The tranquil beauty and charm of Boothbay Harbor, a boating mecca, extends beyond the harborfront village and marina to a pristine and private paradise amidst stately spruces perched on a hillside of verdant green.

No… not heaven… but heavenly.

At first sight, one recognizes that The Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa has the WOW factor.

The historic 52 acre property is a class act with style, sophistication and a surreal ocean edge setting that set it apart from the norm.

My early evening arrival was graced by a misty fog clouding the approaching sunset. The afternoon rain shower had subsided leaving a salty dampness that chilled the air. I happily sighed ”autumn has arrived” with a smile.

I parked the car and approached the dock to breathe in the spectacular scenery and embrace the moment. The magic of Maine was at work leaving me awestruck by its natural beauty. My imagination took hold. I envisioned a time past, the golden years, when Boothbay was a booming shipbuilding center and the Inn played host to presidents.

Today, Boothbay Harbor is the largest boating harbor north of Boston and remains a popular playground for the privileged.

Boothbay Harbor is also a humble haven for a middle class that depends on tourism and the sea to earn a living.

Locals are thankful for their blessed economy and storybook home where lobster boats co-mingle with luxury yachts.

The fishing and lobster industries continue to thrive and visitors to Maine have increased year after year.

An influx of painters, sculptors, writers and creative types has also impacted the area. Boothbay Harbor is fast becoming known as an artists’ colony.

Fast Fact: Boothbay Harbor was named one of “America’s Top 12 Small Town Artplaces for 2013” by Artplace America.

The destination offers perfect balance for a truly unique escape – an enriching experience on every level.

And, the dreamy Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa makes the idyllic home base.

The available accommodations range from private suites to ocean view cottages. The guests are as diverse as they are loyal.

During my visit, an older couple was celebrating a special anniversary. A party well-wisher shared their touching story with me. The couple met onsite in the main dining room over 30 years ago. He was a distinguished guest and she was a staff server. It was love at first sight…and, the rest is history. These stories are testimonials to the Inn and its bewitching power to evoke happy moments and create lasting memories.

Amenities and activities are bountiful.

The grounds are reminiscent of a summer camp complete with hiking trails, pools, tennis courts, organized classes and even a s’more friendly fire pit. Classic resort scenes from the film, Dirty Dancing, came to mind as I explored the expansive property.

Couples come for intimate romance while extended families return each year for summer fun. The Spruce Point Inn’s talented team and gracious innkeepers, Joseph Paolillo and Angelo DiGiulian, work in harmony to create a warm and welcoming connection with each guest.

The property’s 100+ year reputation for exceptional service and refined hospitality has not faltered since the current management took over in 2010. The owners’ dedicated refurbishment efforts and upgrades will continue to keep the Inn refreshed and inviting for years to come.

Season after season, The Spruce Point Inn shines bright, much like the beacon of a lighthouse, guiding the seekers of rest and relaxation…home to Coastal Maine.

Property Overview:

  • Main Inn: 2 suites/5 traditional rooms
  • 5 Townhouses: 2-3 bedrooms units
  • 8 Private Cottages: 1-3 bedrooms; each unique in design with full or galley kitchen
  • 60 Lodge Rooms: located in 7 modern lodges with woodland, partial ocean or oceanfront views
  • 7 Cottage Rooms: woodland or oceanfront view

Restaurant/Dining Options Serving Fresh Maine Seafood:

  • 88 Maine Coast: Upscale, oceanfront dining room serving creative Maine Coast cuisine.
  • Bogie’s Bistro & Bar: New England Tavern atmosphere with full menu.
  • Deckside Oceanside Cafe: An outdoor cafe serving sandwiches, salads and regional specialties.

A menu challenge and palate pleaser:

The Match: Lobster Meets Mac and Cheese and the resulting dish comes out a winner. In fact, the tasty combo has now spawned a recipe competition at Maine’s Lobsterpalooza.

Activities: Fishing, Kayaking, Sailing, Tennis, Hiking and Biking Trails, Yoga and Fitness Classes

The Spruce Point Inn Spa features 5 treatment rooms and an outdoor serenity courtyard.

Treat yourself to a Maine Fruitful Fantasy with the Spa’s Blueberry Bliss Signature Facial, a vitamin-rich organic blend of herbs and Maine blueberries. So delectable, you may be tempted to spoon it up as dessert.

Courtesy Transportation: Complimentary shuttle and boat tender service to and from Boothbay Harbor Village

Location: 88 Grandview Avenue; Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Open Season: May through October (Memorial Day to Columbus Day)

For rates, reservations and special packages, visit the resort website or call 800-553-0289.

Best Bets:

  • Artful Shopping: Follow the Chamber’s official Art Trail map to discover studios and galleries along the peninsula or enjoy First Friday Art Walk (June-October). Abacus Gallery is a top pick for regional art and eclectic gift ideas. The store has four in-state locations. The Boothbay Harbor store is the original and features the largest collection of celebrated local artist Dana Heacock’s colorful work. Dana also happens to be the store’s owner, so you can only expect the very best in terms of showcased merchandise, prints and designs. The Boothbay Region Art Foundation is also a special find. The non-profit gallery showcases the work of 100+ local artists and offers classes.
  • Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: Earmark more than a few hours to appreciate and experience this top attraction. The 250 acres of beautifully scenic tidal shoreland, located on the peninsula north of Boothbay Harbor Village, is a colorful celebration of the botanical heritage and natural landscapes of Coastal Maine. Ornamental gardens, native plants and trees, woodland trails, intricate stonework,  original sculptures, fine art and a mile-long waterfront make the Gardens a must-see destination. Open Year-Round. Daily Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Guided tours via electric cart, boat tours and kayak rentals available.
  • Sadie Green’s Curiosity Shop: I have been an Sadie Green fan long before a store location opened in Maine. I absolutely LOVE…LOVE…LOVE the company’s stunning collection of antique reproduction jewelry. Divas will also delight in Sadie Green’s nautical themed gift ideas.  A new favorite: The lobster earring set, accented by Swarovski Austrian Crystal rhinestones is priced at $10.  Sooo … adorable and affordable!

For more information on planning a coastal escape, contact the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce or explore Visit Maine online.