Maine is a beautiful, relaxing spring getaway destination. Stay in a B&B in historic Bath, spend a few days exploring Southwest Harbor, head to Freeport, visit beautiful Bar Harbor, or relax in a historic ME farmhouse surrounded by nature. CDC information for travelers. Hours/availability may have changed.
1.Inn by the Sea
Inn by the Sea is a luxury resort hotel on the oceanfront in Portland, Maine, located only a few minutes’ walk from the one-mile-long sandy Crescent Beach and a short drive from downtown Portland. The hotel offers 61 rooms, suites, and cozy cottages, with the right option for anyone enjoying a visit to the beautiful Maine coast. The rooms are spacious, modern, and beautifully decorated with touches of bright colors, original art, and all modern conveniences. Some have fireplaces, and suites come with living areas, balconies, and kitchens. The hotel has a modern spa that is LEED-certified for its eco-practices. The gourmet Sea Glass restaurant offers outdoor dining options on the spacious deck that overlooks the beach and garden with a fire pit. The beautiful garden is a venue for morning yoga and pleasant strolls among the flowerbeds. The hotel is dog-friendly.
40 Bowery Beach Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107, Phone: 207-799-3134
2. Cranberry Hill Inn
This inn only has suites and is just a short walk away from Southwest Harbor where you will find museums, restaurants, shops, art galleries, and more. All rooms have kitchenettes featuring microwaves, coffee makers, and fridges along with free wireless internet, hair dryers, irons, makeup mirrors, cable TVs with DVD players, and air conditioning and heating. There are three suites to choose from with room for three, four, or five people. One room has a whirlpool and king bed while the others have queens. Rooms also have sofa beds and/or rollaway beds.
Guests have access to the outdoor table and chairs along with an outdoor gas grill. You can sit on one of the comfortable lawn chairs in the garden or on one of the decks and patios of the inn. The daily full gourmet breakfast is served on the sun porch, which offers views of the harbor.
60 Clark Point Road, Southwest Harbor, ME, Phone: 207-244-5007
3.Kennebec Inn Bed and Breakfast
This bed and breakfast is right in historic Bath and offers guests personalized service along with amenities found in a boutique hotel. The building dates back to the early 1850s and has four rooms for guests to stay in. For privacy and quiet, rooms share a maximum of one wall with adjacent rooms and don’t share walls with any common areas. When you want to be social, you can go to the kitchen, parlor, patios, porches, or dining room. Room amenities include blow dryers, individual climate control, flat-screen TVs, private ensuite baths, irons, alarm clocks, writing tables, and wingback chairs.
The bed and breakfast prides itself on offering a flexible schedule for checking in and out. There is also an in-ground swimming pool perfect for swimming or lounging. Apart from the swimming pool, you will find large grounds with a setting reminiscent of a park, complete with an area perfect for croquet, a picnic table, and a fire pit. The entire inn has free wireless internet as well. For those who plan on heading to the beach, the inn has tote bags, mini coolers, beach towels, blankets, umbrellas, and beach chairs to borrow. The daily breakfast, which has three courses, is the result of 23 years’ worth of culinary experience.
696 High Street, Bath, ME, Phone: 207-443-5324
4.Candlebay Inn
The Candlebay Inn, which used to be known as the Captain Briggs House, is a pet-friendly bed and breakfast within walking distance of restaurants and outlet stores. Every room has wireless internet, air conditioning, TVs with satellites, alarm clocks, a private bath, and room for a rollaway bed. Dogs are welcome in every room of the inn with a small cleaning fee that includes a donation to a local animal shelter, assuming they are well behaved.
There are a total of seven rooms to choose from, some of which include bay windows and the ability to connect with others. You can also have an iron with ironing board, hair dryer, cot, or DVD player upon request. Guests are welcome to use the small refrigerator located in the common room. The daily breakfast can accommodate special diets with notice. Otherwise, it will include fresh fruit, breakfast breads, pastries, homemade muffins, cereals, and a hot entre like an omelet, quiche, eggs benedict, pancakes, or waffles.
8 Maple Avenue, Freeport, ME, Phone: 207-865-1868
5.Coveside Bed and Breakfast
This secluded bed and breakfast is on top of a rocky cove right by the Five Islands hamlet and has great views of the lobster dock. The main house features four guest rooms, while the adjacent cottage has three. All rooms have individual heat controls, queen or king beds, a private bath, and a full water view. Suites also have sitting areas and fireplaces while cottage suites also feature a private deck. There is wireless internet throughout the property, and TVs and phones are available in the common areas. Because of the inn’s location, you simply have to step outside to go kayaking right from the private dock or walk along beaches or trails.
