Maine is an absolute dream for filmmakers. With its rugged coastline, dense forests, charming small towns, and picturesque mountains, it’s got everything you need for stunning cinematography. Whether you’re shooting a commercial, a short film, or even a full-length feature, Maine provides the kind of natural beauty that makes every frame look cinematic. If you’re searching for the best scenic locations for filming in Maine, you’re in the right place.
1. Acadia National Park – The Crown Jewel of Maine’s Coastline
Acadia National Park is one of the most breathtaking locations in the entire state. Spanning 47,000 acres along Maine’s Mount Desert Island, Acadia features everything from rocky coastlines to lush forests and even the tallest mountain on the East Coast, Cadillac Mountain.
Why Film Here?
Diverse Landscapes: You can capture ocean views, dense forests, and mountain peaks all in one day.
Golden Hour Perfection: The sunrise from Cadillac Mountain is one of the most stunning in the world.
Dramatic Cliffside Shots: Places like Otter Cliffs provide jaw-dropping backdrops for adventurous scenes.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
Acadia has been a filming location for multiple documentaries and nature-focused productions. It was also featured in Ken Burns' documentary series The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.
Pro Tips for Filming in Acadia
Permits: Filming requires a permit from the National Park Service. Plan ahead to avoid delays.
Best Time to Film: Fall provides the best foliage, but summer offers the best lighting.
Crowds: Acadia is incredibly popular, so aim for early morning shoots for more control over your shots.
Contact Info:
National Park Service: (207) 288-3338
Website: www.nps.gov/acad
Directions:
From Portland, Maine: Take I-295 N to US-1A E. Drive approximately 3.5 hours to reach Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
2. Portland Head Light – The Iconic Lighthouse Shot
Nothing screams “Maine” quite like a lighthouse standing against crashing waves. Portland Head Light, located in Cape Elizabeth, is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, dating back to 1791.
Why Film Here?
Classic New England Aesthetic: Perfect for historical films or romantic scenes.
Dramatic Ocean Backdrop: Stormy weather can add an extra cinematic touch.
Close to Portland: Easy access to city amenities while capturing coastal beauty.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
This lighthouse has been featured in countless travel documentaries and tourism campaigns. It is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country, making it an ideal spot for classic, postcard-like shots.
Pro Tips for Filming at Portland Head Light
Lighting Conditions: Sunrise and sunset create the most dramatic lighting for your shots.
Tide Considerations: Check tide charts before filming to avoid water interfering with planned shots.
Drones: Drone footage is incredible here, but be sure to check local flight restrictions.
Contact Info:
Town of Cape Elizabeth: (207) 799-2661
Website: www.portlandheadlight.com
Directions:
From Portland: Take ME-77 S for about 15 minutes. The lighthouse is in Fort Williams Park.
3. Pemaquid Point – Rocky Coastline Perfection
For filmmakers looking for dramatic, jagged coastlines, Pemaquid Point is a must. Located in Bristol, Maine, this area provides breathtaking rock formations and an iconic lighthouse.
Why Film Here?
Crashing Waves on Rocky Cliffs: Ideal for epic outdoor sequences.
Secluded Feel: Less crowded than other tourist-heavy locations.
Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Views: Perfect for establishing shots and time-lapses.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
The lighthouse was commissioned in 1827 and remains one of the most picturesque in the U.S. It has been featured in multiple nature documentaries and photography books.
Pro Tips for Filming at Pemaquid Point
Weather: Coastal Maine can be unpredictable—prepare for sudden fog or shifting tides.
Accessibility: Some cliffs require hiking to get the best shots.
Winds: High winds are common, so use stabilizers and windproof mics.
Contact Info:
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park: (207) 563-2739
Website: www.bristolmaine.org
Directions:
From Portland: Take US-1 N for about 1.5 hours, then follow ME-130 S to reach Pemaquid Point.
4. Moosehead Lake – Maine’s Largest Lake
If you’re after peaceful lake shots, Moosehead Lake in Greenville offers incredible reflective water surfaces, forested shores, and moody foggy mornings.
Why Film Here?
Expansive Lake Views: Great for drone shots.
Wildlife Sightings: You might capture moose, bald eagles, and more.
Remote, Undisturbed Locations: Ideal for peaceful, cinematic scenes.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
This lake has been featured in multiple outdoor and adventure documentaries, highlighting Maine’s natural beauty and abundant wildlife.
Pro Tips for Filming at Moosehead Lake
Weather Prep: Bring waterproof gear—rain is frequent.
