From the sandy and family-friendly beaches of York and Ogunquit to the magnificent rocky cliffs of Bar Harbor and Acadia, the coast of Maine offers a wide range of beach and ocean resorts for a romantic getaway to a lavish family vacation. The Maine coast is divided, broadly speaking, into the South Coast (Wells, Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunkport, etc.); the coastal city of Portland; the Midcoast (Rockport, Boothbay, Sebasco); and the northernmost Down East region (the heel of the state profile), home of Bar Harbor.
Throughout, lodgings offer shelter, comfort, and first-class spa service. Many have indoor or outdoor pools and access to the beach and antique shopping, and to whale-watching, windjammer, and lobster boat tours. Some waterfront lodgings have extensive grounds and gardens. There are cozy, in-town bed-and-breakfast style inns and places with large suite to welcome families with kids, groups, weddings, and reunions. Exercise rooms and hot tubs for a smooth recovery may be found. Dining is varied and wonderful, from Maine blueberry pancakes for breakfast to a lobster bake to end the day. Browse the beach and ocean resort listings below with assurance that one or more are ideal for the lifetime thrill of a Maine coastal vacation.
Whatever your vacation preference, you should be able to find it on the Southern Maine Coast. Maine has a variety of beautiful beachfront towns. Maine's South coast consists primarily of Kittery, York, Ogunquit, Wells, Kennebunk, and Old Orchard Beach. Kittery is the first town you’ll come across when entering Maine, and it provides you with everything you’ll need to get a sample of Maine right on Route 1. For a beautiful beach vacation, York’s sandy beaches and fantastic scenery could match what you’re looking for. Drive a little bit further up the coast and visit Old Orchard Beach for a lively, energetic atmosphere with restaurants, rides, and more.
Portland, ME, sitting in the heart of Casco Bay, offers a city feel with a twist. Located right along the coast, Portland has some of the best restaurants inspired by Maine seafood and local food. The shopping in the Old Port is fun at boutiques along cobblestone streets. From Portland’s waterfront, there is easy access to Casco Bay ferries, water taxis, and boat tours to nearby islands, including Peaks Island, Diamond Island, and Long Island. Drive over the bridge to explore beaches and scenic Cape Elizabeth and Scarborough.
As we head up the coast, you’ll land upon the picturesque villages and vibrant waterfronts that make up the Midcoast. The primary towns along the coast include Camden, Rockport, Boothbay Harbor, and Brunswick. Among these quaint towns are beautiful waterfronts and scenic views. These coasts all have unique qualities for people of all ages. With lively waterfront scenes and incredible harbor views, Camden and Rockland are perfect options for a classic oceanside town experience. Boothbay Harbor will bring you a more “city” feel, with multiple streets of restaurants, shops, and activities for the kids.
The Downeast area of Maine cannot be missed. This region is famous for its rocky shoreline, scenic harbors, and incredible mountain-to-sea views. Home to Acadia National Park, one of Maine's most frequently visited locations, this region looks straight out of a magazine. Besides Acadia, other people areas include Bar Harbor, with an incredible downtown area full of shops and restaurants, and Mount Desert Island, one of the largest islands in the United States with indescribable views.
510 Black Point Road Scarborough, ME, 04074 Phone: 207-819-4064
Fall in love with picture-perfect Prouts Neck and this historic, exquisite inn
211, Beach Avenue, Kennebunk Beach, Kennebunk, ME, 04043 Phone: 207-967-3850
A classic oceanfront inn on Kennebunk Beach
518 Main Street Ogunquit, ME, 03907 Phone: 207-646-2612
Cottages by the sea in a coastal paradise
2 Sea Cliff Avenue Old Orchard Beach, ME, 04064 Phone: 207-934-4874 Toll-Free: 800-326-4589
“Steps from the beach” is no exaggeration at this welcoming waterfront hotel
393 Mile Road Wells Beach, ME, 04090 Phone: 207-646-2831
Start your day any time of year by stepping right onto the sand
1373 Post Road Wells, ME, 04090 Phone: 207-646-1100
Spacious condo resort close to some of Maine’s most scenic beaches
71, West Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME, 04064 Phone: 207-934-2847
A historic oceanfront hotel on Old Orchard Beach
90 Eden Street Bar Harbor, ME, 04609 Phone: 207-288-2665
Surrounded by water views and activities, classic hotel is a must for your coastal vacation
135 Beach Street Ogunquit, ME, 03907 Phone: 207-646-7024 Toll-Free: 800-822-7024
A year-round beachfront resort on Ogunquit Beach
87 West Grand Avenue Old Orchard Beach, ME, 04064 Phone: 207-934-4949
A classic Maine beach resort in Old Orchard Beach
34 Ocean Avenue Scarborough, ME, 04074 Phone: 207-883-6684
You’ll soon see why Higgins Beach is a favorite when you stay at this comfortable inn
591 Shore Road Cape Neddick, ME, 03902 Phone: 207-361-1000 Toll-Free: 855-210-6901
Have you been imagining a Maine vacation? Let this resort make your dream a reality
