Best Hotels, Inns, B&Bs, campgrounds, Vacation Rentals, & More Lodging in the Southern Maine Coast
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Graced with miles of white sandy beaches, fabulous boutique shopping, Maine’s best seafood, and a wide variety of lodging options, the Southern Maine Coast welcomes you to an unforgettable vacation.
Along the Atlantic shoreline from Kittery to Old Orchard Beach, the Southern Maine Coast is the ideal vacation getaway year-round. Whether you’re traveling with kids or going on a romantic weekend, history and nature merge in a montage of activities and attractions that create memories you’ll treasure forever.
Know Your Lodging Options in the Southern Maine Coast
The Southern Maine Coast offers a wide variety of lodging options, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Whether seeking relaxation or adventure, the region has lodging to enhance any travel experience.
At the state border in Kittery, visitors can find charming inns and small hotels that provide convenient access to local shopping and dining. Moving north to York, travelers can enjoy historic bed and breakfasts or beachfront properties that offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ogunquit is renowned for its scenic beauty and artistic community, with accommodations ranging from cozy B&Bs to upscale hotels, ensuring a memorable stay. Wells Maine is another coastal gem where vacationers can choose from a selection of motel hotels and cottages, so it’s ideal for family getaways and romantic retreats.
Next, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport are known for their historic inns and luxury resorts, which provide exquisite accommodations and amenities. Biddeford and Saco offer a mix of traditional New England hospitality with modern conveniences, including hotels and traditional motor inns that suit both leisure and business travelers.
The final town on the Southern Maine Coast shores, Old Orchard Beach boasts a lively atmosphere with beachfront hotels and inns that cater to those looking for fun in the sun and the excitement of the boardwalk.
But there’s even more lodging slightly inland. The Berwicks and Sanford offer serene, country-style lodgings for visitors looking to explore the rural charm of Maine without straying too far from the coastline.
When it comes to Southern Maine Coast campgrounds, the towns of York, Wells, and Old Orchard Beach have the biggest selection. There are even more to be found in Biddeford and Saco, as well as inland in The Berwicks and Sanford. On top of these lodging options in each town and city along the Southern Maine Coast, you’ll find vacation rentals for couples, small families, and large groups.
Featured Southern Maine Coast Lodging
Getting to Know the Southern Maine Coast
Visiting the Southern Maine Coast is an enchanting experience with charming coastal towns and cities, picturesque beaches, historic lighthouses, fresh seafood, and a plethora of outdoor activities suited for both relaxation and adventure. Here’s a peek at what you can expect in each town and city in the region.
Kittery
Uniquely positioned on a peninsula with water on three sides, Kittery Maine offers a rich blend of charm, historical significance, and modern attractions.
Historic Sites
As Maine’s oldest town, it boasts a wealth of colonial and maritime history, with sites like Fort McClary State Historic Site and the Kittery Historical & Naval Museum showcasing its storied past. Also, nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquil coastal scenery at places such as Seapoint Beach.
Dining & Shopping
The town’s downtown area presents a diverse culinary scene with restaurants serving fresh seafood and international fare that’s complemented by local craft beer offerings from Tributary Brewing. And, shoppers will delight in the expansive Kittery Premium Outlets and the renowned Kittery Trading Post nearby that make the town a top shopping destination in Maine.
Island Adventures
Beyond the mainland, Kittery encompasses several islands, each with its own unique history and allure. Badger’s Island is noted for its shipbuilding heritage, while Seavey’s Island hosts the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Wood Island features the historical Life Saving Station, and Smuttynose Island is famous for its dramatic history.
These islands add to Kittery’s diverse appeal, offering visitors a chance to experience natural beauty, historical exploration, and peaceful relaxation just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of town.
Take a look at the lodging options in Kittery for your Southern Maine Coast getaway!
York
Considered a coastal haven, York Maine is a collection of distinct villages and neighborhoods each offering its own allure.
The Villages & Neighborhoods
York Village is steeped in history and features preserved homes and the Museums of Old York where the Old Gaol and Jefferds Tavern provide a window into the past. The First Parish Church stands as a testament to the town’s heritage.
With its grand cottages and historic inns, York Harbor offers elegant tranquility. The Fisherman’s Walk and Cliff Walk provide scenic strolls along the York River and coastline. Hartley Mason Reserve and York Harbor Beach are perfect for family outings, offering gentle waters and scenic views. For water enthusiasts, sea kayaking along the York River is a must.
