How to Plan Your Family Reunion to York Beach, Maine

Posted on May 1, 2022 by Mark Nosowicz

Over the last few years, many of us have relied on technology to connect and spend time with our family members. However, as summer approaches, many families consider planning a reunion to make up for lost time and create new memories. The only question remaining is where to host it.

The location of your reunion is an important part of a successful reunion. Ideally, the perfect spot has a wide variety of nearby activities, beautiful sights and offers comfortable accommodations. York Beach, Maine, has all these amenities, plus more! Here are some tips to ensure you get the most out of your family reunion in York Beach, Maine.

Plan Your Activities Ahead of Time

Looking at all York Beach, Maine, has to offer ahead of time is a great way to ensure your reunion runs smoothly. Rather than planning things the day of, setting up a basic schedule allows people to be informed and choose what they wish to participate in. Not everyone will want to do the same activities, and York Beach, Maine, has a wide array of activities near each other.

For example, Long Shore Beach offers a beautiful beach, quaint shops, and even some arcades! If half of the family wants to soak up some sun, and the other wants to get some souvenirs or play some games, it can all be done without worrying about coordinating rides or being far away.

Plan Out Transportation

What means the most is the quality time spent with loved ones. Your reunion shouldn’t be spent worrying about coordinating cabs to places, renting a car, or braving long walks. By planning out your transportation and understanding local public transportation, you can alleviate anxiety and be prepared. Choosing a location like Sands by the Sea, which has many walkable options in the area, can cut the hassle of planning transportation altogether!

Find Fun Lodging

Having a fun place to stay is a must! Of course, it’s lovely to go out and explore, but some days, it may be best to stay back and hang out together. Renting a cottage or suite allows the space to have group gatherings, so if some relaxing time at home is needed, just open up the connecting doors or invite people over for a game day! Also, while the ocean is a fun time for swimming and tanning alike, some people prefer a pool. By staying with us at Sands by the Sea, you can relax at a sparkling pool with a panoramic view of the ocean.

At Sands by the Sea, you can focus on what matters: family time. With a trolley stop right outside the motel, and quick access to beaches, food, and shopping, it’s a great choice that will make everyone happy. With a location that can’t be beaten and a wide variety of room choices, it’s been a destination for reunions and vacations alike for years. Give us a call at 207-363-2211 and allow us to assist you with booking your family reunion in beautiful York Beach, Maine!

4 Reasons to Have a Beach Wedding

Posted on January 20, 2022 by Mark Nosowicz

Bride and groom kissing on the beach during sunset.

Choosing the perfect place to say ‘I do’ to the love of your life can seem daunting. You want your special day to be an intimate affair, but your guests need to have an exciting time as well. A beach wedding covers all your bases. The natural beauty of the sparkling sea as the backdrop to your wedding vows and the romantic glow of the setting sun to close the evening could convince anyone to choose a beach wedding destination.

Here are four reasons to have a beach wedding this upcoming summer.

1) A Bigger Guest List

A common issue with wedding planning is figuring out the guest list—who makes the cut and who must miss out. With a beach wedding, you are not committed to indoor seating limitations. With the pandemic still in full swing, there is plenty of space by the shore for guests to spread out and enjoy your special day safely.

2) Amazing Wedding Pictures

With a beach venue, you’ll get to enjoy gorgeous views, and your wedding photos and videos are bound to be stunning. Pictures taken during golden hour and sunset are always a hit, and the wide-open sky will enhance the amazing lighting.

3) Destination Wedding

If you’re not lucky enough to live by the sea, making your wedding a destination vacation for your friends and family is an amazing idea. You do not have to travel to a tropical paradise or leave the country to get a perfect beach wedding location. Maine is a wonderful place to plan your wedding and has hundreds of beaches for you to choose from.

4) Honeymoon Included

If you pick a beach destination for your wedding, there is no need to book an added extravagant honeymoon. A place like Sands by the Sea has the perfect seaside accommodations for you and your wedding guests. The York Beach area has endless activities and events for you and your partner to enjoy.

If you are currently planning a summer wedding for 2022, the enchanting allure of the Maine coastline and its many beaches is the perfect destination for you. Call (207)363-2211 to start planning your beach wedding in Maine!

