Maine's Cutty Sark Motel is just what the doctor ordered

Whenever I want to take time away from my apartment in New York, I tend to look towards Maine. And when I think of Maine, I need a view of the beach—nearby restaurants, shops, and attractions wouldn’t hurt, either.

It’s hard to think of a time when Maine didn’t call out to me. Whether I was a young child, in my teens, or now somehow in my mid-60s. Besides the fact that it is only a few hours’ drive away, seeing the sign that welcomes me back to the Pine State makes me sigh in relief: I can (and do) leave my worries behind for a little while.

A little spot I know along the Maine coastline

The Cutty Sark Motel is at the corner of York’s Long Sands Beach; you can see this home away from home long before you arrive at the check-in desk with friendly, welcoming staff. Its presence and height explains how every room on the first, second, and third floors has a fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean, with sunrises and sunsets rivaling anywhere else in the country. It’s the one thing that seems to delight everyone I’ve met there.

There are two buildings on the property; the Lower Building began as a private home for the owners and their young family. Eventually, the structure was enlarged to host more visitors, and a third floor was added once the family moved into another home nearby.

Later, the Upper Building was built by a second generation of owners, designed with the comforts any traveller might want and need in mind. Both sections boast large picture windows in rooms that overlook not only the expanse of sea and sky but spacious lawns that feature freshly mown grass, lounge and Adirondack chairs, and tables to enjoy the continental breakfast offered outside the office each morning during spring, summer, and fall.

All the amenities and entertainments

The motel is a beautiful place for families, getaways, and romance for couples looking to enjoy the ocean. And it is in the centre of everything, which I find refreshing. 

Breathe in the salty sea air as you enjoy a walk along the beach in any weather. People find seashells, sand dollars, and beautiful shades of coloured sea glass along the rocky shorelines. Surfers greet the morning on waxed boards, paddling into calm mornings and riding waves, contemplating life and all its grand magic. Families get up early and walk or drive to the Cape Neddick Lighthouse or “Nubble Lighthouse” nicknamed for the ‘nub’ of rock it sits on that’s just over a mile away. You’ll see photographers, fishermen, and bird watchers there, taking in the beauty of this ageless sentry during the golden hour.

Right down the road, there are several great spots to eat including the Stones Throw Hotel’s in-house restaurant, Lobster Cove, and Fox’s Lobster House. These three are my favourites for their ample supply of fresh seafood, great drinks, outdoor seating in the warmer weather, and ambiance.

There are more than a few things to keep you and your group busy during your time at Cutty Sark, from museums and art galleries to specialty shops and historic cemeteries. I’d recommend visiting The Old York Gaol in the town centre where people were imprisoned, sometimes for the littlest offenses, and the smallest suspension bridge in the country, Wiggly Bridge.

On Short Sands Beach, just over a 10-minute walk from Cutty Sark, you’ll find a small stretch of shoreline that provides a perfect place to spend the day. People pack coolers, umbrellas, toys, and books to accompany them as they spread out and enjoy the day. If you love salt-water taffy, homemade candies, ice cream, and delicious meals, you’ll want to visit The Goldenrod that’s steps away from the beach.

I love theatre, and have been thrilled to see both Singing in the Rain and an adapted version of The Da Vinci Code performed at the Ogunquit Playhouse, a few miles away from Cutty Sark. They have a roster of players worthy of any Broadway show in my opinion, and I’m already poised to see a few more performances with friends this season.

Ending the perfect day

At the end of the day, visitors enjoy watching the tide and sunset out on the lawns at the hotel. We often sit outside well after dark, with wine and a blanket if it’s chilly. I bring my tripod and set up my camera, attempting to take some long-exposure nighttime photos in the pitch black. It’s soothing to listen in on parents getting ready to put their children to bed for the night, talking about sandcastles, sun-kissed shoulders, and how fun it was to swim in the ocean.

And we aren’t the only ones who stay up late when we’re at the beach. Lounge chairs and tables are used long after the sun’s gone down. We all chat amongst ourselves or in a group about things we did, and other things planned for tomorrow. Everyone is quick to offer suggestions—Did you see this? Have you been there?—over a beer, a glass of wine, or some local spirits.

The thing about Maine is this: spending time anywhere in this beautiful state is like filling a mental health prescription from a physician. Staying at the Cutty Sark Motel, with the windows open to let the smell of salt air and sound of waves crashing on the beach below, is just what the doctor ordered.

It’s time to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.

Canadian guests can enjoy a 20% discount when they stay at the Cutty Sark Motel—contact the motel for more info, and mention The Main when you reach out.