Seaside Serenity: Inn By The Sea, Cape Elizabeth, Maine – a review
Immerse yourself in the picturesque charm of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, at the serene and welcoming retreat of Inn By The Sea. Nestled along the stunning coastline, this hidden gem offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature’s beauty.
From the moment you set foot on the property, you’ll be enveloped in a sense of tranquility and relaxation, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its cozy accommodations, upscale amenities, and breathtaking ocean views, Inn By The Sea promises a stay filled with comfort and rejuvenation.
Inn By The Sea
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, this coastal haven caters to all, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every guest. Join us as we delve into a detailed review of our recent three night visit to this seaside sanctuary, highlighting the reasons why Inn By The Sea is a must-visit destination in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
Location and surroundings
Nestled on the pristine coastline of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, Inn By The Sea boasts an enviable location that perfectly captures the essence of coastal living. The inn is situated just minutes away from the vibrant city of Portland, offering guests the perfect blend of seclusion and accessibility. Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the property is bordered by sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, and lush landscapes that create a serene backdrop for relaxation. The proximity to scenic parks and protected natural areas enhances the sense of escape, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility alike.
Portland Head Lighthouse
From the moment you arrive, the surroundings invite you to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Maine coast. The gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore and the salty sea breeze instantly transport you to a world of calm. Nearby, you can explore the stunning Portland Head Lighthouse, a historic landmark that stands tall against the rugged cliffs, offering a glimpse into the area’s maritime history. The surrounding area is rich in natural beauty, featuring picturesque trails, sandy beaches, and opportunities for wildlife observation, ensuring that guests can easily connect with nature during their stay.
In addition to the natural attractions, the inn enjoys close proximity to local cultural gems and charming communities. A short drive will take you to the vibrant arts scene in Portland, where you can explore galleries, boutiques, and artisanal shops. The culinary landscape is also a highlight, with numerous acclaimed restaurants nearby that showcase the best of Maine’s seafood and farm-to-table offerings. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or venture into town, the location of Inn By The Sea provides a perfect balance of serenity and adventure, making it a unique coastal retreat.
Clam Chowder at Even Tide Portland
Accommodation options and amenities
Inn By The Sea offers a range of accommodation options designed to cater to the diverse needs of its guests. From spacious suites to cozy villas, each lodging choice is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and relaxation. Many of the accommodations feature stunning ocean views, allowing guests to wake up to the soothing sounds of the sea and the sight of the sun rising over the horizon. The interiors are elegantly decorated with coastal themes, featuring soft colors and natural materials that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Our Fireplace Suite, Inn By the Sea
Accommodations
The amenities at Inn By The Sea further enhance the guest experience, ensuring that every stay is filled with comfort and convenience. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences, including complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, and plush bedding that promises a restful night’s sleep. Many accommodations also feature fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, allowing guests to prepare their own meals if desired. Additionally, the inn provides easy access to outdoor spaces, including private patios or balconies, where you can relax with a book or enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking views.
Let Live Well, Travel Often book your stay at Inn By the Sea with added perks like daily breakfast, resort credits, and room upgrades!
The largest of the suites are ocean front with two bedrooms and two baths. They feature a full kitchen and a large dining area that can accommodate 10 people. The fireplace in the sitting area is see through so you can enjoy the fire indoors and still see the ocean! Or you can enjoy the fire outside on your oversized patio.
Beach Suite Dining Room
Half of the main part of the inn is also pet friendly if that is something that you need for your vacation – and we mean friendly – with options of personalized dog beds, a gourmet pet menu and house made treats.
We opted for the two bedroom one bath cove suite that had a small kitchenette and a cozy fireplace. While we didn’t have a direct view of the ocean from our room, if we sat outside in the warmer months on the patio we would be able to see and hear the ocean.
Amenities
Beyond the rooms, Inn By The Sea offers a host of shared amenities designed to make your stay as enjoyable as possible. Guests can take advantage of the heated outdoor pool, perfect for a refreshing dip on warm summer days. The onsite spa provides a range of rejuvenating treatments, from massages to facials, ensuring that guests can indulge in self-care during their stay. For those looking to stay active, the property offers fitness facilities and easy access to beach activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and biking, allowing guests to fully embrace the coastal lifestyle. For the winter months they do have snow shoes you can borrow to explore the protected area between the hotel and the beach.
Snow Shoeing to Crescent Beach
Dining experiences
Dining at Inn By The Sea is a delightful experience that showcases the flavors of coastal Maine. The onsite restaurant, Sea Glass, captivates guests with its menu inspired by the freshest local ingredients, emphasizing seasonal produce and sustainably sourced seafood. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner, every meal is prepared with care and creativity, ensuring that guests savor the essence of the region. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere, complemented by stunning ocean views, creates the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience.
