Cottage rentals and B&B’s start renting mid-winter for the summer travel season, which is good news for those girls who need to plan ahead to commit to the trip. Start the weekend in York with pizza and wine on the porch of your rented cottage, or in the dining room with easy access to the kitchen. As Friday night falls, you’ll be comfortable in your pj’s and favorite porch chair, without worry of having to race home to the dog or watching the clock so you don’t forget to grab the kids. If you’re the first one up on Saturday morning, take the quiet time to go walk through the Harbor and explore the neighborhood. If you’re staying along York Beach near the lighthouse, you’ll find plenty of other early-morning exercisers shuffling their way along the beach. The more quaint properties located along the lake and the backside of the harbor provide a quiet respite from the chaos of summer vacationers. Enjoy time catching up with your girlfriends over a leisurely morning coffee or a run along the rocky shore.

Spend the afternoon in nearby Portsmouth shopping at the boutique hotels or enjoying a mid-afternoon cocktail at one of the restaurants on the shore. If shopping is more your pleasure, take a quick trip from York to Kittery where the Kittery Outlets welcome visitors all year long. The later in the season the better the deal! You’ll find everything from Cole Haan and Banana Republic to Old Navy and Crate and Barrel. The stores go on for what seems like miles, and the savings are endless.

Maine nights will appeal any traveler. A quick drive into nearby Ogunquit will offer restaurant options galore. Choose from outdoor seating on the sidewalks to inside dining on the patio overlooking the gardens. For those who want something a little more “Maine” – don’t miss a meal at “Franky & Johnny’s“. Whatever you do, eat the seafood. Maine is known for its sweet lobsters, jumbo crabs and various types of fish for all taste buds. Most local restaurants use ingredients straight from Maine harvest so you can be sure the meal is fresh and savory. The best part? Sitting around the table with your girlfriends as you talk about days gone by, the days ahead and share a few laughs over memories only you and your girlfriends can appreciate. Complete the night with a stop at Brown’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream, positioned perfectly near the Nubble Light House for picturesque views of the Harbor.

Planning a girl’s getaway takes time and patience, but if you do it right the bonds are unbreakable.