Contents
- 1. Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake, South Casco
- 2. Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth
- 3. Stage Neck Inn, York
- 4. Relais & Chateaux Camden Harbour Inn, Camden
- 5. Inn at Ocean’s Edge, Lincolnville
- 6. Samoset Resort on the Ocean, Rockport
- 7. Hartstone Inn & Hideaway, Camden
- 8. White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection, Kennebunk
- 9. Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, Kennebunkport
- 10. Grand Harbor Inn, Camden
- 11. Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport
- 12. Cliff House Maine, Cape Neddick
- 13. Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa, Boothbay Harbor
- 14. The Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort, Ogunquit
- Map of Resorts in Maine
The US state of Maine has long been one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Northeast. Stunning vistas and its popularity as one of the best places to visit in the US has helped ensure that numerous first-rate accommodation options have sprung up to satisfy demand.
As a result, you can choose between lovely luxury boutique inns like the delightful Nathaniel Lord Mansion in Kennebunkport or the classy Inn by the Sea in Port Elizabeth. There are, of course, no end of family-friendly locations, too, such as the much larger, yet equally attractive, Samoset Resort on the Ocean in Rockport.
Whatever your traveling style and budget, be sure to get the very best out of your next US vacation with our list of the best resorts in Maine.
1. Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake, South Casco
Accommodation: Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake
Located on Maine’s lovely Sebago Lake, the Migis Lodge offers guests the opportunity to enjoy the full all-inclusive resort experience. Lodgings, meals, activities, and even supervised kids camps are included in the Full American Plan per-person pricing. Additional services, including use of motorized boats and massage therapy, are available for a charge.
Guests have a wide variety of lodging options, including luxurious rooms in the main lodge and private cottages that range from one bedroom to full homes that accommodate up to 14 people. All options offer private lake-view porches, with lodge rooms offering gas fireplaces, and all private cottages and homes feature fieldstone fireplaces.
The resort also offers an abundance of recreation options for all ages. The lake provides a playground for canoeing, kayaking, and sailing. Motorized boating and water skiing is also available, and guests can also go fishing for freshwater salmon and other local species. The resort also has three tennis courts and a disc golf course, and there are several golf courses just a short drive from the resort.
The Migis is an excellent option for families, with fully supervised kids’ activity programs included for ages four and up, and babysitting available for all ages. There are two fully supervised kids camps, for ages four to six and seven-plus, both operating seven days a week. Camp activities include water sports, nature walks, treasure hunts, talent shows, and more. There is also a supervised evening program that offers kids their own dining area and menus with after-dinner recreation until 9pm.
Address: 30 Migis Lodge Road, South Casco, Maine
2. Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth
Accommodation: Inn by the Sea
Another 4-star resort that’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway, the Inn by the Sea is located in one of the oldest and most attractive settlements in Maine. Cape Elizabeth was named after English royalty in the early 1600s and has maintained much of its charm. This is especially true of the downtown area, where many of the historic buildings that have sprung up since then are still to be seen.
The area is also popular for its dramatic shoreline. Interspersed with beautiful stretches of sandy beaches, many of which are easily accessible from Inn by the Sea, and are delightful to explore. While the resort is relatively small, it does boast a great restaurant, and amenities such as a swimming pool and gym equipment are available. A spa is also located on-site and offers a variety of relaxing treatments.
The rooms on offer here are each quite distinctive in décor and design. In the Main Inn, guests can choose from a variety of attractive traditional guest rooms. These elegantly decorated accommodations are perfect for couples, and offer high-end bedding and spacious bathrooms (bathrobes included).
A number of garden suites are also available and include king beds, large living rooms with work desks, and pullout couches. They also have bigger bathrooms, mini-fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, furnished porches, and ocean views.
For those needing more space, the one-bedroom beach suites are a great choice. These waterfront-facing units come with a full-kitchen, dining rooms, fireplaces, and larger porches or balconies. They can also be combined to make two- or even three-bedroom accommodations if even more room is needed.
In-room dining can be arranged through the on-site restaurant. Some pet-friendly units are available at no additional charge.
Address: 40 Bowery Beach Rd, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
3. Stage Neck Inn, York
Accommodation: Stage Neck Inn
The historic town of York is another lovely part of Maine worth exploring. It’s also home to the 4-star Stage Neck Inn, an elegant vacation property that offers B&B-style getaways in an attractive coastal setting on a rocky peninsula just steps away from the beach.
Accommodations on offer here are great for families and couples alike, and include a number of spacious luxury guest rooms with either a king or two double beds. They also feature separate seating areas with pullout couches, along with furnished private balconies or patios with great ocean or harbor views.
