So much to see, so much to do. That’s the impression when you thumb through the 2018 Summertime guide published by this newspaper. The annual full color guide, distributed free, has been well-received by visitors and residents alike for decades, and we’re confident the latest issue will get the same reception.

As we checked out the photos, stories and advertisements we could quickly see ourselves arriving on the peninsula for the vacation of a lifetime. It would be hard to decide how to begin our visit. Probably first and foremost in the minds of many tourists would be “Where’s the lobster?’’  The answer is “Just about everywhere.’’ You can eat in an elegant waterfront dining room or at a picnic table at the water’s edge, and don’t forget the other seafood for which Maine is so well-known – delicate shrimp, haddock, clams, scallops and oh so much more. We love them all.

One of our priorities would be getting out on the water sightseeing on a passenger boat, going deep sea fishing, or renting a canoe or kayak.  Our eyes would be scanning the horizon for signs of whales, seals, puffins, great blue heron, osprey and ducks. A tour of Burnt Island lighthouse, located right in the harbor, would give us an up close and personal look at the workings of these sentinels.

We’d probably sign up for a trip to watch a lobsterman haul his traps,  then take the boat trip to Cabbage Island for one of their authentic clambakes.  A visit to the marine aquarium would introduce to the many sea creatures which call the Gulf of Maine home. Early or mid-afternoon, we’d probably find a local lobster dock to watch as lobstermen land their daily catch.

 Renting a bicycle would be lots of fun, with so many side roads to explore, not to mention the miles and miles of land trust nature trails. There are hundreds of waterfront spots just waiting for visitors to take in the view while enjoying a picnic with a sandwich or slice of pizza. Golfers wouldn’t want to miss the beautifully restored country club, while a good evening pastime might be playing miniature golf, taking in a movie, or checking out the many live shows at the historic Opera House.  A ride on an authentic steam train at the Railway Village is exciting for both children and adults.  Those who appreciate beautiful gardens won’t want to miss the nationally ranked Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, truly one of a kind. If you want to step back in time, make the boat trip to Monhegan Island, year-round home to just a handful of hardy fishermen.

Of course, several hours should be set aside for shopping with so many specialty shops in the offing, and there are loads of art galleries featuring some of the country’s top artists. Antique lovers won’t be disappointed, either. Those interested in our maritime history will find wonderful artifacts on display at the historical society.

One of the state’s finest YMCA facilities, with its Olympic size swimming pool and indoor track is located here, offering special day rates for visitors.

Those who yearn for a sandy beach instead of the rocky shoreline will find several within a short driving distance.

Our Summertime guide is full of wonderful suggestions for a rewarding, fun-filled vacation and we’ve got a wide variety of accommodations from luxury units to campsites, not to mention unsurpassed dining opportunities.  Pick up a copy today, check it out, then mail it to a friend, or, better yet, leave a few around in your travels to tempt someone else to discover the million and one reasons we’re the perfect vacation spot.