Financial Tips to Do Better

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Summer in Maine is all about embracing simple, low-cost joy with family and friends. Whether you prefer relaxing on free beaches like Portland’s East End, paddling through Flagstaff Lake, fishing at Sebago, enjoying live music at Thompson’s Point, or exploring local art and botanical gardens, Maine offers endless opportunities to create memorable, stress-free days. Don't let the season pass you by; get outside and make the most of it!

Summer in Maine is pure New England happiness. You can hear the waves on the rocky shore and smell fresh lobster rolls mixed with the salty air. The wooded trails up the mountain are peaceful, covered with last fall’s leaves. This is the season when we want to be close to family and friends and just stay put. Whether your feet are in the sand, you’re relaxing in a hammock, or working in the garden, it’s hard to imagine anything better.

You don’t need a lot of time or money to enjoy summer to the fullest. Having fun and soaking in Maine’s beauty is all about what you make of it. Imagine your perfect summer day…

Where would you be?

Who would you spend it with?

What would you be doing?

The people you’re with, the places you visit, and the things you do are what make a day truly memorable.

Here at Atlantic, we asked our team to tell us what their ideal summer day in Maine would be. Our home state houses over 6,000 ponds and lakes, more than 4,900 rivers and streams, and a beautiful tidal coastline spanning 3,500 miles along the Atlantic Ocean.

East End and Willard Beach in Portland offer free parking, which is hard to find in 2026. Bring your favorite book and read on the sandy shores, or search for sea glass in the refreshingly chill water. Maine State Parks also offers an Annual Park Pass for $105, giving you access to beautiful spots like Popham Beach and Reid State Park.

If you fancy freshwater, have no fear; Maine has a plethora of ponds and lakes for you! Flagstaff Lake, which is a large and shallow pool at the base of the Bigelow Mountain Range. At 30 miles long, Flagstaff has become a paddler’s paradise. Kayaking, canoeing and even paddleboard excursions are offered. You can even do an overnight paddling and camping trip!

Sebago Lake is a summertime haven for water activities. With two public beaches and over 5 marinas, there is no shortage of things to do. The lake features inlets, coves, and underwater islands, making it a popular stop for fishing. Grab your reel and head on over to the shore!

Maine is also known for its summer music scene. Thompson’s Point, with its view of the bay, hosts a star-studded lineup each year. With the food trucks, cold drinks, and picture-worthy sunsets, it’s one of the best places to catch live music!

If you’re interested in art, visit the Bates College Museum of Art to see its changing exhibits. Admission is free, and it’s located right on Bates campus. Looking for art outdoors? Venture up to Boothbay’s Botanical Gardens and walk the trails through the 300-acre property. The space features magnificent gardens, sculptures, and walking tours.

Summer is all about what you make of it. It doesn’t have to be expensive, tiring, or stressful. Let it be a reason to get up and head outside. We only get a few months each year without jackets, so let’s make the most of them. Enjoy delicious food, peaceful evenings, and the ever-changing weather of our beautiful coastal state. Go out and create your perfect summer day.

We’re here to help!

It's important to be mindful of your recurring expenses, and sometimes, summer can feel like a costly few months We love highlighting local favorites and budget friendly activities for you and your family.

If you need help organizing your finances for a stress free summer, we're happy to help. Please stop by any of our convenient branch locations or call 800-834-0432 to speak with a team member today.

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