Name: Inn By the Sea
Address: 40 Bowery Beach Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine, United States of America, Cape Elizabeth, Maine, US
Price range: $373–$1,707 per night
Rating: 9.4

What guests think

At Inn By the Sea, travelers consistently highlight warm, professional service and a scenic coastal setting with ocean views and a boardwalk to the beach, alongside comfortable suites that suit couples, families, and many guests visiting with pets.

Sea Glass is widely praised for tasty food and friendly service, though a few diners found dishes underwhelming or needed reservations to be seated. Facilities like the spa, fitness room, fire pits and nightly s'mores impress, but reviews note occasional outages or limits, such as a steam room outage, a hot-water issue, and certain pet-related restrictions. Rooms are generally spacious and comfortable, but some guests reported traffic or event noise, pet odors, and that the 'beachfront' label oversold proximity. Expect a relaxing coastal stay with a strong pet-friendly vibe.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Guests often praise the spa, well-equipped fitness room, and outdoor fire pits with nightly s'mores; the lounge/bar is also enjoyed. Reported drawbacks include a long-term steam room outage, a temporary hot-water failure, lack of a hot tub, and occasional pool access limits for dog events.

Related guest reviews

10

Elizabeth

Jan 16, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very cute and cozy getaway. We had a great experience with the hotel, spa, and restaurant. We'd definitely go back and highly recommend!

10

Sharon

Apr 29, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

A wonderful place to relax on the ocean and enjoy spa services. The loft rooms are beautiful!

8

Lisa

Jan 17, 2023

·

Stayed 19,373 nights

staff very friendly and go above and beyond. frustrating that we were put on waitlist for spa treatments and never contacted before or arrival our waitlist status. steam room not working since Sept. call beforehand to see if working especially if you are waitlisted for treatments. i’m not sure if guests can use steam room…. shortage of water for in room …. pleasant stay overall

10

Kristen

Dec 16, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Property was beautiful. The extra hot chocolate, coffee bar, & smores very a sweet touch.

2

Matthew

Oct 12, 2023

·

We checked in and checked our after an hour, the lobby and room smelled very strong like dogs and the pool was said to be for dogs only that evening. Nothing seemed as pictured when i booked. We could not stay there from the strong dog smell.

10

John

Jan 6, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Our family stayed at Inn By The Sea for a weekend in January. The property is stunning, and the suite was tremendous. We appreciated all of the little details that invited us to share great experiences together as a family, from the board games on the shelf, to the fire-pit and s'mores in the courtyard, to the walking trails along the beach, everything about the stay was simply wonderful.

10

Bret

Apr 30, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The staff was so kind and the facility was very clean. The spa experience was also wonderful. We highly recommend this property.

8

Abigail

May 27, 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

Room was excellent. Staff was very friendly. Property would benefit from a hot tub.

10

Michelle

Feb 23, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Had a wonderful stay. Very clean, staff was amazing. The fitness center had everything you could need to to workout.

6

Noel

Feb 7, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Place was fantastic. Except we were there the coldest weekend in looong time. No hot water for day and a half. Never came and cleaned our room. Because of confusion we were told and finally we were moved to a very beautiful suite with hot water and we were finally taken care of in the end. Top 2 burgers I’ve ever had. Magnificent 👍✌

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Cleanliness

Most guests find rooms and grounds very clean and well kept. A few note lapses such as unclean floors, strong pet odors, or housekeeping misses.

Related guest reviews

10

Mansoor Raza

Nov 10, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Splendid stay! Right from the arrival, warm and efficient hospitality, nice room, nice, clean and well kept property, and most of al what a location. We enjoyed long walks at the beach and shall definitely come back.

10

Marylyn

Oct 31, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Absolutely wonderful experience. We are traveling with our small dog Buttons. The staff all made her feel so welcomed. We were able to eat in the bar area with her and she had her own menu to choose from. The property and grounds are well maintained. The view is stunning. Would absolutely recommend! Hope to stay again

4

Michael

Sep 10, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Not a great experience. One night stay and booked the beach suite to be able to enjoy the view. Would have been nice to know there would Be a wedding and reception with loud music right off our balcony. Spilt some water on the floor opening the fridge right after check in and wiped up with a white towel and the towel was black. I’m guessing floors were not washed. I’m not one to leave negative reviews but I feel for what this place costs, they need to step it up!

2

Matthew

Oct 12, 2023

·

We checked in and checked our after an hour, the lobby and room smelled very strong like dogs and the pool was said to be for dogs only that evening. Nothing seemed as pictured when i booked. We could not stay there from the strong dog smell.

