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.

Planning Your Family Vacation

Posted on January 20, 2020 by Tate

A family vacation is a great way to reconnect with your loved ones while having fun exploring a new place. There are also other benefits that help children with growth and development. A recent study conducted by the U.S. Travel Association reports students who traveled were more likely to be academically and financially successful.

Here are a few tips for planning your family vacation:

Set an itinerary

Although you may not have figured out your travel location, it is a good idea to decide what exactly you want to do on your vacation. Are you an adventurous family that enjoys outdoor activities, or more laid back? Start by writing down a few items you would like to so like hiking, fishing, sightseeing, etc.

Save Money

Planning a vacation is not cheap, and the more family members you have, the more it will cost. If you want to book a trip for the spring/summertime, now is the best time to start putting money aside. Figure out how much your estimated expenses are and then begin setting aside a portion of that on a weekly basis.

Decide Location

It can be tough to narrow down a location, but if you are looking for adventure or relaxation, there is no better place than York Beach, Maine. As one of the oldest towns in the United States, it offers a cozy atmosphere with exquisite restaurants, family fun amusements, and awe-inspiring scenery. Check out these must-see locations.

Book Accommodations

Once you have a substantial amount of money, you can book your plane tickets/ stay accommodations. Booking in advance can help you save money by getting a lower rate.

When planning a visit to York Beach, Maine, be sure to book a room at the Sands by the Sea Motel. Located on one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in southern Maine, it is the perfect place to begin and end your day! Call 207-363-2211 or contact us online today!

Fishing in Maine

Posted on November 27, 2019 by Tate

Fishing is a great sport and leisure activity that helps to improve your physical and mental wellbeing. No matter your experience level; advanced or beginner, it is important to be sure you have the proper tools before heading out for a fishing trip.

Maine is plentiful of rivers and streams that house a variety of fish which include rainbow trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth/ largemouth bass and many more types of fish. If you are heading out for a fishing trip in Maine, be sure to pack all the essentials so you can make the most of your expedition!

Here are the necessary tools to bring:

Tackle Box– Every experienced angler has a tackle box filled with all the supplies they will need for a successful fishing trip. As you gain experience you will learn what works best for you. This is also a great place to store your first aid kit Here are some essentials you should include in your tackle box:

Pliers
Sunblock
Bobbers
Safety goggles
Flashlight
Line clippers
Hand towels
Insect repellant
Hooks
Line

First Aid Kit– Your safety is the most important aspect of a successful fishing trip besides catching the fish! There are many different sharp objects that you will need to use during the trip.

Fishing line & line cutter– Typically, fishing line will come with your fishing reel, but you should always pack extras. Fishing line is extremely strong so you will need to bring a sharp knife or nail clipper to cut the line. Nail clippers are easy to use and much safer than a knife, especially if you are a beginner angler.

Bait– Worms are the most common bai used but ants, beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars can also be used as bait. In addition to live bait experienced anglers use lures to draw in fish. Lures are brightly colored plastic worms or fish placed on the end of the hook and typically used once you run out of living bait.

Here are a few places to fish in Maine:

Located on the coastline of southern Maine, Sands By The Sea Motel has been welcoming guests since 1961. After a long day of fishing, relax on our deck and enjoy the oceanfront view. Check out our rates to book your reservations for the Spring/Fall season!

Interesting Facts About Maine

Posted on November 22, 2019 by Tate

portland, maine, usa at portland head light.

Here at Sands By The Sea Motel, we take pride in being a locally owned and operated business. We love to share our knowledge with our guests about the history, local restaurants, and other exciting locations.

Nicknamed, The Pine Tree State, this land is well-known for its plethora of trees among other things.

Here are a few interesting facts about Maine:

The official state animal of Maine is the moose. The state is home to approximately 76,000 moose, the highest moose population in the lower 48 states.
The official state insect of Maine is the honeybee. The state has a rich beekeeping culture and even has a non-profit organization, the Maine Beekeepers Association, which was founded in 1976 to promote understanding of the insect’s importance.
Maine is the single largest producer of blueberries in the United States.
90% of the country’s lobster supply comes from Maine. Before they became the delicacy, they are today, lobsters were fed to inmates and indentured servants, or ground up and used as fertilizer, during the colonial era.
Portland, Oregon is named after Portland, Maine. Founded by Francis Pettygrove
Maine is the only state that shares its borders with only one other US state. That state is New Hampshire.

