Hotels in South Portland

Where Coastal Serenity Meets Urban Charm: Discover South Portland

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Casco Bay, South Portland, Maine, is a charming coastal gem that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. With stunning waterfront parks like Bug Light Park and the scenic Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, visitors can soak in breathtaking ocean views and enjoy leisurely strolls. The thriving arts scene, coupled with cozy local eateries serving fresh seafood, adds to its allure. South Portland is perfect for those seeking a relaxed escape, whether you’re exploring its quaint neighborhoods or embarking on a scenic ferry ride to nearby islands. Discover the essence of Maine in this hidden treasure! For great hotel rates in South Portland, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in South Portland

South Portland offers a range of hotel accommodations, from comfortable guest rooms to spacious suites. Many hotels are conveniently located near Portland International Jetport, making travel hassle-free. Whether you're seeking a cozy stay or a modern retreat, South Portland has options to suit your needs. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in South Portland:

1. Canopy by Hilton Portland WaterfrontOpens in a new window: This contemporary 4.0-star hotel offers a unique pet-friendly experience, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy amenities like a rooftop bar, a delightful breakfast spot, and a well-equipped gym. The hotel stands out for its excellent service and tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to unwind in a stylish setting. Frequent travelers appreciate the cozy rooms and the vibrant ambiance, highlighted by the presence of fellow pet lovers, ensuring a warm and welcoming environment.
2. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel PortlandOpens in a new window: A 4.0-star gem, this hotel captures the essence of comfort and hospitality, catering to leisure travelers seeking a memorable experience. With a fantastic restaurant and bar, it provides an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The hotel's commitment to cleanliness and cozy accommodations has made it a favorite among guests. The ongoing renovations promise to enhance the ambiance further, ensuring that visitors enjoy a warm, vibrant atmosphere throughout their stay.
3. Portland Sheraton at Sable OaksOpens in a new window: This exquisite 4.0-star hotel is the perfect retreat for adventure and romantic travelers. It features modern amenities, including an indoor pool and a farm-to-table restaurant, where guests can indulge in delightful culinary experiences. The hotel excels in providing a serene and stylish atmosphere, with beautiful courtyards and exceptional service. Its proximity to various outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating, adds to the allure, making it a prime destination for those seeking relaxation combined with adventurous experiences.

Top locations to stay in South Portland

When visiting South Portland, Maine, consider staying in Old Port, Downtown Portland, or Back Cove. Old Port offers charming waterfront views and vibrant nightlife, while Downtown Portland features cultural attractions and shopping. Back Cove combines outdoor adventures with scenic beauty. For first-time visitors, Old Port is the best choice for its lively atmosphere and central location.

1. Old PortOpens in a new window: Old Port is a charming and vibrant area that perfectly combines history with a lively atmosphere. With its cobblestone streets lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and local shops, it’s a shopper's paradise. You can explore must-see places like the Portland Museum of Art and East End Beach, and when the sun sets, enjoy cultural attractions like Bayside Bowl and the State Theatre. The area’s waterfront location also provides beautiful views and a relaxed vibe, making it an ideal spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Portland's rich maritime heritage.
2. Downtown PortlandOpens in a new window: Staying in Downtown Portland puts you at the heart of the city’s cultural scene. This area features a range of museums, including the renowned Portland Museum of Art, and easy access to the scenic East End Beach. You can also indulge in shopping at the LL Bean Flagship Store and enjoy cultural attractions like the Portland Observatory. The downtown vibe is both energetic and inviting, making it a great base for exploring the rest of the city.
3. Back CoveOpens in a new window: Back Cove offers a more laid-back atmosphere with stunning views of the waterfront and the surrounding nature. It’s perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities, with access to trails and parks for walking or biking. While it’s slightly quieter than Old Port and Downtown, you can still find shopping at the Maine Mall and enjoy cultural spots nearby. The tranquility of Back Cove makes it a great choice for travelers looking to relax while still being close to the city’s attractions.

Things to do in South Portland

South Portland offers a delightful blend of coastal charm and outdoor fun, with stunning beaches, lush parks, and scenic trails perfect for hiking or running. Enjoy sunset strolls by the water, dive into boating adventures, or engage in local sports. This vibrant escape is sure to leave you refreshed and inspired!

• Portland Head LightOpens in a new window – Visit this historic lighthouse that stands proudly on the shores of Cape Elizabeth. Take a leisurely stroll around Fort Williams Park, where you can capture stunning photos of the lighthouse against the backdrop of crashing waves. The surrounding area is perfect for picnicking and enjoying the coastal scenery.
• Portland Museum of ArtOpens in a new window – Discover the rich collection of artworks housed in this vibrant museum. From classic to contemporary pieces, the museum offers a diverse experience that will delight art enthusiasts. Take your time exploring the galleries and don’t miss the chance to admire the beautiful architecture of the museum itself.
• East End BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a sunny day at East End Beach, where you can bask in the sun or take a refreshing dip in the ocean. With its sandy shores and scenic views of the city skyline, it’s a great spot for a family outing or a relaxing day by the water.
• Sand BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy the soft sands and gentle waves at Sand Beach. This picturesque beach is an ideal place for beachcombing, sunbathing, or simply unwinding with a good book. Bring along some snacks and make a day of it while soaking in the sun.
• Willard BeachOpens in a new window – Visit Willard Beach for a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for families and friends. This beach offers calm waters and plenty of space to spread out. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore, and keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore the natural beauty of the area.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in South Portland

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit South Portland is from January to March, when hotel prices may drop. For a budget-friendly getaway, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully appreciate the area’s key landmarks and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore historical sites, scenic coastal views, and other cultural highlights, all of which offer great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals in South Portland, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. For the best hotel deal, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window feature in the app allows you to compare room rates and amenities, ensuring you find the best options. With these tools, you'll be among the first to know about any price drops or availability changes for your favorite hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a South Portland hotel. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your selected dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll suggest more budget-friendly dates to help you find the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive. However, with South Portland's outstanding public transportation system, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that still has great connections. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even some lesser-known nearby cities, there’s often excellent value to be found. Opting for these alternative spots can provide a more genuine and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in South Portland. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to South Portland

South Portland experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 26.6°F (-3.0°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.2°F (20.1°C). October is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in South Portland, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, January, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.