For budget-friendly lodging in down east Maine, check out these inexpensive accommodations that provide character, are clean, and pass my sniff test. (Updated March 8, 2024)
Blueberry Patch Motel and Cabins, Jonesboro
For inexpensive digs, you can’t beat this clean, cheery motel and tourist cabins, one with a kitchen. All have been nicely updated. Frills include air-conditioning, satellite TV, fiber-optic Wifi, refrigerators, microwaves, and an outdoor pool. Morning coffee and homemade blueberry muffins are included. One hint: If you’re taller than 6 feet, opt for the motel instead of the cabins—bathrooms in the latter are tiny. Some rooms are pet-friendly for $20. Peak season rates from $85.
Eastland Motel, Lubec
Recent updates and upgrades by new owners have made this vintage motel especially appealing. Every room has a fridge and microwave, and guests may enjoy a homemade continental breakfast before exploring. If you’re brave enough to visit in winter, snowshoes are available at no charge. Also available are an apartment and a cottage. Some rooms are pet-friendly; $10/dog. Peak rates start at $99.
Inn on the Wharf, Lubec
For an authentic Maine seafaring experience, book this wharf-side inn in a renovated former sardine cannery. Passamaquoddy Bay practically laps under the windows, lobstermen unload their catches on the wharf, and fish processing takes place in the lower level (keep that in mind re: sniff test—there’s a slight brininess that most folks don’t even notice).
For this location, and with a continental breakfast included, it doesn’t get much better. The inn is within walking distance of downtown Lubec, and it’s a short drive or pedal over the border bridge to Campobello Island. That said, you might want to while away the hours gazing out the windows at the lobsterboat- and island-dotted views. Apartments are available. See my review here. Peak season rates begin at $130.
West Quoddy Station, Lubec
Another Lubec property I love is West Quoddy Station. Bill Clark has restored this former Coast Guard base on West Quoddy Head to its former glory, keeping true to its heritage. He’s also added a couple of new cottages, keeping to the mid-century style.
There are a boatload of options here, from studios to multi-bedrooms. All have cooking facilities, and most have ocean views. They are also pet-friendly.
From here, you can walk to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, pad along the cliff-hugging trail with views to Grand Manan, and return via the road—if you can tear yourself away from the dreamy views right here. Peak season rates from $160.
The Kilby House, Eastport
Eastport is an island tethered to the mainland by a causeway from Pleasant Point. In recent years, artist studios and galleries have brought new life to the downtown, which edges tidal-wonder Passamquoddy Bay. The antiques-filled Kilby house is steps from downtown shops and restaurants. Some rooms have glimpses of the water. Rates include a full breakfast served promptly at 8am in the formal dining room. Peak season rates begin at $145.
The Flying Eagle Lodge, Princeton
The Flying Eagle Lodge (previously The Lakeside) caters to anglers. Still, it makes a fine stop for unfussy travelers who value a comfy bed and a lakefront location at a very reasonable price. It sits back from Route 1 and edges Lewy Lake in the Grand Lakes region. The Down East Coast is an easy day trip, as are Campobello Island and St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada.
Although only two rooms in the main inn have attached bathrooms, almost all have at least a sink in the room. Lakeside cabins are also on the premises; most have recently been renovated. Pets ($10/night) are allowed in the cabins. Amenities include a games room with a pool table, rental motor boats and fishing kayaks, a fire pit, and free use of canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. It’s within walking distance to a very inexpensive family restaurant. Peak season rates begin at $70 for a lodge room and $120 for a cabin.
More budget-friendly hotels in Maine:
