The Best Luxury Hotels to Book in Maine, USA

Youll be relaxing by the Kennebunk coast with a stay at White Barn Inn
You'll be relaxing by the Kennebunk coast with a stay at White Barn Inn | Courtesy of White Barn Inn / Expedia
Chloe Cann

Upscale inns with beach views and smart retreats serving local lobster make up our hit-list of hotspots in the scenic New England state of Maine. Book your stay at one of these Maine resorts and hotels with Culture Trip.

Long a playground for the country’s elite, the serene shores of Maine provide a summertime sanctuary to wearied souls. In more recent years, the New England state’s fall foliage has become another major attraction. Soak up the best the Pine Tree State has to offer at these expertly run inns and resorts in Maine – featuring stellar views and a whole host of experiences.

1. Cape Arundel Inn and Resort

Resort, Bed and Breakfast, Hotel

A large four-poster bed and comfortable armchairs in a room at the Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, Kennebunkport, Maine.
Courtesy of Cape Arundel Inn and Resort / Expedia

Overlooking the Atlantic on prestigious Ocean Avenue, Cape Arundel Inn and Resort is one of the best places to stay in Kennebunkport. This 19th-century mansion is the epitome of coastal chic. Some guest rooms and suites have bay windows and ocean views, while others feature fireplaces and balconies. Up the ante – and privacy – a touch more by booking the three-bedroom Ivy Cottage. The inn hosts live music outdoors in summer and has soft throws for lounging on the hotel porch come winter.

2. The Nonantum Resort

Resort, Hotel

A hotel room with a double bed and a single bed looks out at a fishing boat on the water at The Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport, Maine.
Courtesy of The Nonantum Resort / Expedia

With unobstructed views over the snaking Kennebunk River, the Nonantum Resort lives up to its Native American Algonquin name which translates to “blessing” – the view from some of the river-facing rooms and suites could easily pass for a watercolor painting. There’s a family focus at this upscale Maine resort, with plenty of activities to entertain big and little kids – from renting beach-cruiser bikes to playing lawn games and making fire pit s’mores.

3. Stage Neck Inn

Inn, Hotel

A sea-view room with private balcony includes twin beds and a contemporary fireplace at the Stage Neck Inn, York, Maine.
Courtesy of Stage Neck Inn / Expedia

In the thick of historic York Harbor, this upmarket property features simple yet sophisticated rooms that allow the ocean, harbor or beach views to shine. As one of the best hotels in Maine, the inn wins rave reviews for its setting and service as well as its restaurant, Shearwater, which serves ahi poke bowls and generous helpings of Maine lobster. Round out a decadent weekend of fine food, wine and sightseeing with a treatment at the day spa – where organic ingredients such as agave, cherry blossom, almond and honey butter are worked in.

4. White Barn Inn

Inn, Spa Hotel, Hotel

A contemporary four-poster bed in a room at the White Barn Inn And Spa, Kennebunk, Maine.
Courtesy of White Barn Inn / Expedia

Part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, this Kennebunk spot sweats the small stuff. Upon check-in, White Barn Inn staff will ask you when and how you prefer your morning coffee or tea, which will be delivered to your room along with freshly baked pastries each day. The attention to detail also extends to the design of your room, with picture windows framing the local woods and chic, contemporary hand-selected furniture adorning the space.

5. Hidden Pond Resort

Resort

The outdoor pool area at the Hidden Pond, Kennebunkport, with a bar area and luxurious sun loungers
Courtesy of Hidden Pond / Expedia

There’s not a dud cottage, bungalow or lodge among the accommodation offerings at Hidden Pond Resort, but one newer addition is a standout. The From Away Lodge by Todd Snyder is true New England chic, with a moody color palette and riot of natural materials. Beyond the farm-to-fork dining, pristine forested grounds, two pools and beautiful treetop spa, it’s the added extras – such as cookies and milk delivered on-demand – that really sets this Maine resort apart.

6. Cliff House Maine

Hotel, Luxury

The luxurious spa at Cliff House, Maine, with sea views
Courtesy of Cliff House Maine / Expedia

Every last detail has been considered at this beautiful Cape Neddick property. Beyond the contemporary yet homey design of the suites and guest rooms at this luxury hotel in Maine – which feature a simple, soothing palette of soft blues, greens and white – there’s a strong focus on the guest experience. Survey the curated art exhibit, which changes with each season, and dabble in a wide array of activities – from guided runs through the neighboring woods to bug-hunt trails for the kids.

7. The Press Hotel

Hotel

A rooftop patio with contemporary seating looks out over the town from The Press Hotel.
Courtesy of The Press Hotel / Expedia

Each room at this Portland hotel is smart and features fine-tuned details, but for the ultimate luxury getaway, book the penthouse suite. This seventh-floor showstopper has a private rooftop patio that overlooks the harbor and historical buildings scattered below – a rather special spot for sunset cocktails. The suite also features lofty ceilings, a rain-head shower and a large bathtub.

8. Inn by the Sea

Resort, Inn, Hotel

The Inn By The Sea, Cape Elizabeth, sits on a cliff with a lighthouse
Courtesy of Inn by the Sea / Expedia

A true find, this stylish beachfront hotel in Maine is just a 15-minute drive from Portland, yet it’s set on the fringes of a wildlife sanctuary and only a short walk from the soft sands of Crescent Beach. Splash out on one of the cove or beach suites, which offer oodles of indoor and outdoor space. The inn’s friendly team can even stock your suite fridge with house-made provisions – think alfredo sauce, blueberry-maple butter and farm-foraged eggs – ready and waiting for your arrival.

Looking for more accommodation options in Maine? Discover the best hotels in Maine for every traveler, bookable on Culture Trip. Our guides have you covered. Explore Old Orchard Beach’s top stays, or check out the best hotels in Kennebunkport. Whether you’re looking for romantic Maine retreats, the best hotels in Bar Harbor, or need a pet-friendly hotel for your family vacation, they’re all bookable on Culture Trip.

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