Inn by the Sea sits at 40 Bowery Beach Road in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, directly above Crescent Beach State Park on the southern Maine coast approximately eight miles south of downtown Portland. The property is a purpose-built luxury resort with a strong commitment to environmental practices, including electric vehicle charging stations and a farm-to-table culinary philosophy at the on-site Sea Glass Restaurant. Accommodations range from garden-view cottages to two-bedroom ocean suites and a penthouse suite; interiors are finished in coastal-contemporary style with private balconies or terraces. The resort is among the most comprehensively pet-friendly luxury properties in New England, providing dog beds, bowls, and a dedicated dog menu, which draws a significant number of guests traveling with pets. An outdoor pool overlooks the Atlantic, and guests have direct beach access via a short path from the property. Sea Glass Restaurant sources ingredients from regional farms and Maine fishermen, with menus that shift seasonally; it serves both hotel guests and visitors from greater Portland. The spa offers signature treatments incorporating Maine sea botanicals and locally harvested ingredients. The concierge assists with nearby activities including Portland Head Light tours, kayak outings on the harbor, and day trips into Portland's Old Port district, reachable in under 30 minutes by car. Cape Elizabeth is a quiet residential coastal town adjacent to Two Lights State Park. The inn is closed during a portion of the winter season; prospective guests should confirm operational dates when planning travel outside the summer and fall windows.
Room types
- Garden cottages from $399/night
- Ocean suites from $599/night
- Penthouse from $1,200/night
Amenities
- beachfront
- spa
- pool
- farm-to-table restaurant
- free wifi
- concierge
- pet-friendly
- electric vehicle charging
Location
40 Bowery Beach Road, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
43.5510, -70.2305 View on map
Highlights
- Direct beachfront access above Crescent Beach State Park, eight miles south of Portland
- Sea Glass Restaurant's farm-to-table menus featuring Maine seafood and locally sourced seasonal produce
- One of New England's most comprehensive pet-friendly luxury resorts, with a dedicated dog menu
- Outdoor pool with Atlantic views and spa incorporating Maine sea botanical treatments
- Ocean suites and penthouse with private balconies overlooking the open Atlantic
Tips for visiting
- Pet-traveling guests should reserve directly to confirm pet policies and room assignments in advance
- Ocean suites face the water; confirm the view orientation when booking as garden cottages are inland-facing
- Portland Head Light is a five-minute drive—combine with a sunrise visit before breakfast at Sea Glass
- The spa books up during summer weekends; reserve treatments when booking the room
- Crescent Beach fills by midday on summer weekends—access it early in the morning for open sand
When to visit
Late June through September offers full beach and pool access with complete restaurant and spa service. October is quieter with ocean views at their dramatic best before the property reduces winter operations.
Accessibility
Inn by the Sea has accessible cottage units on ground-level terrain with paved pathways between buildings. The resort is built on a sloped coastal site; guests with mobility concerns should discuss room location and path gradients with the property before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Inn by the Sea truly on the beach?
Yes—the resort sits directly above Crescent Beach State Park, and guests reach the beach by a short path from the property. Crescent Beach is a sandy barrier beach suitable for swimming and walking.
What makes Inn by the Sea environmentally notable?
The resort holds Certified B Corp status and operates with LEED-influenced construction, on-site EV charging, and a farm-to-table restaurant. It is regularly cited among the most sustainable luxury resorts in Maine.
How far is Inn by the Sea from Portland?
The resort is approximately 8 miles south of Portland's Old Port, roughly a 20-minute drive. Many guests combine a stay here with day trips into Portland's restaurant and gallery district.
Is Inn by the Sea open in winter?
The inn may reduce services during the quietest winter months. Confirm specific dates and available amenities directly with the property when planning winter or early spring travel.