Ever wonder where the BEST summer destination is?

Maybe you're thinking Cape Cod, The Hamptons (I've never been so I'm not trying to compare), or somewhere else super touristy...like Maine? It's the state that's right below Canada and on the East Coast; there's a whole lot of trees and things, but there's also a whole lot of fun. Especially in Southern Maine, I promise there's way more to do than in the middle of the boonies, no offense to my fellow up-Mainers.

Being a Mainer myself I'm a little biased, but here are the 11 reasons why Southern Maine is the best summer destination:

1. York Beach

Located in York, Maine it might be one of the best beaches to go to around here. If you're a super tourist then definitely hit up Short Sands beach; there are shops, an awesome restaurant and candy shop called The Goldenrod, and an arcade. If you're more about just soaking up the rays and not being so clustered, hit up Long Sands.

2. Being very close to the New Hampshire boarder.

There is TAX-FREE shopping. I repeat, there is TAX-FREE shopping.

3. Downtown Portsmouth is just over the bridge.

Okay well first off, the location is perfect. Located in New Hampshire, seriously right over the Piscataqua River Bridge on the water. It's perfect for trying some awesome food and the shopping is peachy. I highly recommend Popovers On the Square for a quick and tasty breakfast or lunch. Bobbles & Lace is by far my personal favorite boutique in DTP.

4. Ogunquit Beach

I swear Ogunquit Beach might be the cutest little beach town, it carries a "happy-go-lucky" vibe. It's perfect for family or romantic get aways, not to mention it believes that "love is love".

5. The New Hampshire beaches are near by.

The beach above is at The Wall in Hampton; it's perfect for surfers and calm beach days. If you're more into the boardwalk scene, head on over to the big beach. It's packed with tourists and a whole lot of greasy food places. Don't forget to hit up The Hampton Beach Casino!

6. There are lobster rolls on every freakin' menu.

There is nothing better than chowing down on a Maine Lobster lobster roll while being in Maine.

7. Saco has a pretty cool amusement park.

A bit more north in Saco, Maine there is a joint amusement and water park called Funtown Splashtown USA. With reasonable prices, it's great for beautiful sunny summer days with the family.

8. The weather.

I really hope that you don't think it only snows up here in Maine. The weather in the summer is phenomenal; from clear skies to mid-day thunderstorms. It's almost never too hot to enjoy some outside activities. Although experiencing the winters here will definitely make you appreciate the warmer August days.

9. Almost everyone knows someone who has a camp.

Camps, cabins, lake houses, whatever you want to call them. Maine and New Hampshire both have awesome lakes, some far and some near. But they're all worth the trip. From a day filled with flipping off of tubes to getting in a sweatshirt and cooking up some s'mores, it's all worth it.

10. We're not from Boston, but it's not too far.

A day or weekend trip to Boston is definitely not out of the question. It can be as close as a hour and a half away if you're in Kittery, Maine. Not to mention we're all New Englanders up here so Boston is our city. There are so many things to do in Boston, whether it be summer or winter!

11. Logan isn't far either.

By Logan I meant Logan International Airport in Boston. It's perfect for when tourists want to leave and finally give us our parking spots back. Well that mostly refers to those who travel by car, but anyways...

I'm not hating on tourists, otherwise I wouldn't be telling you all the cool and fun things you can do while visiting Southern Maine in the summer. We want you here, you help us thrive. And um, HELLO, Maine isn't called "Vacationland" for no reason. If you want perfect weather, lobster and beaches come visit. I hope this list of reasons why Southern Maine is the best summer destination will persuade you to make an annual trip!