In search of an adventure, Paul and I headed down the coast to Castine this first Saturday in October. A small coastal town home to Maine Maritime Academy, Castine had all but rolled up her carpet for the season.

visitor's center in castine

I was delighted by the architecture and the trees in this seaside community.

tagged elm trees

Magnificent elm trees survive to line the streets. Meet number 227 – tagged for its impact to the public way and value to the town.

old glory and elm trees

An Elm on Main Street creates a backdrop for Old Glory unfurled in the breeze.

castine boat house

A charming boat house looks out over the Bagaduce River.

dinghy in castine

We spied a number of traditional planked wooden boats including this graceful dinghy tied up at the dock.

secret gardens in castine

The brick and cobble walkways make you feel like you’re stepping into the past.

the wharf restaurant castine

We lunched on the deck of the Wharf Restaurant.

Paul and Susan at the Wharf

A view of the river and excellent food made for a memorable lunch. I enjoyed the lobster mac and cheese made with campanelle rather than macaroni loaded with lobster. I felt a little guilty sending Hannah this picture as she’s landlocked in Ohio.

Dice Head Light

We visited Dice Head Light standing watch over Penobscot Bay.

autumn in castine

A view of the boathouse from atop the bunkers at Fort Madison.

sailing on Castine Harbor

The season, just shy of peak, created a beautiful frame for sail boats on the river. I’d expected a bit more autumn color given the richness of the maples at home. Regardless, it was a picture perfect day.

boat motoring in from penobscot bay