3 Fun Places to Explore While Vacationing in Maine

Posted on December 20, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

Jordan Pond and View of the Bubbles in Acadia National Park

Should you be planning a trip to Maine in the near future and are looking for fun places to explore with your family or friends, there are a wide range of attractions and natural wonders to choose from.

Whether you want to get out into nature, explore quaint and historic towns or visit beautiful lighthouses, there is really something for everyone in Maine.

Acadia National Park

Known simply as the ‘National Treasure of Maine’, Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful and majestic places in the United States and is something everyone should take in at least once in their life.

Whether you love nature and want to get out on a hiking trail, or you want to take in the incredible views from one of the several visitor areas along Park Loop Road, you’ll be amazed by the incredible sites and wildlife in the park.

There are over 100 miles of hiking trails in the park, including the popular Cadillac Mountain, which has an elevation of 1,530-feet at its summit (the highest point in the park).

Kennebunkport

A well-known town along the coast of Maine, Kennebunkport is one of the most popular summer destinations in the state and will regularly see some of the Nation’s most influential people taking a rest from their fast-paced lives.

The town is home to several beautiful bed-and-breakfasts, delicious restaurants, historic homes and quaint streets with unique shops, studios, boutiques and more.

While in the area, be sure to check out the fishing village of Cape Porpoise, which is just two miles to the east. It has more shops, galleries and even active lobster boats to explore!

Nubble Lighthouse

Located just a few hundred feet from York Beach, ME, Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick Light) is one of the most photographed and well-known lighthouses in the United States.

The lighthouse itself is located on the large rock island of Cape Neddick, and in late November, is adorned with holiday lights that will truly take your breath away.

If your upcoming trip finds you in York Beach, we ask that you call on us at Sands by the Sea for a beautiful and accommodating waterfront motel, suite or cottage.

Located on the waters of York Beach, we proudly offer a wide selection of motel rooms with comfortable king beds and sofas, suites with full kitchen areas and balconies, cottages with living areas and laundry and more.

Whatever your needs may be, we will have the perfect accommodations to make your Maine vacation something you’ll remember fondly for years to come. Give us a call today at (207) 363-2211 to book your stay.

Lobster Dishes to Try While in Maine

Posted on December 1, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

No trip to Maine would be complete without trying a fresh lobster dish that the State is famous for.

Whether you’re looking for more traditional lobster dishes like boiled lobster or a Maine lobster roll, or you’re a bit more adventurous and want to try a lobster grilled cheese, there is really something for every seafood lover.

When you are planning a visit to Maine in the near future, make sure to give one of these delectable lobster dishes a try.

Boiled Lobster

If you’re interested in a more straightforward lobster dish, consider a world-famous boiled lobster dinner.

Maine lobsters are boiled the “old fashioned way” in a lobster pound and provide the fresh taste that even the pickiest of lobster fans will love.

Fox’s Lobster House in York, ME is one of the more popular spots for boiled lobster and offers these boiled options in 1-1/8 pound, 1-1/4 pound and 1-1/2-pound.

Maine Lobster Rolls

Lobster rolls are another seafood staple in Maine, and this distinctive roll provides the rich and unique taste you’ve heard so much about on your favorite Food Network shows.

A blend of fresh-caught lobster meat and a touch of mayonnaise, Maine lobster rolls pack a punch that your taste buds will love.

These lobster rolls are typically seasoned and garnished with romaine to add even greater flavor.

York Harbor Inn in York, ME is one of the more popular restaurants serving lobster rolls, with their signature roll being served on a delicious grilled brioche roll.

Lobster Grilled Cheese

While the afore mentioned lobster dishes have been a staple at seafood restaurants for generations, there are a few newer dishes giving them a run for their money. One such dish is lobster grilled cheese.

Lobster grilled cheese is the perfect choice for seafood and cheese lovers and perfectly blends these two items for a rich taste you won’t be able to get enough of.

While grilled cheese is already great on its own, the bar gets raised when you add in this seafood favorite.

If you’re looking for a fresh and delicious lobster grilled cheese, consider Footbridge Lobster in Ogunquit, ME. It offers a grilled cheese with 5oz of lobster meat that needs to be tried to be believed.

If you’re planning a trip to Southern Maine in the coming months and are spending a few days in York Beach, we invite you to stay with us at Sands by the Sea motel.

Our motel and vacation suite is less than 15 minutes from each of these seafood hot spots and offers comfortable amenities, exceptional service and incredible oceanfront views.