The inn lends bicycles to guests so you can get a little farther, and there is also a canoe available. In the inn, relax in the club room with its lounge area, flat-screen television and small gym. Or just sit on the porches, terrace, or waterside chairs. Guests can start their day with breakfast on the terrace. One of the innkeepers used to own a pastry business so you can expect fresh, delicious pastries as well as homemade jams, fresh fruit, homemade breads, and an entrée. All day there are homemade cookies, complimentary soft drinks, beer, tea, and coffee.
6 Gotts Cove Lane, Georgetown, ME, Phone: 207-371-2807
6.Puffin Inn Bed & Breakfast
The Puffin Inn used to be a sea captain’s home and is perfect for relaxation. Each of the ten guest rooms has individual decorations, a comfortable sitting area, and a private bath. There are also 20-inch flat-screen HDTVs, DVD players, small fridges, irons, ironing boards, individual climate control, and hair dryers in every room. Some rooms have shower/tub combinations, full-size sofas, extra windows, leather club chairs, private decks, and/or private entrances. Other rooms may also be adjoined via a connecting door. The inn has a large open porch complete with flower boxes, rocking chairs, and Adirondack chairs.
The entire inn has wireless internet, and there is concierge service for your convenience. The town village and Ogunquit Beach are just a few minutes away. The day begins with a complimentary full hot breakfast featuring fruit, juice, homemade sweet bread, and either a savory or suite entree. The inn also has an extensive list of beer and wine, and you can have your selection in your room waiting for your arrival. You can also supplement your stay with a package that includes chocolates or a three-course dinner at a local restaurant.
433 Main Street, Ogunquit, ME, Phone: 207-646-5496
7.The Chapman Inn Bed & Breakfast
This quaint inn is right in the center of the Bethel historic district with views of the town common. The rooms are decorated in custom and antique furnishings and have direct dial telephones, wide screen TVs, air conditioning, and wireless internet. There are nine rooms, a suite, and a highly affordable dorm that is perfect for those on a budget or in groups. The suite has a full kitchen, and all but two rooms have private baths. The dorm has room for as many as thirty guests and is clean, comfortable, and safe.
Those staying in the dorm/bunkhouse also have a full kitchen, microwave, and TV room. Guests can borrow one of the inn’s free bicycles or take advantage of the concierge services. There are private saunas for relaxation, a fireplace, a verandah, and a complete office center. You can also play a game of darts, ping pong, or billiards. This is also a Certified Haunted Inn, perfect for ghost hunters. The inn’s master chef prepares a full gourmet breakfast daily.
2 Church Street, Bethel, ME, Phone: 207-824-2657
8.Main Street Bed & Breakfast
This bed and breakfast, a former 1820’s farmhouse, has been faithfully restored and includes modern bathrooms and other amenities. Rooms have down comforters, space for a rollaway bed, 400 count sheets, comfortable chairs, six-foot soaking tubs, separate showers, double vanities, amazing views, ensuite bathrooms, and/or two rooms for families.
The full breakfast is made using local, organic produce whenever possible, and the inn can accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice. The location of the property provides easy access to canoeing, kayaking, biking, hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling depending on the weather. It is also close to fine dining, theaters, local farms, and more. There are actually numerous trails within 15 minutes of the front door thanks to the inn’s location within the White Mountains.
600 Main Street, Fryeburg, ME, Phone: 207-935-7171
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9.The Captain Jefferds Inn
This inn is situated right along the coast of Maine, making it perfect for enjoying the outdoors. There are sixteen rooms, each with their individual decorations, gas fireplaces or wood-styled stoves, and private baths. You can also choose a room with a whirlpool tub, king or queen bed, twin beds, flat-screen TV, fridge, plush armchairs, day bed, private indoor garden, and/or skylight. Five of the rooms are pet friendly and have a private entrance; there are even pet sitters available. The inn will supply treats, a bowl, and extra towels for your pup.
There is daily housekeeping, free parking, and personal concierge service. You can enjoy wireless internet or borrow the guest computer with its printer. Breakfast is a three-course affair served in the dining room where you can socialize or sit at a private table for two or four. In the afternoon, guests can enjoy the bottomless cookie jar, loose-leaf gourmet teas, seasonal cold and hot beverages, and light hors d’oeuvres or take advantage of the extensive wine list. You can also complement your stay with a package such as a wine and cheese platter, lobster roll picnic lunch, or spa package.
5 Pearl Street, Kennebunkport, ME, Phone: 207-967-2311
10.Manor House Inn Bed & Breakfast
This inn is right in the West Street Historic District surrounded by trees. From here, it is a short walk to the ocean front activities, shopping, and restaurants and a mile from Acadia National Park. The Victorian Mansion was built in 1887 and is part of the National Register of Historic Places. All ten rooms have wireless internet, air conditioning, private baths, and king or queen beds. Some also have private sitting rooms, bath/tub combinations, fireplaces, and/or fainting couches. The Chauffeur’s Cottage has two guest rooms and a suite, all of which have fireplaces and full baths. There are also two cottages with sitting areas, king beds, TVs, fireplaces, private sun porches, full baths, and air conditioning. Finally, the Acadia Cottage has four guestrooms with jetted tubs, fireplaces, and more.
