Planning a trip to the stunning Maine coast? Choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your experience. From charming seaside towns to secluded islands, Maine offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Discovering Coastal Paradise: Best Places to Stay on the Maine Coast
Whether you’re seeking breathtaking ocean views, access to pristine beaches, or a taste of authentic New England charm, the Maine coast has something for everyone. This guide will explore some of the best places to stay, highlighting the unique character and attractions of each region.
Exploring Diverse Coastal Gems
We’ll delve into the vibrant towns of Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor, renowned for their picturesque harbors and bustling shops. Discover the tranquil beauty of Acadia National Park and the rugged coastline of Mount Desert Island. For a more secluded escape, we’ll uncover hidden gems along the Midcoast and Down East regions.
Best Places to Stay on the Maine Coast
The rugged beauty of the Maine coast, with its rocky shores, charming towns, and abundant marine life, draws visitors from around the world. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventurous escape, finding the perfect place to stay is essential to making the most of your trip. From cozy inns to luxurious resorts, the Maine coast offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Southern Maine: Coastal Charm and History
Southern Maine boasts a vibrant mix of historic towns, sandy beaches, and charming seaside villages.
Portland
Portland, Maine’s largest city, is a culinary and cultural hub with a thriving arts scene, award-winning restaurants, and a picturesque waterfront.
- The Press Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel housed in a former newspaper building, offering a unique blend of history and modern luxury.
- Portland Harbor Hotel: Located in the heart of the city, this waterfront hotel provides stunning harbor views and easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Inn at St. John: A charming bed and breakfast in the historic West End, known for its elegant rooms, delicious breakfasts, and personalized service.
Kennebunkport
Known for its beautiful beaches, charming shops, and historic homes, Kennebunkport is a popular destination for families and couples. (See Also: Best Places To Stay For Sundance Film Festival)
- The White Barn Inn: A luxurious Relais & Châteaux property offering fine dining, spa treatments, and elegant accommodations.
- The Colony Hotel: A classic New England inn with a rich history, featuring beautifully appointed rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
- The Kennebunkport Inn: A charming inn located in the heart of town, offering comfortable rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and easy access to the beach.
Mid-Coast Maine: Picturesque Islands and Coastal Towns
Mid-Coast Maine is renowned for its stunning islands, picturesque harbors, and quaint coastal towns.
Camden & Rockport
Camden and Rockport are charming towns on Penobscot Bay, known for their beautiful scenery, art galleries, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Camden Harbour Inn: A waterfront inn with stunning harbor views, offering luxurious accommodations and a fine dining restaurant.
- The Lord Camden Inn: A historic inn in the heart of Camden, featuring charming rooms, a cozy common room, and a delicious breakfast.
- The Samoset Resort: A sprawling resort with a championship golf course, spa, and multiple dining options, offering a range of accommodations from cozy rooms to spacious suites.
Boothbay Harbor & Damariscotta**
Boothbay Harbor and Damariscotta are picturesque coastal towns known for their beautiful harbors, lobster fishing, and charming shops.
- The Spruce Point Inn: A waterfront inn with stunning harbor views, offering a variety of activities, including sailing, kayaking, and hiking.
- The Harborage Inn: A charming inn located in the heart of Boothbay Harbor, featuring cozy rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and easy access to the shops and restaurants.
- The Damariscotta River Grill: A popular restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood, located on the banks of the Damariscotta River.
Northern Maine: Rugged Coastline and Untamed Beauty
Northern Maine’s rugged coastline offers a more remote and adventurous experience.
Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park**
Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, a stunning national park with granite peaks, rocky coastlines, and lush forests.
- The Bluenose Inn: A charming bed and breakfast with a historic Victorian architecture, offering stunning ocean views and easy access to Acadia National Park.
- Bar Harbor Grand Hotel: A luxurious hotel with a prime location on the waterfront, offering a range of amenities, including a spa, indoor pool, and fine dining restaurant.
- The Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina: A waterfront resort with stunning views of Frenchman Bay, offering a variety of accommodations, a spa, and a marina.
Mount Desert Island**
Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park, offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy inns to luxurious resorts. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Fredericksburg Tx)
- The Jordan Pond House: A historic restaurant located on the shores of Jordan Pond, offering stunning views and delicious meals.
- The Abbe Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Wabanaki people, located in Bar Harbor.
- Thunder Hole:** A natural wonder where waves crash against the rocks, creating a thunderous roar.
Key Points to Consider When Choosing Your Accommodation
When planning your trip to the Maine coast, consider these factors to help you choose the perfect place to stay:
- Location: Decide which region of the Maine coast you want to explore and choose an accommodation that is conveniently located to the attractions and activities you are interested in.
- Budget: The Maine coast offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets, from affordable motels to luxurious resorts.
- Amenities: Consider the amenities that are important to you, such as a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, or fitness center.
- Activities: Think about the activities you want to enjoy during your trip, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, or whale watching, and choose an accommodation that is close to these activities.
Recap
The Maine coast offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking the vibrant energy of Portland, the charming seaside villages of Southern Maine, the picturesque harbors of Mid-Coast Maine, or the rugged beauty of Northern Maine, you’re sure to find the perfect place to relax, explore, and create lasting memories.