Fall is full, too, at Old Orchard Beach

September 09, 2009|Jenn Abelson, Globe Staff

OLD ORCHARD BEACH, Maine - The mere mention of Old Orchard Beach evokes images of crowded arcades, sticky cotton candy, and sunburned children sprawled across the beach. But what happens in the fall? Turns out, this beach town has a good deal to offer when the vacationing families pack up and go home. Here, single friends can rent entire beach houses, gorge on lobsters, dominate nearby bowling alleys, and mingle in bars with the locals who emerge out of hiding. Easily stroll the miles of sandy beaches as New England welcomes its fabulous fall.

Stay

Lodging here is cheap and varied. Head to Echo Motel & Cottages (8 Traynor St., www.echomotel.com, 207-935-5174. Rooms start at $65 and ones with kitchenettes fetch $70) with friendly hosts, Leslie and Paul Puchalski. Echo, about half a mile from the pier, offers Wi-Fi, BBQs, and a pool. But a group of friends are best advised to pool their money and rent an oceanfront cottage that can accommodate up to 8 people. If you want a bit more attention and luxury, then check out Maine’s oldest resort inn, Old Orchard Beach Inn, (6 Portland Ave., www.oldorchardbeachinn.com, 207-934-5834. Rooms start at $89 during the “tranquil season’’ after Sept. 8. All boast their own private bath and feature options, including one or two double beds.). Located three minutes from the famous Old Orchard Beach Pier, the inn, built in the 1730s, features pinewood floors, antique furnishings, and period details.

Dine

Offering panoramic ocean-view dining, Joseph’s by the Sea (55 West Grand Ave., www.josephsbythesea.com, 207-934-5044. Entrees $18-$29.) features creative American and European fare, handcrafted desserts, and a garden patio. You will suffer entree envy if you do not get the baked stuffed lobster packed with scallops, parsley, garlic, and cracker crumbs. Or you can check out the casual Bua Thai (194 Saco Ave., buathai-rest.com, 207-937-3337. House specials $9.95-$12.95.). The spicy Thai basil noodles offer flavorful plump shrimp, and the yellow curry featured squash, potatoes, peppers, carrots, and pineapple. Do not leave without having the mango and sticky rice dessert.

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