Best Nests
Best Nests
Birder-friendly Accommodations

Best Nests are hotels, motels, inns, B&Bs, resorts, and sporting camps of all styles and price ranges that merit recommendation because they:

  • Are located close to sites on the Maine Birding Trail.

  • Offer excellent service and accommodations.

  • Support nature-based tourism and the Maine Birding Trail.

  • Understand the unique needs of birders and provide direction and assistance.

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    Check by region:

     ► The Maine Beaches
    ► Portland & Casco Bay
    ► Midcoast
    ► Downeast & Acadia
    ► Maine Lakes & Mountains
    ► Kennebec Valley
    ► The Maine Highlands
    ► Aroostook County

    White-winged Crossbill

           Tips for being birder-friendly:

  • Environmental LeaderBecome a Maine Environmental Leader through the Maine Department of Environmental Protection. Post the Green Lodging Certification prominently on the door and in the lobby.

  • Birders in springtime are out early. Early breakfast options (or at least coffee) score big points. Box lunch options are also very popular.

  • Many of the birds that summer in Maine, winter in the tropics. Shade grown coffee is something birders notice and appreciate.

  • Most birders will have their own binoculars and guidebooks, but it doesn't hurt to have additional guides in the library or binoculars in the lobby.

  • Be aware of good local places to go birding, especially parks, land trusts, wildlife sanctuaries, or even back roads and trails.

  • Be aware of which birds are of particular interest to visiting birders.

  • Get involved with local land trusts or other conservation groups.

  • Hang bird feeders in prominent locations.

  • Landscape with native plants, especially those that attract birds.

  • Keep the cat indoors.
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