There are one and a half acres of landscaped grounds for guests to explore and plenty of parking. The grounds include gardens, sitting areas, and a gazebo, while the front porch has wicker furniture. Guests can take advantage of private porches, whirlpool tubs, and fireplaces. The daily breakfast can be enjoyed in the breakfast garden or in the dining room.
106 West Street, Bar Harbor, ME, Phone: 800-437-0088
11.Mira Monte Inn Bed and Breakfast
This romantic bed and breakfast is just several blocks from downtown Bar Harbor and very close to Acadia National Park. The inn shows off its mid-Victorian charm, and every room has antiques, period furnishings, and a balcony and/or fireplace. There are thirteen guest rooms in the Main Inn with free wireless internet, TVs and DVD players, private ensuite baths, air conditioning, phones with voice mail, clock radio/CD players, hair dryers, irons, and heating. Some also have whirlpool tubs. There are four Mira Monte Inn Suites with similar amenities plus double whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, kitchenettes or kitchens, and bath robes. There are also three suites in the Ashe Cottage with the same amenities as those in the Main Inn.
The inn has extensive gardens complete with seating areas, bocce balls, and croquet for guests to enjoy. The grounds cover two acres of land so there is plenty to explore, and you can always find ample parking. In the morning, you can enjoy a full breakfast buffet with the choice of eating in your room, on the breakfast porch, on the terrace, or in the formal dining room. The buffet includes fresh hot food, homemade bread, fruit, pastries, and more.
69 Mt. Desert St., Bar Harbor, ME, Phone: 207-288-4263
12.The Inn at English Meadows
The Inn at English Meadows is in a Greek Revival home from the mid-1800s that was recently renovated. Its location provides privacy, but it is also just an 8-minute walk to the Dock Square of Kennebunkport. The inn has modern amenities, furniture, and fixtures combined with original moldings. There are five suites, five rooms, and a bungalow. Rooms have Frette fine linens, slippers, towels, bathrobes, Malin+Goetz toiletries, and Vera Wang beds. You will also find wireless internet access, flat-screen TVs, docking stations, fireplaces, and Nespresso machines.
Some also have fireplaces or whirlpool tubs. There are two common rooms, each of which is filled with art. Outside, you are welcome to sit on the patio, lounge in an Adirondack chair, or stroll the landscaped English Gardens. There is a guest fridge as well. The innkeeper prepares a three-course gourmet breakfast every morning, and it includes homemade baked goods and fresh, local ingredients such as local maple syrup. You can enjoy more homemade baked goods in the afternoon.
141 Port Road, Kennebunk, ME, Phone: 207-967-5766
13.Ullikana Inn
Ullikana Inn is in a secluded part of Bar Harbor, providing privacy and a quiet atmosphere with easy access to local attractions. There are a total of ten guest rooms, some of which have private terraces and/or fireplaces. Every room has bathrobes, eco-friendly Templa bath products, Ralph Lauren towels and linens, and wireless internet. Guests have access to a computer room, 24-hour tea and coffee, and a guest pantry.
Personal toiletries, corkscrews, hairdryers, and more are available upon request. The inn’s terrace has views of the harbor, but the inn is just a minute’s walk from the town’s center where you will find activities, restaurants, and shops. The homemade breakfast is served either in the large dining room where you can see the terrace fountain or on the patio that overlooks Frenchman Bay. Expect a delicious specialty like lemon soufflé pancakes with a berry sauce, Italian omelets, or crepes. You will also get fruit and fresh-baked muffins. There are afternoon refreshments served on the terrace and dining room.
16 The Field, Bar Harbor, ME, Phone: 207-288-9552
14.The Primrose Inn
The Primrose Inn is designed for romance and is only several blocks from downtown Bar Harbor, giving you easy access to local attractions, including restaurants. The building was constructed in 1878 and has an updated Victorian style featuring modern amenities mixed with select antiques. Every room has a private ensuite bathroom, central air conditioning, a flat-panel TV with DVD player, free wireless internet, vintage alarm clocks, hair dryers, cozy quilts, ceiling fans, phones with free local calls, 100 percent cotton linens, and Turkish towels.
Many also have private porches or balconies, sitting rooms, spa tubs, or gas fireplaces. Guests have access to a DVD library, a computer and printer, reserved parking, Kindles, and an ice machine. There Garmin GPS devices available to borrow, and you also have access to a guest wine chiller. The full hearty breakfast includes hot entrees along with breads and muffins, low-fat granola, and fresh juice and can be enjoyed on the outdoor wraparound front porch or in the dining room. Afternoon Tea features fresh baked goods and beverages. You will always find snacks, tea, coffee, bottled water, and soft drinks in the common areas.
