Maine's coziest bed & breakfasts

Captain Jefferds Inn Kennebunkport, Maine, United States As the locals would say, Maine is a "wicked pretty" place to live -- and its a great spot for a visit, too. Beachgoers, skiers, and snowboarders find as much to do as gourmands, nature explorers, and history seekers. But across the state there is one constant: B&Bs reign supreme. From seven-room inns to luxurious spa stays, the bed and breakfast is alive and well in this northernmost New England spot. Here, we've compiled some of our favorite spots to bed up and mug down while visiting the Pine Tree State. Once a sea captain's home, the historic (and aptly named) Captain Jefferds Inn charms guests with cozy rooms, such as this one that features its own old-fashioned fireplace. Indulgent freebies and modern touches also abound. Free gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea, and hot cider, as well as Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and flat-screen TVs round out this impressive hideaway. (Oyster)

Captain Jefferds Inn Kennebunkport, Maine, United States Grounds as the inn are also impressively maintained, as are the interiors which exude New England charm. (Oyster)

<a href="http://www.oyster.com/maine/hotels/parsons-post-house-inn/">Parsons Post House Inn</a> Ogunquit, Maine, United States This intimate inn captures the beachy vibe of Ogunquit, which is Algonquin for "beautiful place by the sea." The outdoor patio is a quaint spot to take in the sea breeze while chowing on the inn's delicious free breakfast (pictured), before making the short walk to the beach. (Oyster)

Parsons Post House Inn Ogunquit, Maine, United States After all, bright and beachy are the names of the game at the the Parsons Post House Inn. (Oyster)

The Breakwater Inn and Spa Kennebunkport, Maine, United States This is not your grandmother's B&B. In stylish Kennebunkport, the Breakwater Inn and Spa offers a variety of room choices, including classic inn rooms, secluded nautical cottages, apartments for extended stays, and modern spa rooms and suites, such as the one shown here. The variety alone makes the Breakwater stand out. Add in its gorgeous views of Kennebunk River and dedicated attention to detail (think afternoon tea, Adirondack chairs dotting the coastline, and scrumptious homemade breakfasts), this tranquil locale is a winner. (Oyster)

The Breakwater Inn and Spa Kennebunkport, Maine, United States And did we mention the spa? A rarity among bed and breakfasts, the spa is small but quaint, with mani-pedi stations and a menu of treatments that includes facials, wraps, and massages. (Oyster)

<a href="http://www.oyster.com/maine/hotels/james-place-inn/">James Place Inn</a> Freeport, Maine, United States In Freeport, the family-run James Place Inn offers just seven polished rooms, some with fireplaces and/or soaking tubs. The free, extensive breakfast consists of a bevy of homemade items daily. And though the inn is a historic Victorian house, it offers modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. (Oyster)

James Place Inn Freeport, Maine, United States This claw-foot soaking tub is one of the special touches at the James Place Inn. Others -- such as the outdoor deck and hammock, or unique reading nooks tucked into hallways -- are perfect spots to while away a lazy afternoon. (Oyster)

Dockside Guest Quarters York Harbor, Maine, United States A waterside inn in York Harbor, Dockside Guest Quarters features large, bright rooms with lovely (yet basic) seaside cottage decor. York Harbor is known for its rich history -- the town is still dotted with shingle-style houses from the Civil War era and the Nubble Lighthouse is a favorite photo-op locale -- and the inn includes historic touches to complement this. (Oyster)

Dockside Guest Quarters York Harbor, Maine, United States Guests also enjoy free perks like bicycle rentals, Wi-Fi, and, of course, breakfast. There is no pool or fitness center, but guests need only step off their porches to explore the shoreline and surrounding areas. (Oyster)

Maine Stay Inn Kennebunkport, Maine, United States Kennebunkport's Maine Stay Inn was a sea captain's home till the early 1900s, when it was converted into an inn. The architecture has been preserved even as the inn has expanded. Today, it offers a seasonal spa, a guest computer with printer, and free passes to nearby beaches. But the main draw here is the free, homemade gourmet breakfast, which features pancakes, huevos rancheros, fresh fruit, sausage, and a lot more -- it varies daily. They'll also accommodate special dietary requests, such as those made by gluten-free travelers. (Oyster)

Maine Stay Inn Kennebunkport, Maine, United States With a wide variety of spacious and well-appointed guest rooms and cottages -- such as this Deluxe Fireplace Suite -- the Maine Stay Inn is a solid choice for those visiting Kennebunkport. (Oyster)

The Black Point Inn Scarborough, Maine, United States Twenty minutes outside of Portland, the Black Point Inn offers stunning waterfront views in a secluded spot of Prouts Neck. Spacious rooms are decked out in classic New England style, and boast views of the ocean, well-manicured grounds, or heated pool. There are also two restaurants on-site (breakfast and dinner are included in the room rate). (Oyster)

The Black Point Inn Scarborough, Maine, United States Guests can choose to spend their days simply basking in the surrounding nature, or they can opt to participate in daily events, such as wine tasting, yoga classes, and jazz nights. Black Point Inn also offers guests access to a tennis, golf, and beach club located off-site. (Oyster)