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.
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