73 Mount Desert Street, Bar Harbor, ME, Phone: 207-288-4031
15.Five Gables Inn
Five Gables Inn is on a hillside framed by gardens, giving guests gorgeous views of Linekin Bay. The coastal inn was built in 1896 and has a nice and quiet ambience. There are sixteen guest rooms, and all but one have views of the bay. Five of them have working fireplaces as well and every room has an ensuite private bath, a king or queen bed, complimentary wireless internet, a hair dryer, and a telephone.
Some also have daybeds, packed bookshelves, tubs, wicker furniture, and/or window seats. Relax by the fireplace in the living room or go outside and sit in one of the rocking chairs on the porch. You can go swimming right off the dock in front of the inn, and there are plenty of beach chairs and towels to borrow. The day begins with a breakfast buffet, and in the afternoon, you can enjoy sweets and tea. The buffet always has a hot entrée, fresh fruit, Muesli, granola, homemade bread, and a fresh baked treat. During the day, you only have to go a few minutes to find spots to hike, shop, fish, boat, play tennis, or play golf.
107 Murray Hill Road, Boothbay, ME, Phone: 207-633-4551
16.Timbercliffe Cottage Bed and Breakfast
Timbercliffe Cottage is a bed and breakfast that has been handcrafted to offer guests wonderful accommodations right between the Camden Hills State Park and the central business district. There are six guest rooms, all of which have personal hairdryers, air conditioning, and wireless high speed internet. Some also have four-poster beds, regular of claw foot bathtubs, and/or fireplaces. You can relax or enjoy breakfast on the wide wraparound porch with views of Camden Harbor. Inside, you will find comfortable wingback chairs and a sofa by the fireplace in the library and parlor.
The daily breakfast can be enjoyed in the dining room or on the great porch/patio and starts off with the inn’s specially blended coffee, freshly baked breads, and fresh fruit along with a main entrée like blueberry buttermilk pancakes or a classic French quiche. After 3 pm, you will always find homemade cookies in the Guest Pantry waiting for you to snack on them. This pantry is always stocked with complimentary tea, espresso and coffee along with cold beverages and bottled water.
7 Timbercliffe Drive, Camden, ME, Phone: 207-236-4753
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17.Cedarholm Garden Bay Inn
The Cedarholm Garden Bay Inn provides guests with privacy and amazing views in a unique atmosphere. There are six cottages available, making the inn nice and calm as well as perfect for romance. As cottages, they all have private entrances along with private decks, and some even have fireplaces, wall-to-wall water views, or spa tubs. Guests also get to enjoy mini fridges, coffee bars, microwaves, tub/shower combinations, flat-screen TVs, hair dryers, irons with ironing boards, daily housekeeping, and/or private label soap and shampoo.
The property has elaborate gardens scattered throughout the oceanfront hideaway that spans 16 acres of land. As such, it is ideal for privacy. The manicured grounds have fruit tree gardens, organic vegetables, and more. You can enjoy breakfast on the sunny deck, at a gathering table, or at the individual tables in the dining room. Every stay includes a complimentary breakfast in the Main House that features house-made granola, fresh fruit, frittatas, yogurt, homemade baked goods, breads, farm fresh eggs, assorted cereal, juice, and of course coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Produce from the gardens is served whenever possible.
P.O. Box 28, Lincolnville, ME, Phone: 207-236-3886
18.The Brewster Inn
This tranquil inn is a historic bed and breakfast that is perfectly positioned to let you take day trips or just enjoy the highlands. Each of the rooms has free wireless internet, comfortable beds with luxurious linens and bedding, plush robes, and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms also have private fireplaces, fridges, microwaves, window seats, and whirlpool tubs. There are options optimized for couples, friends, and families.
During the warmer months, explore the inn’s two acres of beautifully landscaped gardens . Or you can sit on the enclosed porch by the breakfast room or in the one of the comfortable chairs and sofas in the common room. The complimentary continental breakfast also features a daily hot dish that rotates, including sweet or savory offerings. You can enjoy breakfast at the private tables in the dining room or on the patio. With advanced notice, dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
37 Zions Hill Road, Dexter, ME, Phone: 207-924-3130
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19.Rockmere Lodge
This is the only Ogunquit bed and breakfast that overlooks the ocean and it is right by the small lighthouse next to a walking path. Almost every room has ocean views, and the inn is within walking distance of local attractions. Each room has a private bathroom, paddle fan, air conditioning, and cable TV. Some also have upholstered chairs, window seats, Victorian mirrors, and/or private entrances.
Those who want to stay on the lodge’s property can sit in the gardens by the fishpond or fountain or sit in the gazebo. There is plenty of seating on the wraparound porch. This is also where the daily breakfast is served, when you can look out onto the ocean while eating. At any time of the day, you will find hot chocolate, cider, tea, and coffee in the living room.
