York Kittery Eliot South Berwick
THE YORKS
York Beach
With deep colonial roots , the villages and towns of the York area are some of the oldest in Maine .
You may have come for the beach , but any visit to the York area requires a trip to see the famous and picture-perfect Nubble Light . Officially called the Cape Neddick Light Station , it is one of the world ’ s most photographed lighthouses .
Make the easy climb or drive ( 692 ft .) to the peak of Mount Agamenticus for the best vantage point to see all of York , including our sandy beaches . Look east for the Boon Island Light or northwest to spot Mount Washington in the distance .
Back at sea level , if you are looking to shop , take time out from the sun and sand to explore the many outlet stores along Kittery ’ s US Route 1 .
History comes to life at our many historic properties and museums . The Museums of Old York collection , nine buildings at last count , includes rugged barns , salty taverns , stately residences , and the fascinating Old York Gaol ( jail ). In South Berwick , visit the Counting House Museum or the home of beloved novelist and short story writer Sarah Orne Jewett .
In Kittery , explore the pre-Civil War blockhouse at Fort McClary only a short distance from the sloop USS Ranger , commanded by Cpt . John Paul Jones ,
built and launched from Badger ’ s Island . Take in the breadth of the country ’ s maritime history at the Kittery Historical Naval Museum and learn how Kittery ’ s 200 years of shipbuilding impacted the region ’ s development . Head inland to Hamilton House or the 250-acre Vaughan Woods State Park , an ideal place to put in for a day of paddling along the Salmon Falls River .
In the York region , finding a place to stay is limited only by your imagination . Rent a beachside cottage or camp out under the stars , go glamping , stay in a warm and welcoming B & B or historic inn , or kick back at a motel or hotel steps from the beach .
Visitors looking to feast on Maine ’ s famous lobster and seafood will have no end to a selection of tasty restaurants from which to choose .
Whether it is a week-long summer family getaway , picturesque destination wedding , or romantic retreat , our long sandy beaches , breathtaking views , easy access to lots of outdoor recreation , shopping , and dining offers something for all who visit the York area . •
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