Historic charm, natural beauty, and the wondrous coastal allure of southern Maine come together in Wells, a quaint seaside town that dates back to 1643. As the third-oldest town in the state of Maine, Wells has retained much of its historic character, thanks to wonderful local nature preserves and one of the most celebrated collections of antique shops in New England. But each summer, it is Wells' seven miles of pristine coastline that attracts visitors from near and far to this lovely region - one that is easily explored by foot, car, kayak, or canoe when you stay at one of our charming Wells vacation rentals!
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Yes, 30 of our Wells homes allow dogs—so feel free to bring Fido along. (Just make sure to check individual home listings for any limits on the number and size of dogs they allow).
Browse dog-friendly homes >Yes. 124 of our Wells vacation rentals have internet access, so you can stay connected throughout your trip.
Browse homes with internet access >Absolutely. Our local Wells team includes professional housekeepers who care for all our homes here. They’ll clean thoroughly and restock amenities, so everything is ready for your arrival—and all you have to do is settle in and relax.
Learn more about Vacasa Premium Clean >Known to the Abenaki as Webhannet, meaning the place "at the clear stream," Wells is wonderfully situated among the most famous coastal communities of southern Maine. With the town and beach of Ogunquit located five miles south, the upscale hamlets of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport only five miles north, and the town of York and Long Sands Beach just 15 miles south, visitors to Wells enjoy easy access to quaint villages, beautiful beaches, and serene coastal drives.
Widely recognized as one of Maine's most welcoming destinations for families, Wells also attracts visitors of all ages to sunbathe, surf, and stroll along its gorgeous stretch of coastline.
Spend your days in the soft sand of private Moody Beach, or wade in the cool Atlantic waves at Crescent, Drake's Island, or Wells Beaches, all of which are open to the public. Launch a kayak, a canoe, or a stand-up paddleboard to explore Wells Harbor with the local lobster boats, or pick up some bait and fishing equipment to drop your own line in the Webhannet River.
Home to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, this town of nearly 10,000 residents is also a magnet for nature lovers and wildlife watchers. Named for the renowned marine biologist, author, and environmentalist, the refuge encompasses thousands of acres of barrier beaches, dunes, tidal salt marshes, and rocky shores, as well as interpretative programs, wildlife observations, and the one-mile Carson Trail. The neighboring Wells Estuarine Research Reserve at Laudholm Farm also offers seven miles of trails that meander through woodlands, fields, wetlands, and beaches, and is a popular spot for cross country skiing and snowshoeing each winter.
Whether you're a history lover, a casual shopper, or a dedicated collector, you'll find something to peak your interest in what is affectionately known as "The Antique Capital of the World." Wells has more than 25 antique shops on Route One alone, where you'll discover period furniture, jewelry, and countless other treasures. The Wells Auto Museum also has dozens of classic cars and motorcycles on display, treating families to a fun-filled trip back in time.
Although guests at our Wells vacation homes are within steps of sun-drenched local beaches, hiking trails, and independent shops, many neighboring southern Maine communities are never more than a short and scenic drive away!
Head just a few miles south to Ogunquit, the bustling resort town known for its art galleries, whale-watching opportunities, deep-sea fishing charters, and four miles of beautiful sandy beach. To the north, you'll find the classic New England communities of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, the latter of which is the site of the Bush family compound at Walker's Point.
Don't forget that the coastal city of Portland is only 33 miles north, where you can paddle through Casco Bay, admire views of the Portland Head Light from Cape Elizabeth, and enjoy locally sourced meals at Fore Street, Eventide Oyster Co., and other fantastic restaurants.
One of the most serene landscapes in Maine awaits - no matter the season, let our vacation rentals in Wells show you just how wonderful your vacation can be!