Inn by the Sea

This coastal retreat is celebrated for its exceptional pet-friendly accommodations, making it a standout choice for travelers with furry companions. Guests consistently highlight the spacious and comfortable rooms, the attentive and welcoming staff, and the delicious dining options available on-site. Its signature feature is the direct access to a beautiful beach via a well-maintained boardwalk, offering a serene and picturesque setting. The hotel is an ideal fit for pet owners seeking a luxurious getaway where their animals are genuinely welcomed, families looking for a relaxing yet engaging vacation with activities like s'mores, and couples desiring a tranquil escape with scenic views. To enhance your stay, consider booking during the off-season for more favorable rates and a quieter experience, and be sure to make dining reservations, especially during peak times.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Guests appreciate the clean pool, though some note it can be too cold for swimming depending on the weather. The spa receives high praise for its exceptional services, with many describing massages as outstanding and enjoying the steam room. A well-equipped fitness center is available, featuring modern equipment including Peloton bikes. The outdoor fire pits are a popular gathering spot for evening s'mores, adding a special touch to the stay. The beautifully landscaped gardens and a convenient boardwalk leading to the beach enhance the natural appeal of the property. For environmentally conscious travelers, free EV charging is a welcome amenity, and bicycles are available for guest use, encouraging exploration of the scenic surroundings.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the spotless cleanliness and overall comfort of the rooms and suites. The beds are frequently described as exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, complemented by high-quality linens and thick, fluffy towels. Many rooms boast spacious bathrooms and offer stunning ocean views or views of the grounds, with some featuring deep soaking tubs or Jacuzzi tubs. In-room amenities often include a mini fridge, microwave, kitchenette with a sink, and a Nespresso machine. While most rooms are praised for their quiet ambiance, some guests in beach suites have noted occasional noise from adjacent porches or door slams. A few isolated reports mentioned specific pet-friendly rooms having minor maintenance issues like torn shades or non-functional thermostats, and some found certain garden suites to be dated.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's main restaurant, Sea Glass, consistently receives high acclaim for its delicious and creative cuisine, with many guests describing meals as phenomenal and top-notch. The breakfast is particularly popular, offering a varied and ample selection, including a notable "real" hot chocolate. Dinner options are praised for their quality and presentation, with specific dishes like mussels, burgers, and steak frites frequently mentioned. The room service is also highlighted as a convenient and excellent option. The bar and lounge area are popular for cocktails and allow pets, creating a welcoming atmosphere. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests found the vegetarian options to be limited or disappointing, and some experienced occasional issues with food being undercooked or overly seasoned.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's prime location is a significant draw, offering a tranquil retreat while remaining easily accessible to local attractions. It provides direct access to Crescent Beach via a picturesque boardwalk, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the ocean views. The property is conveniently situated for exploring the area, with the Portland Head Light lighthouse just a short drive away (approximately 15 minutes) and downtown Portland reachable within about 25 minutes, offering a variety of dining and shopping experiences. Self-parking is readily available and easy to use. While the beach is generally praised, some guests noted it can be rocky and have seaweed depending on the tide, and dogs are not permitted on the beach during summer months. Guests should also be aware that securing an Uber can be challenging, suggesting pre-arranged transportation for airport transfers.

Staff & Service
The staff at this hotel consistently receives outstanding praise for their friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay, often remembering guest names and preferences. The check-in process is described as smooth and welcoming. Specific teams like housekeeping are commended for their meticulous attention to detail and discreet service, while the concierge is lauded for their helpfulness in arranging activities and reservations. The room service is noted for its promptness and efficiency. While the vast majority of interactions are positive, a very small number of reviews mentioned isolated instances of slow service in the restaurant or a perceived lack of engagement from some front desk staff.

Additional Information
The hotel is renowned for its comprehensive pet-friendly policy, welcoming dogs with special amenities such as welcome treats, dog beds, bowls, and even a dedicated pet menu for in-room dining. Dogs are permitted in the lounge and bar areas, and dog-sitting services can be arranged. The property is committed to eco-friendly practices, supporting local businesses and focusing on conservation. Guests enjoy unique experiences like daily s'mores by the fire pits and appreciate thoughtful touches such as welcome amenities upon arrival. The hotel's charm and beauty are celebrated across all seasons, with off-season visits offering a more serene atmosphere and potentially more favorable rates. While generally well-maintained, some guests have noted that certain areas of the property appear a bit tired or could benefit from updates, and a few mentioned a lack of bellmen for luggage assistance.