Maneuver around moored boats in Boothbay Harbor, and at sunset say hello to the many boaters enjoying cocktail hour on their vessels. Travis Journagan, owner of Tidal Transit, recommends heading out past the no-wake zone towards Tumbler Island, where you can sit on your board and look out to the open ocean and Burnt Island, home to the second-oldest lighthouse in Maine. Journagan also recommends launching from the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and exploring the Sheepscot River, where seals tend to congregate.

Portland Paddle is based at this hub for local paddleboarders and owner Zack Anchors recommends the beach as a launch point. “You can head toward the old railroad bridge to enjoy the protected waters and check out the osprey nest, or you can paddle along the waterfront into Portland Harbor,” says Anchors. Experienced paddlers can head out to Fort Gorges or the Casco Bay islands for a picnic on a hidden beach.

On Acadia’s scenic and still lakes, glide through tranquil wilderness while tree-studded mountains surround you. Acadia Stand Up Paddle Boarding owner Chris Strout recommends the mile-long Echo Lake as well as Great Long Pond. Both have islands to explore and wildlife to spot, including turtles, deer, and birds such as loons.

Katelyn Allen of Sebago Trails Paddling Company in Windham recommends paddling along Sebago Lake, Maine’s deepest lake, to the Presumpscot River, a quiet, sinuous route where you can spot eagles’ nests in the trees above. The calm waters make this trip accessible for all levels.

Coastal Maine Kayak is located on the Kennebunk River, a mile up from the mouth, which is a great launching spot for paddleboarders, who are likely to encounter eagles, egrets, herons, ducks, and even seals on the way to the ocean. Stop at Picnic Rock for a lookout. Owner Theresa Willette also recommends a sunset tour in Cape Porpoise Harbor, where you can paddle over to Goat Island Lighthouse for a climb up to the top.