Things To Do
in Cape Elizabeth
Cape Elizabeth is a scenic coastal town just south of Portland, Maine, known for dramatic rocky shores, sandy beaches and the iconic Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park. The town blends residential calm with tourism centered on outdoor recreation, lobster shacks, and lighthouse photography. Visitors enjoy short drives or walks to viewpoints, state parks and protected marshes that attract birdwatchers and kayakers.
Cape Elizabeth is a quiet, family-friendly place that also acts as a gateway to Portland's restaurants and cultural attractions a short drive away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a refreshing sunrise walk along the scenic shores of Cape Elizabeth. Visit the iconic Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S., and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Capture the moment with some early morning photos as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the coastline.
After exploring the lighthouse, head to Fort Williams Park for a delightful picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails, observing the local wildlife, and enjoying the well-preserved historic structures. Don’t forget to relax on the grassy fields and take in the soothing sounds of the waves crashing against the rocks.
As the sun sets, venture to the nearby Sea Glass Beach to discover unique pieces of stained glass washed ashore. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore while the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant colors. End your day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring freshly caught lobster in a charming coastal setting.
Start your day at the Portland Museum of Art, just a short drive from Cape Elizabeth, to immerse yourself in the world of art. Explore various galleries featuring American, European, and contemporary pieces, along with Maine’s own artistic treasures. Take your time appreciating the artworks and perhaps grab a coffee at the museum café.
Return to Cape Elizabeth and visit local artisan shops to discover unique crafts and handmade goods. Engage with the artists and learn about their creative process, which adds a personal touch to your purchases. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a quaint café that highlights local flavors.
Spend the evening at The Theatre of Monmouth for a captivating performance by talented local actors. The vibrant atmosphere and engaging storytelling will leave you inspired and entertained. After the show, relax at a nearby bar with some craft beer as you reflect on the dramatic tales you've just witnessed.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $120-250 |
| 🦞Lobster roll | $18-30 |
| ⛽Gas (per gallon) | $3-4.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spectacular coastal scenery and iconic Portland Head Light
- Excellent outdoor activities (hiking, birding, kayaking) and easy access to Portland
- Family-friendly, peaceful town with strong New England charm
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options within the town itself
- Seasonal businesses close in winter; many attractions are busiest in summer
- Can be expensive for dining and accommodation during peak season
Places to Visit in Cape Elizabeth
Visit one of these nice places.
Maine's most photographed lighthouse, offering dramatic coastal vistas, historic structures and excellent sunrise/sunset opportunities.
Rocky shoreline, cliff-top views and rugged outcrops ideal for wide coastal compositions and tidepool close-ups.
Long sandy beach and dunes great for sunrise, family-friendly beach scenes and wind-swept landscapes.
Tidal marshes with winding channels attract birds and create reflective, serene images — excellent at golden hour.
Small cove with rock formations, shallow pools and intimate coastal scenes, especially photogenic at low tide.
Food in Cape Elizabeth
Cape Elizabeth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Maine classic — lobster meat lightly dressed (butter or mayo styles) served in a split-top roll; best found at seaside shacks such as the Lobster Shack at Two Lights and similar local vendors.
Must-Try!
Fresh littlenecks (steamers) and creamy New England clam chowder are staples at local seafood spots and family restaurants along the coast.
Whole-belly fried clams are a regional favorite — crunchy, briny and often served with fries and tartar sauce at casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Nearby Portland and local summer markets sell fresh produce, baked goods and artisanal products; check schedules for pop-up markets in Cape Elizabeth and adjacent towns.
Small fish markets and roadside seafood shacks sell fresh lobster, clams and fillets to take home or eat on-site; cash is sometimes preferred at the smallest stands.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maine locals are generally polite, reserved and friendly; greet with a smile and be patient in small-town settings.
Follow Leave No Trace principles: carry out trash, stay on marked trails, respect tide and bird nesting areas and keep dogs on leash where required.
Events and reservations start on time; residential neighborhoods value quiet — keep noise levels down in the evening, especially in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cape Elizabeth
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard U.S. tipping applies: 15–20% at full-service restaurants, $1–$3 per drink for bartenders, and $2–$5 for counter or takeaway baggers depending on service. Tour guides and taxi drivers also expect tips; tipping is discretionary but appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; mobile payments (Apple Pay/Google Pay) are common in larger establishments. Small seafood shacks or seasonal stands may prefer cash — carry some cash for quiet roadside vendors and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sometimes humid weather with the highest visitor numbers; beaches and parklands are busy and many seasonal businesses are open. Expect crowded parking at Fort Williams and Crescent Beach on weekends; bring sunscreen and arrive early for popular viewpoints.
Crisp temperatures, brilliant foliage and fewer crowds — a favorite time for photographers and leaf-peepers. Offshore winds cool the coast, so layers are recommended and some seasonal eateries begin to close by late fall.
Cold, windy and snowy with shorter daylight hours; many outdoor activities continue (winter beach walks, snowshoeing) but some attractions and shacks are closed until spring. Dress warmly and be cautious on icy seaside rocks and walkways.
Unpredictable weather with cool, wet days and blooming plants; migratory birds arrive and trails become green, but some businesses open later in the season. Tides can be dramatic in spring storms — check forecasts before heading out.
Cape Elizabeth at Night
Hiking in Cape Elizabeth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails and cliff-top loops with ocean views, tidepools and rocky outcrops — short hikes suitable for most fitness levels.
Easy walking paths around the park connecting the lighthouse, historic batteries and ocean overlooks — ideal for photography and leisurely walks.
Sandy beach walks and dune exploration provide low-impact hiking and long shoreline strolls.
Flat, scenic trails through tidal marsh and along the river — great for birdwatching and peaceful nature walks at low tide.
A short drive from Cape Elizabeth, this larger trail network offers longer hikes and panoramic inland and coastal views — popular for fall foliage and sunrise hikes.
Airports
How to reach Cape Elizabeth by plane.
The closest major airport (about 15–25 minutes by car) with regional and some national flights; convenient access to Cape Elizabeth via rental car, taxi or rideshare.
Located in Portsmouth, NH (~50–70 minutes), serves some regional routes and charters — an alternative for certain flights.
Major international airport (~2–2.5 hours drive) offering the widest range of flights; accessible via rental car, bus or train connections to Portland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families, professionals and retirees who appreciate the town's residential character, good schools and coastal lifestyle.
Summer tourists, day-trippers from Portland and other parts of New England, and families who visit for beaches and lighthouses.
Residents who commute into Portland for work, contributing to a mix of small-town living with proximity to urban amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Recreational sailing, small-boat cruising and yachting are popular given the extensive coastline and harbors.
Cold-water surfing, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are common; local conditions favor sheltered paddle spots and energetic surf breaks on windier days.
Ice hockey is a popular winter sport regionally, alongside high school football, baseball and other team sports in the communities around Cape Elizabeth.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cape Elizabeth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but fewer at seafood-focused shacks; look for salads, grain bowls and veggie sandwiches at cafes and Portland restaurants, and ask kitchens to modify plates.
Specialty diets are easier to accommodate in Portland. In Cape Elizabeth, call ahead to check menu flexibility; many places can offer gluten-free bread or simplified plates upon request.
Shellfish is ubiquitous — if you have severe shellfish allergies, warn staff explicitly and consider dining at full-service restaurants that can manage cross-contamination more reliably.