ELIOT, WELLS, YORK

The populations of southern Maine communities swell in the summertime. Part of the warm weather attraction is the access to beaches and campgrounds, but towns such as Eliot, Wells, and York pull homebuyers for other reasons, too. Historic New England homes can be found along the coast and in the busier downtowns with their restaurants and antique shops. Eliot has a rural setting on the northern shore of the Piscataqua River; York’s coast features the beloved Nubble Lighthouse. Wells Reserve at Laudholm can be enjoyed year round.

THE KENNEBUNKS, BIDDEFORD

Shingle-style homes and classic capes along winding back roads are what make the Kennebunks and Biddeford Pool desirable places to call home. Kennebunkport, home to former president George H. W. Bush, and Kennebunk have sandy beaches to stroll. The Taintown Bridge connects boutique shops in Dock Square with Kennebunk over the river. One of Biddeford’s gems is Fortunes Rocks Beach.

SCARBOROUGH, OLD ORCHARD BEACH

Scarborough has the state’s largest salt marsh, made for exploring by canoe or kayak, as well as sandy beaches like Pine Point Beach, Scarborough Beach State Park, and Higgins Beach. The peninsula of Prouts Neck is home to Winslow Homer’s cottage, from which he painted his dramatic seascapes. Nearby, Old Orchard Beach is a classic beach-town getaway with a boardwalk, roller coaster rides, arcades, and ferris wheel.

PORTLAND, SOUTH PORTLAND

Portland receives national attention for its thriving food scene and easy access for young professionals to a life in the outdoors. The town itself is easy to walk around and for colder evenings there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Portland’s West End has brick sidewalks and charming Victorians. The East End has condos and the Eastern Promenade, which overlooks Casco Bay and its islands. Right over the bridge, South Portland has coastal town charm and quiet side streets.

CAPE ELIZABETH, FALMOUTH, YARMOUTH

Cape Elizabeth, Falmouth, and Yarmouth are attractive places for families to settle because of the short commute to Portland coupled with strong, active school systems. Even with their proximity to the city, the towns have coastal retreats such as Two Lights State Park, Crescent Beach State Park, and Mackworth Island.