While we were in Boston last month, my husband and I embarked on a side trip to Portland, Maine. The roads were lined with bright colorful trees, clinging to the last vestiges of their fall foliage. As we drove up the coast, we took brief detours to Kennebunkport and other coastal cities. The beaches were picturesque, different than the local sandy beaches in San Diego, but just as beautiful. It was fun to wander through the quaint New England towns.
We stayed at the Sea Rose on Ship Channel Road in South Portland. It is a historic home that was converted into a guesthouse. It has stunning views of the ocean and lighthouses, and you can hear the rhythmic sounds of the crashing waves as you drift off to sleep. South Portland offers a great mix of classic New England coastlines, historic lighthouses, waterfront parks, and a relaxed, small-city vibe — but with easy access to nearby downtown Portland, Maine.
The coast of Maine boasts a number of historic lighthouses. The Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine, commissioned by George Washington in 1791, and one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. It is situated on the rocky headland within Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, the neighboring town. We could see it from our bedroom window, standing sentinel above the shoreline. It was fascinating to read the placards and contemplate the history of the area. We visited other lighthouse, but the Head Light was my favorite.
We couldn’t go to Maine without trying a lobster roll with fresh Maine lobster. A resident recommended SoPo Seafood, a locally owned seafood market. The lobster was basted in butter and served warm. It was pricey but delicious. For breakfast, a friend recommended Scratch Baking Company. It did not disappoint. The bagels were soft and flavorful. The cinnamon rolls were my favorite though. The dough was similar to a cronut, and the filling was caramelized. They were worth every calorie. We went back the next day, salivating, but they’d already sold out. Bummer!