Golden Hour Magic: Early mornings provide misty, atmospheric shots.
Transport: Boat rentals allow for unique on-the-water filming perspectives.
Contact Info:
Moosehead Lake Visitor Center: (207) 695-2702
Website: www.mooseheadlake.org
Directions:
From Portland: Take I-95 N, then exit onto ME-6 W/ME-15 N towards Greenville. The drive is about 2.5 hours.
5. Baxter State Park – Maine’s Mountain Majesty
Baxter State Park, home to Mount Katahdin, the tallest peak in Maine, is a paradise for outdoor filmmakers. With its dramatic mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, and untouched forests, it offers an unbeatable wilderness setting.
Why Film Here?
Epic Mountain Scenery: Perfect for adventure films, nature documentaries, and dramatic landscapes.
Seasonal Beauty: Snow-covered peaks in winter, lush greenery in summer, and breathtaking foliage in fall.
Backcountry Atmosphere: Gives a remote, untouched feel that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
Mount Katahdin is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, making it a well-documented location for outdoor and adventure films. Several nature documentaries have featured the park’s rugged terrain.
Pro Tips for Filming at Baxter State Park
Permits & Regulations: Certain areas require special permission to film. Check with park officials.
Challenging Terrain: Some of the best locations require hiking. Pack light and plan accordingly.
Best Time to Film: Sunrise and sunset create jaw-dropping mountain silhouettes.
Contact Info:
Baxter State Park Authority: (207) 723-5140
Website: www.baxterstatepark.org
Directions:
From Portland: Take I-95 N to ME-157 W toward Millinocket. The drive takes approximately 4.5 hours.
6. Marginal Way – Coastal Beauty in Ogunquit
For filmmakers looking for dramatic ocean views with charming seaside town vibes, Marginal Way in Ogunquit is a fantastic choice. This 1.25-mile coastal walkway offers stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic, rocky cliffs, and crashing waves.
Why Film Here?
Classic Maine Coastline: Think postcard-perfect ocean views.
Easily Accessible: Unlike some rugged filming locations, this one is a smooth walk.
Quaint New England Feel: Great for romantic or travel-related projects.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
Ogunquit has long been an artist’s retreat and filming destination. The 1957 film Peyton Place included scenes from the area, showcasing its iconic coastal charm.
Pro Tips for Filming at Marginal Way
Crowds: It’s a popular tourist spot—shoot early in the morning for less foot traffic.
Weather Conditions: Coastal fog can roll in fast, which can be cinematic or frustrating depending on your scene.
Tidal Pools & Cliffs: Use them for stunning B-roll and unique angles.
Contact Info:
Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce: (207) 646-2939
Website: www.ogunquit.org
Directions:
From Portland: Take I-95 S to US-1 S toward Ogunquit. The drive is about 45 minutes.
7. The Desert of Maine – A Surreal Landscape
Yes, you read that right. Maine has a desert! The Desert of Maine, located in Freeport, is a 40-acre expanse of rolling sand dunes left behind by glacial activity. It’s one of the most unique filming locations in the state.
Why Film Here?
Unusual Terrain: Offers a setting that looks like another planet or a vast, empty wasteland.
Contrasts with Maine’s Typical Landscape: A surprising and visually interesting contrast to the forests and coastline.
Great for Experimental & Sci-Fi Shoots: If you need a barren, otherworldly setting, this is it.
Historical Significance & Notable Productions
The Desert of Maine was once a fertile farm until poor agricultural practices led to the land becoming a sandy expanse. It has been featured in numerous travel and nature documentaries due to its unique geological story.
Pro Tips for Filming at the Desert of Maine
Best Lighting: Sunset and sunrise create long shadows and dramatic textures in the sand.
Wind Factor: The fine sand moves easily, so be mindful of lens protection.
Creative Angles: The dunes can create an illusion of vastness—great for making a small area look much larger.
Contact Info:
Desert of Maine Visitor Center: (207) 850-3025
Website: www.desertofmaine.com
Directions:
From Portland: Take I-295 N to Freeport and follow signs to Desert Road. It’s a quick 25-minute drive.
Connect With a Professional Maine Video Production Team
If you’re planning a film shoot in Maine, you don’t have to do it alone. At Henry Riley Productions, we specialize in capturing stunning visuals that make your project stand out. Whether you need a drone operator, commercial videographer, or full production crew, we’ve got you covered.
Explore our video production services, or contact us today to bring your vision to life!
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