Oceanfront Hotel in Peaceful Maine Cove

When waves from the Atlantic Ocean ripple into Linekin Bay, they lose a bit of their bite. That’s because the bay’s cove, shaped like an elongated horseshoe, provides a natural buffer from the sea’s coastline-battering surf. Smuggler’s Cove Inn is perched on the sandy shores of one of Boothbay Harbor’s tranquil coves.

Five separate buildings house the hotel’s guest rooms, which are steps from the beach; Lantern rooms even jut out over the water. Most rooms feature balconies with ocean views. Venture to the outdoor pool for a dip, or stake a claim on a swath of sandy beach.

The onsite restaurant serves breakfast entrees of omelets, pancakes, and french toast as well as casual dinner fare such as veggie sandwiches ($7.95) and garlic-toast burgers ($10.95). Thanks to the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows, you can admire harbor views and taunt seagulls simultaneously.

East Boothbay, ME: Quaint Fishing Villages and Groomed Botanical Gardens

Boothbay Harbor’s unofficial motto is “the soul of the coast,” thanks to its central location, smattering of small seaside towns, and bays filled with windjammers and lobster boats. Whale watching, kayaking, fishing, and hiking are popular pursuits along this stretch of scenic beach.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens sprawl across 250 acres of Maine’s coast. Walking trails wind past a garden of roses and perennials, a meditation garden, a fairy-house display, and a children’s garden. As you wander through the picturesque property, keep an eye out for pieces from the permanent sculpture collection. For more regional art, head to the Farnsworth Art Museum, where you’ll find an expansive collection of American art that pertains to Maine. The museum’s pièces de résistance are its collection of Andrew Wyeth originals.