10

Bret

Apr 30, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The staff was so kind and the facility was very clean. The spa experience was also wonderful. We highly recommend this property.

10

Arianne

Dec 5, 2022

·

Stayed 19,330 nights

This was the best stay away from home I have had. Very clean and comfortable. My fiance needed a handicap accessible room. He was beyond happy woth the accommodations. The boardwalk was a tad of a challange to access with his injury but still achievable. Beautiful grounds and easy access to the perfectly groomed beach. Friendliest staff I have come across. The food at their resturant, Seaglass was the best food I have ever had! I cannot wait to go back!

10

Sarah

Mar 2, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Pleasant stay. Very clean, friendly staff, comfortable bed. Quick drive into Portland makes it a great location.

10

Michelle

Feb 23, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Had a wonderful stay. Very clean, staff was amazing. The fitness center had everything you could need to to workout.

6

Noel

Feb 7, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Place was fantastic. Except we were there the coldest weekend in looong time. No hot water for day and a half. Never came and cleaned our room. Because of confusion we were told and finally we were moved to a very beautiful suite with hot water and we were finally taken care of in the end. Top 2 burgers I’ve ever had. Magnificent 👍✌

6

Andrea

Nov 24, 2025

·

Stayed 9 nights

Beautiful place. Horrible welcoming upon arrival. Cleaners smoking weed on our patio during our clean

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Rooms

Spacious, comfortable suites and cottages with ocean views and balconies are frequently highlighted, and many note excellent beds; some also mention effective soundproofing. Some report traffic or event noise and a few bed-size limitations.

Related guest reviews

2

Vernon

Sep 19, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Traffic noise very bad!!

10

Antonio

Nov 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Inn by the Sea stands out for its beautiful oceanfront location, bright and comfortable rooms with large windows overlooking the sea, and its attentive, caring staff. The Sea Glass restaurant offers excellent cuisine, both for breakfast and dinner, with a relaxing view of the ocean.

10

Maureen

Jun 19, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Pleasantly surprised by how dog friendly luxury it was . Rooms were awesome ,very sound proof, quiet . Grounds were immaculate! Loved the bird sanctuary, the s’mores fire pit , friendliness and attentiveness to the staff were top notch. A little pricey for advertising being on the beach . It’s not exactly right on the beach but overall beautiful! I will definitely be returning

10

Alan

Jan 9, 2026

·

Stayed 3 nights

This place is very special, both in its gorgeous setting and in the lovely, comfortable suites. But what stands out especially is how everyone on the staff is so well trained, helpful and gracious. also, the food at the Sea Glass restaurant was wounded and the service perfect.

10

Andrew

Sep 10, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Absolutely 5 star. Best bed I’ve slept in at a hotel bar none.

8

Inna

Dec 29, 2022

·

Stayed 1 night

This was a great winter place to stay. Affordable for the value. If you’re tell though, the double beds are too small

4

Michael

Sep 10, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Not a great experience. One night stay and booked the beach suite to be able to enjoy the view. Would have been nice to know there would Be a wedding and reception with loud music right off our balcony. Spilt some water on the floor opening the fridge right after check in and wiped up with a white towel and the towel was black. I’m guessing floors were not washed. I’m not one to leave negative reviews but I feel for what this place costs, they need to step it up!

10

Thomas

Nov 30, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Such a treasure this place. The warm welcome made you feel home right away. Auch a great location and venue, right next tot he sea. It feels like in a fairytale. Also super dog friendly. We are so happy we found that place and would always come back again. Most friendly reception and staff. Amazing spacious rooms with a breathtaking view from the living room and the bedroom. We just love it here and prolonged our stay.

10

rolando

Jan 20, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Very beautiful setting and accommodations. Stayed in one of the cottage rooms with full kitchen and patio facing the ocean. Great winter getaway

10

Kate

Dec 7, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Very comfortable stay. Loved our 2 bdrm ocean front room.

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Service

Service is widely described as warm, attentive, and professional across the property. A few guests experienced hiccups at arrival or with communications, but most interactions were highly positive.

Related guest reviews

10

James

Jun 26, 2024

·

We spent our 29th Anniversary here. We had an upgraded room with a balcony. It was absolutely amazing. Convenient to the beach, convenient to other sights in the Cape Elizabeth area and Portland, Maine. The staff was fantastic from front door staff, wait staff, room cleaners to the managers. They are over the top helpful. Definitely a return visit in the future.

