"A summer stay in Maine sounds idyllic: fresh air, strolls along white sand beaches, and plenty of lobster rolls. And for the outdoorsy types, an endless list of activities from canoeing and fishing to whitewater rafting and hiking. Along the southern coast, stay in Portland for more of a city feel or retreat to smaller beach towns like Kittery and Ogunquit. In Wells, known for its beaches, antique stores, and the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge, we'd make our home base this bright, sunny two-bedroom cottage, which overlooks both the beach and the Rachel Carson tidal marsh preserve. If Kennebunkport's craft fairs and food, art, and wine festivals are calling your name, this modern three-bedroom retreat that has floor-to-ceiling windows and is surrounded by trees might be the ideal place to hole up." - Madison Flager, Meredith Carey