The on-site amenities at Stage Neck include a new heated indoor swimming pool with a hot tub, along with a heated outdoor pool. Be sure to also make use of the full-service spa and beauty salon, as well as the well-equipped fitness center. There are also tennis courts, as well as a gift shop located on-site.
Also worth experiencing is the inn’s charming restaurant. In addition to its fine food, this excellent eatery serves up great views over the coast. The inn also has modern function, meeting, and conference rooms, which are popular for wedding groups.
A real joy is stepping out of your room to the wonderful beach adjacent to the property. Outdoors enthusiasts are also able to take a hike on the nearby trail networks and pathways to explore this beautiful part of Maine.
Address: 8 Stage Neck Road, York Harbor, Maine
4. Relais & Chateaux Camden Harbour Inn, Camden
Accommodation: Relais & Chateaux Camden Harbour Inn
Part of the leading Relais & Chateaux luxury group of hotels and resorts, the Camden Harbour Inn offers exquisite B&B-style vacations in a gorgeous setting. Considered one of Maine’s top-ranked boutique hotels, this historic property boasts no end of reasons to visit.
At the top of the list is the inn’s superb dining, courtesy of Natalie’s Restaurant, consistently ranked one of the best fine-dining establishments in the US. Its focus is on fresh, locally sourced produce and ingredients, served up with spectacular ocean views. During the warmer months, be sure to book a meal in the hotel’s heated wraparound porch.
Other perks worth mentioning include a nightly turndown service (with chocolates and slippers), a private lounge with free snacks, and complimentary breakfast. There’s also a full-service spa on-site.
Then, of course, there are the magnificent suites themselves. Comprising three separate rooms each – a living room, master bedroom with king bed, and bathroom – these magnificent and opulent units also come with fireplaces, HDTVs, original artworks, and custom furnishings.
Other features include espresso coffee makers, wet bars with stocked mini-fridges, spacious bathrooms with separate soaker tubs, rain showers, and bathrobes – plus stunning views. For a little added indulgence, book one of the sauna suites.
Address: 83 Bay View Street, Camden, Maine
5. Inn at Ocean’s Edge, Lincolnville
Accommodation: Inn at Ocean’s Edge
One of Maine’s top-ranked boutique hotels, the 4-star Inn at Ocean’s Edge is a great choice for those seeking a quality yet affordable coastal getaway. Set on 22 acres overlooking lovely Penobscot Bay, it’s just a short drive from the larger community of Camden.
Guests have easy access to great beaches and swimming, as well as to the nearby historic village of Lincolnville. On-site amenities include a full-service spa offering massages and other treatments, a hot tub and sauna, and a heated infinity edge swimming pool. Great dining and shopping can be enjoyed within walking distance of the resort.
A real plus is the resort’s intimate feel, something that’s largely due to it only having 18 guest rooms. These elegant luxury units are great for couples and come with comfortable king beds and superb views over the ocean.
Another great option are the two elegantly appointed suites above the pool house. Most units come with seating areas, gas fireplaces, and large bathrooms with separate showers (bathrobes provided).
Address: 24 Stonecoast Road, Lincolnville, Maine
6. Samoset Resort on the Ocean, Rockport
Accommodation: Samoset Resort on the Ocean
Another beautiful top-rated beach destination in Maine is Samoset Resort on the Ocean. Located in the picturesque coastal town of Rockport, the 4-star Samoset Resort can trace its history all the way back to 1889. Today, this magnificent 230-acre property adjacent to Penobscot Bay continues to attract guests for its luxury accommodations.
Each well-appointed room comes with a Keurig coffee maker, large screen TV, spacious bathroom with bathrobes, mini-fridges, and a furnished private balcony or patio. Some pet-friendly accommodations are available, so be sure to place your request when making a reservation.
There’s no end of fun around the property. Highlights include spending time beachside or poolside, where you can enjoy lounging beside the huge 200,000-gallon gradual-entry swimming pool with its expansive deck area.
Other popular things to do here include enjoying an alfresco meal on the patio (or indoors during cooler weather, but with the same great ocean views), or getting in a round of golf on the championship 18-hole course. The resort also offers a full-service spa and hair salon, tennis and basketball courts, and a wide array of fun activities for kids of all ages.
Address: 220 Warrenton Street, Rockport, Maine
7. Hartstone Inn & Hideaway, Camden
Accommodation: Hartstone Inn & Hideaway
The pretty coastal community of Camden is home to the Hartstone Inn & Hideaway. Located in the heart of this historic coastal village, this 4-star B&B-style inn was built in 1835 and provides some of the top-rated luxury accommodations in the area.
