Welcome to Cape Elizabeth
Coastal Maine’s most luxurious, untouched hidden gem.
Less than 10 miles south of Portland lies Cape Elizabeth, an affluent New England beach community boasting some of the most valuable lands on the east coast. Several homes are situated on lush, vast private lots, many of which offer sweeping views of the Gulf of Maine and the Atlantic Ocean. Fresh seafood, wide-open spaces, and scenic beaches are plentiful in coastal Maine’s hidden gem.
Cape Elizabeth has appeared on early Spanish maps as far back as 1529. Originally a part of Portland, citizens petitioned for and were awarded their own government in 1765. The northern part of town experienced rapid growth and development, while the southern half remained a rural farming area. At this point, the two communities agreed to separate and the southern portion then became the current town of Cape Elizabeth. While most of those farms no longer exist today, the townspeople have taken great strides to protect the land by taking legal measures to preserve the area’s natural beauty.
What to Love
- Cape Elizabeth is home to some of New England’s most valuable land
- Residents enjoy close proximity to beaches, state parks and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation
- Legislative measures are in place to ensure the town remains largely green and untouched
- Cape Elizabeth is less than 10 miles from downtown Portland
Local Lifestyle
Life in Cape Elizabeth is quiet and comfortable. Several homes near the shoreline enjoy unmatched views of the Atlantic and close proximity to beaches. Crescent Beach State Park is a local favorite, featuring a mile-long, crescent-shaped sandy shoreline. Nearby, Inn by the Sea is an upscale waterfront hotel featuring a luxurious spa and ocean view dining. Other simple pleasures on the shore include peaceful walks in the sand or dinner with a view.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
Cape Elizabeth residents enjoy a wide variety of leisure activities. From shopping in quaint markets to waterfront dining to homemade baked goods and more, there is always something to be savored by the sea.
The Lobster Shack at Two Lights features outdoor dining on iconic red picnic tables perched up on the rocks and jaw-dropping views of the historic lighthouse and surrounding cove. Popular dishes featuring the namesake protein include lobster rolls, stew, and a proper dinner consisting of the whole lobster, coleslaw, fries, a biscuit, and plenty of butter for dipping.
Just up Shore Road, The Cookie Jar has been a local icon since the ‘50s. Original recipes stretching back several decades include fresh turnovers, cream rolls, cookies, and doughnuts. Fresh-made soups and salads are prepared for lunch specials daily.
C Salt Gourmet Market is a newer establishment but has quickly become a favorite shopping option. This gourmet artisan market carries specialty goods from across the globe and a string of local Maine favorites. Gift baskets, spreads, a healthy selection of cheese, baked goods, and coffeehouse offerings have made it an essential stop on any errand list.
Things To Do
Cape Elizabeth is home to unrivaled natural beauty and lucky locals spend as much time in the great outdoors as they can. The Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in the state, was completed in 1791 and faces out to the Gulf of Maine, lighting the way for ships headed into Portland Harbor. Adjacent to the lighthouse, visitors can hike the 90-acre Fort Williams Park. The TD Beach to Beacon 10K is an annual road race taking place each summer. With over 6,500 entries it is the largest race in the state. Past participants have included elite athletes, many of whom have gone on to run in the Olympics.
Schools
Cape Elizabeth residents enjoy high-ranking public schools, such as:
- Pond Cove Elementary School, kindergarten-4th grade; Pond Cove is currently ranked as the #3 elementary school in Maine by U.S. News
- Cape Elizabeth Middle School, grades 5-8; CEMS has consistently been placed in the top 5% of all Maine middle schools for several years
- Cape Elizabeth High School, grades 9-12; CEHS is a multiple-time winner of the Blue Ribbon School Award, the highest accolade an American school can acquire
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