Wells

With seven miles of sandy beaches to explore – including Wells Beach, Moody Beach, Crescent Beach and Drake’s Island Beach – Wells, Maine, is a beachgoer’s dream. The long and inviting Wells Beach has lifeguards and is within walking distance of shopping and restaurants. For a fee, you can also launch boats on trailers from the private marina at Wells Harbor. No fees apply for launching kayaks, canoes or sailboards. Wells is a stop on Amtrak’s Downeaster train from Boston and is near other popular summer towns, as well – Ogunquit and Kennebunkport are just next door.

Things to Do in Wells

Summer in Wells is about beaches, shopping and nature walks. At the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, you can hike along the one-mile Carson Trail, which meanders through pine woods and offers views of tidal salt marshes. You can also go fishing, boating or hunting (by refuge permit only). At Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farm, you can walk along seven miles of trails past woodlands, fields, wetlands, beaches and dunes. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities.

Shopping in the nearby Kittery Outlets is always a treat with dozens of outlets from high-end to favorite bargains. This area, especially along Route 1, is also a haven for those hunting for antiques.

Where to Stay in Wells

Wells is great for tent or RV camping by the sea and there are dozens of hotels, motels, inns and B&Bs in town. Some popular lodging options include the Hampton Inn Wells-Ogunquit; the Village By the Sea and Elmwood Resort with their seaside condos, great for family vacations; and the Atlantic Oceanfront Motel.

Restaurants in Wells

Maine’s coastal towns are well known for their lobster rolls and seafood restaurants, and in Wells, Spinnakers is perfect for a quick bite. If you’re in the mood for more turf than surf, visit The Steakhouse. For farm-to-table fine dining, enjoy a meal in an old farmhouse at Joshua’s. And don’t miss the highly acclaimed Congdon’s Doughnuts – worth every single calorie. From ice cream by the sea to clam shacks or cozy pubs, you’ll be eating well in Wells.