Maine’s Mid Coast region is an unforgettable landscape of rugged rocky bays and promontories, serene inlets and hundreds of little islands. A bourgeoning foodie scene has developed from the region’s natural bounties (the agricultural fairs here are impressive affairs), but you'll also find sandy coves and islets for the beach, and many picturesque New England towns. Some of the best known regional centres are Camden, Brunswick, Southport, Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Rockland, Damariscotta, and Lincolnville, and our Gurus have taken their pick for the best hotels on the Mid Maine Coast from their collections. But they have also cast their nets further, and some of their recommendations are in smaller regional centres or private promontories overlooking the water. The impressive range of properties includes historic mansion conversions, hotels with stunning sea views and family friendly resorts for all ages. This region can be the perfect escape!
For Water Views
- The Newagen Seaside Inn is wonderfully positioned on the tip of a peninsula overlooking the ocean. In addition to offering stunning ocean views, the inn is well equipped for sailors, fisher-folk, bikers, hikers and rowers. Its 35 rooms, suites and cottages have a nod to the nautical, and our favourites have private terraces. The restaurant specialises in everything you’d want to eat in Maine.
- Overlooking Rockland Harbor, the 250 Main Hotel is a collection of 26 individually styled rooms and suites with big windows and fab views. The decor has a slightly industrial edge and fresh, neutral colours; there’s a varied art collection on show too. The hotel’s relaxed deck is an especially picturesque spot, and while there’s no restaurant there is a bar and they offer breakfast.
For Family Holidays
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- The Spruce Point Inn is a quintessentially New England waterfront resort, offering all the pleasures of a rocky coastline dotted with islands. There are 83 rooms and suites split between the main timber-clad building and a collection of multi-bedroom lodges and cottages, and all of them benefit from nautical decor as well as water views. In addition to the glorious location, guests to the inn benefit from a choice of four restaurants, two pools, impressive spa facilities, peaceful woodland surrounds and a family-friendly beach just a short walk away.
- The Linekin Bay Resort enjoys a gorgeous water-front location overlooking Linekin Bay, from a peninsula of 20 of its own acres. Its 72 rooms, suites, cabins and lodges are scattered around, so there’s a feeling of privacy for all, and a seemingly endless number of activities to try, including sailing on the resort's own boats, badminton, volleyball, basketball and baseball, and bocci ball, fishing and tennis. Other highlights to mention include the kids club and the ocean-facing restaurant.
For a Romantic Weekend
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- The Camden Harbor Inn is a converted 19th century mansion in a lovely spot overlooking Camden Harbor. Its 20 rooms and suites are very comfortably decorated, with romantic details and huge bathrooms. The restaurant on the ground floor has panoramic bay views too, and a very good reputation for local produce served with French gourmet flair.
- The Newcastle Inn is just outside Newcastle, sitting peacefully on the banks of the Damariscotta River. Each of the 14 rooms and suites have their own look, but all have charm and nicely chosen colours and accents. Some have fires, soaking tubs and river views. Breakfast is served on the expansive deck when possible, and there’s a cosy communal lounge and a sun deck to share. This is a great spot for foodies, with lots to try in the local area.
- Berry Manor Inn is just the place to play out your period fantasies, because this charming Victorian converted B&B has all the trimmings, from canopy beds and floral wallpapers, to damask and toile de joie. The inn has 12 rooms and suites, all individually decorated, and while there’s no restaurant you’re within a short stroll of lots of solid options.
For Luxury
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- The Inn at Ocean's Edge is, as its name suggests, perched on the shore of Penobscot Bay between Camden and Lincolnville Beach, overlooking a wonderful sweep of water and coastline. There are 32 newly renovated rooms and suites, all designed with comfort in mind, as is the Poolhouse Spa. This is a wonderful place to relax and unwind, but there’s also lots to do in the area.
- 16 Bay View is an elegant hotel with 21 rooms and suites, the majority of which benefit from beautiful views of Camden Harbor. The very best views are from the rooftop bar: they’re panoramic. Inside the decor is grand, with heavy wooden beds dressed with damask and embroidered cushions. There are a good selection of romantic suites, but the huge Loft Suite has three bedrooms and a full kitchen, plus a living and dining room, so it’s an excellent pick for families.
For a Peaceful Escape
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- Captain Nickels Inn has been converted from a grand, colonial home with expansive gardens that lead all the way down to the water. Surrounded by sea, sky and woodlands, this property, with its eight rooms and suites, makes an idyllic escape to the coast. The interiors are period, and there are some beautiful antiques, which is probably why only children over ten are welcomed, but the way the rooms can be arranged, and the generously proportioned communal spaces, mean this makes a great property for a family reunion or similar. There’s a restaurant in the property’s ball room, and a number of fire pits.
- It might surprise you when you look at the photos, but the Squire Tarbox Inn was built in 1763. There’s certainly something rustic about plank panels, but the chic colours and light, spacious feeling interiors feel much more contemporary. The gardens create a peaceful view, and cosy touches like snug throws and fireplaces add to the sense of serenity. And the gourmet farm breakfasts are extremely well regarded.
For Walkers and Explorers
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- The 1774 Inn is an historic, waterfront property turned elegant, eight room inn. This is another property surrounded by peaceful views of nature, ripe for walkers and explorers. The interior is furnished with antiques, and many rooms have four-poster beds and fireplaces. The restaurant’s motto is “Farmed, Foraged, Fished”, and much of the ‘extras’ for each meal come from the property’s kitchen garden.
- Perched on the edge of Penobscot Bay, Lincolnville, The Inn at Sunrise Point is a B&B with a view! There are 12 seaside chic rooms, most with their own private balcony, and lots of natural light. As well as being perfectly positioned for spectacular sunsets, the inn is also ideal for exploring the area on foot, with lots of landmarks within a comfortable walk.
- On a beautiful peninsula close to Pemaquid Lighthouse, The Bradley Inn is a welcoming 16 room inn with plenty of chintz and country charm. The sea views are wonderful to wake up to, and some of the rooms have a nautical air to match. The tavern restaurant specialises in local produce. The property has easy access to a great selection of walking trails.
For Great Value
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- Blue Harbor House Inn is a warm and welcoming colonial inn within walking distance of Camden Harbor. The ten rooms are comfortable and cosy, with old world details, and the friendly hosts offer an organic breakfast every morning. This feels very much a home from home.
For B&B accommodation
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- The Kennebec Inn is a four room B&B just a few minutes stroll from the Kennebec River, and very close to the Maine Maritime Museum. Both the exterior and interior have historic style, with exposed beams, fireplaces and antique furnishings and objets. Breakfast is served in the regal-feeling dining room and there's the added bonus of a swimming pool.
- Russell House B&B is a quaint converted house in the pretty town of Boothbay Harbor. The house has just eight bedrooms, all decorated differently, but with a contemporary feel, pops of colour and local artworks. There’s a lounge with a fire, and a cosy dining room where breakfast is served daily. This is the sort of place to make friends in.
- Captain Sawyer's B&B is a smart, cheerful B&B converted from a Victorian era captain’s house in Boothbay Harbor. There are just nine rooms, all of them with large windows, and some with terraces and balconies too, with many of them directed towards the water. The decor includes a charming collection of antiques, but it’s unfussy. The hearty breakfast matches the warm welcome.
Still not sure where to book?