Summer along the Southern Coast of Maine: York

There’s something timeless about summer on the coast of Maine. The salty breeze, weathered cottages, and distant call of gulls create a rhythm that hasn’t changed much in generations. Picture rocky coves wrapped in morning fog, lobster rolls eaten with sandy hands, and lazy afternoons spent combing tidepools or flipping through paperbacks at seaside bookstores.

My own Maine memories started when our kids were small—we stayed close to home with quick trips to York, Ogunquit, and Wells. As they grew, our adventures stretched north to Kennebunkport, Cape Elizabeth, and even as far as Quebec City. Over the years, York remained a favorite—a place of tradition, salt air, and taffy-sweet nostalgia.

If you're planning a visit to York Beach, this guide covers four distinct districts - York Beach, York Harbor, York Village, and Cape Neddick - each with its own rhythm and charm. Here's what to see, do, eat, and explore:

York

The history of York stretches back centuries, with European settlers putting down stakes in 1624, having been surveyed by Captain John Smith in 1610. There are four distinct villages: York Beach, York Harbor, York Village & Cape Neddick. Each village has its own unique character, and together they form a vibrant tapestry of a quintessential New England town.

Highlights:

YORK BEACH - Classic seaside fun with arcades, surf, taffy, and walkable charm

Long Sands Beach - Great for walking, surfing, and scenic views of Nubble Light.

Short Sands Beach - Family-friendly with a boardwalk, arcade, and grassy park.

Fun-O-Rama Arcade – Retro games, skee-ball, and cotton candy nostalgia.

Ellis Park & The Gazebo - Free summer band concerts; amazing. Bring a picnic blanket or chairs.

The Goldenrod – Candy shop & general store, homemade taffy, fudge and classic diner for simple meals.

Stone's Throw Restaurant & Inn – Hip, beachside cuisine, laid-back casual hotel.

YORK HARBOR - Serene, elegant, and historic with coastal trails & upscale inns

Fisherman’s Walk & Wiggly Bridge – Picturesque trail along York River.

Steedman Woods - Peaceful forested trail loop protected by the York Land Trust.

Harbor Beach – Quiet, calm beach with a protected cove feel.

Hartley Mason Reserve – Small oceanfront park. Perfect for sunset views.

York Harbor Reading Room – Private social club built in 1910; a local landmark on the cliffs.

York Harbor Inn – Elegant inn complex and multiple dining spaces.

Dockside - Bistro-style menu with solid choices.

Stage Neck Inn - Resort-style with pool, spa, and harbor views, restaurant with brunch. lunch and dinner.

Chapman Cottage Bistro – Quiet and elegant., Small plates and craft cocktails. Highly recommended.

YORK VILLAGE - Historical heart of town with colonial architecture and antique charm

Stonewall Kitchen Flagship Store - Always worth a stop. Gourmet food, kitchenware, tastings.

Old York Historic District - Home to colonial buildings like the Old Gaol (Jail) (built in 1719), Jefferds Tavern, and the Emerson-Wilcox House. Browse boutiques, galleries, and antique shops.

Columbary House Antiques – Sprawling antique market.

CAPE NEDDICK - Scenic headlands, lighthouses, and quiet residential pockets

Nubble Light (Cape Neddick Lighthouse) – One of the most iconic and photographed lighthouses.

Sohier Park - Sightseeing, picnics, scuba diving, and fishing are some of the things enjoyed in the park.  

Cliff Walk - A beautiful seaside path with panoramic ocean views.

Cape Neddick Country Club - 18-hole semi-private course.

Fox’s Lobster House – Famous for lobster, blueberry pie, and unbeatable lighthouse views with the best Lobster rolls in Maine.

Cape Neddick Inn & Walker's Maine - Rustic setting, solid steak & seafood.

The Viewpoint - Boutique oceanfront hotel. Nubble Light views, and private patios.

Before you visit, take a peek at York Art Association's website; it has a full calendar of what to do and see during your visit.

In addition to in-town activities, backpackers and campers will find York offers plenty of outdoor activities. Short hikes to Mount Agamenticus are rewarded with views of the ocean, forest, and even the White Mountains on a clear day. There are plenty of local campgrounds: try KOA for suggestions,

Whether you're here for a weekend or a month, York's timeless charm is always in season. From dockside seafood to golden-hour strolls along the harbor, it's a place where memories are made and traditions are passed on.