150 Stearns Road, Ogunquit, ME, Phone: 207-646-2985
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20.Elmere House Bed and Breakfast
This bed and breakfast sits in a restored antique farmhouse, maintaining lots of mid1800s charm and original wood floors. You will still find modern amenities such as individually controlled heating and air conditioning in every room. Each room also has a wall-mounted LCD TV, a high-definition DVD player, ensuite baths, a queen or king bed, and free wireless internet.
One room is equipped to provide access for those with physical challenges, and the Moosehead Lake Suite features a whirlpool. Most rooms also feature small fridges and all have plush bedding, while some have sitting rooms, extra-spacious bathrooms, and day beds. Guests can borrow from the DVD library to find a movie to watch. Relax in the outdoor hot tub at the end of the day or sit on the bench seat or a rocking chair on the front porch to enjoy some nice weather outdoors. A full morning breakfast is included with every stay.
525 Post Road, Wells, ME, Phone: 207-646-4494
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21.Augustus Bove House
This bed and breakfast is ideal for romantic getaways, family vacations, and more with its location on Long Lake. All guest rooms, suites, and cottages have heating and air conditioning, private baths, cable TV, and wireless internet. There are eight rooms, two suites, and two cottages. Some accommodations also have king beds, sitting areas, fireplaces, kitchenettes, dining areas, and private decks. The cottages also offer patio furniture and a gas grill.
There are numerous attractions and activities for guests to enjoy right by the inn, including farms, taverns, theaters, and water activities like sailing. Guests can go shopping nearby, visit Sebago Lake State Park or go waterskiing, jet skiing, kayaking, snowboarding, or skiing depending on the weather. Breakfast is included with your stay.
11 Sebago Road, Naples, ME, Phone: 207-693-6365
22.Inn at Southwest
This Victorian bed and breakfast was built in 1884 and has views of Southwest Harbor’s calm waters. Each of the seven guest rooms has its own style, private baths, luxurious towels and linens, down duvets, hair dryers, Natura bath amenities, and ceiling fans. Some rooms also have gas log stoves, window seats, bathtubs, love seats, antique writing desks, wicker reading chairs, and an extra bedroom.
The inn is surrounded by the Acadia National Park, meaning you are likely to see wildlife and have easy access to outdoor activities. At night, take advantage of the fire pit to warm up or roast some marshmallows. The daily two-course breakfast is served on the wraparound porch or in the dining room. It always includes local ingredients, and the kitchen makes it fresh and serves it with juice, tea, and fresh brewed coffee. Instead of the full breakfast, you can opt for scrambled eggs, homemade bagels, and cereal. There are also afternoon treats for guests to enjoy after a day of exploring the area.
371 Main Street, Southwest Harbor, ME, Phone: 207-244-3835
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23.Sheepscot Harbour Village & Resort
This is an all-inclusive resort right along the coast of Maine perfect for relaxation or a wedding. There are numerous accommodation choices, including the Sweetheart Cottage with a full kitchen, full bar, double vanities and sinks, two person shower, eight-person hot tub, and four flat-screen TVs. The cottage can be rented as a whole or by room. The nine rooms in the Inn Hotel have a queen bed, cable TV, and a whirlpool-style bathtub although amenities may vary slightly. There are also six Lodge Hotel Suites with kitchenettes and water views. For more privacy and the amenities of home, stay in one of the many cottages.
The resort has a private dock as well as a marina and an internet café. The Island Spa offers manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages among other treatments. There is also a whirlpool, an indoor heated pool complete with shower rooms and chaise lounges, yoga, walking trails, a fitness room, and Wi-Fi in the internet café. There is a daily complimentary continental breakfast every morning.
7 Island Lane, Edgecomb, ME, Phone: 207-882-4200
24.Holiday Guest House Bed & Breakfast
This is actually among the oldest bed and breakfasts in Maine, as it was built in 1814. As such, it has offered accommodations for decades. All rooms have soap and shampoo along with blow dryers in their private bathrooms, free wireless internet, in-room fridges, ceiling fans, and air conditioning. Each of the four rooms has its own styling and unique features, such as antique mahogany dressers, seascape paintings, and/or gas fireplaces.
The property is right by a trolley stop so you don’t have to drive anywhere. The property has air conditioning and CCTV for security. The swimming pool is perfect for cooling off or relaxing, and you can borrow pool and beach towels so you don’t have to worry about anything. The day begins with fresh brewed coffee and a home cooked breakfast featuring a sweet or savory dish like fresh fruit French toast, eggs benedict, or blueberry pancakes.