8

Jamie

Feb 14, 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

Friendly Staff

10

ERICK

Mar 31, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Excellent service from the time that we arrived to the end of the reservation!! We will come back soon

8

Lisa

Jan 17, 2023

·

Stayed 19,373 nights

staff very friendly and go above and beyond. frustrating that we were put on waitlist for spa treatments and never contacted before or arrival our waitlist status. steam room not working since Sept. call beforehand to see if working especially if you are waitlisted for treatments. i’m not sure if guests can use steam room…. shortage of water for in room …. pleasant stay overall

6

Andressa

Aug 18, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

We chose Inn by the Sea because it was advertised as a “pet-friendly” property with beach access for pets, which was a key factor in our decision. Unfortunately, our experience didn’t quite align with those expectations. We arrived on a Sunday around noon and, as expected, our room wasn’t ready (check-in is at 4:00pm). However, unlike many hotels, we were not offered anything while we waited — no welcome drink, light refreshment, or even an early check-in estimate — despite having to wait the full four hours. Once we checked in, we were told our assigned room was not pet-friendly, and we would be charged for any accidents — despite booking under the premise that this was a pet-friendly stay. Additionally, the restaurant only allows pets in the outdoor seating area, and the pool area is not pet-friendly at all. So while the hotel does accommodate pets in some areas, it’s misleading to call it fully pet-friendly when the main guest amenities are off-limits. That said, the property is beautiful and most of the staff were friendly and professional, which we appreciated. But overall, if you’re traveling with a pet and hoping for a truly integrated experience, this may not be the best fit.

10

Burak

Feb 25, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Incredible service and staff. beautiful place. We will be coming back

10

Helen

Apr 8, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Wonderful staff Brian, Sydney Holly and Edwin were so great

6

Andrea

Nov 24, 2025

·

Stayed 9 nights

Beautiful place. Horrible welcoming upon arrival. Cleaners smoking weed on our patio during our clean

10

Tanya

Feb 22, 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

We love Inn By The Sea for our Winter getaways with our dog Hayden!! Food at the Seaglass Restaurant is delicious!! Staff are beyond courteous and personally accommodating Katherine and Mark are always friendly at checkin!! The spa services are the perfect way to unwind!!

10

Aaron

May 29, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Staying at Inn by the Sea is a home away from home but with beautiful views, tranquil surroundings, exceptional personnel, from the moment you arrive! We have never stayed anywhere like this. They thought of every possible thing you could need and more!

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Location

A scenic oceanfront setting with a boardwalk/path to the beach is a major draw, and many value the quiet spot that’s a short drive to Portland. A few felt “beachfront” marketing overstated how close the sand is.

Related guest reviews

10

Antonio

Nov 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Inn by the Sea stands out for its beautiful oceanfront location, bright and comfortable rooms with large windows overlooking the sea, and its attentive, caring staff. The Sea Glass restaurant offers excellent cuisine, both for breakfast and dinner, with a relaxing view of the ocean.

10

Maureen

Jun 19, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Pleasantly surprised by how dog friendly luxury it was . Rooms were awesome ,very sound proof, quiet . Grounds were immaculate! Loved the bird sanctuary, the s’mores fire pit , friendliness and attentiveness to the staff were top notch. A little pricey for advertising being on the beach . It’s not exactly right on the beach but overall beautiful! I will definitely be returning

10

Mansoor Raza

Nov 10, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Splendid stay! Right from the arrival, warm and efficient hospitality, nice room, nice, clean and well kept property, and most of al what a location. We enjoyed long walks at the beach and shall definitely come back.

10

Gina E.

Sep 21, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

The hotel and grounds were beautiful. The staff was very accommodating for anything we requested. Loved being able to walk to the beach.

10

Jim

Oct 6, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

Amazing location! Out of the hustle and bustle but easy to get into the middle of the city. The staff is over the top accommodating. Special mention to Hana she is their most valuable asset. Kind and extremely helpful

4

Valerie

Oct 3, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Description and pictures are deceiving of beach suite. It said beachfront property on Expedia, but you have to walk more than a few hundred yards through woodsy, marshy area to get to beach. We were so disappointed that we left a day early and lost out on $1000.00.

10

Sarah

Mar 2, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Pleasant stay. Very clean, friendly staff, comfortable bed. Quick drive into Portland makes it a great location.

