Welcome to York, Maine - where every day feels like a vacation!
As someone who has explored coast to coast, I can confidently say that there is no place more stunning than southern coastal Maine. These charming seaside towns are my expertise, and I can guide you on the best places to stay, dine, and experience all the wonders this coast has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy bed and breakfast, fresh lobster straight from the harbor, or a day filled with sandy toes and salty air, York Beach, Ogunquit & Cape Neddick has something for everyone. Discover the magic of Maine's southern coast with me!
Restaurants I would recommend:
The Central: A cozy gem renowned for its creative American cuisine and welcoming service with wonderful libations & delicious cuisine. Not located at the beach but worth the short trip!
Deck at Dockside Restaurant: Family-owned and operated in CASUAL waterfront food truck dining with fresh seafood and captivating views of York Harbor.
Ship’s Cellar Pub: Experience a local pub atmosphere with a classic menu ranging from seafood to hearty burgers and pasta located in the historic York Harbor Inn.
A Little Auk: The all-outdoor bar and restaurant at The Viewpoint Hotel (near Nubble Lighthouse). Craft cocktails made in a 1969 Airstream bar and a menu of shared plates.
Off the Boat Lobsters: Dive into FRESH SEAFOOD off the boat literally in York Harbor. Call ahead to place your order (cooked or raw) at the iconic lobster shack by the water's edge. It’s the freshest & fairest-priced Lobster ANYWHERE.
York Beach Beer Co: Local Crafted Beers & canned alcohol in a fun environment. Food truck menu and often live entertainment!
Inn on the Blues: In the heart of Short Sands Beach, listen to live music and enjoy lunch or dinner and tasty libations.
The Goldenrod: Great for the FAMILY, candy store, homemade ice cream shop & family restaurant, located in the heart of Short Sands Beach in York, Maine since 1896. Also home to the famous TAFFY!!
Places I would recommend to Stay:
Salt & Shine Vacation Rental Property & Mgmt: Over 10 years of experience in finding the perfect family or luxury vacation rental property & vacation experience. I would highly recommend BOOKING DIRECT.
Anchorage Inn: An older Long Sands oceanfront family hotel featuring standard rooms, suites, and a beachside pool. This hotel is outdated a bit but the location is outstanding.
Cliff House Maine: Luxurious cliff-top resort offering unparalleled ocean views and top-tier amenities between York & Ogunquit. HIGH END pricing.
Stone’s Throw Hotel: Charming, chic hotel directly across from Long Sands beach, celebrated for its scenic rooms and genuine hospitality. Also home to the Stone’s Throw Restaurant!
Union Bluff Hotel: Steeped in history, this hotel offers a mix of traditional rooms and modern suites just steps away from Short Sands Beach.
York Harbor Inn: An elegant, traditional inn with enchanting gardens and a renowned restaurant, ideal for a romantic retreat by the sea.
My favorite spots & activities:
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Nubble Light House: located between Long Sands & Short Sands it’s a legendary sight to see. Sunrise in particular is SPECTACULAR and also the quietest time to visit.
Dunne’s Ice Cream: Open Monday-Sunday 12-9, soft serve to sundaes to sorbet to Lady Gaga’s favorite “Chocolate Walnut” ice cream, this is a CASH ONLY great spot. ATM on site.
Fun-O-Rama: Raining? No problem - fun for the whole family! Old-fashioned Arcade Games, Skeeball, tickets for prizes, you name it, it’s here! Open Mon-Fri 10:30a-9:00pm & Sat/Sun 10:30-5pm in season.
Short Sands: Charming beach area w/a playground, bathhouse, historic and charming shops & businesses that you can walk around, push strollers around, easily. Parking is $4/hr and there are no trash cans, you have to carry out.
York Harbor Beach: Smaller, more intimate beach located across from the York Harbor Inn & adjacent to Stage Neck Inn. Parking is limited but if you don’t want a huge crowd, this is your beach. Public restroom is available. Parking is $4/hr and there are no trash cans, you have to carry out.
Long Sands Beach: 1.5mile long beach perfect for sight seeing, walking & surfing. Liquid Dreams Surf Shop is across from the Bathhouse and they run daily Surf Lessons that are very popular for all ages! Parking is $4/hr and there are no trash cans, you have to carry out.
Kittery Outlets: 4.5 miles south of York, is home to multiple outlets including the famous Kittery Trading Post!
Beach Must-Haves - Please see my “Beach Gear” section for what you’ll need & want to have with you on your beach VACATION.
