Lodge + Dine announces a 5-star rating for The Dunes on the Waterfront after a three day’s visit evaluating the guest experience. The hotel excelled distinctively in its serene waterfront setting, charming cottage accommodations, and thoughtful guest touches.
Salt air, shifting tides, and sunrise over the dunes define the arrival experience at this waterfront escape. Positioned along the Ogunquit River, The Dunes on the Waterfront immediately conveys a sense of calm and timeless beauty, offering guests a rare balance of nature and comfort. The welcome feels effortless, carried by both the fresh ocean breeze and the warm smiles of the staff who make it their mission to ensure every stay is as memorable as the setting itself. What begins as a first impression quickly deepens into a lasting sense of place, where every detail is crafted to highlight Maine’s unique charm.
The design is unmistakably evocative of New England summers past, yet it has been reimagined to meet today’s desire for simplicity and ease. Twenty-one bright cottages, each designed to invite in natural light, carry a breezy, open feel. White-paneled walls and vaulted ceilings create airy spaces, softened by sandy beige, soft blues, and greens that mirror the surrounding landscape. Furniture is both functional and stylish, with striped armchairs and wooden accents tying the interiors to the views outside. Instead of an impersonal hotel atmosphere, the property feels more like a private retreat, a destination in its own right where nostalgia meets understated luxury.
Stepping into a two-bedroom cottage facing the river reveals just how thoughtfully these sanctuaries are designed. Morning coffee arrives at the door with a fresh muffin or pastry, and Adirondack chairs on the porch encourage quiet reflection as the day begins. Inside, everything feels carefully considered, from the placement of windows framing the river to the calming palette that seems to invite rest. While the property does not operate a full-service restaurant, a menu of sandwiches and snacks is available, offering quality without complication.
The grounds encourage both stillness and activity, depending on the mood. Guests can row or paddle across the Ogunquit River, take a cabana boat across the water at high tide, or spend the afternoon at the heated outdoor pool with its serene views. At dusk, the fire pit becomes a gathering place where s’mores, laughter, and starlight mingle to create the quintessential New England evening. The Lodge, positioned at check-in, adds yet another layer of convenience with its bright café offering juices, espresso drinks, cheese boards, and light bites for moments in between. The beach, just a walk away, connects guests directly to Maine’s famed shoreline and the town’s vibrant restaurant scene.
What sets this establishment apart is the personality behind the service. Every interaction, from casual greetings to thoughtful recommendations, reinforces a culture of genuine hospitality. There is a warmth that cannot be designed into walls or décor; it lives in the people who make each guest feel both known and cared for. It is this human touch, combined with an extraordinary setting and carefully crafted comforts, that transforms a stay into an experience worth remembering.
The Dunes on the Waterfront is not just a place to stay but a retreat where couples, families, and seekers of serenity alike can find something to treasure. It is a five-star gem that embodies the spirit of Maine, offering a rare combination of nostalgia, beauty, and heartfelt service.
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