Updated February 2024
It has come to our attention that as much as we love it, Google Maps is not always savvy or in-the-know. It’s sending guests from the south through windy back country roads that are neither the quickest nor the most scenic routes. You need to know this for the best directions to Captain Nickels Inn from Portland, Maine (or any location in between)!
Where Is Captain Nickels Inn?
Our romantically updated Searsport bed and breakfast is ideally located on Penobscot Bay, halfway between beautiful Camden and Bar Harbor in Maine. Our address is 127 East Main Street.
Many adorable coastal towns that offer perfect day trips surround us. Ellsworth, Stonington, Rockland, and Castine are some of our favorites.
There are so many fantastic things to do in our area. From walking tours to island clam digging to antiquing and beyond, there’s something for everyone to partake in.
Short vs. Scenic Directions to Captain Nickels Inn
There are two directions to Captain Nickels Inn from Portland, Maine, and the maps don’t even show you the most beautiful drive (one that only takes about 30 extra minutes).
There’s the short drive (using Interstates) and the scenic drive (using coastal highways). This blog post will explain what you need to know about maneuvering the quickest and most stunning drives to Captain Nickels Inn.
The Shortest Drive
To get the shortest directions to Captain Nickels Inn from Portland, Maine, start on I-295. Continue for about 55 miles until you get to Augusta. (You’ll naturally merge onto I-95 just before Augusta.)
Take exit 113 to get onto ME-3 East. You’ll continue for about 30 miles until you get to Belfast. Then, take a left to turn onto US-1 North. In about 6 miles, you’ll see Captain Nickels Inn on the right.
Super simple! Three roads take you from Portland, Maine, to Captain Nickels Inn.
The Scenic Drive
Taking US-1 North (aka Route 1) from Portland is the most beautiful way to get to our Inn. With abundant scenic views and quaint coastal towns, it’s worth the extra 30 minutes of driving if you have the time. Google Maps doesn’t even show it as an option, so we want to ensure you’re informed about this spectacular adventure.
Again, you’ll start on I-295 North (in Portland), but instead of taking it to Augusta, you’ll get off on Exit 28 – Brunswick/Bath to get onto US-1 North. This scenic highway will take you all the way from Brunswick to Searport along the beautiful coastlines of Maine.
You’ll pass through many quaint towns, including Wiscasset, Waldoboro, Rockland, Camden, and Belfast.
Captain Nickels Inn is on this highway. Our oceanfront Inn is on the right side, just past Summer Street.
Quick Summary of Directions to Captain Nickels Inn from Portland, Maine:
Shortest drive—approximately a 2-hour drive from Portland
- Start on I-295 North (in Portland)
- Take East Exit 113 onto ME-3 (in Augusta)
- Continue on ME-3 East until you get to US-1 North (in Belfast)
- Follow US-1 North through downtown Searsport until you reach the Inn
Scenic drive—approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Portland
- Start on I-295 North (in Portland)
- Take Exit 28 – Brunswick/Bath (just before Brunswick) onto US-1 North
- Continue on US-1 North until you reach the Inn
Direction to Captain Nickels Inn from Other Maine Destinations
Here’s how to get to Captain Nickels Inn, whether driving south (from Bangor or above) or making the 1-hour trip from Augusta.
Book Your Stay at Captain Nickels Inn
Experience the luxury of our uniquely grand rooms, multi-course breakfast, and Victorian 1874 Tavern filled with local brews and boutique wines to enjoy during your stay.
Book your getaway to Captain Nickels Inn today!
Photo credit:
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©BWFolsom via canva.com