The Best State Parks to Visit in Maine

Posted on July 1, 2022 by Mark Nosowicz

iew of Camden Harbor from Mt. Battie, in Camden Hills State Park, Maine

With summer in full swing, it’s time to break out the hiking boots and immerse yourself in gorgeous natural beauty. The great state of Maine is home to various scenic state parks that offer a wide array of unique adventures and activities.

Here are a few of the best state parks to visit in Maine!

Two Lights State Park

Two Lights State Park in Cape Elizabeth is named for the presence of twin lighthouses, one of which is still functioning today. On-site, there is a gift shop and full-service restaurant where visitors can eat fresh seafood at outdoor picnic tables and take a walk on the rocky coastline where they can watch fishermen catching Stripers or lobstermen hauling in their traps offshore.

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park is located a few minutes north of Camden, a quintessential New England town featuring shops within walking distance to the working harbor. The park is particularly popular amongst birdwatchers and bird-lovers because it is a retreat for migrating hawks and other bird species. It’s not uncommon to spot great blue herons, ospreys, or even a bald eagle! A drive or hike up Mount Battie, 800 feet above sea level, offers visitors spectacular views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay.

Bradbury Mountain State Park

Bradbury Mountain State Park is one of Maine’s original five state parks and a great place to relax and enjoy the 800 acres of forest it has to offer. Spend a day or afternoon exploring trails, taking in the magnificent view from the summit, or enjoying a picnic under a canopy of trees. Bradbury Mountain is the only state park in southern Maine to offer shared-use trails for horseback riders, mountain bikers, and snowmobilers.

While visiting the great state of Maine, enjoy one of the many beaches it has to offer. Sands by the Sea Motel is nestled on one of southern Maine’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. Enjoy the gorgeous views, exciting activities, and relaxing shores of one of Maine’s most picturesque oceanside communities!

4 Reasons You Need to Visit Maine in the Fall

Posted on September 21, 2020 by Mark Nosowicz

Although Maine is known for its beautiful beaches and delicious fresh seafood, it’s also a sought-out place to travel to in the fall too. As New England’s largest state, Maine is covered with over millions of acres of forests and miles of scenic sights. As soon as the leaves begin to change, tourists will do anything they can to see these breathtaking fall sights in person.

Besides the amazing views, there are also many great activities that guests can do while enjoying the fall weather in Maine.

Here are some of the best things to do in Maine in the fall:

Seek Out Maine’s Fall Foliage

Be sure to grab your camera, because you won’t want to miss this. Once autumn officially hits, the trees across the state will bloom with the most beautiful fall colors. Maine is known for its gorgeous forests, so you can only imagine what they will look like with beautiful fall hues. Whether you take a stroll along the beach or a drive to one of the national parks, you will love being surrounded by the striking colors.

Don’t forget to bring your camera with you!

Whale Watching in Maine

Another great way to experience Maine in the fall is by going out on the water! Whale watching in Maine will typically extend into October, so there is still plenty of time to head out on the water and see whales. Guests can expect to see humpback whales, finback whales, and other aquatic creatures too! There are plenty of places to whale watch in Maine, and some of the best are just a short 30 minutes away from Sands by the Sea.

Hike Around Maine

If you want to see the amazing fall colors up close, then take a hike! Many tourists enjoy traveling to York Beach, ME because it offers beautiful ocean views and spectacular mountain sights. One of our favorites is Mount Agamenticus, which is just under 20 minutes from our motel.

Mount Agamenticus is popular because it has both hiking and biking trails, and a stunning 360-degree view from the top of the mountain. You won’t want to miss this!

There Are Amazing Places to Stay in York Beach, ME

Have we convinced you to take a trip to Maine this fall? If you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to stay at Sands by the Sea Motel. Our locally owned motel is conveniently located a short distance away from some of Maine’s most popular attractions.

Visit our website to view our rates and start planning your stay!

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!