Kennebunkport

A politician can tell you that the Bush family has spent years vacationing in Kennebunkport. And a paparazzi may persuade you to camp out along Ocean Drive in order to get a blurry photo of the Obamas at their Walker's Point compound. But harboring politicians isn't even what this southern coastal area of Maine is known for, nor should it be. Kennebunkport is a natural beach destination with miles of rugged shoreline dotted with summer homes and sailboats.

Local fisherman and lobstermen deliver the morning's catch to open-air cafes in town, while artists set up shop on Dock Square's wharves. Even the beaches are unassuming and peaceful, with secret footpaths leading you away from the road. You may have literally discovered a place where you can get away from it all.