Wells’ family-friendly beach resort sports a slightly different character than neighbors like Ogunquit and the Kennebunks. While respectably old (it was founded in 1640), it lacks the historic emphasis of Kennebunkport. And while full of retailers and eateries, it lacks the sophisticated tastes of Ogunquit’s galleries and high-end restaurants.

What it boasts over both of them, however, is pure beach and nature access. The town encompasses Moody Beach, Wells Beach, and Drakes Beach, three unspoiled slices of the shore that keep people coming back summer after summer.

For crowdless access to nature, Wells also has several excellent nature preserves that are paradise for bird-watchers, hikers, and cross-country skiers.

Finally, the Route 1 stretch of Wells is one of the antiquing centers of New England—problem is, with fame has come high prices, so caveat emptor.

Events

In mid-September, a mega-crafts fair is put on by Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve. Go for the nature walks, the food, and (of course) the competition.