Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge

Where To See Puffins

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Where To See Puffins

Puffins are truly seabirds - they only come to land during their nesting season. Luckily, it just so happens to be between May and July, which are some of the best months to visit the Maine coast during the summer season.

Maine Tour Boats

There are many reputable tour boat operators on the Maine Coast, both large and small, that visit seabird nesting islands. Some have naturalists on board, some try to find whales and seals, some make it a point to pass by lighthouses. All are dependent on the variable weather of the Maine Coast! We encourage you to visit their websites and speak with the captains to find the right boat tour for you.

Down East

(e.g., Petit Manan NWR and Machias Seal Island)

Midcoast Area

(e.g., Matinicus Rock NWR, Franklin Island NWR, Seal Island NWR, Eastern Egg Rock)