Category Archives: Things to do in York Beach

Gifting A Trip to Maine For Christmas with Gift Certificates

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The holiday season is just around the corner which means it will soon be Christmas and you will have to buy gifts for your family and friends.

Rather than purchasing appliances that won’t be used or expensive game systems, why not embark on an adventure instead?

A trip is a great gift because it creates lasting memories in a place that the recipient may have never traveled to before.

This year give the gift of an experience with a trip to Maine for the Spring, Summer or Fall.

Paying for the trip

If you have an airline-branded credit card or another card that allows you to rack up miles or points be sure to use it. Your generosity might as well benefit both parties.

If you are going to surprise someone with a trip, be sure to ask them about their schedule ahead of time so that the trip does not conflict with any of their preexisiting plans.

Why Maine?

With historic lighthouses, beautiful sprawling beaches, and authentic lobster shacks, Maine is an ideal location to share and experience with a friend, family member or significant other.

Here are some great locations to visit on the trip: 

The York Beach Bucket– Located right on Short Sands Beach, next to the Sands by the Sea Motel, you will find the most delicious and fresh lobster rolls in town. Fresh lobster meat is delivered daily from the Taylor Lobster Company. Get them cold with mayo or warm with butter.

Nubble Lighthouse– Even if you have never visited the Pine Tree State, chances are you have seen photos of this beautiful and historic lighthouse. While the photos are usually quite beautiful, there is nothing quite like taking in this surreal scene at the ocean’s edge with your own eyes.

Acadia National Park– This “national treasure of Maine” is a premier destination for nature lovers. This park encompasses many different elements which include mountain ranges, hiking trails, and even a beach! 

Enjoy an oceanfront view with comfortable amenities, at the Sands by the Sea Motel! Contact us today to book your vacation for the upcoming Spring, Summer or Fall season.

Sands by The Sea offers standard rooms, 1-bedroom efficiencies, 2 & 3-bedroom cottages and 1 & 2-bedroom luxury condos as well as a luxurious 6-bedroom house with a private pool. This is a great gift to give to a couple, a friend or other loved one. Gift certificates can be applied to any stay at any time.

To purchase a gift certificate for the Christmas season email us at sandsbytheseamotel@gmail.com  or call (207) 363-2211. We look forward to hearing from you this holiday season!


Spooky Maine Vacation

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Fall is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the mysterious ghost history of Maine. With Halloween just around the corner, there are many different options to learn and participate in a variety of spooky activities. There are many different places in Maine that are said to have been haunted.

If you are interested in embarking on an exciting spooky adventure in Maine, be sure to check out some of these locations:Spooky Maine Vacation  

Wood Island Lighthouse

Featured on the hit television show, Ghost Hunters, the Wood Island Lighthouse has been reported to experiencing a variety of paranormal activities. While you won’t be able to book a tour during this lighthouse’s off-season, you can still visit and walk along the boardwalk as the ocean water crashes along the shore. According to legend, there was an altercation involving a lobster fisherman and a local sheriff which resulted in both of their deaths. It is said that these two souls a still wandering the grounds today.

New England Curiosities

With a variety of different spooky activities, New England Curiosities is a must-visit while touring Maine. They offer group trolley tours of eclectic haunted locations around Maine, tarot readSpooky Maine Vacation ing, psychic readings, and amazing ghost stories. 

Wicked Walking Tours

This interactive tour immerses its participants into the haunted history of Portland Maine. Beginning at Old Port on a cobblestone street, you and your group will enjoy amazing storytelling and historic sites of witch trials, Abenaki attacks, pirates and ghosts. This is a great way to learn of Maine’s “dark history”

After a long day of exploring these haunted sites in Maine relax in your oceanfront view room at Sands by the Sea Motel. The scenic oceanfront views and comfortable amenities is the perfect way to unwind after a particularly chilling day of ghost stories and spooky adventures.

A Day in York Beach, Maine

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 A Day in York Beach, MainePlanning a vacation is a lot more involved than just booking a hotel and flight. To fully enjoy your vacation, you have to actually have activities planned. If you are planning a trip to York Maine, here is a day full of activities to enjoy with your family, lover, or solitarily.

 

Breakfast

York Beach Bucket– Located on the Short Sands Beach, this neighborhood café is an ideal location to grab a quick bite before heading out for the day. They have a vast menu with a variety of delicious items to choose from like the savory Maine Lobster Rolls!

Afternoon Activity

York Wild Kingdom Zoo and Fun Park – A zoo, an amusement park, an 18-hole miniature golf course, paddleboat rides, and even a haunted house; there’s something for everyone at this amazing zoo and amusement park! This is the perfect activity to fill your afternoon.

Short Sands Beach– This beach is a tourist hot spot! Just walking distance from a variety of restaurants and shops, it is an ideal location to spend the evening while vacationing in Maine.

Dinner

Once you’ve had the chance to explore Maine and relax on the beautiful beach, you may be ready to dig into some delicious food!

