York, Maine
Southern Maine's complete coastal town. Home to Nubble Lighthouse, miles of sandy beaches, colonial-era history, and family attractions from the Wild Kingdom to cliff walks.
York is where the Maine coast starts for visitors coming from the south, and it packs more into a small area than almost any town on the shore. Nubble Light is the most photographed lighthouse in Maine. Long Sands Beach stretches for a mile and a half. York Village has buildings dating to the 1600s. And York's Wild Kingdom gives families a zoo and amusement park on the beach.
See Nubble Light first thing. The lighthouse at Cape Neddick is one of the most photographed in the world, and for good reason. The view from Sohier Park, just 50 yards from the island, is stunning at sunrise or late afternoon. The parking lot fills quickly in summer, so arrive early.
Spend a day at Long Sands. Long Sands Beach stretches 1.5 miles between York Beach and Cape Neddick. It is wide, sandy, and has waves good enough for surfing. Metered parking lines the road, so you can set up anywhere along the length.
Hike Mount Agamenticus. Mount Agamenticus is only 692 feet, but the 360-degree view from the summit takes in the coast, the White Mountains, and the rolling countryside between. Multiple trail options range from a short walk to longer loop hikes.
Walk the Cliff Walk. York Harbor’s cliff path runs along the shore past grand oceanfront estates, rocky ledges, and crashing waves. It is a short walk but one of the most scenic stretches in southern Maine.
Watch taffy at the Goldenrod. The Goldenrod in York Beach has been pulling saltwater taffy in the front window since 1896. The Goldenrod Kisses are an iconic Maine souvenir, and watching them being made is half the fun.
Sohier Park at Cape Neddick has a small lot that fills by mid-morning in summer. Arrive before 9 AM or after 5 PM for the best chance at a spot. Street parking along Nubble Road is an option when the lot is full, but respect residential zones.
Fox’s Lobster House sits right at Nubble Light Point with outdoor picnic tables facing the lighthouse. The lobster roll is solid and the location cannot be beaten. Get your food at the counter, grab a table facing the Nubble, and do not rush it.
Four Villages, One Town
York is actually four distinct areas. York Village has colonial history dating to the 1600s, with the Museums of Old York preserving several original buildings. York Harbor is the elegant end with the cliff walk, the Stage Neck Inn, and quiet old-money charm. York Beach is the fun, family-oriented village with Short Sands, the Goldenrod, and York’s Wild Kingdom. Cape Neddick is home to the Nubble Light and Long Sands Beach.
From York, Ogunquit is just 8 miles north with the Marginal Way and Ogunquit Beach. Wells and Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge are 12 miles up Route 1.
York vs Ogunquit: which is better?
Different vibes. York is more family-oriented with bigger beaches, the Nubble, and Wild Kingdom. Ogunquit has the Marginal Way cliff walk, a livelier restaurant and bar scene, and a more artistic character. They are 8 miles apart and easy to visit both.
Can you surf at Long Sands Beach?
Yes. Long Sands is one of the more consistent surf spots in southern Maine. Liquid Dreams Surf Shop on the beach rents boards and wetsuits. The best waves come with south and southeast swells.
What is York's Wild Kingdom?
A combination zoo and amusement park at Short Sands Beach that has been a family destination since 1956. The zoo side has animals from around the world, and the amusement park side has rides for younger kids. It is seasonal, running roughly May through September.
How old is York, Maine?
York was chartered in 1641, making it one of the oldest towns in the United States. The Museums of Old York preserve several buildings from the colonial and early American periods, including the Old Gaol (jail) from 1719.
Spring
March-May. Beaches are quiet. Mount Agamenticus is great for spring hiking. Lodging rates are lower.
Summer
June-August. Peak beach season. Warm water by August. York Days celebration. Nubble Light at its best.
Fall
September-October. September is still beach weather. Nubble Lighting in November. Foliage on Agamenticus.
Winter
December-February. Nubble Light in snow is beautiful. Some restaurants stay open. Storm watching at Long Sands.
Things to Do
Long Sands Beach
A 1.5-mile crescent of sand between York Beach and the Nubble, ideal for surfing, swimming, and long walks.
Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick)
One of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, perched on a rocky islet just offshore at Cape Neddick Point.
Mount Agamenticus
A 692-foot summit with 360-degree views from the ocean to the White Mountains, plus a network of trails for hiking and mountain biking.
Cliff Walk
A scenic shoreline path from York Harbor Beach past oceanfront estates, rocky ledges, and crashing surf.
Short Sands Beach
A small, sheltered beach in the heart of York Beach village with calm water, a playground, and walkable shops.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Goldenrod
Restaurant / CandyYork Beach institution since 1896, famous for saltwater taffy made in the front window. Watch the Goldenrod Kisses being pulled.
Fox's Lobster House
SeafoodCasual lobster house at Nubble Light Point with outdoor seating and views of the lighthouse. Classic Maine lobster experience.
Stones Restaurant
Fine DiningSeasonal New England cuisine in a restored barn setting. One of the best-regarded restaurants in southern Maine.
The York Harbor Inn
New EnglandWaterfront dining in a historic inn with multiple restaurants including a pub and a formal dining room overlooking the harbor.
Sun & Surf Restaurant
Seafood / AmericanCasual beachfront restaurant on Long Sands with fried seafood, burgers, and ocean views from the deck.
Where to Stay
B&Bs & Inns
(1)The York Harbor Inn
InnHistoric oceanfront inn with multiple buildings, ocean-view rooms, and a cozy pub with fireplaces.
Campgrounds
(1)Dixon's Campground
CampgroundFamily campground in Cape Neddick with wooded sites, a pool, and a short drive to beaches and the Nubble.
Events & Festivals
York Days
Annual summer celebration with a craft fair, 5K road race, sandcastle contest, concerts, and fireworks at Short Sands Beach.
Lighting of the Nubble
The annual holiday lighting of Nubble Lighthouse kicks off the season with caroling, hot cocoa, and Santa arriving by lobster boat.
Harvestfest
Fall festival at York's Wild Kingdom with pumpkin carving, hayrides, apple cider, and family activities.
When to Visit York
Spring
Mar - May
32-60F
Beaches are quiet. Mount Agamenticus trails open for hiking and biking. Shoulder-season rates.
Summer
Jun - Aug
58-80F
Peak beach season. Warm water by August. Nubble Light at its most photogenic. York Days celebration.
Fall
Sep - Nov
38-68F
September is still beach weather. Nubble Lighting in November. Foliage on Mount Agamenticus.
Winter
Dec - Feb
15-35F
Quiet but the Nubble in snow is stunning. Some restaurants and shops stay open. Surf season for brave souls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before visiting York. Can't find your answer? Contact us.