10 great last-minute summer getaways

WHY IT'S A DEAL

Less touristy than other coastal Maine towns, Rockland has long been a better value - and recession discounts make it even more attractive this summer. If you plan to fly, your most economical option is to land in Portland and drive the two hours.

WHAT TO DO

Rockland is the perfect spot to launch an exploration of Penobscot Bay. Take a windjammer cruise. Or ferry over to Monhegan Island, the sea cliffs of which were famously painted by Edward Hopper. Visit the island's wildlife sanctuary, which boasts more than 600 kinds of wildflowers and 200 species of birds.

WHERE TO STAY

Luxury hotel: Samoset Resort (samosetresort.com). Surrounded by a golf course and offering ocean views from most rooms, the Samoset has reduced room rates to as low as $129 a night this June vs. $269 normally.

Mid-range hotel: Captain Lindsey House Inn (lindseyhouse.com). Two nights with champagne and a $50 meal voucher start at $332, and you're only a block from the water.

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