To book your stay with us, we invite you to call today at (207) 363-2211.

Fun Winter Activities Near York Beach, ME

Posted on November 15, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

If you’re planning a trip to Maine this winter to take in the incredible nature and many attractions, consider spending a few days in York Beach, ME.

York Beach and neighboring York are home to natural wonders, exciting outdoor activities and some of the best restaurants and breweries in the state, making it the ideal location to hang out during the snowier time of the year.

No matter if you’re interested in snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling, ice skating or anything in between, make the smart decision by booking a stay in York Beach.

Skiing, Snowshoeing & More at Mount Agamenticus

If you’re a bit more on the adventurous side, we suggest spending a day at Mount Agamenticus after a fresh snow fall.

Whether you enjoy skiing, snow shoeing, hiking or snowmobiling, Mount Agamenticus offers several exciting trails for these thrilling adventures.

Should these activities sound a little too intense for your party, you can always drive to the summit of the mountain to take in incredible views of the ocean, nearby hills, reservoirs and mountains.

Ice Skating at Mackey Skate Park

Located in York, Mackey Skate Park is home to two ice skating rinks that make for the perfect midday activity during your stay.

The rinks are open throughout the winter (weather permitting) and are completely free to the public.

The smaller rink is perfect for your little ones to play around on, while the bigger rink will typically have a few pickup hockey games going on throughout the day.

A fire pit is located in between the rinks as well when you need to warm up a bit.

Relaxing at York Beach Beer Company

Speaking of warming up, there’s no better way to do so in York Beach then by having a meal at York Beach Beer Company. The brewery is located in an old brick post office that has been renovated into a state-of-the-art facility.

Whether you enjoy a hoppy IPA or something on the lighter side, York Beach Beer CO has something for all beer enthusiasts. Be sure to come hungry, as The York Beach Bucket delivers pizza to those looking for a snack while sipping on their favorite new beer.

When you’re planning a winter trip to Maine and are thinking of staying in York Beach, we ask that you think of us at Sands by the Sea.

Our luxurious motel and vacation suite is just a short distance from each of these attractions and offers spacious rooms, comfortable amenities, exceptional service and incredible oceanfront views.

To book your wintertime stay, we invite you to call today at 207-363-2211.

Fun Fall Activities When Visiting York Beach, ME

Posted on October 12, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

If you’re traveling to York Beach, ME this fall and are looking for fun fall activities that the whole family will enjoy, there will be no shortage of options to choose from.

From the annual York Harvestfest at Short Sands Beach to the Lighting of the Pumpkins in Old York, visiting the Museum of Old York and more, you’ll be sure to have a great time enjoying a variety of seasonal activities with your family.

There’s nothing quite like a fall trip to Maine, so make sure to book your trip today to enjoy these exciting activities and more.

York Harvestfest

The 36th Annual York Harvestfest is upon us and will be held at Short Sands Beach on Saturday October 16 from 9:00am to 4:00pm.

This is a free festival that features live music, local food vendors, old-fashioned market vendors and more. There is also an accompanying Kidsfest that will have storytelling, interactive activities, face painting and more.

These events will go on rain or shine. For more information, be sure to visit the York Region Chamber of Commerce site.

Lighting of the Pumpkins

If you’re planning on traveling to York Beach this Halloween, you won’t want to miss the Lighting of the Pumpkins and Trick-or-Treat being held on Saturday, October 30 at the Old York Museum Center.

This is a free event running from 3:30pm to 6:00pm where you will experience Halloween in 18^th-century style. Trick-or-treating will be taking place in several of Old York’s historic buildings where ghosts of Halloweens past will hand out candy to those who dare.

The Lighting of the Pumpkins will take place at the Old Burying Ground in York Village at 5:00pm. Children are encouraged to bring a pumpkin to the burying ground where they will be lit to create a spooky illumination.

For further information, make sure to check the Old York Historical Society site.

Museums of Old York

As mentioned above, Old York is home to several historical buildings. If you wish to explore these while you’re in town they are well worth the time.

There are both guided and self-guided tours available for these buildings that include the Remick Barn Visitors Center, Jefferds’ Tavern, the 1719 Old Gaol (jail), the 18th century Emerson-Wilcox House, the deconstructed Ramsdell House, the Colonial Revival Elizabeth Perkins House and gardens, the Old School House, the John Hancock Warehouse, as well as an art gallery and genealogy library.