York Beach buzzes with summer excitement, boasting the family-friendly Long Sands and Short Sands beaches, arcades, and eateries. Long Sands Beach is perfect for sunbathing and surfing, while Short Sands, nestled between cliffs, features Ellis Park and is close to downtown shops and York’s Wild Kingdom.
The serene village of Cape Neddick is home to the famed Cape Neddick “Nubble” Lighthouse, which is visible from Sohier Park. Then there’s the York Cliffs and Cape Neddick Beach, which offer peaceful coastal beauty and sightseeing opportunities. And, known for its dramatic cliffside vistas, Bald Head is home to the luxury Cliff House resort and Cape Neddick Country Club.
More in York
Inland, Mount Agamenticus offers hiking and biking with panoramic views. The mountain is a natural oasis for wildlife-watching and enjoying Maine’s wilderness.
York’s culinary scene is diverse with oceanfront dining at Stones Throw, local seafood at Shearwater at Stage Neck Inn, and diverse flavors at The Central Restaurant & Bar. For a sweet treat, The Goldenrod’s saltwater taffy is a local tradition.
Find your preferred lodging in York — from including hotels and resorts to bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals.
Ogunquit
Ogunquit Maine may be small, but it’s a lively coastal town with a wealth of attractions. Its main draw is Ogunquit Beach, a 3.5-mile stretch of white sand divided into Main Beach, Footbridge Beach, and North Beach, offering ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach activities with facilities like restrooms and concessions available.
The scenic Marginal Way cliff walk extends more than 1 mile, providing breathtaking ocean views, access to coves, and a path to the charming Perkins Cove. This quaint harbor area boasts a pedestrian drawbridge, shops, galleries, and waterfront dining, retaining a cozy, historic vibe.
Downtown Atmosphere
For convenient transport, the Ogunquit Trolley connects visitors to key spots, including the village center, adding a quaint touch to the town’s ambiance. Ogunquit Village itself is bustling with shops, eateries, galleries, and a vibrant nightlife. The diverse dining scene includes fresh seafood and a variety of cuisines, with Maine lobster as a highlight.
Community & Culture
And, known for its LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere, Ogunquit hosts events and businesses that cater to this community, creating an inclusive environment. Seasonal events like the 4th of July Fireworks, OgunquitFest, and Christmas by the Sea offer parades and family activities too. Similarly, the town is a hub for arts and culture with the renowned Ogunquit Playhouse and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.
Check out all the hotels and resorts, inns and B&Bs, vacation rentals, and other lodging in Ogunquit Maine.
Wells
Founded in 1643 and one of the oldest towns in the state, Wells Maine retains its colonial heritage through landmarks like the Storer Garrison State Historic Site and the Meetinghouse Museum. The town’s history is deeply rooted in agriculture, fishing, and shipbuilding, and it continues to attract those interested in its New England past.
Beaches & Preserves
For beachside fun, the town features the stunning Wells Beach with soft sands and gentle waves, Crescent Beach with secluded rocky shores, and tranquil Moody Beach. These beaches are equipped with amenities for visitors and are complemented by the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, offering nature walks and bird watching.
Wells is committed to environmental preservation — the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge protects vital salt marshes and estuaries, while the Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a historic farm dedicated to ecological research and education. The town provides a range of outdoor activities as well — from water sports along the Webhannet River to winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Arts & Culture
Culturally, Wells celebrates its history and arts with the Meetinghouse Museum and galleries like the Corey Daniels Gallery and The Cottage Artworks & Gallery, which display local artistic talent. Community events such as outdoor concerts, Wells Harborfest, and Chili-Fest, along with a wealth of antique shops, foster a sense of community and tradition.
Culinary Talents
Wells’ dining scene offers an array of options — from casual seafood shacks to upscale dining establishments — showcasing fresh, local seafood and New England cuisine against scenic backdrops. This culinary variety, coupled with the town’s picturesque setting and rich history, makes Wells a unique and inviting coastal destination.
For your Southern Maine Coast vacation, book one of these lodging options in Wells.
Kennebunk
Kennebunk Maine’s appeal is year-round — summer draws crowds for sandy beaches and water activities, fall offers spectacular foliage, and winter features festive events like the Christmas Prelude.
Beaches & Water Sports
Outdoor activities are abundant with several family-friendly beaches like Kennebunk Beach and Gooch’s Beach providing perfect spots for relaxation and beach activities. Parks and preserves like the Kennebunk Plains offer serene environments for nature walks and bird watching, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking and boat tours along the rivers and coastline.
