Hi-

My husband and I are taking a special trip for our ten year anniversary this fall.

We are planning to spend three nights in Boston and two nights north of Boston (Maine or New Hampshire area).

We are totally unfamiliar with the area and I'm hoping to get some great lodging recommendations. We specifically need reservations on Wednesday Oct 14 and Thursday Oct 15th.

I'm particularly interested anything oceanside.

Thanks for any ideas that you have to share!

Check on Portsmouth, NH and Kittery Maine. I especially like Portsmouth but cannot recommend lodging -- I stay with relatives. Have you looked at New England guide books or AAA?

cliffhousemaine.com

Wentworth by the Sea in New Castle NH.

http://www.wentworth.com/

Budget (there is a huge range of types and costs), what do you like to do (walk, hike, sit on beach, ...?), etc....

Budget: I'm willing to splurge for two nights and for me that would be $250-$300 per night.

What I'm looking for: I'm mainly looking for a beautiful view and MAJOR relaxation with great dining options nearby. We are leaving 2 kiddos *(6 and 2) at home and this is only the second time since having kids that we've been able to line up childcare to do something like this. I'm so exicted! We are from the Midwest.

Considering your post with more info, I especially recommend Cliff House. All rooms have view of ocean (not likely to be duplicated in MidWest) and I think most if not all have balconies. They have very good food and there are multiple other options nearby. A spa if you are into that sort of thing. Good location for daytrips to southern Maine area or just relaxing.

The Wentworth fits your criteria too. You might also consider the White Barn Inn in Kennebunkport ME, although I'm not sure it fits your budget.

www.greenheroninn.com

Or, a half hour closer to Boston...www.stageneck.com

My first thought was Wentworth By the Sea [a Marriott hotel]. It is beautiful and historic. The Russo-Japanese treaty was signed here. It is right at the Maine/New Hampshire border.

My second thought was Hartstone Inn, in Camden, Maine. It's not on the water, but Camden is, and has a lot of charm. What is special about it is, the amazing meals that the owner/chef prepares. It is where we've gone for a few special occasions. His dinners are quite an experience. They have quite a variety of room options. My one suggestion would be to book a room away from the street.

You can check out both these options online.