Skip to main content
A private boardwalk leads from Crescent Beach to Inn by the Sea
Inn by the Sea, Crescent Beach, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Inn by the Sea Honored as Top Eco-Friendly Hotel in Maine

Date

Sep 24th, 2025

Location

Maine

Article Summary

Inn by the Sea, a New England Inns & Resorts Association member located in Maine, has been named one of USA TODAY’s 10Best Eco-Friendly Hotels. This recognition highlights the resort's two-decade-long commitment to sustainable hospitality, including its use of 100% solar power, LEED® Silver-certified spa, and a tree-planting program for every guest reservation. Situated on a scenic stretch of sandy beach near Portland, the inn blends luxurious guest experiences with strong environmental stewardship, offering a unique destination for travelers seeking a green getaway.

Nestled along a mile of pristine coastline just seven miles south of Portland, Inn by the Sea stands as a proud testament to the power of sustainable tourism in New England. Recently, this property received a significant honor, being recognized as one of the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Eco-Friendly Hotel. This accolade is a direct result of the resort's unwavering commitment to eco-conscious practices and its dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the Maine coast.

The recognition from USA TODAY’s readers highlights Inn by the Sea’s long history of leadership in the green lodging sector. For over two decades, the resort has integrated environmental stewardship into its very core, proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand-in-hand. This includes a variety of impressive initiatives, such as sourcing 100% of its electricity from a Maine solar farm and maintaining a LEED® Silver-certified full-service spa and wellness center. The inn also plants a tree for every reservation, contributing to broader conservation efforts and helping guests leave a positive impact on the environment.

A Coastal Escape That Cares

Beyond the awards, what truly sets Inn by the Sea apart is its seamless integration of environmental values into the guest experience. The resort’s elegant accommodations, including spacious rooms and suites, offer a comfortable retreat for couples and families alike. A private boardwalk winds through a wildlife sanctuary, providing a peaceful path for guests to reach the Atlantic Ocean. The oceanfront restaurant and bar, Sea Glass, serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine and seafood, connecting diners directly to the region's rich bounty.

This Maine resort is a favorite destination for both romantic getaways and multigenerational family vacations, with one- and two-bedroom cottage-style suites that offer kitchens and generous living spaces. The property is also famously pet-friendly, warmly welcoming dogs and children to their seaside escape.

For travelers passionate about conservation, a stay at Inn by the Sea offers more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to support a business that actively works to make travel more sustainable. As a member of Beyond Green, a collection of hotels committed to responsible tourism, the inn goes above and beyond to protect and celebrate its unique location.

Plan Your Green New England Getaway

If you’re seeking an incredible coastal vacation that aligns with your eco-conscious values, Inn by the Sea is a premier choice. Plan your next getaway and create lasting memories while supporting unique and responsible hospitality.