68 Post Road, Wells, ME, Phone: 207-646-5400
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25.Bethel Hill Bed & Breakfast
This bed and breakfast is surrounded by historic homes and is in the perfect location for visiting the Sunday River Ski Resort or Bethel. The guest suites have sitting areas, air conditioning, ceiling fans, cable TV, hair dryers, alarm clock radios, long distance calling, free wireless internet, private baths, whirlpool tubs, and showers. Rooms don’t share any walls to enhance the peace and quiet of your stay. All are designed to sleep one or two people with the exception of the family suite, which has a sofa bed in the private living room. There are also DVD players available to borrow. There is also a Lake House with three bedrooms available for rental with a full one-acre peninsula of land and amazing lake views. This house has a full professional kitchen, two master bedrooms, and leather seating.
Guests have access to the common living area or the library with its fireplace. If you want to go outside, sit on the Adirondack chairs on the porch that looks over the gardens. The daily gourmet country breakfast features a hot entrée and is served in the sunroom by the gas fireplace. With notice, the inn can accommodate dietary restrictions; otherwise, it includes a cooked to order main dish, fresh fruits, homemade baked goods, fresh juice, and fresh brewed coffee.
66 Broad Street, Bethel, ME, Phone: 207-824-2461
25 Perfect Romantic Getaways in Maine
- Inn by the Sea, Photo: Inn by the Sea
- Cranberry Hill Inn, Photo: Cranberry Hill Inn
- Kennebec Inn Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Kennebec Inn Bed and Breakfast
- Candlebay Inn, Photo: Candlebay Inn
- Coveside Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Coveside Bed and Breakfast
- Puffin Inn Bed & Breakfast, Photo: Puffin Inn Bed & Breakfast
- The Chapman Inn Bed & Breakfast, Photo: The Chapman Inn Bed & Breakfast
- Main Street Bed & Breakfast, Photo: Main Street Bed & Breakfast
- The Captain Jefferds Inn, Photo: The Captain Jefferds Inn
- Manor House Inn Bed & Breakfast, Photo: Manor House Inn Bed & Breakfast
- Mira Monte Inn Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Mira Monte Inn Bed and Breakfast
- The Inn at English Meadows, Photo: The Inn at English Meadows
- Ullikana Inn, Photo: Ullikana Inn
- The Primrose Inn, Photo: The Primrose Inn
- Five Gables Inn, Photo: Five Gables Inn
- Timbercliffe Cottage Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Timbercliffe Cottage Bed and Breakfast
- Cedarholm Garden Bay Inn, Photo: Cedarholm Garden Bay Inn
- The Brewster Inn, Photo: The Brewster Inn
- Rockmere Lodge, Photo: Rockmere Lodge
- Elmere House Bed and Breakfast, Photo: Elmere House Bed and Breakfast
- Augustus Bove House, Photo: Augustus Bove House
- Inn at Southwest, Photo: Inn at Southwest
- Sheepscot Harbour Village & Resort, Photo: Sheepscot Harbour Village & Resort
- Holiday Guest House Bed & Breakfast, Photo: Holiday Guest House Bed & Breakfast
- Bethel Hill Bed & Breakfast, Photo: Bethel Hill Bed & Breakfast
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of TSL Photography - Fotolia.com
Island Spotlight: Saint Croix Island
Located near the mouth of the Saint Croix River at the Canada-United States border, Saint Croix Island is a 6.5-acre uninhabited island noted for its historic significance related to early European colonization of North America. Though the island does not allow visitors due to the preservation of its historical remains, the Saint Croix Island International Historic Site, operated in nearby Calais, Maine, and Bayside, New Brunswick offers a visitor center with exhibits and several interpretive historical trails.
History
Saint Croix Island has been referred to by a number of names over its known history of human occupation, including Muttoneguis, the name given to it by the Passamaquoddy indigenous people, who used the island to protect food stores from animals on the mainland. The 6.5-acre island, which is located approximately four miles from the mouth of the Saint Croix River on Passamaquoddy Bay, was also referred to as Muttoneguamus, Metanegwis, and Metnegwis by the Passamaquoddy Nation at various points. The island is best known as the site of an early attempt at colonization by French noble Pierre Dugua, Sieur de Mons, who established an outpost on the island in 1604. Many of the island’s settlers died of scurvy during its first winter of occupation, causing the settlement’s move to a location along the southern shores of the Bay of Fundy, which became the Port-Royal settlement, the first permanent French settlement in North America. In 1613, all settlement buildings on the island were burned by Samuel Argall as part of his raid on Port-Royal.
Saint Croix Island was commonly referred to as Bone Island in the 18th century following the exposure of settler graves as a result of erosion. Following boundary disputes in 1797 between Britain and the United States, the island was determined to be under United States sovereignty. During the War of 1812, the island served as neutral territory, leading to its nicknaming as Neutral Island. In 1949, the island was designated as Saint Croix Island National Monument, leading to its listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. The site was recognized by Canada’s Historic Sites and Monuments Board in 1958, though the creation of a historic site was complicated due to the island falling outside of Canada’s national jurisdiction. In 1968, a proposition was offered by the HSMB to cooperate with the United States National park Service to develop a joint historic park. In 1984, the island was designated as an International Historic Site, the only one of its kind within both the United States and Canadian national parks systems.