Who knows, you may even see the friendly white lady, who has been known to “visit” the museum this time of year.

If you’re planning a trip to York Beach, ME this fall and are looking for a spacious and affordable motel along the waterfront, we ask that you choose us at Sands by the Sea.

Offering over 60 spacious rooms, as well as suites, luxury suites and vacation cottages, we have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Call us today at 207-363-2211 to learn more.

What to Look for When Choosing Waterfront Lodging

Posted on October 5, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

No matter what time of year you’re planning a seaside vacation, you’ll want to make sure you have the very best accommodations.

Although you’ll most likely be exploring the area’s local attractions for the majority of your trip, it’s still important to have a comfortable space to come back to at the end of the day.

With so many waterfront accommodations to choose from, it’s important to do your research to make sure the motel, suite, cottage or other beachfront lodging meets your needs. When you do your homework, you’ll be sure to find a space your entire party will love.

Comfortable accommodations

Since you’ll probably be spending most of your day on your feet or in the water, it’s essential that you have comfortable lodging to relax in at the end of the day.

Make sure there are rooms available with the proper bedding or sofas for a relaxing stay. Also, check to see if the room has air conditioning or heating, depending on the time of year. When you come to the close of a long day and want to rest, you’ll be glad you did your research.

Spacious kitchen area

Whether you enjoy cooking up breakfast on vacation, want to make a late-night snack or anything in between, it’s a great idea to choose accommodations with a full kitchen area.

You’ll have the advantage of being able to cook up meals on a stove top or oven, can keep all your favorite beverages in the fridge, can dine at a with your family at a table, island or bar area and more.

Many waterfront accommodations will even come with a dishwasher for easy clean up.

View of the water

One of the reasons you’ve chosen a seaside vacation is for the spectacular views, so it’s important that you choose a room that offers a space to sit and take everything in.

Be sure to do your research to find a room with a balcony where you can sit comfortably and enjoy incredible views with a cup of coffee in the morning or when the sun sets at night.

When you’re ready to book a waterfront motel, suite or cottage in York Beach, ME, we ask that you give us a call at Sands by the Sea.

We proudly offer a wide selection of motel rooms with comfortable king beds and sofas, suites with full kitchen areas, balconies and sky decks, cottages with living areas and laundry and more.

Whatever your needs may be, we will have the perfect accommodations to make your seaside trip something you’ll remember fondly for years to come.

Hiking Trails to Explore This Fall in Southern Maine

Posted on September 17, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

If you’re taking a trip to Southern Maine this fall, you’ll be fortunate to see some of the most beautiful scenery in the entire country.

Whether it be the many colorful leaves in the area, the grand lighthouses or the many hiking trails, you’ll be sure to take in several sites that are well worth the trip.

If you enjoy getting out into nature and want to get the most out of your fall vacation, consider exploring these three hiking trails that you’ll be sure to remember for years to come.

Turtle Loop at Mount Agamenticus

The Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region spans 10,000 acres and has over 7 miles of hiking trails for nature lovers. Of the several trails to explore in the region, Turtle Loop is widely considered the one you can’t miss.

A 2.2-mile moderate trail, you’ll be able to take in several scenic views on the loop, including one from the summit of Mount Agamenticus.

Mount Agamenticus may not be the biggest mountain, but its summit offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of coastal York that is only enhanced during the fall season. The loop is great for hikers of any experience level and will be an ideal place to take your family.

Highland Farm Preserve

Another popular trail in Southern Maine is Highland Farm Preserve. A 1.5-mile loop, the preserve offers incredible views of the York River, wildlife habitats and beautiful trees that show their best colors in the fall months.

If you’re a history or Halloween lover, this trail is for you as it features a century old cemetery, as well as a cellar hole that you’re free to explore.

Fisherman’s Walk

Fisherman’s Walk is another scenic trail that offers incredible views of the York River. The trail is known for running into the Wiggly Bridge which leads you into Steedman Woods. As the name of the bridge indicates, it is a wiggly suspension bridge that kids have a great time walking across!

This is an out and back trail that totals 1.7 miles in length and can be hiked by nearly anyone. Many people will bring along their dogs, and even younger children, as you can push strollers along this trail.

When you’re planning a trip to Southern Maine this fall and are thinking of staying in York Beach, we ask that you consider us at Sands by the Sea motel.