Sea Glass Restaurant
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, featuring classic favorites alongside innovative dishes that highlight Maine’s culinary traditions. From fresh pastries to locally sourced eggs and seafood, the breakfast menu caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. For lunch and dinner, the menu evolves with the seasons, providing guests with an array of options that celebrate the best of Maine’s bounty. Signature dishes often include fresh lobster, local fish, and farm-fresh vegetables, all artfully presented and bursting with flavor.
Lobster Benedict for Breakfast at Sea Glass
For those that have pets or want a more casual dining experience the small bar offers all day dining as well as signature cocktails.
Casual Dining and Bar
In addition to the superb dining options at the inn, guests have the opportunity to explore the vibrant culinary scene in Cape Elizabeth and nearby Portland. The area is renowned for its seafood, and visitors can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from casual lobster shacks to upscale restaurants. Sample the region’s famous lobster rolls, fresh oysters, and artisanal offerings in the many eateries that dot the coast. Whether you choose to dine at the inn or venture into town, the culinary experiences available during your stay are sure to delight your palate and enhance your coastal getaway.
Activities and attractions nearby
The location of Inn By The Sea provides easy access to a myriad of activities and attractions that make your stay in Cape Elizabeth truly unforgettable. The property itself is just steps away from beautiful beaches, where guests can spend their days lounging in the sun, building sandcastles, or exploring tidal pools. For the more adventurous, the area offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and even stand-up paddleboarding, allowing you to experience the stunning coastline from the water. The nearby Crescent Beach State Park is a must-visit, featuring miles of sandy shoreline and scenic trails perfect for walking or jogging.
For those interested in exploring the natural beauty of the region, Cape Elizabeth is home to several picturesque parks and conservation areas. Fort Williams Park is a popular destination, featuring the iconic Portland Head Light lighthouse and scenic walking trails that wind along the cliffs overlooking the ocean. The park is a great spot for a picnic or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the coastline. Additionally, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems of coastal Maine.
Cultural attractions are also abundant in the vicinity, with the vibrant city of Portland just a short drive away. Explore the historic Old Port district, known for its cobblestone streets, charming shops, and bustling waterfront. Visit local art galleries, attend live music events, or indulge in craft beer tastings at the many breweries in the area. With so much to see and do, Inn By The Sea serves as the perfect home base for discovering the rich culture and natural beauty of Cape Elizabeth and its surroundings.
Sustainability initiatives at Inn By The Sea
At Inn By The Sea, sustainability is more than just a buzzword; it is a core value that shapes the inn’s operations and guest experience. The management is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the Maine coastline and minimizing the environmental impact of their operations. The inn employs a variety of eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and a commitment to using sustainable materials throughout the property. Additionally they offer 7 complimentary charging stations for electric cars. They have a variety of connectors to suit a variety of EV needs. These efforts ensure that guests can enjoy their stay while also contributing to the preservation of the environment.
Beyond Green Sustainable Hotels
The inn also places a strong emphasis on sourcing local and organic ingredients for its dining offerings. By partnering with local farmers and fishermen, Inn By The Sea is able to provide guests with fresh, seasonal menus that reflect the flavors of Maine while supporting the local economy. This commitment to sustainability extends to the spa as well, where eco-friendly products are used in treatments, allowing guests to indulge in self-care without compromising their values.
In addition to its internal initiatives, Inn By The Sea actively engages with the local community to promote environmental stewardship. The inn participates in beach clean-up events, conservation efforts, and educational programs that raise awareness about the importance of protecting natural resources. Guests are encouraged to take part in these initiatives, creating a deeper connection to the beautiful surroundings and fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment. By choosing to stay at Inn By The Sea, you are not only treating yourself to a luxurious getaway but also supporting a property that prioritizes sustainability and the well-being of the planet.
How to book your stay at Inn By The Sea
Booking your stay at Inn By The Sea is a straightforward process designed to ensure that your coastal retreat begins with ease and convenience. You can explore my website for Inn By The Sea. Or give me a call and we can go over the availability and the accommodation options that best suit your needs. I can assist you with any questions or special requests you may have and tailor your experience so it meets your needs.
By booking your stay with me I can offer you all the Virtuoso amenities the property offers such as room upgrades, $90 a day breakfast credit, $100 resort credit and more.
As your arrival date approaches, I can provide you with helpful information about local attractions, dining options, and activities, ensuring you are well-prepared for your visit. I also discovered that the Inn by the Sea is a member of the Portland Art Museum, so if you tell the front desk when you are planning on visiting they will call ahead and you can attend for free!
With its stunning coastal location, luxurious accommodations, and commitment to guest satisfaction, Inn By The Sea is ready to welcome you to the beautiful shores of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, where your seaside serenity awaits.
Author
Travel Advisor
Suzanne Poirier
