York Maine Vacation

Where to Stay, What to Do, and Most Importantly—Where to Eat

York, Maine—our old home. We miss living here so much. It really is the way life should be.
Located in Southern Maine, York might not be considered “real Maine” by some of the true Mainers we’ve met—but to us, and most visitors, it’s the perfect spot for a Maine vacation.

Where to Stay

York and the surrounding towns have some great hotel options. Since we lived in the area, our experience with hotels is somewhat limited, but we’ve managed to try a few!

York Surf Beach Club
We were lucky enough to stay here one year. It has a great vibe and is basically right on the beach, located at the rockier southern end of Long Sands.

Pool area at the York Surf Club with views of the ocean and Nubble

Stage Neck Inn
This inn has a fantastic location on Harbor Beach, complete with a private beachside pool (private as in, guests only!). Harbor Beach has my heart—it's my personal favorite for families. The waves are generally calm, and the tidepooling is fantastic for little (or big) explorers.

The Union Bluff Hotel
Situated near Short Sands Beach—another great family-friendly beach.

Cliff House Maine
This is the place we really want to stay someday. If it’s in your budget, go for it—and please let us know how it is! Cliff House is technically in Cape Neddick, between York and Ogunquit. The resort sits on Bald Head Cliff and offers restaurants, multiple pools (including one with amazing ocean views), and total luxury. The only danger? You might never want to leave. Worth the risk, we say.

Winter time at the Cliff House the pools and fire pit are still open and magical

What to Do

Whether you're a go-go-go type or a take-it-slow family, York offers the perfect mix of action and relaxation.

Beaches

Harbor Beach
The one downside: there’s no public parking unless you're a resident (lucky you if you have that sticker!). If you're staying at Stage Neck Inn, you're just steps away from this peaceful little beach.

Harbor Beach my personal favorite

Long Sands Beach
Like the name suggests it is long and, it stretches about 1.5 miles from its rockier south side to its north end, near Nubble Light. Be mindful of the tides—at high tide, there’s not much beach left! But when the tide is low, the packed sand is perfect for beach games and long walks. It's also a popular spot for surfers, especially beginners. Surf conditions are usually gentle, and Liquid Dreams (a local surf shop) offers lessons, camps, and rentals. They're super helpful and knowledgeable.

Views of Nubble Lighthouse from Long Sands

Short Sands Beach
Smaller than Long Sands, but with softer sand and more beach at high tide. There’s a great playground for kids and the vintage Fun-O-Rama arcade—perfect for a sunny-day break. This beach is also home to the iconic Goldenrod, famous for its saltwater taffy. (Even if you’re not a candy person, trust me—this taffy is soft, fresh, and fun to watch being made!)

Where to Eat

Now for the good stuff—food!

Bagel Basket
Our go-to for breakfast or beach sandwiches. They also make an amazing iced chai. Grab a seat outside or take your bagel to go.

Anthony’s Food Shop
Located on Route 1. Don’t miss their sandwiches, pizza, and more—great for a quick, satisfying meal.

Fat Tomato
Right in York Village, this is one of our favorite sandwich spots.

York River Landing
A sit-down spot that’s great for the whole family, located on the southern side of Route 1 in York.

Worth the Short Drive: Kittery

When Pigs Fly – Amazing wood-fired pizza.
Bob’s Clam Hut – Classic seafood shack.
Lil’s Café – Go for the crullers, stay for everything else.

More Things to Do

Can’t go to the beach every day? No problem—there’s plenty more to explore.

Mount Agamenticus (Mt. A)
Check out our podcast episode on it! This is a great hike for all ages and abilities. The trails are well-marked, and you’ll find several routes to the top—or simply walk around the base. On a clear day, you can see Mt. Washington and the coastline up to Kennebunk. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and bathrooms (or port-o-potties) are typically available.

Wiggly Bridge & Steedman Woods
Parking is limited, mostly for residents, so plan ahead. This charming little hike takes you over the world’s smallest suspension bridge—and yes, it does wiggle! Once across, you can enjoy a peaceful walk through Steedman Woods with views of the York River. Be sure to stay on the trail—signs ask visitors to protect the delicate shoreline. No bathrooms here, and dogs must be leashed.

Fisherman’s Walk
If you're staying at Stage Neck Inn, this path runs along the York River and connects to Wiggly Bridge. It’s a gorgeous walk and very peaceful.

Golfing
We have a podcast episode where Mike shares his experience golfing in the area. (I don’t golf, so I’ll let him take that one!)

Final Thoughts

York, Maine is the ultimate summer destination, in my opinion. But it’s also a beautiful place to visit year-round. A peaceful winter walk on Long Sands or a cozy drink at the Ship’s Cellar Pub at York Harbor Inn—pure magic.

York is under an hour from Portland, just two towns away from Portsmouth, NH, and about an hour from Boston. Close to everything, but it feels a world away.

Time to start planning your Maine getaway!