Arts & Culture
The downtown area exudes charm with historic New England buildings that house diverse shops, galleries, and eateries. Meanwhile, the Lower Village acts as a lively entry point to Kennebunkport, with artisan shops and dining options set against historic and scenic backdrops.
Cultural offerings include the thriving Kennebunk art scene with 2nd Friday Art Walks and numerous galleries like Maine Art Hill, and a diverse culinary landscape that ranges from casual to upscale dining, capitalizing on fresh, local ingredients and Maine’s renowned seafood.
You’ll find some historic B&Bs, conventional hotels, and more in Kennebunk Maine.
Kennebunkport
A globally renowned vacation destination, Kennebunkport Maine is known for its picturesque coastline, historical charm, and diverse experiences. While summer is peak season, many travelers enjoy the quieter ambiance of spring, fall, and winter, making it a year-round retreat.
The Beaches
Goose Rocks Beach offers a 3-mile stretch of soft sand and family-friendly waters, requiring parking passes during peak season. Colony Beach, with its rocky terrain, provides a serene setting for relaxation and boat-watching.
Museums & Landmarks
Kennebunkport’s rich maritime history is displayed through preserved sea captains’ homes and landmarks like the First Families Kennebunkport Museum and the Seashore Trolley Museum.
The Walker’s Point Estate — the Bush family’s summer compound — is a prominent and picturesque landmark that’s visible from Ocean Ave.
Cape Porpoise, the town’s original English settlement, remains an active fishing harbor, providing fresh seafood and authentic maritime experiences. Its location allows for convenient exploration of both natural landscapes and town amenities.
Community Center
Dock Square — the town’s vibrant center — is filled with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, and serves as the focal point for community events. Year-round festivals include the Paint the Town Red celebration and the nationally acclaimed Christmas Prelude, which transforms the town with festive events and decorations.
Scenic Views
Scenic drives along Ocean Avenue and the presence of the historic Goat Island Light offer captivating coastal views. Overall, Kennebunkport encapsulates the quintessential New England coastal experience, attracting a wide array of visitors to its shores.
Discover the right Kennebunkport lodging for your Southern Maine Coast visit — from hotels and resorts to inns and bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals.
Biddeford & Saco
Separated by the Saco River, Biddeford and Saco Maine are coastal cities rich with attractions for visitors and residents.
The Beaches
Biddeford’s Fortunes Rocks and Middle Beach offer surf and sand, while Biddeford Pool is a family-friendly spot for kayaking and bird watching. Saco’s Ferry Beach State Park is excellent for swimming and nature walks, Bay View Beach is ideal for sunbathing, and Kinney Shores is known for its tranquil setting.
Historic Buildings
The downtown areas of both cities are vibrant and historic. Biddeford’s revitalized mill district is now a hub for businesses and artists, and Saco’s Main Street blends historic buildings with contemporary businesses.
The cities’ historic mills, such as the Pepperell Mill Campus in Biddeford and Saco Mill #4, have been repurposed for modern use while preserving their industrial pasts.
Culture & Amusement
Cultural festivals like the River Jam & Fringe Fest and La Kermesse Franco-American Festival in Biddeford highlight the community spirit and rich cultural heritage. Funtown Splashtown USA in Saco is a family favorite, offering amusement and water park fun.
Breweries & Restaurants
The brewery scene is active with Biddeford’s Banded Brewing Co. and Saco’s Barreled Souls Brewing Company contributing to the local culture. The culinary scene is also noteworthy, with Biddeford’s Palace Diner offering a modern take on classic American fare, and Saco eateries like the Lobster Claw Pound & Restaurant providing local seafood delights.
Check out these hotels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals in Biddeford and Saco Maine.
Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach Maine is celebrated for its 7-mile sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beach activities. However, the town’s appeal extends beyond its shoreline with a rich history and vibrant culture.
Beach & Pier
The beach is a major tourist draw because it offers a wide expanse for various activities and is equipped with facilities like restrooms and food concessions. Water sports are popular, with parasailing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding available, as well as occasional waves suitable for surfing.
A historical landmark dating back to 1898, the OOB Pier is a hub for socializing with shops, eateries, and events, serving as the center of the town’s nightlife. The area around the pier is lively with bars, clubs, and entertainment options, including live music and outdoor concerts.
Amusements & Parks
Palace Playland, New England’s only beachfront amusement park, provides family fun with rides, an arcade, and food stands, contributing to OOB’s festive atmosphere. The Eastern Trail offers a scenic route for outdoor enthusiasts, while local parks like Guild Park and Veterans Memorial Park provide peaceful escapes and tributes to veterans.