Attractions
Today, Saint Croix Island International Historic Site is jointly managed by the National Park Service and Parks Canada, with offices for the site located at nearby Acadia National Park. Visitors are prohibited from accessing Saint Croix Island due to the delicate nature of its historical remains, but two visitor sites are maintained on the United States and Canadian sides of the mainland in Calais, Maine, and Bayside, New Brunswick. Commemorative visitor activities are frequently offered at the site as joint endeavors by both parks systems, including a 2004 celebration commemorating the 400th anniversary of French settlement in North America.
National Park Service activities on the Calais, Maine side of the Historic Site include the Saint Croix Island Visitor Center, which offers area information and exhibits on the history of French settlement in North America at the Saint Croix Island and Port-Royal sites. An Eastern National bookstore is operated at the center, selling a variety of bilingual books, maps, and multimedia items. The center serves as the trailhead for a self-guided interpretive trail, which features bronze figures of important French and Passamaquoddy figures from the era of early European colonization, along with displays outlining historical events and interactions between European and indigenous cultures. Outdoor activities are also offered, including bird watching opportunities and ranger-led interpretive programming. The center is open Thursdays through Mondays throughout the year, with hours varying seasonally, though the park itself is open year-round during the daylight hours. Park rangers are present at the center most days from May through October, with bilingual visitor services offered during the summer months.
On the Bayside, New Brunswick side, a visitor center is also offered, featuring showings of a short documentary film about the region and its significance in the French settlement of North America. A self-guided interpretive trail is also offered, along with a viewing deck offering views of the island and its surrounding waters. Picnic areas are offered at the site, along with geocaching, photography, and wildlife watching opportunities.
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Island Spotlight: Damariscove Island
Located in Boothbay Harbor, Maine, Damariscove Island is an uninhabited island noted for its historic connection to early American settlers and conflicts, operated today as a natural preserve by the Boothbay Region Land Trust.
History
Damariscove Island is a two-mile-long island located approximately five nautical miles off the coast of Maine along the mouth of the Damariscotta River. The history of human occupation of Damariscove Island dates back prior to the arrival of Europeans in North America, when the island was used as a fishing and settlement site by the Abenaki indigenous people. The island was settled as a seasonal commercial fishing settlement as early as 1604, with documentation of official charting of the island by Captain John Smith in 1614. The island’s name is credited to Popham Colony member Humphrey Damerill, who moved to the region in 1608. By 1622, the island had been established as a permanent year-round fishing colony, noted for its assistance to Plymouth Colony pilgrims in the spring of that year.
In 1671, Massachusetts Bay Colony extended its eastern borders and laid its claim to the island, establishing a local government and assessing taxes over the following years. Five years later, after an indigenous attack on European settlements east of the Kennebec River, 300 refugees arrived on the island from nearby settlements. The island was the target of several attacks throughout the following years, including indigenous attacks and raids during King William’s War of 1689 and Father Rale’s War of 1725. By the time of the American Revolutionary War, the island had established a significant farming and fishing industry, but by the late 19th century, most farming activity, with the exception of dairy farming, had moved to other areas within the region. By the mid-20th century, the island was largely uninhabited and its previous one-room schoolhouse was closed.
In 1897, the United States Life-Saving Service constructed the Damariscove Lifesaving Station, which was operated by the United States Coast Guard until 1959 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. Much of the island has been protected as a nature preserve since 1966, when large portions of its land was donated to the Nature Conservancy. In 2005, the Nature Conservancy transferred care of the nature preserve to the Boothbay Region Land Trust. Since 2009, the island and nearby Monhegan and Boon Islands have been maintained as test sites for the development of offshore deepwater wind power technology.
Attractions
Today, Damariscove Island is an uninhabited island that is incorporated as part of nearby Boothbay Harbor and is largely maintained as a natural preserve area by the Boothbay Harbor Land Trust nonprofit organization. Due to its connection to early American settlers and conflicts, the island was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. The island’s Damariscove Lifesaving Station remains under private ownership, though it has not been operated since 1959. Several areas of the island are also used as mooring and storage docks for nearby commercial fishing fleets.
Two guest moorings are operated at the island by the Boothbay Harbor Land Trust, along with a stone pier for visitor landing. The site is open to the public via private boat travel throughout the summer months, and a public visitor trip to the island is offered by the Land Trust annually. Three miles of hiking trails are provided on the island. Visitors should be advised that most trail areas traverse very rocky land and should wear sturdy protective footwear when exploring trails. Large populations of nesting seabirds and muskrats are visible, along with ruins of homesteads and public structures from the island’s era of habitations. Visitors should be advised that the northern half of the island is a protected bird nesting site for the common elder bird. A small museum run by the Land Trust is also offered, showcasing displays of native flora and fauna and historic whaling and fishing equipment.
