3 Unmistakable Maine Smells That Mean Summer Is Back

When I think about what it's like to live in a city like Portland so close to the ocean I think of a lot of things first. Like one-of-a-kind eateries, quirky little shops, and those stunning ocean views that never get old.

Also Read: This Overlooked Maine Waterfall Could Be Your New Favorite Day Trip Spot

But, with all the ocean views also comes all of the smells, and let me tell you it can get BRUTAL. Worth it, but brutal. Only real Mainer's will cringe when I say fisherman’s bait.

After asking  some lifelong Mainers what scents they instantly come to mind when you think of summer coming up and you'd be surprised how many locals answered exactly the same way. Here are the top three that came up on-air:

Bait on Fisherman's Wharf Portland

When temperatures start to rise, the scent of bait sitting dockside waiting to head out on a lobster boat becomes downright unavoidable. It’s like the heat brings it to life—just in the worst way possible. Think warm, rotting fish blasting through your vents. Yeah… not great.

Low Tide Portland, Maine

If you live near the water, you’ve definitely caught this one. It’s that salty, seaweed-heavy funk that tells you the tide is out. It’s close cousins with the bait smell, but it has its own musty twist. Mainers know exactly what I’m talking about.

Pine Tree State

Not every scent around here will make you gag. Head into the woods on a hike, and you'll be hit with that fresh, earthy pine smell. It’s a classic Maine scent—so much so that you can actually buy candles inspired by it downtown.

So yeah, Maine’s got its share of stinky moments, but there are some refreshing ones too. What smell reminds you of Maine the most?