Wells, Maine
Seven miles of sand and salt marshes.
Wells is the understated beach town between flashier Ogunquit and Kennebunk. What it lacks in glamour it makes up for in space. Seven miles of sandy beach stretch along the coast, the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge protects thousands of acres of salt marsh, and Laudholm Farm offers miles of nature trails through fields, forest, and dunes. It is a place where families return year after year.
Walk the Rachel Carson trail. The 1-mile loop at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge headquarters is one of the best short nature walks in southern Maine. Great blue herons, snowy egrets, and dozens of shorebird species frequent the salt marshes. Bring binoculars.
Hike to Laudholm Beach. The trail from the Laudholm Farm parking lot to Laudholm Beach passes through wildflower meadows, pine forest, and salt marsh before arriving at a pristine barrier beach. The 1-mile walk keeps the beach uncrowded even on hot summer days.
Eat at Billy’s Chowder House. Billy’s sits on the edge of the Rachel Carson salt marsh with views across the wetlands. The lobster roll is massive, the chowder is famous, and the view is hard to beat. There is always a wait in summer, so arrive before noon or after 2 PM.
Start your morning at Congdon’s. Congdon’s Doughnuts has been a Wells tradition since 1945. The doughnuts are made fresh all morning and the breakfast menu is huge. Get there early because the line grows fast.
Beach-hop along the coast. Wells Beach is the main attraction with waves and a jetty. Drakes Island Beach is quieter with tidal pools. Laudholm Beach is the most pristine. Hit all three in a day.
The Wells Reserve at Laudholm has a free parking lot, but it fills by 10 AM on summer weekends. Arrive early or visit on weekdays. You can also park at the overflow lot and walk a short distance to the trailhead. The reserve charges a parking fee ($5-10) during peak summer months.
The Maine Diner on Route 1 has been featured on multiple food shows, but locals actually go for the lobster pie, not the lobster roll. The pie is a casserole of lobster meat baked with butter and cracker crumbs. It is rich, simple, and unique to this stretch of coast.
Between Ogunquit and Kennebunk
Wells sits perfectly between Ogunquit to the south and Kennebunkport to the north, making it a practical and affordable base for exploring southern Maine’s coast. Route 1 runs through town with restaurants, antique shops, and motels, while the coast stays surprisingly wild thanks to the Rachel Carson NWR and the Wells Reserve.
Mount Agamenticus, 10 minutes inland, offers an easy hike with views stretching from the ocean to the White Mountains. The trail network is popular with mountain bikers and hikers alike.
Wells vs Ogunquit: which is better for families?
Wells is more family-oriented with wider beaches, fewer crowds, and more affordable lodging along Route 1. Ogunquit has a livelier restaurant and arts scene but smaller beaches and higher prices. For families with young children, Wells is the better bet.
Can you surf at Wells Beach?
Yes. Wells Beach gets decent waves, especially on south and southeast swells. The jetty at the north end can create good break conditions. Rental boards are available from shops along Route 1.
Is the Rachel Carson trail suitable for kids?
Yes. The 1-mile loop is flat, well-maintained, and fully boardwalked through the marsh sections. Kids enjoy spotting birds, crabs, and fish in the tidal pools. It is stroller-accessible for most of the route.
Where are the antique shops in Wells?
Route 1 through Wells has one of the highest concentrations of antique shops in Maine. The stretch between Wells and the Kennebunk line has dozens of dealers ranging from fine antiques to eclectic flea-market finds.
Spring
March-May. Bird migration at Rachel Carson NWR. Beaches quiet. Laudholm trails are beautiful with spring wildflowers.
Summer
June-August. Peak beach season. Warm water by August. Harbor Fest and summer concerts. Book lodging early.
Fall
September-October. September is still beach weather. Laudholm Crafts Festival. Fall bird migration at the refuge.
Winter
November-February. Winter birding at Rachel Carson. Beach walking in solitude. Off-season rates along Route 1.
Things to Do
Wells Beach
A wide sandy beach at the end of Mile Road with good waves, a jetty for fishing, and a small village of seasonal shops and restaurants.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
A 1-mile interpretive trail through salt marshes teeming with shorebirds, herons, and egrets. One of the best birding spots in southern Maine.
Laudholm Farm / Wells Reserve
Seven miles of trails through fields, forest, salt marsh, and barrier beach on a 2,250-acre reserve. The trail to Laudholm Beach is a highlight.
Drakes Island Beach
A quieter alternative to Wells Beach with a smaller parking lot, tidal pools at low tide, and views along the coast.
Mount Agamenticus
A 692-foot summit 10 minutes inland from Wells with 360-degree views and a network of hiking and mountain biking trails.
Where to Eat & Drink
Billy's Chowder House
SeafoodA Wells institution overlooking the salt marsh with generous lobster rolls, famous fish chowder, and views of the Rachel Carson refuge.
Maine Diner
DinerClassic Route 1 diner featured on national TV shows, known for lobster pie, clam chowder, and traditional Maine comfort food.
Joshua's Restaurant
Fine DiningSeasonal New England cuisine in a restored 1774 farmhouse on Route 1. One of the best-regarded restaurants in southern Maine.
Congdon's Doughnuts
BakeryFamily-run doughnut shop since 1945 serving freshly made doughnuts and a full breakfast menu. A Wells tradition.
Where to Stay
B&Bs & Inns
(1)Haven by the Sea
InnElegant oceanfront inn converted from a former church, with individually decorated rooms and Wells Beach views.
Campgrounds
(1)Wells Beach Resort
CampgroundFamily campground near the beach with tent sites, RV hookups, a pool, and organized activities.
Events & Festivals
Wells Harbor Fest
Annual festival at Wells Harbor Park with live music, craft vendors, kids' activities, and fresh seafood.
Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival
Juried arts and crafts festival on the grounds of Laudholm Farm with over 130 artisans and live music.
Wells Summer Concert Series
Free outdoor concerts at Wells Harbor Park on Wednesday evenings throughout the summer.
When to Visit Wells
Spring
Mar - May
32-60F
Shorebirds return to the salt marshes. Laudholm trails are uncrowded. Beach walking in cool weather.
Summer
Jun - Aug
58-80F
Peak beach season. Wells Beach and Drakes Island draw families. Laudholm and Rachel Carson trails are at their greenest.
Fall
Sep - Nov
38-68F
September is still beach weather. Laudholm Crafts Festival. Fall bird migration at Rachel Carson NWR.
Winter
Dec - Feb
15-35F
Quiet beaches, winter birding at the refuge, and off-season restaurant specials along Route 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before visiting Wells. Can't find your answer? Contact us.