From the gentle curves of Kennebunk’s coast to the sun-drenched cliffs of York Harbor, southern Maine isn’t just beautiful—it’s historic. These beloved beach towns have long drawn travelers in search of salt air and simpler living. But before they became the postcard-perfect destinations we know today, they were rugged, resilient communities shaped by the land and sea.
Let’s take a walk through time—from shipyards to salt marshes, farming roots to artist retreats—and explore the storied pasts of York, York Harbor, Ogunquit, Wells, and Kennebunk.
York: One of Maine’s First Settlements
Founded in 1642, York is one of the oldest towns in New England—and one of the first English settlements in what is now Maine. Originally known as “Agamenticus” by the Indigenous Abenaki people, the town was later renamed after York, England.
Early settlers in York lived off fishing, shipbuilding, and timber, with the York River playing a key role in trade. The town eventually became the first incorporated city in America, for a time, and has preserved much of its colonial charm—especially in the York Village area, where historic homes, churches, and cemeteries remain.
York Harbor: Elegance by the Sea
Once a working harbor with ties to the shipping industry, York Harbor blossomed in the late 1800s during the Gilded Age. Wealthy families from Boston and New York built elegant summer homes here, drawn by the cool sea breezes and peaceful pace.
To this day, York Harbor feels refined and timeless. Visitors can stroll the Cliff Walk, relax at Harbor Beach, and admire historic inns that once hosted the elite of another era.
Ogunquit: A Creative Spirit by the Shore
“Ogunquit” means beautiful place by the sea—and it absolutely lives up to the name.
What began as a fishing village and modest shipbuilding community blossomed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries into a haven for artists and creatives. Painters were drawn to the natural light and drama of the rocky coast, giving rise to the Ogunquit Art Colony and the now-renowned Ogunquit Museum of American Art.
Today, Ogunquit blends natural beauty, small-town charm, and a strong sense of self-expression. From the Marginal Wayto Perkins Cove, the town continues to inspire all who visit.
Wells: Roots in Resilience
Established in 1643, Wells is the third-oldest town in Maine and has always been a place of quiet strength. Unlike its neighboring harbors, Wells was built inland, with settlers relying on farming, fishing, and the protection of the land.
The arrival of the railroad in the 1800s opened the doors for tourism, and families began flocking to Wells Beach for peaceful seaside getaways. Even today, Wells has maintained its classic, unhurried feel—with wide beaches, salt marshes, and a deep connection to nature.
Kennebunk: Coastal Charm with a Village Heart
The twin towns of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport have long been beloved for their mix of maritime history and small-town charm.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Kennebunk thrived as a center for shipbuilding and trade. The Kennebunk River was bustling with schooners, and many of the sea captains’ homes can still be seen today along Summer Street.
By the early 1900s, tourism took root, and the Kennebunks became known for their idyllic inns, sandy beaches, and classic New England beauty. Today, visitors come for the history—and stay for the lobster rolls, boutique shops, and strolls along the harbor.
Where the Past Meets the Present
Southern Maine’s coastline is more than a summer retreat—it’s a living story. Each town has its own unique character, but they all share one thing: a deep connection to the sea, the seasons, and the generations who’ve called this place home.
At Salt & Shine, we’re proud to help guests experience this stretch of coast in a way that feels personal, welcoming, and rooted in the history of the land. Whether you're walking in the footsteps of sea captains, artists, or farmers, one thing is certain—you’re part of the story now, too.
Ready to write your own coastal chapter?
Explore our hand-picked vacation homes across York, Ogunquit, Wells, and Kennebunk, and discover the magic of southern Maine for yourself.