Our luxurious motel and vacation suite is less than 20 minutes from each of these trails and offers spacious rooms, comfortable amenities, exceptional service and incredible oceanfront views.

To book your stay, we invite you to call today at 207-363-2211.

York Beach, ME: The Ideal Golfing Destination

Posted on September 1, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

Finding the right destination for an upcoming golfing trip is always a challenge. You need to find a place that not only has beautiful golf courses, but a place that everyone will enjoy spending time in.

York Beach, ME is the perfect destination as it has several state-of-the-art golf courses within a short drive, while also offering some of the best seafood, breweries and accommodations in the state.

When booking your next golfing trip with your friends or family, be sure to think of York Beach, ME for an unforgettable time both on and off the links.

Beautiful golf courses nearby

Maine has long been considered one of the best states for golfing in the country, being home to some of the most beautiful and unique courses you’ll ever see.

York Beach is situated in an ideal location as The Ledges Golf Club, Cape Neddick Country Club and the private York Golf And Tennis Club are within just a few minutes’ drive.

A 20-30 minute drive from the village will get you to other public courses that include Pease Golf Course, Old Marsh Country Club and more.

Delicious seafood restaurants, breweries

When traveling to Maine for a golfing excursion, you’ll have no choice but to try the fresh and delicious seafood the state has to offer.

York Beach has several mouth-watering seafood restaurants that you really can’t go wrong with that include Fox’s Lobster House, Lobster Cove, Fishermen’s Dock and more.

If your party is looking for a space to have a few drinks before or after your meal, be sure to check out York Beach Beer Company as well.

Exceptional waterfront accommodations

No golfing trip is complete without having a great place for your party to stay.

If you’ve made the decision to book a golfing trip in York Beach, there are several affordable and accommodating options along the waterfront, including Sands by the Sea.

Sands by the Sea offers over 60 spacious rooms, as well as suites, luxury suites and vacation cottages to meet the needs of any party.

When you’re looking for a relaxing, centrally located place to stay after a long day on the golf course, we ask that you give our experienced team a call today at 207-363-2211 to book your stay!

Visit These Breathtaking Lighthouses While in York Beach, ME

Posted on August 17, 2021 by Mark Nosowicz

When planning a trip to York Beach, ME, you’ll want to make sure you see everything it has to offer.

Whether you enjoy relaxing at the beach, having delicious seafood dinners or taking in the natural beauty of the area, your trip will not be complete without checking out the two spectacular lighthouses nearby.

York Beach is home to the scenic Cape Neddick (Nubble) Light and is just a stone’s throw away from the Boon Island Light, just a few miles off the coast.

These two lighthouses have a rich history and are breathtaking to take in. Make your York Beach, ME vacation complete by viewing both during your visit!

Nubble Lighthouse

The Cape Neddick Light, better known as the Nubble Light, is a lighthouse located on the large rock island of Cape Neddick, just a few hundred feet from York Beach.

This lighthouse is one of the most popular in the state and is truly a sight to behold from both water and land. Being surrounded by rocky coastline and featuring a distinctive white color, this islet is considered the most photographed lighthouse in the United States.

Interestingly, the Voyager spacecraft, which holds photographs of Earth’s most spectacular man-made structures in the event of contact with other life forms, includes a photo of Nubble Light, along with images of the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal.

This lighthouse is still in operation today and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic. A nearby parking lot is open year-round that offers visitors incredible views for photographs or a space to simply relax.

Boon Island Lighthouse

Boon Island Light is a bit more remote than Nubble but is well worth the extra effort to see it. This lighthouse can be accessed by boat and is about 6 miles from the coast of York Beach. It is the tallest lighthouse in both Maine and New England at 133 feet and has a range of light of 19 miles.

Tours are regularly available to the island and offer breathtaking views of this glorious lighthouse along with birds and seals that enjoy the shallow waters around it.

If you’re planning a trip to York Beach, ME in the near future to take in spectacular lighthouses and other local attractions, we ask that you think of us for your lodging needs at Sands by the Sea.

We are a motel and vacation suite located along the York Beach waterfront. We offer spacious rooms, comfortable amenities, exceptional service and incredible oceanfront views that will guarantee you’ll have a vacation you won’t soon forget.

Sit back and relax after a day of the town at Sands by the Sea. Give us a call today at 207-363-2211 to book your stay.