Machias Bay, Maine

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Machias Bay

Machias Bay, Maine is the center of Washington Country – wedged among the tens of thousands of acres of wild lands that are used primarily for lumbering and blueberry production. Machias is Native American meaning "bad little falls". The Machias River was the first avenue for moving logs and pulp from the inland lake to mills and schooner waiting along the coast. Ninety-five percent of the world's blueberry crop is harvested here each August and culminates with the famous Machias Wild Blueberry Festival.

Little has changed on Main Street in Machias Bay since the 1950s. A stroll down Maine Street is like taking a step back in time. The area around Machias Bay is a great area to live, shop, work and play during all seasons. The University of Maine even has a branch in Machias.

The most interesting part of this little village's history is the part it played in the Revolutionary War. The first naval battle of the American Revolution took place just off Machias when local patriots attached and took over a British naval vessel.

There is a public reserve in the area where visitors and locals alike can take a hike or enjoy oceanside backcountry camping. Rogue Bluffs State Park is situated just a little southwest of Machias and covers over 300 acres which has many places to picnic and relax. It is also a great place to swim. In Machias, you will also find diverse small accommodations, restaurants, unique shops and various attractions.