Inn By The Sea

Inn By The Sea: A Hidden Gem on Maine’s Coast

Maine Vacations: Where Nature Meets Luxury

Just seven miles from the vibrant pulse of Portland, Maine, you’ll find Inn By The Sea, which lies on a stretch of coastline that feels worlds away. Crescent Beach, with its sweeping sands, whispering dunes, and pine-framed horizon, is the backdrop for one of New England’s most acclaimed luxury resorts: Inn by the Sea.

More than just a hotel, Inn by the Sea is a destination—where oceanfront beauty, eco-luxury, and genuine Maine hospitality come together to create unforgettable Maine vacations.

History of Inn by the Sea

The story of Inn by the Sea is as captivating as its oceanfront setting. Originally built in the 1980s, the property began as a small seaside inn, attracting travelers who longed for a more intimate alternative to larger hotels. Over the decades, it has grown into a world-class resort, carefully blending modern amenities with a strong sense of place.

Unlike many luxury properties, Inn by the Sea has consistently embraced its role as a steward of the coast. Renovations and expansions were done with sustainability in mind, from eco-friendly construction practices to habitat restoration projects that protect native wildlife.

Today, Inn by the Sea stands not only as a premier coastal resort but also as a model of responsible tourism in Maine. Guests can enjoy every comfort of modern luxury while knowing their stay supports conservation and the local community.

A Coastal Escape Designed for Relaxation

From the moment you arrive at Inn by the Sea, the salt air and the rhythm of the tides invite you to slow down. Guests are encouraged to settle into the flow of coastal living: long beach walks at dawn, afternoons with a good book by the fireplace, and evenings savoring fresh-caught seafood as the sun slips below the horizon.

The resort’s atmosphere strikes a perfect balance—elegant yet approachable, secluded yet close to the energy of Portland. It’s the kind of place where days unfold naturally, and time seems to stretch with the tides.

Oceanfront Accommodations

Each guestroom, suite, and cottage at Inn by the Sea is designed to frame the beauty of the Maine coast. One- and two-bedroom suites feature ocean views, deep soaking tubs, and private decks perfect for morning coffee or sunset wine. Indoor/outdoor fireplaces add a romantic glow to chilly evenings.

For longer stays and family trips, the cottage-style accommodations are ideal. These spacious residences include multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and comfortable living areas, making them a true home away from home.

Inn by the Sea is also one of Maine’s most pet-friendly luxury resorts. Dogs are greeted with personalized amenities, gourmet menus, and plenty of open space to roam—making it easy for travelers to bring their four-legged companions along.

Sea Glass Restaurant: A Taste of the Coast

Dining at Sea Glass, the resort’s acclaimed restaurant, is a highlight of every stay. With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Crescent Beach, the setting is as inspiring as the menu. Chef-driven dishes celebrate the flavors of Maine, featuring local seafood, farm-fresh produce, and seasonal specialties.

From a classic Maine lobster dinner to inventive small plates showcasing regional ingredients, Sea Glass offers a true sea-to-table experience. The restaurant also takes pride in sustainable sourcing, ensuring every meal supports local fisheries and farms.

A Maine Spa Inspired by the Sea

The Inn’s full-service spa offers treatments that capture the restorative power of the ocean. Signature therapies, such as the Sea Waves massage, utilize synchronized movements on a wave-motion bed, creating a sensory experience that mimics the ebb and flow of the tides.

Other treatments incorporate coastal botanicals and marine minerals, grounding guests in the natural environment. It’s the perfect place to recharge, whether you’re preparing for a day of exploration or winding down after an afternoon in Portland’s bustling Old Port.

Eco-Luxury and Environmental Stewardship

At Inn by the Sea, sustainability is more than a promise—it’s a way of life. The resort has earned international recognition for its environmental initiatives, which range from solar energy to wildlife habitat restoration.

Conservation programs: The Inn partners with the Maine Department of Conservation to restore habitat for the endangered New England Cottontail.
Educational experiences: Guests can join guided beach ecology walks, tide pool explorations, or wildlife gardening workshops.
Eco-innovations: From eliminating single-use plastics to using goats (“Scapegoats”) to manage invasive plants, the Inn leads with creativity and purpose.

Families and children are encouraged to connect with nature through interactive programs, making sustainability a shared experience that enriches every stay.

Nearby Attractions and Things to Do

A stay at Inn by the Sea places you in the heart of southern Maine’s most exciting coastal region. While the resort itself offers enough to fill your days, the surrounding area brims with opportunities for exploration.

Crescent Beach State Park

Steps from the Inn, Crescent Beach offers miles of sandy shoreline perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or long beach walks. The park also features walking trails that weave through dunes and salt marshes, offering glimpses of coastal wildlife.

Portland, Maine

Just a 15-minute drive away, Portland is a dynamic small city with a big personality. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, browse boutique shops and art galleries, or dine at award-winning restaurants that rival those in major culinary hubs. The city’s craft beer scene is legendary, with dozens of breweries to sample.

Lighthouse Touring

Maine is famous for its lighthouses, and several iconic beacons are within easy reach. Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in America, is just a short drive from the Inn. Ram Island Ledge Light and Two Lights State Park are also nearby.

Outdoor Adventures

Guests can kayak in Casco Bay, embark on whale-watching cruises, or charter a sailboat for a day on the water. Hiking trails in nearby preserves and state parks provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy Maine’s natural beauty.

Arts and Culture

The Portland Museum of Art showcases works from Winslow Homer to contemporary masters, while local theaters and music venues offer year-round performances. Seasonal festivals celebrate everything from food and film to Maine’s maritime heritage.

Why Choose Inn by the Sea for Your Maine Vacation?

Prime Location: Just minutes from Portland yet set on a quiet, pristine beach.
Luxury Accommodations: Spacious suites and cottages designed for comfort and connection.
Culinary Excellence: Fresh, sustainable cuisine at the award-winning Sea Glass restaurant.
Wellness: A spa inspired by the healing rhythms of the sea.
Sustainability: A leader in eco-luxury hospitality and environmental stewardship.
Family & Pet Friendly: Programs for kids and special amenities for pets.

The Ultimate Maine Coastal Retreat

Inn by the Sea isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a destination that embodies the best of Maine’s coast. With its rich history, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to providing world-class hospitality, it stands as a premier choice for travelers seeking authentic Maine vacations.

Here, every sunrise over Crescent Beach feels like a new beginning. Every detail, from the thoughtful accommodations to the inspired cuisine, reflects a deep respect for the sea and the people who love it.

For couples, families, and solo travelers alike, Inn by the Sea offers more than a getaway. It offers connection to nature, to community, and to the quiet luxury of life lived by the ocean.

Plan Your Stay & Book Direct at Inn by the Sea

For reservations, special packages, or more information, visit innbythesea.com.

Inn By The Sea, 40 Bowery Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107 | 207-799-3134
Experience Inn by the Sea, Maine's award-winning seaside resort. Savor exquisite dining, relax at the spa, and wander the boardwalk to the Atlantic. Nearby adventures include fishing, whale watching, coastal walks, and hiking trails. Group Meetings, Weddings, and Events. Pet Friendly.
Visit Inn By The Sea - Cape Elizabeth, ME

There are many beautiful places to stay along Maine’s storied coast, but few achieve what Inn by the Sea has mastered: the ability to be both indulgent and grounded, both luxurious and sustainable. It is a place where the Atlantic is always within view, where every experience feels thoughtfully designed, and where the spirit of Maine is alive in every detail.

For travelers seeking more than a getaway, for those who crave connection as much as comfort, Inn by the Sea offers an invitation: Come closer to the sea. Come closer to yourself.