Southern Maine Vacations Inns Resorts and Oceanfront Destinations

Visiting Southern Maine: The Complete Guide

Southern Maine stands among New England’s premier vacation destinations. Its captivating blend of seaside charm, historic towns, arts, dining, and outdoor adventure makes it the perfect choice for Southern Maine Vacations any time of year. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, family getaway, or extended coastal retreat, Southern Maine delivers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

With its legendary beaches, oceanfront resorts, working harbors, and timeless villages, Southern Maine Resorts offer the ideal blend of relaxation, recreation, and natural beauty. Let’s explore everything you need to plan your next unforgettable Southern Maine vacation.

Getting There: Traveling to Southern Maine

Southern Maine’s ease of access adds to its appeal. Located close to major population centers, the region welcomes millions of visitors each year.

From Boston, MA
Just 70 to 90 minutes north via I-95. Exits for Kittery, York, Ogunquit, Wells, and Kennebunk provide direct access.

From New York City
Approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours by car via I-95 North.

By Air
Portland International Jetport (PWM) offers convenient domestic service. Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS), 1.5 hours south, serves as a major hub for national and international travelers.

By Train
Amtrak’s Downeaster connects Boston to Wells and Portland, offering a scenic, stress-free alternative.

By Bus
Greyhound, Concord Coach Lines, and regional operators serve Portland and Southern Maine towns.

Rental cars or rideshare services are ideal for exploring Southern Maine’s many attractions, beaches, and coastal drives.

A Brief History of Southern Maine

Before the arrival of European settlers, Southern Maine was home to the Abenaki people, who lived off the region’s rich natural resources. In the early 1600s, European explorers established fishing villages and trading posts. York, settled in 1624, remains one of America’s oldest towns. Kennebunkport grew into a world-class shipbuilding hub by the 18th century, while Ogunquit evolved into an artists’ colony that continues to inspire creatives to this day.

Today, Southern Maine preserves this rich history while offering modern amenities, fine dining, arts, and some of the most stunning coastal scenery in New England.

Top Attractions for Southern Maine Vacations

Marginal Way – Ogunquit
This picturesque 1.25-mile cliff walk offers sweeping ocean views, wildflowers, and crashing surf. Sunrise and sunset strolls along Marginal Way are unforgettable highlights of any Southern Maine vacation.

Ogunquit Beach
Ogunquit Beach’s soft, white sand and wide shoreline make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or long walks. Low tide creates shallow pools ideal for families with children.

Perkins Cove
A postcard-perfect fishing harbor filled with shops, art galleries, lobster boats, and oceanfront restaurants. You can even board lobster boat tours to experience Maine’s maritime tradition firsthand.

Ogunquit Playhouse
Since 1933, the Ogunquit Playhouse has brought Broadway-caliber productions to Southern Maine. The historic theater’s intimate setting makes every performance special.

Jonathan’s Ogunquit
Jonathan’s combines fine dining with live entertainment, offering seafood, steak, and farm-fresh dishes alongside regional and national musical acts.

Roberto’s Restaurant
Roberto’s Italian classics and fresh seafood will please your palate, served in an elegant, cozy setting — perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations.

Ogunquit Beach Lobster Pound
Since 1931, this casual family favorite allows diners to select their own live lobster, cooked to order, for an authentic Maine dining experience.

When Pigs Fly Bakery & Restaurant
Known for its world-class artisan breads, When Pigs Fly also serves up creative wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and local specialties at their full-service Kittery restaurant.

Loco Coco’s Tacos
36 Walker Street, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-438-9322
A local favorite for freshly made Mexican and Southwestern fare in a restored building. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, it’s perfect for dine-in, takeout, or catering.

The Maine Diner
2265 Post Road, Wells, ME 04090 | 207-646-4441
An institution unto itself, The Maine Diner serves legendary seafood chowder, lobster pie, and homemade blueberry pie. The attached Remember the Maine Gift Shop offers unique Maine-made souvenirs.

Hidden Gems of Southern Maine

While Southern Maine’s beaches and harbors are world-famous, several off-the-beaten-path gems deserve a spot on your itinerary.

Wiggly Bridge – York
A short walk leads to this tiny, historic suspension bridge offering beautiful views of the York River and tidal marshes.

Mount Agamenticus – York
This 692-foot summit delivers panoramic views of the Maine coastline, the White Mountains, and even Mount Washington on clear days. Hiking trails, biking routes, and scenic drives make it a must-visit.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – Wells
Dedicated to famed conservationist Rachel Carson, this protected habitat features salt marshes, forest trails, and outstanding birdwatching.

Vaughan Woods State Park – South Berwick (“Hobbit Land”)
Wander through mossy stone bridges, scenic trails, and peaceful woods that feel lifted from a storybook.

Goat Island Lighthouse – Kennebunkport
Accessible via boat tours, Goat Island Light offers a glimpse into Maine’s working lighthouse history.

