The hype
The views are worth every penny, but the service doesn't always match the 5-star price tag.
Cliff House Maine
$450-900+/ night
Book this if You want the dramatic 'crashing waves against the cliffs' Maine experience without sacrificing a single ounce of luxury.
Why People Love It
- Floor-to-ceiling ocean views from almost everywhere (even the gym)
- Nubb's Lobster Shack offers legit Maine seafood without leaving the property
- The adults-only infinity pool and hot tubs are open year-round
Quick Take: It's a stunning, expensive maze of a resort that feels like a cruise ship docked on a cliff—expect crowds in summer and weddings every weekend.
Reviewed by @Michaela_romanosmith: I spent a winter weekend here and honestly, it's the ultimate cozy escape. Sitting by the massive fireplace watching the storm roll in over the Atlantic was incredible. The lobster roll was fresh, and the outdoor fire pits are a total vibe even in the cold. Highly recommend.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might hear the hum of industrial fans or AC units from your balcony if you're in a room directly above the kitchen or pool mechanicals.
- You love storm-watching in luxury with a fireplace in your room
- You want a family-friendly resort that actually has a chic 'infinity kiddie pool'
- You appreciate a good robe (guests rave about the blue-and-white fleece ones)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily service is reliable and thorough; turndown service often includes chocolates or sleep mists.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Modern fixtures, excellent grout lines, and high-end toiletries.
- Maintenance: Mostly excellent, though the harsh salt air causes rapid wear on exterior paint and balcony railings.
- Linens & towels: Premium quality. Sheets are crisp and high-thread-count; towels are fluffy and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Fresh sea air is the dominant scent. No musty 'old hotel' smells here.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud in-room AC units
- Balcony fans/generators near Ledges building
- Wedding reception bass thumping (weekends)
Before you book
Good to know
- Self-parking is included in the resort fee; Valet is ~$25/night extra (seasonal)
- There is a guest trolley to Ogunquit in summer, so you don't have to drive/park in town
- Dining reservations at The Tiller are essential, even for hotel guests
What to pack
- Binoculars (for spotting whales and seals from your balcony)
- A good book (the library and fire pits are perfect reading spots)
- Layers (it gets windy on the cliffs, even in July)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Cliffscape Oceanfront King (Main Building) for central access and reliable views
- Captain Perkins Suite for top-tier luxury and multiple terraces
- Weare Cottage for families or groups wanting a private standalone home
Rooms to avoid
- Ledges rooms directly above the pool mechanicals (prone to fan drone)
- Lower floor rooms in the main building that might overlook the dining roof instead of pure ocean
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love a room in the Cliffscape building on a higher floor, specifically away from any kitchen exhaust fans or pool mechanical noise. An unobstructed ocean view is our top priority.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a beach on the property?
No. You are on a cliff. The nearest sandy beach is Ogunquit Beach, about a 5-10 minute drive/trolley ride away.
Is the pool open in winter?
Yes! The indoor lap pool and the outdoor adults-only infinity pool (heated to 82°F+) and hot tubs are open year-round.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Cliff House is strictly a no-pet property. You'll need to find a sitter.
Is there a shuttle to town?
Yes, in summer there is a guest trolley to Ogunquit. Year-round, they offer 'House Cars' (Volvos) for test drives/excursions.
How much is the spa?
Pricey. Expect to pay ~$205 for a 50-minute massage and ~$300+ for 80-minute treatments.
Is it kid-friendly?
Surprisingly, yes. There is a dedicated 'Cove Pool' for families (summer only) and even an infinity pool for kids, plus a cinema room.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask to borrow one of the resort's Volvos for a 'test drive'—it's essentially a free rental car for a few hours to explore York or Ogunquit.
- ✨
In winter, book a 'SeaGlobe' at Nubb's Lobster Shack for private, heated outdoor dining in a clear igloo.
- ✨
The 'resort fee' includes access to the cinema room—check the schedule for movie nights.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'infinity kiddie pool' is a rare find that makes parents feel luxe while watching toddlers.
💡Navigating the property is confusing; you might need to take two different elevators to get to the spa.
💡The paint on some oceanfront balconies is chipping (salt air is brutal), which surprises some luxury guests.
💡You can watch storms roll in from the hot tub in the dead of winter—it's a bucket-list experience.
💡The 'Ledges' building can feel isolated from the main amenities, requiring a long walk outdoors.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Cliff House Maine is located and what's nearby.