Ongoing Programs and Events
An annual public visitor excursion to the island is offered every summer, with guided exploration of the island’s museum and trails offered for excursion participants. In addition to programming on Damariscove Island, the Boothbay Harbor Land Trust offers a variety of nature programming throughout the Boothbay Harbor region, including naturalist-led hikes, health-focused forest bathing walks, and walk and talk programming with nature and science professionals. Year-round programming is offered for children and youth, including a Babes in the Woods program for children five and under during the summer months. Field trip programming may also be scheduled for elementary and secondary school groups, including trips to Damariscove Island.
More Things to Do in Maine, Best Islands in Maine
Attraction Spotlight: Eagle Island State Historic Site
Located in Casco Bay off the eastern coast of the United States, Eagle Island is the site of the Eagle Island State Historic Site, which preserves the retirement home of noted polar explorer Admiral Robert Peary.
History
Eagle Island, which is incorporated as part of the town of Harpswell, ME, is located approximately 12 miles northeast off the coast of Portland and is a 17-acre island within the Casco Bay archipelago. The island, which reaches a maximum height of 40 feet above sea level, is primarily populated with conifer trees and brush and has a rocky landscape covered with a thin layer of topsoil. The island is best known as the retirement home of Rear Admiral Robert Peary, a noted polar explorer. Peary, who was born in Cresson, Pennsylvania in 1856, worked for the National Geodetic Survey and was an officer in the United States Navy in the late 19th century. He began his polar expedition career in 1886 with an unsuccessful attempt to cross Greenland via dogsled. In 1891, he led an expedition to Independence Fjord, conclusively determining that Greenland’s land mass was an island. An 1898-1902 expedition reached Greenland’s northernmost point of Cape Morris Jessup and set a record for the farthest north recorded expedition. He is best known for his 1908-1909 expedition, which claimed to have reached the North Pole. Though the claim was initially widely disputed by the mainstream press, it gained acceptance in subsequent years and won Perry the Thanks of Congress in 1911, which resulted in his military promotion to Rear Admiral. Perry’s claim has since been disputed in 1989 by British explorer Wally Herbert, who concluded from expedition records that Perry fell 60 miles short of reaching the North Pole.
In 1881, Perry purchased Eagle Island for a sum of $200, and in 1911, he constructed a residence on the island to serve as a retirement home. Perry’s family resided on the island until 1967, when the property was donated to the state of Maine. In 1971, the island was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 2014, the island was declared a National Historic Landmark.
Attractions
Today, the bulk of Eagle Island is operated as the Eagle Island State Historic Site, which preserves the retirement home of Rear Admiral Peary and its associated structures. The structures are located at the island’s northern end within a Y-shaped clearing area, which is attached to a small public beach and wooden pier constructed in 1969. More than 6,000 annual visitors attend the Historic Site and its associated visitor trails and activities.
The site’s main building is the Peary House, a wood frame house originally constructed in 1904, with additions and renovations made in 1906 and 1912. The home features a large living room, dining area, and kitchen on the first floor, with three bedrooms located on the second floor and a full-height basement. A three-sided porch encircles the home’s first floor, and two concrete stone bastions, constructed in 1912, were formerly used to house Peary’s expedition artifact collection. The home mostly remains in its historic state, with minor renovations performed following roof damage in 1990. A Caretaker’s Cabin is also located on the property, along with a small Visitor’s Center offering historical exhibits of artifacts and island visitor information. The Peary family’s gardens have also been restored to their historic condition and are maintained by park staff.
In addition to the historic home complex, a variety of outdoor activities are offered on the island, including a 1.4-mile trail system within the island’s southern portion. Visitor trails include the Garden Path, which serves as a trailhead for the system, along with the Great Horned Owl Path on the island’s west side and the Admiral’s Way Trail, the island’s oldest trail. Mature hardwoods, ferns, and mayflowers are visible from the trails, along with a white quartz ledge near the island’s south beach. All visitors must check with park staff for trail conditions before embarking on island trails. Motorized boating, fishing, sea kayaking, and wildlife watching are also permitted on the island, and picnic areas are offered for visitors.
Eagle Island is only accessible via boat, with public visitor access provided by the Casco Bay Sights-N-Lights, Seacoast Tours of Freeport, Casco Bay Wild, and Chebeague Water Taxi services. Travel must be scheduled by contacting the touring companies directly, with travel rates available for adults, seniors, and children. A limited number of pier moorings are available for private boats on a first-come, first-served basis, and a small beach on the island’s northern end is provided for kayak and canoe landings. No overnight camping is allowed on the island, and all visitors must follow a full carry-in/out policy in order to protect island wildlife.