The Beaches of Southern Maine

Southern Maine’s beaches are legendary, offering something for everyone:

York Beach
Both Short Sands and Long Sands offer family-friendly attractions, surfing, and oceanfront parks.

Wells Beach
A quieter stretch is ideal for beachcombing, birding, and relaxation.

Goose Rocks Beach – Kennebunkport
Soft sand, calm surf, and a peaceful vibe make this beach a favorite for couples and families alike.

Kennebunk Beach
Combining calm waters with classic New England scenery, perfect for long summer days by the shore.

Southern Maine Art Galleries

Southern Maine’s natural beauty continues to inspire generations of artists. Some standout galleries include:

Abacus Gallery (Ogunquit & Kennebunkport)
Panache Fine Jewelry and Art Gallery (Kennebunkport)
Maine Art Hill (Kennebunkport)

Local galleries offer exceptional fine art, coastal photography, sculpture, and hand-crafted jewelry — perfect keepsakes from your Southern Maine vacation.

Historic Southern Maine

Nubble Light – Cape Neddick Lighthouse
Perched on its own rocky island, this is one of the most photographed lighthouses in America.

The Wedding Cake House – Kennebunk
A private residence famous for its elaborate “frosted” wooden trim.

The Brick Store Museum – Kennebunk
Exhibiting local maritime history, fine art, and rotating cultural displays.

Portland Head Light (Cape Elizabeth)
Maine’s oldest lighthouse, about an hour north, makes a fantastic day trip from Southern Maine Resorts.

Southern Maine Parks & Outdoor Adventures

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – Wells
Hundreds of acres of preserved salt marshes with flat walking trails perfect for nature lovers.

Mount Agamenticus – York
Multiple hiking trails lead to sweeping panoramic vistas.

Vaughan Woods State Park – South Berwick
A serene forest setting known as “Hobbit Land,” with picturesque stone bridges and riverside trails.

Goose Rocks Beach Preserve – Kennebunkport
Offers beach walks, dune habitat, and peaceful birding opportunities.

Where to Stay: Southern Maine Resorts, Inns & Hotels

Beachmere Inn
62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907
This oceanfront resort offers direct access to Marginal Way, private balconies, and spa services — the ultimate coastal retreat.

Cliff House Maine
591 Shore Road, Cape Neddick, ME 03902
A luxury Southern Maine resort perched dramatically on oceanfront cliffs with sweeping views, fine dining, full spa, and year-round amenities.

The Admiral’s Inn Resort
87 Main Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907
A centrally located resort offering modern accommodations, two pools, hot tubs, fitness facilities, and easy access to Ogunquit Village.

The Colonial Inn
145 Shore Road, Ogunquit, ME 03907
This restored historic hotel offers charming New England ambiance just steps from Perkins Cove, Marginal Way, and Ogunquit Beach.

Nonantum Resort
95 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, ME 04046
Historic riverside accommodations with a marina, family activities, dining, and exceptional views in the heart of Kennebunkport.

Kennebunkport Inn
One Dock Square, Kennebunkport, ME 04046
A boutique inn located in Dock Square, offering chic, coastal accommodations and easy access to Kennebunkport’s dining and shops.

Meadowmere Resort
74 Main Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907
An eco-resort with luxury suites, pools, fitness center, and spa services located near Ogunquit Playhouse and Marginal Way.

Annual Southern Maine Events

Patriots Day Celebration (April – Ogunquit)
A spring festival featuring parades, reenactments, local vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Ogunquit Memorial Day Craft Fair (May)
A beloved kickoff to summer, showcasing regional artisans and crafts.

Ogunquit Playhouse Season (May to October)
Broadway-level performances in one of America’s most historic summer theaters.

Fourth of July Fireworks (York & Ogunquit)
Seaside fireworks displays create magical Independence Day memories.

Perkins Cove Plein Air Paint-Out (September)
Artists gather to capture coastal Maine’s beauty in real-time paintings.

Capriccio Festival of the Arts (September – Ogunquit)
A multi-week celebration of music, art, poetry, and performance.

OgunquitFest (October)
Family fun with pumpkins, scarecrows, classic cars, and autumn décor.

Christmas Prelude (December – Kennebunkport)
One of New England’s most famous holiday celebrations with tree lightings, caroling, and holiday markets.

Why Southern Maine Vacations Are So Special

A Southern Maine Vacation delivers more than beaches or seafood. It’s about experiencing the timeless charm of New England: rugged cliffs, friendly villages, historic lighthouses, artistic inspiration, and delicious farm-and-sea-to-table cuisine.

Whether you come for the resorts, the beaches, the festivals, or simply the fresh ocean air, Southern Maine leaves every visitor longing to return.

For updated lodging, dining, events, and local photos to help plan your Southern Maine vacation, bookmark MELiving.com – your complete Maine travel resource.

