After a few days enjoying the historic charms of Salem, Massachusetts, we packed up and hit the road for our next adventure—Portland, Maine. Our route took us along the scenic New England coastline, with plans to stop in several picturesque towns along the way. Unfortunately, the weather had other ideas. Rain followed us nearly the entire drive, but we still made the most of the journey.

Our first detour was to Marblehead for lunch at Little Harbor Lobster Company. Nestled right on the harbor, it’s a classic coastal seafood shack—nothing fancy, just incredibly fresh lobster rolls and a view to match. Even in the drizzle, the boats bobbing in the harbor made for a charming scene, and the smell of the sea somehow made the food taste even better.

Back on the road, we followed the coastal route north, making quick stops in some of New England’s most postcard-perfect towns. Newburyport offered a glimpse of brick-lined streets and boutique shops. In Portsmouth, New Hampshire, we wandered briefly downtown , admiring the historic buildings and vibrant vibe.

In York, Maine, we had hoped to see the famous Nubble Lighthouse, but visibility was too poor through the rain. Still, the crashing surf along the coast added a moody beauty to the landscape. Further up in Kennebunkport, we did a slow drive through the town center, passing quaint inns and shops, imagining how lively it must be on a sunny day.

We arrived in Portland in the early evening, damp but still energized by the coastal charm we’d glimpsed along the way. Our Airbnb greeted us with warmth and comfort—a perfect spot to dry off and settle in for our time in Maine.

Even with the rain, the drive gave us a taste of the unique character that each of these towns holds. We’re already dreaming of returning on a sunnier day to do it all over again.