Escape to the Inn by the Sea
Just 15 minutes south of Portland, Maine you will find the Inn by the Sea. This elegant coastal property offers it’s guests exceptional service and amenities. From the moment visitors arrive they are met with a staff that is eager to meet their needs and ensure a remarkable stay. After our recent visit, it is no surprise to us that the Inn by the Sea was chosen by Condé Nast Traveler readers as one of the Top 20 Resorts in New England for 2015.
Accommodations at the Inn by The Sea
Many of the 61 rooms at the Inn offer spectacular Atlantic views. These include the newly renovated Beach Suites that overlook the marshy gardens and the seaside. At 1,300 square feet, the two-bedroom has a large living space, kitchen and dining room. There is a considerable sized deck with a two-way gas fireplace and plenty of seating for outdoor dining. The single bedroom beach suites that flank either side can be adjoined to form 3 or 4 bedroom luxury accommodations that are perfect for large gatherings.
In the Main Inn, choose from elegantly decorated traditional rooms, gardens or spa suites. Our ocean view, two-level spa suite had two double beds upstairs and an oversized bathroom with heated floors, dual vanities, a walk-in shower and jetted tub. A nod to the hotel’s eco-friendly culture, Preserve, protect and inspire, you will find green initiatives like bamboo towels and a bag to take your soap home in. The first floor had a kitchenette and spacious living room with a pull-out sofa. We loved the generous work space with a large desk and amazing view out the two-story windows There is also a pull-out sofa which created plenty of space for all of us.
A protected wildlife sanctuary separates the hotel from Crescent Beach. Guests access the mile-long, sandy beach via a private boardwalk. After playing by the ocean head back to the outdoor, heated salt-water pool for a swim. In the evenings sit by wood-burning, fire pit to watch the sunset. The hotel provides blankets and everything you need to make the perfect s’more. During the summer months pick fresh strawberries from the Inn’s nearby field.
Pet Perks
Although we weren’t traveling with our pet this time, Kona would have been more than welcome at the Inn by the Sea. Dogs can stay at no additional cost and are pampered with cozy L.L. Bean blankets, beach towels, and handmade treats. At check-in, we were greeted by a shy pup behind the desk named Nile. This foster dog who had just arrived from Puerto Rico, is part of the Inn’s very successful partnership program with the Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland. They offer foster dogs a temporary home until they are adopted, usually by locals or guests of the Inn. The foster dogs are guaranteed plenty of love and attention while they are with the hotel. Guests are welcome to pet and walk the dogs anytime. My children took full advantage of the opportunity and walked him every day.
In the Area
Portland
Portland is just 15 minutes up the coast from the Inn. There are several fabulous attractions such as the Children’s Museum & Theater of Maine, The Science Center and the Portland Museum of Art. The vibrant downtown offers visitors boutique shopping, entertainment, and great restaurants. Stroll the streets or take a tour by land or by sea, with Portland Discovery tours or catch your own lobster dinner on a Lucky Catch Cruise.
Portland Head Light
Just a few minutes from the Inn by the Sea, this historic lighthouse sits at the mouth of Portland Harbor. Commissioned by George Washington, it was first lit in 1791. With gorgeous views overlooking the rocky coastline of Fort Williams Park, walk along the cliff path and take in the breathtaking scenery. This is just one of 5 historic lighthouses you can visit during your stay.
3 Things You Need to Know
- Spa – If rejuvenation is what you are after book yourself an appointment at the Spa. I tried their signature Casco Bay Stone Massage while my daughter had the Smooth Sailing Teen Facial. Both were excellent. The spa’s sanctuary offers you a place to relax before your treatment and afterward, take advantage of the rain shower and steam room. You may never want to leave.
- Dining – Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served at Sea Glass Restaurant. The intimate setting of the dining room suggests reservations are necessary for dinner. The patio, with ocean views, is great for warm weather dining. Pets are welcome to join their owners here to dine al fresco. The chef incorporates local seafood and fresh produce to create a diverse menu reflecting traditional Maine cuisine. Wine enthusiasts will also appreciate their extensive list.
- Family Activities -In the summer there is a special Bug’s Life program for kids 6 and under. Dressed in costumes, children learn about their eco-system from a bug’s point of view.
The Inn by the Sea has firmly cemented a place on our list of favorite weekend escapes. We are big fans of Preferred Hotels and Resorts and this LVX Property was no exception. Although this was our first visit, it won’t be our last getaway to this beautiful property.
Disclosure: Complimentary accommodations, some meals, and activities were provided by the Inn by the Sea. No other compensation was received for this review. This post reflects the honest opinion of my experience without outside influence.
I love how they encourage guests to take the soap so it doesn’t go to waste. I’d never thought of that before! Hotels should switch to liquid soap so they can just refill the dispensers!
I had never seen that before either Colleen. And yes, I agree they should be using refillable liquid dispensers.
Dana- sounds heavenly. Summer gets so busy with our family and this sounds like a perfect place to try in the fall or spring!
Kimberly- It is perfect for a family getaway. And only 3-4 hrs from Vermont. Great place to recharge.
I’ve always dreamed of escaping to the east coast. The beaches look so inviting and calm. A different scene from our west coast variety. When we get the chance I will definitely check out The Inn by the Sea. It looks like excellent family accommodations.
East Coast beaches are wonderful and all different. We go to the Jersey Shore every year and it is a totally different scene https://www.danahfreeman.com/down-the-shore/ You will love the Inn by the Sea. If you plan to go in the ocean, later in the season it is warmer!
This place looks amazing and I love that you can bring your pets! I wish we lived closer because I would love to explore the east coast!
They were SO pet friendly. You can pretty much have them anywhere.
That looks like a perfect, relaxing place for a family vacation. You had me at “wildlife preserve” as my kids are so into nature. I’ll have to remember this spot for a getaway!
There is so much for kids to see and discover right on property!
Sounds like a lovely place to stay. I’m intrigued by the Bug’s Life programme for kids – do the kids get to dress up? That sounds fantastic!!
That’s not too far away from us in Seattle, looks like a great weekend getaway spot. We always try to take our soap bars with us if they have a good amount still left – love seeing hotels encouraging guests to do the same. The half used bottles of the other amenities always bothers me too!
Looks like a nice place! Planning a road trip around there for possible August. So hope to visit soon.
What a cool idea with the soap! I hate opening new soap bars in hotels as it feels like a waste 🙂
Wow, those suites are huge, love all the features and amenities. I would love to visit this area some day.
That looks like a wonderful place for a weekend get away! thanks for sharing!!! 😀