1652– This local family-run restaurant is York Beach’s premier destination for local Italian food. With a beautiful oceanfront view, you can watch the sunset as the waves crash against the shore.A Day in York Beach, Maine

Rest & Relaxation

After a long day of exploring the culture and food Maine has to offer, it is time to rest and recharge for the next day. When traveling to Maine, stay at the Sands by the Sea Motel. With scenic oceanfront views and comfortable amenities for all stay types, the Sands by the Sea Motel is the perfect location to begin your vacation!

Preparing for Your Next Hiking Trip in Maine

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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.Preparing for Your Next Hiking Trip in Maine

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 is Maine Lobster So Delicious?

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This bright red crustacean was once considered the “poor man’s chicken” and was even used as fertilizer. During the early 1800s, lobsters were so plentiful that they used to wash ashore in piles up to 2-feet high. Because of their abundance lobsters were used to feed slaves, as the meat was cheap and easy to prepare.Why is Maine Lobster So Delicious?

Today, lobster meat is revered as a delicacy and perceived as a luxury food item. There are two different species of lobster- clawed and spiny. There are a few things that distinguish them from each other, here is why Maine lobster is the most popular of the two:

Spiny Lobster – This kind of lobster lives in warm water and has long antennas. This spiny lobster does not have the large claws like a Maine lobster which is the feature that clearly distinguishes the two. The spiny lobster can be found in warm Florida waters, in the Caribbean and the southern California coast.

Maine Lobster – Residing off the northern coast, this lobster is well-known for its large claws, which are bountiful with meat. The cool waters of Maine make this lobster sweeter and more tender than its spiny counterpart.

Now that you know why Maine lobster is so delicious it’s time to try some from an authentic lobster shack.

Maine is home to many different lobster shacks, people travel from across the world to taste this delectable seafood.

Here are sWhy is Maine Lobster So Delicious?ome of the lobster shacks you should visit while in Maine:

  • The York Beach Bucket- Located right on Short Sands Beach next to the Sands by the Sea Motel has the most affordable and fresh lobster rolls in town. Fresh lobster meat is delivered daily from the Taylor Lobster Company out of Eliot Maine and the rolls are served in 2 ways: Cold with Mayo or Hot with melted butter. Both served on a soft, toasted brioche bun. Try them both and see which one you prefer. Most people prefer both!
  • Lobster Cove- Enjoy a beautiful oceanfront view as you dine on the finest of seafood. This restaurant is just a short distance from the iconic Nubble Lighthouse.
  • Fox’s Lobster House- Established in 1966, this family-owned and operated lobster shack also offers a beautiful view right on the next to the Nubble Lighthouse and deliciously prepared Maine lobster dishes.
  • Lobster in The Rough- Visit this restaurant for authentic New England seafood, live music, and relaxing fire pits.

 

You might wonder if Maine Lobster is worth making a special trip for, and yes, it absolutely is!

When planning your trip to Maine book your accommodations at the Sands by The Sea Motel. Our locally owned motel is conveniently located just minutes from the authentic lobster shacks, and other popular attractions. Visit our website to view our rates and book your stay!

 

Why You Should Take Up Golfing

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With King Charles I’s endorsement, this sport became popular in 16th century England. It can is traced back to a game played in 15th 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!

 

 

 

Planning A Summer Trip to Maine

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Want lobster shacks, sandy beaches, and historic lighthouses? Maine has everything for your perfect getaway this summer. Whether you are planning a family trip or a romantic getaway with your significant-other, Maine has much to offer.

Maine is well known for its seafood, particularly it’s lobster. To most people, seafood is considered a delicacy, reserved for special occasions. For locals living by the freshest marinas and seafood markets, seafood is just a way of life. Immerse yourself in the culture that is Maine by eating where the locals eat.  

Here are some places you should visit during your trip:nubble lighthouse in maine

The York Beach Bucket

When you come to York Beach, ME be sure to stop into the York Beach Bucket. This modern-day general store/ pizzeria /café/ wine & beer stop offers it all. To-go or dine-in on the oceanfront patio, fish sandwiches, lobster mac n cheese balls, chicken, burgers, subs, amazing handmade pizza and on-site dining and drinking! The York Beach Bucket is a truly unique, family friendly place to shop and eat. Right across the street from Short Sands Beach and walkable to all the local attractions. Most of which are listed right here on this blog.

Fishermen’s Dock

During your adventure in York, ME be sure not to miss out on Fishermen’s Dock.  This restaurant offers it all; dine-in, take-out, fish markets, and bars! Fisherman’s Dock is a gem- or perhaps a pearl is more appropriate. They pride themselves on serving the freshest seafood.

York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo

This popular attraction is great for a family- oriented vacation. Not only is the zoo a way to see exciting wild animals, but they also have an amusement park. With over 22 rides, arcade games and a mini-golf course, you are sure to find exciting and interactive activities at the zoo. 