Dining Scene
OOB’s culinary scene boasts a range of dining options — from casual beachside spots like Big Daddy’s Bar & Grill to upscale establishments such as Joseph’s by the Sea — with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced seafood and diverse international cuisines, reflecting the town’s coastal location and vacation vibe.
For your getaway in the Southern Maine Coast, find your preferred Old Orchard Beach lodging, whether it’s a campground or RV Park or a vacation rental.
The Berwicks & Sanford
Just 30 minutes inland from the Southern Maine Coast, The Berwicks and Sanford embody the quintessential New England charm with a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. These areas highlight Maine’s diversity, attracting both residents and visitors with their fusion of the old and the new.
The Berwicks Attractions
In The Berwicks, historical significance resonates through landmarks like the Sarah Orne Jewett House, which honors the area’s literary heritage. The scenic landscapes along the Salmon Falls River and surrounding woodlands provide a serene backdrop for outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
Trails leading to the Old Berwick Historical Society’s sites combine natural beauty with historical learning. Community events and cultural gatherings in The Berwicks celebrate local traditions and arts, fostering a strong sense of community.
Sanford Attractions
Once a bustling mill town, Sanford has repurposed its industrial buildings, adding character to the cityscape while preserving its manufacturing past. Its vibrant downtown area is a hub for shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
The city’s commitment to culture is showcased in institutions like the Sanford-Springvale Historical Museum and the Sanford Performing Arts Center. Plus, recreational opportunities abound with extensive parks, trails, and water activities on the Mousam River and local lakes.
Events & Agriculture
Both The Berwicks and Sanford host events that celebrate local heritage, such as the South Berwick Strawberry Festival. These events, along with a thriving artistic community, enrich the local culture.
Economically, The Berwicks maintain a pastoral lifestyle with a focus on agriculture, offering farm-to-table dining and a commitment to sustainability. Sanford, on the other hand, is pursuing development and innovation while preserving its historical and natural resources.
Stay at one of these hotels, campgrounds, or vacation rentals in The Berwicks and Sanford Maine.
FAQs About Southern Maine Coast Hotels, B&Bs, & Other Lodging
What types of lodging are available along the Southern Maine Coast?
The Southern Maine Coast offers a variety of lodging options including hotels, bed and breakfasts, inns, and vacation rentals. You can even find budget-friendly options available, including motel hotels and campgrounds.
A few top resorts are Misty Harbor Resort, Sea Mist Resort Motel, and Elmwood Resort Hotel in Wells Maine. In Kennebunkport, you’ll find boutique hotels such as the Boathouse Waterfront Hotel and charming bed and breakfasts like one of the Kennebunkport Captains Collection.
Can I find beachfront accommodations on the Southern Maine Coast?
Yes, there are many beachfront hotels and resorts along the Southern Maine Coast that offer direct access to the beach and ocean views. Here are a few examples:
— Atlantic Oceanfront Hotel on Wells Beach in Wells
— Seaside Inn in Kennebunk
— Luxurious Cape Arundel Inn & Resort and Tides Beach Club retreat in Kennebunkport
— The Sea Star and the Sea Cliff House Motel in OOB
Are there any lodging options that are particularly good for families?
Many properties on the Southern Maine Coast are family-friendly, offering amenities like pools, family rooms, and activities for children. The Kennebunk Gallery Motel & Cottages and Yankeeland RV Resort in Kennebunk really stand out!
Are there pet-friendly lodging options in Southern Maine?
Yes, several accommodations in Southern Maine welcome pets. Aside from campgrounds and numerous vacation rentals, these are some top pet-friendly lodging options in the region:
— Harbor Crest Building at the York Harbor Inn in York
— Coast Village Inn & Cottages in Wells
— The Lodge at Kennebunk in Kennebunk
— The Lodge on the Cove in Kennebunkport
— Abbott Brook Inn at Three Brothers Farm in North Berwick
Are there any historic inns or bed and breakfasts in Southern Maine?
With some of the oldest towns and cities in the state, the Southern Maine Coast has many historic inns and bed and breakfasts.
The Inn at Tanglewood Hall in York and The Beach House Inn in Kennebunk are a few.
Others include Haven By The Sea Bed & Breakfast, Holiday Guest House Bed & Breakfast, and The Beach Farm Rooms & Cottage in Wells.
Can I find eco-friendly or sustainable lodging in Southern Maine?
Yes, there is a growing number of lodgings on the Southern Maine Coast that focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Some examples are the Purposely Lost treehouses and hobbit homes in Sanford.