A highlight of a stay is enjoying the inn’s remarkable collection of live orchids; all told, some 400 or so are spread around its public spaces, including in its must-try restaurant. There’s also plenty of pampering available at the on-site spa, including a terrific couple’s massage.
For a real treat, be sure to order one of the inn’s picnic hampers when venturing out for a day of exploring. Better still, sign up for one of their very popular cooking classes.
The inn’s accommodations are exquisitely decorated and furnished. If it’s available, try to book into the sumptuous Arbor Suite. This spacious and bright ground floor unit boasts its own private entrance, a living area with a fireplace and tall cathedral ceiling with skylights, a large bathroom with a walk-in shower, and classy furnishings including the mahogany sleigh bed.
Another great choice is the sprawling Sunflower Suite, which consists of a large master bedroom and separate sitting room.
Address: 41 Elm Street, Camden, Maine
8. White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection, Kennebunk
Accommodation: White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection
Part of the top luxury Auberge Resorts Collection, the White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection, in Kennebunk is well worth considering when booking your coastal Maine getaway. With a history that dates back some 150 years, this rustic 4-star property’s 26 rooms have been completely renovated and are well-appointed and beautifully decorated throughout.
Families would do well to consider booking the charming Loon Cottage. This stand-alone unit boasts two bedrooms (each with a private entrance), two spacious bathrooms, two authentic wood-burning fireplaces, soaring cathedral ceilings, and superb water views. A number of cozy hotel rooms are also available, perfect for couples and featuring queen beds, plus good-sized bathrooms with separate rain showers.
A highlight of a stay is dining in the hotel’s award-winning restaurant. Set in the original old “white barns” built in the 1820s, this fine-dining establishment focuses on delicious local dishes in a truly romantic setting (a casual bistro-style restaurant is also available). A variety of fun cooking class packages are also provided for those wanting to hone their culinary skills.
The hotel also has a full-service spa offering diverse treatments (a popular choice are the couples’ massages). Also available for guest use are a fitness center, as well as a heated outdoor swimming pool.
Address: 37 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, Maine
9. Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, Kennebunkport
Accommodation: Cape Arundel Inn & Resort
“Laying on the luxury” is very much the order of the day (every day) at the charming Cape Arundel Inn & Resort in historic Kennebunkport. Boasting incredible views over the ocean and one of the most picture-perfect settings in a state that’s bursting with great scenery, this classy 4-star luxury property is in fact made up of two distinct historic country estates.
The oceanfront Victorian mansion that comprises the main inn building boasts an elegant porch looking directly onto the coast, while a second historic building is set among 15 acres of trees nearby. As a guest, you’ll be able to enjoy the best of both, including a lounge area with a huge fireplace, billiards, plus a heated swimming pool.
A fitness facility is also available (try a yoga class), as well as free use of bikes. There’s also on-site dining available in a popular restaurant, which also provides catering for weddings and other functions and events.
A great choice of accommodation for those seeking a romantic getaway is the delightfully appointed Ocean Suite. In addition to its beautiful ocean views – even from your king bed – this spacious suite comes with a large bathroom with a separate soaker tub and shower (yes, staff will have it ready for your return after a day out if you let them know). It also features a separate living area, and a furnished private balcony.
A number of bungalow units are also available, each with its own ocean-view balcony, wet bar, and gas fireplaces.
Address: 208 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, Maine
10. Grand Harbor Inn, Camden
Accommodation: Grand Harbor Inn
Another great Camden location worth considering is the Grand Harbor Inn, widely regarded as one of the top boutique hotels in Maine. Built in a traditional New England style, this year-round 3-star location offers an intimate setting with just 10 luxury rooms and suites.
Features of these well-appointed and brightly decorated units include high-quality beds and bedding, living areas with gas fireplaces, spacious bathrooms with marble showers, and furnished balconies.
If available, be sure to book into one of the waterfront rooms, which come with a pullout sofa and work desk. A nice touch is the food and beverage closet with its microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, along with snacks and water. Some pet-friendly units are available.
The Grand Harbor Inn also provides plenty of great perks for its guests. Highlights include room-delivered breakfast, 24-hour concierge service, free daily newspapers, access to a well-stocked DVD movie library, evening turndown service (the chocolates are a nice touch), and quality toiletries and bathrobes.
When you do want to venture out, take a tour on the schooner Appledore. Docked outside the inn, this 86-foot vessel provides two-hour harbor tours.
Address: 14 Bay View Street, Camden, Maine
11. Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport
Accommodation: Nonantum Resort
The elegant Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport is another great 3-star property in Maine that’s worth considering. This charming waterfront resort has been providing travelers with first-rate accommodations for more than 130 years. Its romantic coastal village location makes it especially popular with couples and wedding groups, although families are certainly well-looked after, too.