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is home to many beautiful sights and natural wonders. From hiking trails to beaches and mountain ranges- Acadia National Park has many amazing natural attractions. This historical national park is one of the most visited parks in the United States. If you are visiting Maine, this is a site that you should visit.

Wiggly Bridge Distillery

This family operated distillery is your key to authentic York, Maine culture. Visit this distillery to learn about how this family started making their own whiskey. They have received several awards for their exceptional whiskey, bourbon, and vodka. Make this a destination during your stay at the Sands by the Sea Motel. Only a 3-minute walk!

York Beach Beer Companyplan a fishing trip to Maine

If the Southern Maine Brewery in York Maine was excellent enough, now the owners have opened a new location right down on Short Sands! The York Beach Beer Company has renovated the old brick post office that has been vacant for 25 years and turned it into a state-of-the-art brewery. They are offering a number of the flagship IPA’s from the SoMe Brewing Company and are now focused on exciting new, lower ABV and lighter styled, beach-oriented, crushable beers. From their amazing new Pilsners to their incredibly tasty Kölsch’s, anyone and everyone will be able to find a beer that fits them just right. If not, then order a pallet and try them all! If you get hungry at the brewery remember, The York Beach Bucket delivers pizza here too!

One of the most important aspects of a vacation is where you stay! When traveling to Maine, stay at the Sands by the Sea Motel. With beautiful oceanfront views and comfortable amenities for all stay types, the Sands by the Sea Motel is the perfect location to begin your vacation.

Visit Sands By The Sea to book your room today!

 

Top Things to Do in York Beach, Maine

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York Beach, Maine, should be your next vacation destination! It’s one of the oldest towns in the United States, it offers a quaint, noncommercial atmosphere with cozy inns, delicious restaurants, wonderful family amusements and stunning natural scenery.

Here are the top things to do in York Beach, Maine:

Amusements

If your children keep saying ‘I’m bored!’ it might be time to swing into York’s Wild Animal Kingdom or Fun-O-Rama. York’s Wild Animal Kingdom is a family aimed zoo and amusement park located in York Beach, Maine. With over 250 rides and games, Fun-O-Rama is also a great option for families. This awesome amusement park is located right on Short Sands, so what are you waiting for?

Visit the lighthouses

You’ll find two historic lighthouses in York Beach. Chances are the Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick will look familiar to you, even if you’ve never visited the area before. That’s because its gleaming white walls and crisp red trim, set against a stunning blue sea, have made it the subject of countless postcards and paintings. The Nubble Lighthouse is still the most photographed lighthouse in America. The Boon Island Lighthouse, visible in the distance six miles offshore, is the state’s tallest at 137 feet.

York Beach Lighthouses

Hit the beach

The York Beach area has a number of beaches to enjoy. Some are sandy, but others are rocky, so bring sturdy shoes! Families will love Long Sands Beach and Cape Neddick Beach is known for its tide pools. York Harbor Beach is off the beaten path and is one of the most scenic in the area. The best beach of all? Short Sands Beach! It’s the only beach in York that is centrally located and has tons of dry sand (unlike all the other beaches) and it’s walkable to most of the greatest things to do in York ME, including the Nubble Lighthouse.

It’s an excellent beach to look for sea glass and spend quality time with your loved ones. If you’re really lucky you could witness a 250-year-old schooner shipwreck that unearths itself from under the sand from time to time after a storm. Short Sands Beach is close to the shops and places to eat, plus you can jaunt across the street and visit us here at the Sands by the Sea Motel!

Try some delicious local food

One of the things you absolutely must do when you visit York, Maine is to stop by the York Beach Bucket, a beachy, modern-day general store and pizzeria. At this must-stop location, you’ll find authentic handmade dough and fresh, made in house pizza sauce. Top off your pizza or sandwich with a cold beer or a refreshing glass of wine while watching people stroll by on the patio. The York Beach Bucket also offers a wide variety of deli meats, breads, dairy products, espresso, gelato, beer & wine, sundries and more!

What to do in York Maine

Looking for something sweet after your yummy meal at York Beach Bucket? If the Gelato just isn’t your thing, then head over to The Goldenrod for salt water taffy and homemade ice cream. This Short Sands must-stop location has been in business for over 150 years and it’s a real draw for kids and adults alike.

Visit Old York

Get your history fix with a guided tour through Old York buildings and check out the Museums of Old York and the Virginia Weare Parsons Education Center, which features an 18th century one-room schoolhouse complete with period graffiti an old jail, historical cemeteries and so much more.

Get your steps in at Mt. Agamenticus 

Looking to exercise, bond with your loved ones, see beautiful views of the summit and just breathe a bit? Check out Mt. Agamenticus, which is located right in York, 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 to the south on a clear day.

Things to do in York Beach, ME

If you’re planning a visit to York Beach, Maine, book a room at the Sands by the Sea Motel. Nestled on one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in southern Maine, we’re the perfect home base for your next Maine getaway! Call 207-363-2211 or contact us online today!