How many hotel stays for 2 week coastal vacation?

Question

Flying into Boston mid June with the plan to drive straight to Bar Harbor then spend the 2 weeks making our way back to Salem for the night before we head home.

I don't need advice what to see but how many hotel stays. I have Bar Harbor booked for 4 nights then Camden for 2 nights. That leaves 6 nights before Salem. Do I book 2 nights each in Bath, Portland & Kennebunkport or do 2 nights in Bath & 4 in Portland? I'm not sure we really want to base in Portland for the week and drive an hour plus in either direction. Anyone have a better hotel stay itinerary or thoughts on this?

Answer

It sounds like you’ve planned a wonderful two-week coastal vacation in Maine! Based on your current itinerary and preferences, I think you’re on the right track in terms of the number of hotel stays. Here’s my suggestion on how to structure your remaining nights and how many hotel stays to book:

Since you already have 4 nights in Bar Harbor and 2 nights in Camden booked, that leaves you with 6 nights to fill before you head to Salem. You mentioned the possibility of splitting these between Bath, Portland, and Kennebunkport. Given that you’re not keen on basing in Portland for the entire week, I would recommend splitting the time more evenly to avoid long drives and to experience a mix of different coastal towns.

Here’s a breakdown of the options:

Option 1: 2 Nights in Bath, 2 Nights in Portland, and 2 Nights in Kennebunkport
This option gives you a nice balance between smaller towns and the more bustling Portland area. Here’s why it could work well:
- Bath: Bath is a charming, historic town with a lovely waterfront and great dining. It’s a peaceful stop with a lot of local character, and it’s only about 45 minutes from Camden, so it makes for an easy drive down the coast.
- Portland: While Portland is a bit larger, it’s a great hub with plenty to explore. By staying 2 nights, you’ll have time to check out the Old Port district, local restaurants, and maybe even take a boat tour of Casco Bay. If you’re looking for a base to explore nearby islands or the coastline, Portland is convenient.
- Kennebunkport: Kennebunkport is quintessential Maine, with picturesque streets, beaches, and a great selection of seafood restaurants. It’s a beautiful town to relax and enjoy a slower pace before heading back to Salem.
Option 2: 2 Nights in Bath, 4 Nights in Portland
If you prefer a more relaxed pace and don’t mind using Portland as a base to explore the surrounding areas, this option works too. Here’s the upside:
- Bath: As mentioned, Bath is a great place to start your exploration. Spend 2 nights here to soak in the local atmosphere and maybe visit the Maine Maritime Museum.
- Portland: If you base in Portland for 4 nights, you’ll be well-positioned to explore both the city and surrounding towns. While Portland can feel a bit more commercial compared to smaller towns, it has lots to offer in terms of food, art, and waterfront activities. From here, you can make day trips to places like Cape Elizabeth, Freeport (home to L.L. Bean), and the Casco Bay Islands. It’s an easy drive to nearby beaches, lighthouses, and charming towns like Yarmouth and Falmouth.
Option 3: 1 Night in Bath, 3 Nights in Portland, 2 Nights in Kennebunkport
If you’re looking to spend more time in Kennebunkport and don’t mind a shorter stay in Bath, this option gives you a bit more time to relax in one of Maine’s most iconic coastal towns. Bath is still a great stop for a quick visit, and then Portland serves as a great base for your time in the area.

In summary, I would recommend the following options:

2 nights in Bath, 2 nights in Portland, and 2 nights in Kennebunkport for a well-rounded itinerary.
If you’re more interested in Portland’s attractions and don’t mind a slightly longer stay in the city, consider 2 nights in Bath and 4 nights in Portland.

Ultimately, it comes down to how much time you want to spend in each location and whether you’d rather explore a larger city like Portland or enjoy the more laid-back charm of Kennebunkport and Bath. Either way, you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful Maine coastline, great food, and unique local experiences. Have a wonderful trip!