Acadia National Park’s Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the East Coast.
Maine has its own desert, which spans 40 acres outside the town of Freeport. The desert originally developed as a result of over-farming in the area.
The Maine Coon Cat, which is the official state cat of Maine, is the largest domestic cat breed
Maine is known as “The Birthplace of Prohibition.” The state was the first to ban the sale and manufacture of alcohol in 1851.
Donut holes were invented in Maine. Capt. Hansen Gregory, from Rockport, Maine came up with the hole in the donut after realizing the center of the pastry was not fully cooked in the middle.

Planning a trip to The Pine Tree State? Book your accommodations with Sands By The Sea Motel! Our locally owned and operated motel is the perfect location to begin your journey through Maine. Check rates & accommodations here

Best Places to Take Instagram Photos in Maine

Posted on October 1, 2019 by Tate

Best Places to Take Instagram Photos in Maine

With so many options and places to see while visiting Maine, it can be difficult to fit everything into one trip. The Pine Tree State has much to offer from authentic lobster shacks to beautiful historical lighthouses. Maine has everything for your perfect getaway this Fall. When traveling on vacation, it important to get great photos to share with family and friends via Facebook and Instagram.

If you are planning a trip to Maine this Fall, check out these must-see scenic places- perfect for that Instagram-worthy shot!

Nubble Lighthouse– Have you even visited Maine If you haven’t seen the iconic Nubble Lighthouse? While you won’t be able to tour the inside of this lighthouse the view is definitely worth the trip.

Mount Agamenticus Trail– This beautiful trail is a great way to get outdoors, engage with nature, and take excellent photos with amazing backdrops Be sure to visit Mt. Agamenticus, during your trip to Maine. There are many hiking and mountain biking trails on the mountain and at 692 feet above sea level, you’ll be able to see the skyscrapers of Boston.

Marginal Way– Head out for a walk through this scenic coastal trail located in downtown Ogunquit. There are plenty of beaches with benches along the way to relax and take in this breath-taking view.

Old Orchard Beach and Pier – You are sure to get a great photo on this busy pier. There are plenty of things to do as you walk through this coastal beach. While there you will find a plethora of bars and restaurants, live entertainment, novelty shops, and more!

If you are planning a trip to Maine, be sure to book your accommodations at Sand By The Sea Motel! This beautiful waterfront motel is the perfect backdrop for flawless photos sure to make all your followers green with envy! Visit Sands By The Sea to check rates & accommodations for your upcoming trip!

Preparing for Your Next Hiking Trip in Maine

Posted on September 18, 2019 by Tate

Preparing for Your Next Hiking Trip in Maine Hiking is a great way to connect with nature and help boost your overall health. Taking a hike through nature is an excellent way to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and will also help improve your physical health by strengthening your muscles.

Contrary to some beliefs hiking is not all climbing mountains and hills. There are many hiking trails that range in difficulty making certain trails perfect for beginners.

Here are some essentials you should bring when going hiking:

Hiking boots– You will need to select a pair of boots that works best with the kinds of trails you will be hiking. For most beginner trails mid- to high-cut models are great for the average hike. The height offers ankle support which is great for hikers of all experience.
Sunscreen: When spending time in nature it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Wearing sunscreen helps to protect your skin and acts a barrier between your skin and the sun.
Food & Water: There are many different carrying water bottles and bags for hiking. A hydration pack can be placed in your bookbag which will make it easy for you to carry and allow for a hands-free hike. Pack some easy snacks to much on like trail mix or granola bars.
First aid kit– With any physical activity, it is important to protect yourself from injury and be prepared in case a situation arises. Be sure to pack your kit thoroughly. Antiseptic ointment, bandages, and compression wrap are essentials that you should have. Compression wrap is also great to wrap your ankles with while hiking. The compression wrap offers support for your ankles which will give you a sturdier stance.
Cellphone: Although we are trying to disconnect from technology, you should bring your phone along just in case you get lost. This is especially necessary if you plan on hiking alone. If you are hiking alone be sure to tell someone you trust where you will be and if possible, share your GPS location with them. This will ensure that if something does happen, someone else is aware of your whereabouts and can help you.

When planning a hiking trip in Maine be sure to check Mount Agamenticus Conservation. With over 10,000 acres of coastal forest, this stretch of land is an ideal location for both experienced and novice hikers.

