11 Things to do on a New England Getaway to Cliff House Maine
Located just 90 minutes north of Boston is Cliff House Maine, the perfect resort for a weekend getaway that’s a mix of luxury, relaxation, and classic New England charm. The Cliff House Maine, which was just named a 2019 Top 25 Resort in New England by Conde Nast Traveler, would make a great place for a low-key family vacation, a mother/daughter spa trip, a chic girl’s weekend, or a romantic couple’s getaway. It’s a quintessential New England setting for a summer vacation, but this coastal location in Maine would make also make a great getaway in Fall or Winter.
The Cliff House is a short drive from the idyllic coastal town of Ogunquit Maine, and while you can definitely enjoy a great weekend without leaving the resort, this guide will give you the best things to do to make the most of your visit to Cliff House Maine and the small town of Ogunquit.
xx, Heather
1. Take a walk along the cliffs
Aptly named for its location, the Cliff House is situated on Bald Head Cliff with expansive views of the ocean. There are walking paths along the ocean, or head out on to the cliffs, take a seat, and just enjoy the views. Another great option for a seaside nature walk is the mile-long Marginal Way, that begins in Ogunquit.
2. Grab coffee at Bread and Roses Bakery
Bread and Roses Bakery, located in Ogunquit, is just a short drive from Cliff House. Of the coffee shops in town I found this one had the best selection of specialty drinks. Grab a coffee, tea, or chai, and window shop in town. If you’d prefer to stay on site, visit Bald Head Coffee near the main pool.
Other great breakfast options in Ogunquit:
The Front Porch
The Wild Blueberry
Omelette Factory
3. Whale watch from the pool or hot tub
Every chaise at the Cliff House pool faces the ocean and if you keep your eyes on the horizon I can almost guarantee you will see a whale or two. Bring a book, order a cocktail or glass of wine, and just relax. You can also order light bites from their poolside menu.
4. Enjoy a sunset dinner at The Tiller Restaurant
The Tiller is on the on-site restaurant at Cliff House and it is an excellent choice for dinner. It would make a great special occasion dinner at sunset. The menu at The Tiller is seasonal and focuses on locally sourced ingredients. They also have an excellent brunch. Ask for a table by the window and keep your eyes peeled for whales passing through.
Other great dinner options near Cliff House:
M.C. Perkins Cove
Northern Union
That Place in Ogunquit
Angelina’s Ristorante
5. Spend a cozy afternoon in the Cliff House lounge
Especially if you visit in winter or fall, enjoy the interior of the resort. Bring a book and cozy up with a blanket in front of the fireplace for a relaxing afternoon. The main lobby of the resort has sweeping views of the ocean and is designed to let guests enjoy the views while staying warm.
6. Watch the sunrise over the ocean
Early morning at Cliff House was perhaps my favorite experience at the resort. The sunrise is absolutely stunning from anywhere on the property. Grab a coffee or tea and find a place to watch the sun come up. For those looking for an active option, Cliff House also offers morning activities like guided walking tours, yoga, etc.
7. Have a spa day at Cliff House
The 9,000-square-foot spa is a must if you visit Cliff House resort. They have a great selection of specialty treatments that vary seasonally, like sandalwood and budding plants in Spring and lemon basil, rosemary and ginseng in Summer. Their Seacoast Rose Facial left my skin fully hydrated and glowing. Go early and spend some extra time in the Ocean View Sanctuary for uninterrupted views over the ocean. They even supply binoculars for better whale watching.
8. Order a local Maine lobster roll
While the on-site restaurants at Cliff House are excellent, I recommend going into the town of Ogunquit at least one day for lunch and grabbing a classic lobster roll at Barnacle Billy’s or Jackie’s Too. Both restaurants are located right on the water.
Other great lunch options in Ogunquit and Perkins Cove:
That Place in Ogunquit
Lobster Shack
Footbridge Lobster
The Trap
Oarweed Restaurant
9. Wander the shops at Perkins Cove
Perkins Cove is a little inlet just off the main street. This cute area has tons of little coastal-themed shops with souvenirs and locally made goods. Take a walk after lunch and check out the shops before heading back to town.
10. Have a S’mores night
A perfect evening activity for families. Ask the hotel staff for their S’mores supplies and spend a night relaxing in the Adirondack chairs by the fire pit.
11. Enjoy a beach day!
It goes without saying, but take an afternoon to enjoy Ogunquit Beach, or take a walk on the beach with your morning coffee before heading back to Cliff House.
