Escape to INN by the SEA – Cape Elizabeth Maine’s Perfect Getaway Spot

Visit INN by the SEA in Cape Elizabeth, for a Quintessential Maine Seaside Getaway

The INN by the  SEA, a LEED silver certified oceanfront property is just fifteen minutes from the bustling city of Portland, Maine and is a beautiful place to unplug, relax and rejuvenate.  Stepping onto the beautifully manicured gardens, you see rays of sunshine illuminating the sea beyond, creating the enchanting picture-perfect view. Perfectly situated Adirondack chairs draw you in, and quickly you’ll find yourself sitting down to be mesmerized by the stillness of the water and beauty of the landscape.

My husband and I desperately needed a place to relax, not too far from Boston, to rejuvenate for a long weekend.   We wanted to unplug and disconnect from our daily work and the INN by the SEA was the perfect place.  Quiet moments were found everywhere; whether we sat on the porch or walked to the beach.   We stayed in one of the Cove 2- bedroom suites, which were magnificent.   The newly opened  Beach Suites provide over 1300 square feet of lavish living complete with two bedrooms and 2 baths.

DINNING AT THE SEA GLASS RESTAURANT

Once rested from our travels we dined at the famous Sea Glass Restaurant. Chef Andrew Chadwick delivered a great culinary experience utilizing all local ingredients.  He participates in Out of the Blue!, a program, which serves lesser-known seafood in support of the local fishing industry.  The Inn has their very own Wine Whisperer, Manager, Donald Linscott, Certified Sommelier and Certified Cicerone.   The Sea Glass boasts wine selections of over 384 bottles, consisting of whites, reds, and Rosés.  

RELAXING AT THE SPA

After a wonderful night’s sleep, we were off to the Spa, where we experienced specialty treatments. I experienced the Ocean Wave Massage, which is unique to the Inn because it incorporates aromatic massage oil on a “surround sound” massage table.  My husband enjoyed a Hot Stone massage, which was relaxing and therapeutic.   Only local and natural products are used during the treatments.    The SPA prides themselves on hiring seasoned therapist who work with clients to customize the spa experience.  Seasonal scrubs such as almond apricot, strawberry, apple, and pumpkin bring a bit of each  season into your treatment. Be sure to schedule your spa appointments at the time you book your accommodations.

ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE

The Inn has something for everyone from young children to discerning adults.  They take corporate responsibility seriously by offer community programs such as the Indigenous Gardner, who explains the wildlife to local students.   Preserving the local habitat includes saving the Cottontail Bunnies, which were almost instinct until the Inn cleared the land, made a habitat and began the Rabbit Tracking Program.  Today there are 60 distinct bunnies on the property.   Most of us could live without bugs, but the Bug Life program teaches children about Monarch Butterflies and allows them to dress up as bugs during their stay. Watchable wildlife is for everyone to explore at the Inn.

If you are adventurous, you can visit the 5 local lighthouses; Portland Headlight, Two Lights, Rams Island Ledge Light, Spring Point Ledge Light, and Portland Breakwater (BUG) light.

GIVING BACK

The INN by the SEA is all about giving back and as a pet-friendly resort, you will also find foster- dogs on the premises.    The foster-dog program has resulted in over 50 pet adoptions, as visitors come to relax, meet an adorable dog, and often take home a new member of the family.   Speaking of giving back, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s the fireplace lounge hosts a holiday “Giving Tree,” decorated with handmade ornaments created by the local school children.   The guests are invited to trade the ornaments for new, warm articles of clothing including hats, mittens, scarves, and socks.  The clothes are distributed to local food banks, schools, and Preble Street Chapel. In appreciation, each donor receives a $20 property certificate to be used for food, beverages, or Spa services.

Take a walk through the INN by the SEA with me!

The INN by the SEA has taken a prominent place among our favorite weekend retreats, and although it took us 5 years to get there, we will be back again soon.   I see a winter trip in our future.

**************************
Disclosure: We wish to thank the Inn for providing complimentary accommodations, some meals, and activities during our stay. This post reflects my honest opinion of our experience without outside influence.