York, Maine, is home to two beaches separated by a rocky strip of land called "The Nubble." Long Sands Beach is ideal for long walks and exploring the lighthouse, but Short Sands Beach is the hub of downtown York, with local fixtures such as Goldenrod Candy Shop, an arcade, restaurants, an oceanside playground and a gazebo featuring live bands throughout the summer. Although York is home to more than a dozen lodging options, only five are located right on Short Sands Beach.
Union Bluff Hotel, which has been operating since 1868, is made of three buildings: the Main Building, the Annex and the Meeting House. The Main Building has 42 rooms, including some larger rooms and suites that are ideal for families. The Annex is similar to a motel and it has panoramic views of the beach and ocean. The Meeting House was built in 2007. It has luxury guest suites with tiled bathrooms and fireplaces. Amenities include a spacious ballroom and two on-site restaurants.
The Atlantic House Inn is steps away from Short Sands Beach and a short walk from Nubble Lighthouse. This hotel has a combination of single rooms and condo-style suites that sleep up to six people. Standard rooms are available with or without balconies. Other options include two-bedroom queen suites and a two-story king loft condo with a gourmet kitchen. GiGi's restaurant and Rossi's Italian Bakery are both on-site. Several shops are also in the immediate area.
Not only is Sands By the Sea Motel situated within walking distance to the beach, it also has coastal views from nearly every room. The motel operates rental cottages and Sea Rose Luxury Condominiums with one-, two- and three-bedroom suites for travelers in need of more space. Take a dip in the hotel’s outdoor pool, relax on Short Sands Beach or take a quick walk to York’s restaurants and shops.
Inn on the Blues has been the "place to be" since it was built in the 19th century. The owners fully restored the building in 2004. In 2010, the owners opened Guac-N-Roll Mexican restaurant next door. The Inn on the Blues has its own restaurant, a lounge with live music on the second floor and five suites and studios, some with an ocean view.
Nearly all of the guest rooms at Katahdin Inn on the Beach have views of the ocean and Short Sands Beach, which is located steps away. Most of the nine rooms have private bathrooms. The inn doesn't serve breakfast in the morning, but travelers can expect to grab a fresh cup of coffee from the lobby. Restaurants, shops and entertainment are a short walk from the inn.
