, people always seem to forget that there is a super close and easily accessible island just off the coast of Rhode Island. You can access it from anywhere: New London CT, Newport RI, and even Orient Point or Montauk NY! That means you can access Block Island from any of these 3 states. It’s just forgotten (and may be best this way) because of it’s sleepier and less posh nature. Down-to-earth, tiny, and simple, Block Island is perfect for those looking for a New England summer vacation not too far from the city.
4. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
How to Spend 2-3 Days on Martha’s Vineyard: A Long Weekend Itinerary
A long weekend to remember. The name “Martha’s Vineyard,” or just “The Vineyard,” evokes lobster, beaches, harbors that once hosted tall-masted whalers, film locations for the infamous movie Jaws, and a rich farming, fishing and whaling history. Because of this it has thriving and independent grassroots locals who focus on innovative ways to use their resources. The focus here is all on local food. Having been to Martha’s Vineyard twice, I’ve become familiar with the island’s many personalities: preppy Edgartown, Victorian Oak Bluffs, calmer Vineyard Haven, and wild and untouched Menemsha. The island is full of rolling hills, stone walls, and there is not a single McDonald’s, strip mall, or big-box store in sight. If you’re looking to spend 2 to 3 days on Martha’s Vineyard, this itinerary is a picture-perfect postcard of lighthouses and gingerbread cottages. Whether it’s your first or your tenth time on The Vineyard, this is New England summer at its best—a long weekend getaway in an idyllic and down-to-earth setting.
5. Kennebunkport, Maine
14 Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport, Maine is famous to many people for different reasons. For some it’s for it’s beaches, to others because it’s home to the George W Bush compound, and to others because of its fishing and shipping heritage. Each person finds Kennebunkport special to them for their own reason. For me–it was the attention to detail in the food, architecture and way of life that was pure and idyllically New England summer. And what isn’t there to like about New England? The main town has some of stunning colonial and federal homes, some of the town is located above water on stilts, local stores and farms sell quirky and unique things made only in Kennebunkport, and of course…we can’t forget the authentic lobster shacks and beaches.
What I’m crushing on right now.
Stoneware glazed artisan mugs featuring lighthouses inspired by New England made in Yarmouth, Maine.
6. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor: The Town that’s “Wild” for Blueberries
If there’s a place that’s even more renowned then Kennebunkport in Maine, it’s Bar Harbor. But here’s a fun fact, Maine is famed for more than lobster rolls and an epic moose population; it’s also the largest producer of wild blueberries in the world, hence my “wild” for blueberries pun. The New England fishing village offers some of the worlds best culinary delights, an abundance of nature experiences (I mean…the enormous Acadia National Park is right next door), blueberry traditions, and a down to earth vibe that combines to create a peaceful escape, like something Ernest Hemingway would recount in one of his novels.
7. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Take a Trip Back in Time: Visit Lake Winnipesaukee
I’ve spent countless New England summers here with my in-laws, so have plenty of great memories here. This is bit of an older article…but this piece gives a glimpse into a day in the life on a Winnipesaukee vacation. It’s a tranquil place, not too much going on. Of course, there’s a few must-do things here and there…and maybe I’ll get around to writing a full guide about it soon. But in the meantime, if chilling on a lake, eating ice cream, visiting sandbars, hiking mountains, visiting waterfalls, kayaking to islands, spending time at old school arcades and perusing through general stores is your thing – consider Lake Winnipesaukee your go to.
Bring New England Home
