Southern Maine Coast

Maine's southern coastline is dotted with idyllic coastal communities, each delivering a unique gradient of New England elegance. These towns provide plenty of surprises from quirky galleries, artisanal shops, and delectable seaside dining that beckon spontaneity and laid-back living in tune with the soothing ocean surf. Manicured country-club sensibilities meet Gilded-age shingle-style architecture and quintessential maritime charm up and down southern Maine's shores. Soak in the quaint village ambiances and reacquaint yourself with the romance of Atlantic living. Gaze over stunning coastal panoramas, breathe in the rejuvenating saline breeze and ponder the landscapes that inspired the 19th-century painter Winslow Homer. A short drive along the coast will quickly reveal why this region has been dubbed "Vacationland." Here are some of southern Maine's must-visit maritime towns: Kittery, Historic York, Ogunquit, Wells, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Saco, Biddeford, and Portland.

Southern Maine claims some of the nation's most scenic stretches of coastline, offering sands for every occasion and sensibility. Sandy boardwalks, wind-sculpted dunes, and blissful sand-between-your-toes moments satiate the ultimate oceanfront getaway. The glimmering ocean horizon garnished with picturesque buoys and distant fishing boats offers an unforgettable backdrop for precious moments with loved ones. A dazzling breadth of beaches ranges from secluded coves beachfront amusement parks, kid-friendly sands, romantic promenades, and much more. Whether you're chasing that perfect Atlantic sunrise or that wave, here's a list of Southern Maine's finest beaches: Old Orchard Beach, Crescent Beach, Scarborough Beach, Ferry Beach, Pine Point Beach, Higgins Beach, Willard Beach, and East End Beach.

Offering far more than clambakes and lobster, Maine's fine dining scene has exploded in recent years. The nation's Northeast corner is a distinct underrated culinary enclave that offers plenty to satiate the most demanding palette and epicurean craving. Along Maine's southern coast, a sea and farm-to-table ethos dominate, offering the ultimate ingredients for a new generation of culinary masters. Diverse and thoughtfully prepared gustatory curations match the fine dining ethos of big-city culinary capitals, delivered with unassuming small-town charm. Here are some of southern Maine's most spectacular fine dining experiences: Anneke Jans, Robert's Maine Grill, M.C Perkins Cove, Clay Hill Farm, Angelina's, Hurricane Restaurant, Earth at Hidden Pond, Joseph's by the Sea, Fore Street Restaurant, David's 388 Restaurant, Boone's Fish House & Oyster Room, Street & Co, and the Dockside Grill.

The Southern Maine coastline's natural beauty has offered a wellspring of inspiration for generations of artists. This legacy continues with Route 1, garnished with dozens of quaint galleries, artisanal craft stores, and prestigious permanent collections. From romantic seascapes to high-concept contemporary pieces and everything in between, collectors are destined to unearth the perfect centerpiece for their parlors or office. A village culture of Art walks, pop-ups, and public exhibitions encapsulates the region's bohemian sensibilities, where creative pursuits are fully integrated into the quotidian. Embedded amongst historic manors, iconic lighthouses, and historic hamlets are the following beloved arts and culture institutions: Portland Art Gallery, Portland Museum of Art, Maine Art Collective, Maine Opera, Greenhut Galleries, Landmark Gallery, Morph, Blue Whale Trading Company, True North Gallery, Colby College Museum of Art, Chris Becker Gallery, The Scott Bundy Gallery, Brick Store Museum and the Vinegar Hill Music Theatre.

The Southern Maine Coast delivers every shade of seaswept adventure sure to please those seeking historical sites, thrills, or reconnection with the elements. A perfect New England retreat, this stunning shoreline delivers plenty of action to fill up leisure time whether you're vacationing with a romantic partner, friends, or family. These distinct made-in-Maine activities will make it abundantly clear that this shoreline lives up to its beloved "Vacationland" moniker. Seize the maritime elements with some of the Southern Maine Coast's most celebrated activities: nature walk at Gilsland Farm, canoe tour through the Scarborough Marsh Nature Center, whale watching tour, skydiving adventure over Biddeford, Helicopter tour from Portland to Portsmouth, historic ride and visit at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company Museum, Portland sunset cruise, glamping at Tops'l Farm, lobster fishing in Casco Bay and scenic hot air balloon riding.