Get Out of Town is a series where we highlight easy getaways from Boston. These may be a perfect bitesize weekend trip or a splurge worthy weeklong escape. But the main criteria are that the destination is both convenient to access and offers visitors an experience that surprises and delights. If you missed our last recommendation, read all about why you should book a trip to the Berkshires. This week we are headed to York, Maine.
Why visit York, Maine
While many of us have childhood memories of swimming at Long Sands Beach, York is not just a summer destination. York is a joy in the off season. Like so many of the other New England hot spots that are mobbed June-August, York is free of crowds in the Winter and Spring. So get out of the city and enjoy the ocean air in peace this season.
Getting there
At just over an hour drive from Boston, York is not a bad drive at all—far enough to get away from the hustle and bustle, but not too far that you will need to stop at the gas station.
Where to stay
ViewPoint Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel from husband-wife team (and longtime York residents) Joe Lipton and Michelle Friar. While the entire property has some amazing views, the new Shoreside Cabanas have stellar views of Nubble Lighthouse.
You will be hard-pressed to find hotel rooms that look like the Shoreside Cabanas anywhere else in New England, they are modern, fresh and homey all at once.
Completed in August 2023, these spacious waterfront rooms blend into the landscape. The sleek desasign features pooished concrete floors, scandi furniture and entirely glass facades framing the Atlantic Ocean and Nubble Lighthouse. The view from the shower, the bed or really anywhere else in the room is straight out of a postcard.
These Shoreside Cabanas are now my favorite hotel rooms in New England! They are truly something special and a winter visit is such a nice way to appreciate York in a whole new way. No crowds, no pressure to be at the beach, just peace and quiet, accented by crashing waves right outside your door. Is there really any better cure for stress than that?
Dining in York
While visiting, swing by Stones Throw. Located on Long Sands Beach, Stones Throw serves upscale bistro classics. The burger, scallops and cocktails are all a must and the friendly service and the ocean views are the icing on the cake. They recently decided to stay open year round, so this is a great local spot to support this winter as well. Just the type of place where you will find a mix of locals and visitors in the summertime, it is filled to the brim with locals in the off season so it is a nice way to get a taste of the neighborhood in one meal.
For more ideas on the best weekend getaways from Boston this season check out our top picks and if you are looking to stay a little closer from home read our guide to the best day trips from Boston as well!