Retirement opens the door to new beginnings—an ideal chapter to explore passions you’ve never had time for. Whether you’re rekindling an old interest or stepping into something completely new, engaging in enriching activities boosts cognitive function, improves mood, and nurtures social connections. If you’re wondering about the best hobbies for retirees, you’re in the right place! 

OceanView at Falmouth celebrates lifelong learning by encouraging residents to discover new skills through a variety of fulfilling classes and hobbies. Here are some top hobby ideas and where you can find them locally.

1. Photography: Capture the Beauty Around You

Photography offers a creative outlet and a way to appreciate your surroundings from a fresh perspective. Whether you’re snapping photos on coastal walks or learning to edit digital images, photography is a hobby that grows with you.

At OceanView, residents often enjoy guided nature walks around our beautifully landscaped campus—ideal for practicing your photography skills in a peaceful, scenic setting. It’s a wonderful way to capture Maine’s seasons and wildlife right outside your door.

Get Started Locally: Camera Commons in Biddeford offers photography classes for all experience levels, plus access to studio space and equipment rentals.

2. Gardening: Dig Into a Relaxing Routine

Gardening is one of the best hobbies for retirees – a time-honored practice that brings peace of mind and a sense of accomplishment. From growing vegetables to cultivating flowers, the act of nurturing plants connects you to nature and promotes physical activity.

OceanView residents have access to raised garden beds and seasonal planting areas designed for accessibility and ease. Whether you’re a lifelong gardener or a curious beginner, our gardening spaces foster relaxation, creativity, and connection with fellow green thumbs.

Get Started Locally: Falmouth Farmers Market is a great spot to find heirloom seeds, gardening tips, and locally grown inspiration.

3. Language Learning: Open the Door to a New Culture

Learning a new language is a powerful way to challenge your brain and engage with different cultures. It’s also a wonderful hobby if you love to travel or want to connect with friends and family from diverse backgrounds.

At OceanView, we host lifelong learning classes—including language workshops—facilitated by guest educators and community partners. Whether brushing up on high school Spanish or learning German from scratch, residents enjoy learning in a fun, supportive environment.

Get Started Locally: The Language Exchange in Portland offers in-person and virtual classes in Spanish, French, Italian, and more—perfect for learners of all ages.

4. Music: Find Joy in Sound

Whether you’re picking up an instrument for the first time or singing in a group, music stimulates memory, reduces stress, and encourages creative expression.

OceanView residents enjoy access to a variety of music rooms and even live performances. Whether you’re practicing piano solo or joining friends for a casual jam session, music brings the community together in joyful harmony.

Get Started Locally: 317 Main in Yarmouth offers a range of music classes for adults (and kids!)

5. Painting & Drawing: Explore Your Artistic Side

Tapping into your creative side through art can be both meditative and expressive. Whether you’re sketching coastal landscapes or painting vibrant abstracts, the process itself is deeply rewarding.

Get Started Locally: MECA&D Continuing Studies (Maine College of Art & Design) in Portland provides community art classes for adults, including drawing, painting, and mixed media workshops.

Explore, Learn, and Thrive at OceanView

At OceanView at Falmouth, we believe that personal growth doesn’t stop at retirement—it flourishes. With on-site amenities, local partnerships, and an engaged community of lifelong learners, our residents enjoy the freedom to explore the best hobbies for retirees in meaningful and exciting ways.

Ready to grow into the next chapter of your life? Contact us today to schedule a tour or learn more about our vibrant community in Falmouth, Maine. Your retirement adventure starts here!