Jonathan's OGT, 92 Bourne Lane, Ogunquit, Maine 03907 | 207-646-4777
Serving upscale New England cuisine, Jonathan's Ogunquit, caters to those diners looking for fresh seafood, classic European dishes, grilled steaks and more. Diners prefer Jonathan's for a romantic date night, to celebrate a special birthday or enjoy an evening of farm to table gastronomy before a show. Jonathan's offers dining, events, and concerts. Featuring local food products wherever possible and focuses on serving fresh, New England products. Jonathan's slogan has always been to #eatwell.
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Maine Diner, 2265 Post Road (US Route 1),Wells, ME 04090 | 207-646-4441
World Famous Food Like Grandma Used To Make. Featured on "The Today Show", Phantom Gourmet, Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" and others. Maine blueberry pancakes, pies, lunch and dinner specials and more. Try Maine Diner's famous Lobster Pie, Seafood Chowder, Codfish Cakes. Breakfast anytime. Remember the Maine Gift Shoppe, Maine Products. Eat-In or Take-Out. View menus online.
Maine Diner - Wells, Maine

The Blue Bistro at Beachmere Inn, 62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 207-646-2021
Blue Bistro offers a relaxed setting for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Enjoy an ocean view with your fresh Maine Lobster Benedict in the morning. After a day at the beach, join us for a delicious Filet Mignon dinner. Please telephone for the latest information about our daily specials from our in house chefs. We're an easy walk from Downtown Ogunquit and welcome advance reservations to enjoy our delectable offerings and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Blue Bistro is among the Top-Rated Restaurants in Ogunquit.
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When Pigs Fly Pizzeria, 460 U.S. Route 1 Kittery, Maine 03904 | Restaurant: 207-438-7036 Bread Store: 207-439-3114
Enjoy our large selection of wood-fired pizzas, appetizer plates, craft beers and draft wines. The pizzas are Neapolitan style, handcrafted from all natural ingredients. Our wood-fired ovens give the crust a chewy, smoky flavor. All ingredients are the freshest including mozzarella, which is made fresh daily. This location is also home to the When Pigs Fly Company Store, which offers all of the classic and artisan breads, and other products available from When Pigs Fly.
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Roberto's, 200 Shore Road, Ogunquit, Maine 03907 | 207-646-8130
Roberto's is committed to making every dish memorable and that feeds not only the body, but feeds the spirit as well. Delicious hardy portions that are truly crave worthy. An extensive menu of all your favorite Italian dishes cooked authentically to give you that real taste of Italy.
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Loco Coco's Tacos, 36 Walker Street, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-438-9322
Creative, unique, and freshly made Mexican food housed in a restored building, a relaxed dining experience that offers something different to patrons and ensures you enjoy a memorable food experience every time. Mexican, Southwestern Cuisine, Special Diets, Vegetarian, Vegan / Gluten free options. Lunch, Dinner, Dine-In or Take-out, Catering.
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Ogunquit Beach Lobster House, 1111 Beach Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 1-207-360-2286
Enjoy a Maine lobster meal you will will want again and again, with succulent lobster you can taste, not buried in overwhelming seasonings or paired with inappropriate accompaniments. We make it to your taste, even if only seasoned with our healthy Maine salt air! Dine-In, or Take-Out. Seasonally Open 7 days a week from Noon - 8:00pm
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White Barn Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection, 37 Beach Avenue, Kennebunk, ME 04046
A luxury hotel with two restaurants, on-site spa, and pet friendly rooms available. Spa offers couples treatment rooms, deep-tissue massages, hot stone massages, prenatal massages, and Swedish massages. Spa treatments include aromatherapy, body scrubs, body wraps, and detox wraps. Whether planning a weekend escape or an extended stay, check current availabilities and special rates below.
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Sewall House Yoga Retreat, 1027 Crystal Road (PO Box 254), Island Falls, Maine 04747 | 1-646-316-5151
The Sewall House Yoga Retreat remains in the family and to this day continues the hospitality begun by Levi Sewall (who settled Island Falls and is William's father). Donna Davidge, the fifth generation in the house, runs the lovely old place as a yoga retreat, splitting her time between Island Falls, Maine and New York City.
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Beachmere Inn, 62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 207-646-2021
Ocean front accommodations in the heart of Ogunquit on the Marginal Way with breathtaking ocean views. Luxury suites and unique rooms, fireplaces, kitchenettes, private balconies or patios. Enjoy an on-site spa, exercise room and hot tub. Reception rooms for weddings, meetings and events. Beachmere Inn is a leader in guest services, event coordination and hospitality. A stunning location perfect for weddings, elopements, vow renewals, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and even bachelor - bachelorette weekend getaways. Open year round. Walk to everything in town or enjoy drinks from our ocean view Blue Bistro.
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The Cliff House, 591 Shore Road, Cape Neddick, ME, 03902
A top-rated Maine Resort and Spa. On premisses dining with an ocean view at Nubb's Lobster Shack. This seafood restaurant specializes in local cuisine and serves lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at The Tiller Restaurant - also Overlooking the ocean, this restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. With two pools, and sensational views Cliff House is an an excellent choice for your couples getaway. Visit current availabilities and special rates.
The Cliff House - Cape Neddick, ME