The Ocean Gate Guide

A Family Getaway at Ocean Gate Inn

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 18:07:47 GMT

Room to play, time to reconnect, and simple summer days on the Maine coast.

Family vacations don’t have to mean keeping everyone busy from morning to night. Sometimes the days you remember most are the easy ones: breakfast together, a friendly game, and an afternoon with no particular plan.

At Ocean Gate Inn on Southport Island, there’s room to spend time together and enjoy a change of pace.

Start the Day Together

Our included breakfast buffet makes mornings a little easier. Gather for breakfast, talk about what everyone would like to do, and decide whether it’s a day for exploring or staying close. You don’t have to agree on an elaborate itinerary. One outing and some time to relax may be just right.

Make Time to Play

A family trip is a good excuse to put everyday routines aside and have some fun together. During the summer season, enjoy a swim in our outdoor pool, challenge each other to mini golf, or spend some time in the playground. Grab the paddles or oars and take one of the boats from the dock to explore the peaceful ocean water around the resort. Stop into Evergreen for board games, puzzles and pool. A little friendly competition can become a vacation tradition!

Explore the Boothbay Region

When you’re ready for an outing, nearby Boothbay Harbor makes an easy addition to your stay. Wander along the waterfront, browse the shops, and stop for lunch or an ice cream break. Keep the day manageable, especially with younger travelers. Leave time to linger when something catches their attention—and time to head back when everyone is ready for a rest. For more ideas, take a look at our guide to things to do near Ocean Gate Inn.

Choose Accommodations That Fit Your Family

The right place to stay can make a family vacation feel more comfortable. Ocean Gate offers a variety of rooms, suites, and cottages , so you can choose the arrangement that works for your group. If you’re unsure which option is the best fit, reach out before booking. We’re happy to help you compare accommodations and plan your stay.

Leave Room for the Small Moments

Not every part of a vacation needs to be an activity. Make room for a slow breakfast, a walk together, or a little downtime after an afternoon out. Those pauses give everyone a chance to recharge—and often become part of what makes the trip special.

Bring the Family to Ocean Gate Inn

Whether you’re planning a quick summer escape or a longer coastal stay, we’d love to welcome your family. Come for the Maine coast, make time to play, and enjoy a few days together at Ocean Gate Inn.

A Weekend on the Maine Coast: Your Ocean Gate Inn Getaway

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 18:02:19 GMT

A little exploring, a little relaxing, and plenty of time by the water.

Sometimes two nights away are all you need to catch your breath. A change of scenery, a leisurely breakfast, and a day without a long to-do list can go a long way.

At Ocean Gate Inn on Southport Island, you can keep your weekend simple. Enjoy our waterfront setting, explore nearby Boothbay Harbor, and leave yourself time to see where the day takes you.

Friday: Arrive and Settle In

Give yourself permission to ease into vacation. Unpack, take a walk around the property, and spend a few minutes enjoying the view before making plans for the evening. Head into Boothbay Harbor for dinner, or keep your first night quiet. There will be plenty of time to explore tomorrow.

Saturday: Make the Day Your Own

Start with our included breakfast buffet, then choose the kind of day you’re in the mood for. If you’re ready to explore, spend the morning browsing Boothbay Harbor’s shops and galleries. Stop for lunch, stroll along the waterfront, and take your time finding a few favorite spots. Prefer to stay close? Enjoy Ocean Gate’s grounds or find a comfortable place to read by the water. You don’t need to fill every hour to have a good day. In the afternoon, leave room for whatever you didn’t get to—or whatever you’d like to do again. A weekend away should have some flexibility.

Saturday Evening: Slow Down

After a day out, it’s nice to come back to a quieter setting. Enjoy the evening air, spend time together, and let tomorrow’s plans wait until tomorrow. Some of the best vacation memories come from the smallest moments: a good conversation, a lovely view, or realizing you haven’t checked the time in a while.

Sunday: One More Easy Morning

Enjoy breakfast before packing up. If your travel plans allow, make one last stop in the Boothbay region before heading home.

You may leave with a favorite new shop, a camera full of coastal photos, or a list of things to do next time. We hope you’ll also leave feeling a little more rested.

Plan Your Weekend at Ocean Gate Inn

Whether you’re coming as a couple, bringing the family, or meeting up with friends, Ocean Gate Inn offers a welcoming place to enjoy the Maine coast at your own pace. Choose your dates , make a few plans, and leave a little room for doing nothing. We’d love to have you.

Things to Do Near Ocean Gate Inn: Explore the Boothbay Region

Tue, 06 Oct 2026 17:55:48 GMT

Discover local favorites, coastal adventures, and time to unwind in the Boothbay region.

A Maine getaway should leave room for a little adventure—and a little doing nothing. At Ocean Gate Inn on Southport Island, you can enjoy both. Spend the morning exploring the Boothbay region, then come back to the water to slow down and settle in. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying a little longer, here are a few ideas for making the most of your time here.

Spend an Afternoon in Boothbay Harbor

Give yourself an afternoon to wander. Browse the shops and galleries, stop for ice cream, and take a walk across the harbor’s footbridge. There’s no need for a packed itinerary—sometimes the best part is finding a spot to sit and watch the boats come and go. Make lunch part of the outing, too. A lobster roll, a bowl of chowder, or a relaxed waterfront meal fits nicely into a day spent exploring.

Visit Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in nearby Boothbay is a lovely place to spend a few unhurried hours. Explore the gardens, enjoy the changing seasonal landscape, and take a break from your everyday routine. Check the Gardens’ website before your visit for current hours, tickets, and seasonal events.

See the Coast from the Water

There’s something special about seeing Maine from a boat. Boothbay Harbor offers opportunities for scenic cruises, sailing trips, and wildlife excursions, giving you a different perspective on the shoreline and surrounding islands. Explore local boat trips and choose an outing that fits your interests. Schedules vary by season and weather, so a little advance planning helps.

Take a Walk in the Woods

If your idea of a good vacation includes fresh air and a quiet trail, explore the Boothbay Region Land Trust preserves . These local preserves offer free public access and a chance to experience the region at a slower pace. For one option, look into Porter Preserve , where a 1.1-mile trail winds through wooded surroundings. Bring comfortable shoes and check the trail information before heading out.

Leave Time to Enjoy Ocean Gate

You don’t have to leave the property to make a day of it. Start with our included breakfast buffet, then enjoy time on the water with our complimentary kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards when conditions allow. Or keep things simple. Bring a book, find a comfortable spot, and enjoy having nowhere you need to be.

Make Yourself at Home on the Maine Coast

The best trips often include a mix of exploring and relaxing: a garden visit one day, a boat ride the next, and plenty of time in between to enjoy the view. We’d love to welcome you to Ocean Gate Inn and help you make the most of your stay in the Boothbay region.