In addition to an excellent restaurant known for its fresh seafood, guests can enjoy a variety of great leisure activities during their stay. Some of the most popular things to do here include relaxing by the heated outdoor swimming pool, or grabbing a bike or kayak rental and exploring the historic village and its beautiful surrounds. Boat tours and campfires are also part of the fun.
Day spa facilities are also available, including massages and a variety of other popular treatments. There are also plenty of programs and activities designed to keep the kids busy, from nature hikes to arts and crafts.
A great choice of room are those located in the original Carriage House Inn. Dating back to 1883, these attractive rooms are each unique in terms of décor and layout, and include such amenities as deluxe bedding, Keurig coffee makers, and HDTVs.
The newer Portside Lodge offers a variety of room options, the largest of which come with a choice of a king or two queen beds. They also feature a separate living area with a pullout couch, 1.5 bathrooms, plus a fridge and microwave.
Address: 95 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, Maine
12. Cliff House Maine, Cape Neddick
Accommodation: Cliff House Maine
Although one of the larger vacation properties in the region, the Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick can trace its roots back to 1872. Ever since, this charming 3-star seaside resort continues to offer an equally elegant option for those seeking a great place to serve as a base from which to explore the Pine Tree State’s wonderfully rugged coastline.
Consisting of 226 classy guest rooms and suites, there’s plenty of choice when it comes time to bed down for the night. Standard features in these chic and well-appointed units include spacious furnished terraces with great ocean views, plush bedding and mattresses with a choice of king or two queen beds, HDTVs, good-sized bathrooms (with bathrobes), along with sleeper sofas in some rooms. For those needing more space, the resort also has a stand-alone cottage available for rent.
On-site amenities and fun things to do include enjoying a large full-service spa overlooking the coast, a 24-hour fitness center, plus oceanfront dining in the resort’s world-class restaurant (in-room options available). Guests also have access to a number of hot tubs and three swimming pools (one indoor, two outdoor).
Also handy is the on-site shopping – everything from local arts and gift items to clothing – as well as a concierge service to handle the booking of tours, excursions, and adventures.
It’s also fun spending time wandering around the resort’s well maintained 70-acre property. Along the way, you’ll find many great places to just sit and enjoy the views over the ocean.
Address: 591 Shore Road, Cape Neddick, Maine
13. Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa, Boothbay Harbor
Accommodation: Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa
Another great resort option for those seeking a quality Maine vacation is the top-ranking Spruce Point Inn Resort and Spa in Boothbay Harbor. Set amid a stunning 57 acres abutting the coastline, this 100-plus-year-old resort offers no end of fun things to do for families and couples alike.
Highlights include world-class amenities, such as dining in one of the three on-site restaurants, which also offer in-room, alfresco, and private dining options. There’s also a full-service spa, a well-equipped fitness center, and a large saltwater swimming pool overlooking the ocean with a lounge area and plenty of seating.
Traveling with children? They’re going to love the kids’ play area adjacent to the second swimming pool, plus a wading pool. Water activities include kayaks and paddleboards, a sailing sloop, plus a private launch offering trips around the harbor.
The resort is especially popular for its accommodations. These include everything from standard-sized hotel rooms to elegant guest rooms in the spacious stand-alone coastal cottages located steps away from the waterfront. Decorated in bright maritime themes reflecting the area, the best of these chic units offer superb views over the ocean from their private furnished porches (rocking chairs provided).
Other notable features are the original local artwork, upgraded beds and bedding, and HDTVs. They also come with handy Keurig coffee makers and bottled water, high-end toiletries and bathrobes, and mini-fridges.
Address: 88 Grandview Ave, Boothbay Harbor, Maine
14. The Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort, Ogunquit
Accommodation: The Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort
Located on a beautiful stretch of coastline near Ogunquit, The Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort offers a mix of accommodation types that are suited to all budgets. Those seeking an affordable vacation should consider one of the 51 oceanfront motel units. Offering a choice of king or two double/queen beds, these comfortable units sleep up to five guests, depending on bed configurations.
Those seeking a little luxury should consider one of the larger suites in the resort’s Jacobs House building, with upgraded décor and furnishings. You’ll enjoy a choice of unique accommodation options, some with large living areas with a gas fireplace, along with either one or two separate bedrooms, a full-kitchen, and spacious bathrooms with walk-in showers. There’s also a stand-alone oceanfront cottage for those wanting a home-away-from-home experience.
Part of the fun here is its proximity to an expansive stretch of sandy beach, just steps away from the resort. On-site amenities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court plus outdoor games, and a small library. Guests are also provided privileges at area golf clubs.
Address: 85 Shore Road, Ogunquit, Maine