Just a quick 15 minute drive from the Sands by the Sea Motel , you can rest after a long day of adventure! With beautiful stretches of coastline and comfortable amenities for all stay types, the Sands by the Sea Motel is the perfect location to begin your journey through Maine. Check rates & accommodations here!

Why You Should Take Up Golfing

Posted on June 3, 2019 by Tate

With King Charles I’s endorsement, this sport became popular in 16^th century England. It can is traced back to a game played in 15^th century Scotland during which players in the Kingdom of Fife would use a stick to maneuver a pebble throughout a course of sand dunes.

The first golf club, The Gentlemen Golfers of Leith, was formed in 1744. It began with a tournament with a silver golf club as the prize.

Today, it is estimated that about 25 million people play golf in the United States.

There are many benefits to “hitting the links”, many of those benefits relate directly to your health. Golfing is a great way to improve heart health. Although golf is not a high-intensity sport, it does require quite a bit of exercise. Swinging your club, retrieving the ball and walking to the next hole are all apart of the exercise you receive from golfing.

Golf is also great for stimulating brain activity. Your body is not the only thing that needs exercise. The physical activity helps stimulate your brain and keep it healthy. Golf also requires a lot of thought from the player to determine the best angle and trajectory to hit the ball just right.

According to a Swedish study by the Karolinska Institute by Professor Anders Ahlbom, it was found that golfers have a 40% lower death rate which corresponds to a 5-year increase in life expectancy!

If you aren’t a golfer, now is the perfect time to take up this relaxing sport.

According to Golf Digest, Maine is home to America’s best public golf courses. With over 150 golf courses, ranging from 9-hole to 18-hole, Maine is the perfect destination for both the experienced and novice golfer. Visit the Maine Golf Trail for a detailed list of the golf courses to plan your golfing trip.

When planning a trip to Maine, be sure to book your accommodations with Sands By The Sea Motel, this award-winning motel is located on the coastline of southern Maine. With amazing views, luxurious suites and cottages, Sands By The Sea Motel is sure to surpass your expectations! Visit our Rates & Accommodations page to choose your room today!

Advantages of Staying at a Locally Owned Motel

Posted on February 7, 2019 by Tate

When you take a trip to a place like York, Maine, you’ll have the option of staying at a chain motel if you’d like. But if you really want to experience everything that a place has to offer, you’re much better off booking a stay at a locally owned motel.

Here are several advantages of going with a locally owned motel over a motel that’s part of a chain:

Locally owned motels will give you a more local feel

There is so much to see and do in a city like York, Maine. From kicking back and relaxing on the Short Sands Beach to walking through all the shops in York Beach, you’ll be able to do a little bit of everything during your visit. And staying at a locally owned motel will enhance this experience since you’ll be right in the middle of the action. A hotel like Sands by the Sea is conveniently located right near the Short Sands Beach, just steps from amazing dining options, shops, a gorgeous harbor, and more. You’ll really feel like a local when you stay at Sands by the Sea when you’re in town.

Locally owned motels will provide you with more personalized customer service

Whether you stay at a chain motel in York, Maine or a chain motel in York, Pennsylvania, you can expect to get the same level of standard customer service. But when you go with a locally owned motel like Sands by the Sea instead, you’ll get customer service that goes above and beyond what you would normally expect. You’ll be able to ask for restaurant recommendations, learn about some of the things you have to see when you’re in town, and interact with the motel managers on a regular basis at a locally owned motel. You won’t usually have these same opportunities at a chain.

Locally owned motels will offer you and your family better accommodations

If you’ve been in one chain motel, you’ve been in them all! They usually have the same exact room setups regardless of location. But a locally owned motel like Sands by the Sea understands the need for different room configurations. It’s why we offer 60 rooms and vacation rentals that come in many shapes and sizes. Whether you’re a couple planning an anniversary getaway or a large family looking for a place to host a reunion, we can offer better accommodations than any chain motel would.

There are also many other benefits that come along with staying at Sands by the Sea

You can get to the beach within just a minute or two from any of our rooms. You can also lounge by our heated outdoor pool, which will have food and drink service courtesy of the York Beach Bucket beginning in 2019. And if you want to go out and explore, we’re not far from a number of attractions, including a zoo, an amusement park, an arcade, a bowling alley, a mini-golf course, and so much more. Call us at 207-363-2211 today to reserve a room for your York, Maine vacation.