10

Janelle

Jan 27, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

this property was everything that I hoped it would be. I was looking for a quiet and relaxing place to spend the night before flying home after attending a conference. I stayed in a standard room in the main part of the hotel with a room overlooking the the beach and the water. This is my first time to Maine, and everything has been absolutely wonderful, especially the way the rocks and the water and the beach and the trees glisten in the snow. i’m already planning my trip back to The Inn by the Sea…

10

nicholas

Jan 12, 2025

·

Stayed 4 nights

Friendly and professional staff, room was amazing. Felt like home, and the view was wonderful to wake up to every morning. Couldn’t have picked a better location for our getaway.

10

rolando

Jan 20, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Very beautiful setting and accommodations. Stayed in one of the cottage rooms with full kitchen and patio facing the ocean. Great winter getaway

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Dining

Sea Glass earns frequent praise for tasty meals and friendly service at breakfast and dinner. There are occasional critiques of temperature or value, and seating can require a reservation at busy times.

Related guest reviews

10

Antonio

Nov 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Inn by the Sea stands out for its beautiful oceanfront location, bright and comfortable rooms with large windows overlooking the sea, and its attentive, caring staff. The Sea Glass restaurant offers excellent cuisine, both for breakfast and dinner, with a relaxing view of the ocean.

10

Paul

Jan 23, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Truly an old style inn but with all the modern updates. The restaurant is excellent and the staff is exceptional. Reminds me of the Weekapaug Inn in Westerly RI

10

Sherri

Apr 11, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

We had a wonderful, restful overnight. Our room/bed was nicely appointed &, attractive, & comfortable. We will be back but we were very disappointed in our dinner entrees—lamb & hanger steak- barely warm with little flavor. Toffee pudding overpriced. The wait staff was superb —please make dining as first class as the Inn .

10

Alan

Jan 9, 2026

·

Stayed 3 nights

This place is very special, both in its gorgeous setting and in the lovely, comfortable suites. But what stands out especially is how everyone on the staff is so well trained, helpful and gracious. also, the food at the Sea Glass restaurant was wounded and the service perfect.

8

Stacey

Jul 31, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Beautiful room and beach. Restaurant seating was not always available without a reservation.

10

Joseph

Dec 29, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

This was my 2nd visit in the winter to this property and it was just as amazing as the first. The accommodations, food, and staff are simply amazing!

10

Erik

Jun 26, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

From our garden room, we had a view of the boats bobbing on the waves in the bay. We enjoyed walking down to and along the beach. The Sea Glass restaurant food is exceptional.

10

Arianne

Dec 5, 2022

·

Stayed 19,330 nights

This was the best stay away from home I have had. Very clean and comfortable. My fiance needed a handicap accessible room. He was beyond happy woth the accommodations. The boardwalk was a tad of a challange to access with his injury but still achievable. Beautiful grounds and easy access to the perfectly groomed beach. Friendliest staff I have come across. The food at their resturant, Seaglass was the best food I have ever had! I cannot wait to go back!

10

Tanya

Feb 22, 2026

·

Stayed 2 nights

We love Inn By The Sea for our Winter getaways with our dog Hayden!! Food at the Seaglass Restaurant is delicious!! Staff are beyond courteous and personally accommodating Katherine and Mark are always friendly at checkin!! The spa services are the perfect way to unwind!!

10

Anthony

Apr 29, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

Beautiful place. Staff was great. Food/drinks were good as well.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Month	Average price
January	$227
February	$239
March	$234
April	$308
May	$617
June	$720
July	$1,018
August	$1,149
September	$616
October	$530
November	$315
December	$268

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14 $373	15 $1,603	16 $766	17 $581	18	19
20 $585	21 $573	22 $477	23 $555	24 $551	25 $1,664	26 $693
27 $580	28 $575	29 $576	30 $575

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $576	2 $1,598	3 $1,571
4 $535	5 $546	6 $540	7 $748	8 $549	9 $1,598	10 $1,598
11 $549	12 $546	13 $522	14 $539	15 $546	16 $1,707	17 $1,570
18 $549	19 $537	20 $519	21 $544	22 $535	23 $1,598	24 $1,598
25 $417	26 $434	27 $390	28 $447	29 $447	30 $1,598	31 $1,583

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Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

Cove Suite

Accessible 2 Bedroom Beach Suite

Traditional Room (Not Pet Friendly)

Loft Suite Double Double

Accessible Beach Suite

2 Bedroom Beach Suite (Not Pet Friendly)

Garden Suite

Beach Suite

Traditional Room, Accessible (Not Pet Friendly)

Loft Suite King

Guest reviews

Superb

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about Inn By the Sea

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Prices for upcoming dates