On the Beach Motel

The best location in Old Orchard Beach isn't a secret - it's a motel. On the Beach sits so close to the water that guests can practically roll out of bed and onto the sand. Built as a modest 28-room property decades ago but fully renovated in 2022, it's become the rare beachfront stay that feels both genuine and genuinely welcoming. The owner, JJ Mokarzel, still replies to reviews personally. Staff members like Shirley and Mark appear by name across dozens of guest accounts, not because the motel hired them to be friendly, but because they are.

What strikes most visitors isn't the amenities list - it's the feeling of being exactly where they wanted to be. Couples book here for anniversaries. Families return year after year. Solo travelers discover a quiet refuge steps from the pier. The heated saltwater pool stays at 90 degrees even in September. Rooms are modest, recently refreshed, and honest: you get clean sheets, ocean views (or a view of the parking lot, if you choose the lower rate), and a working bathroom. The beds are famously divisive - some guests find them perfect, others too firm or too soft - but that's the kind of detail worth knowing before you arrive.

Right on the beach - not a block away, not "walking distance," actually on it. You can see the ocean from most rooms. A private walkway leads directly to the sand. Multiple guests mention waking up to the sound of waves. The pier is less than half a mile away, and downtown Old Orchard Beach is an easy walk in either direction. This location advantage appears in nearly every positive review.

A heated saltwater pool that guests rave about. At 90 degrees year-round, it's a practical draw for families with kids and couples looking to extend their season. The pool is fenced, has beach chairs and umbrellas, and stays clean. Several guests specifically booked again because of it.

Staff who solve problems instead of citing policy. Shirley, Mark, and the owner himself respond to guest needs - whether it's holding a room for an extra night, helping with parking logistics, or retrieving forgotten items after checkout. This isn't performed hospitality; it's consistent across dozens of independent reviews.

Recently renovated rooms with modern basics. All rooms received full updates in 2022. You'll find a flat-screen TV, a Keurig coffee maker (though staff noted guests wanted earlier office hours for hot coffee), a fridge, and a microwave. Rooms feel clean and maintained. Some bathrooms are small - that's the trade-off for staying close to the beach - but they're functional.

Good value for beachfront location. At mid-range pricing for direct beach access in Maine, repeat guests often cite the price-to-location ratio as exceptional. Several reviews mention deciding to stay an extra night because the value was right.

The motel's 28 rooms span a handful of categories. Most are arranged in a single-story or two-story configuration, and the building's modest footprint means no room is far from the front office or the beach. Walls are not particularly thick - a known characteristic of older motels - so sound can travel from neighbors.

• Ocean View Deluxe 2 Queens - Direct ocean views, the most requested category, priced accordingly
• Non Ocean View 2 Queens - Same layout and amenities, views of the parking area or side lawn instead
• Ocean View King Bed - Single bed, ocean view, slightly different layout
• Oceanfront King Bed Private Hot Tub - Premium option with a private soaking tub on the patio (limited availability)
• Limited View King Bed - King bed, minimal or side ocean sightlines
• Limited View 2 Queen Beds - Two queens, limited water views

One consistent note: beds are subjective. The owner acknowledges this openly - some guests find them comfortable, others report they're too firm or too soft. If bed preference matters greatly to your comfort, call ahead and ask about current mattress types. A few guests mentioned low bed frames with legs that catch toes, designed (according to the motel) to allow luggage storage underneath. Bathrooms in some rooms are notably compact, particularly the shower stalls, which multiple guests flagged as tight but functional. These aren't flaws so much as honest trade-offs of a modest oceanfront property.

Summer (June–August). Peak season. The heated pool is most appealing, the beach is busy, and Old Orchard Beach Pier is fully open with arcades, dining, and entertainment. Expect higher rates and advance booking essential. Parking becomes tight, as noted by many summer guests.

Early fall (September–early October). Sweet spot for many visitors. The pool remains heated. Summer crowds thin out. Temperatures are still warm enough for beach time. This is when repeat guests cluster - several reviews mention September stays. Leaf-peeping begins later in the month.

Shoulder season (May, late October–November). The pool is seasonal and may be closed by late October. Fewer tourists. Rates drop. Weather is unpredictable. Some restaurants and attractions in town may reduce hours. Still, many guests appreciate the quieter vibe and lower pricing.

Winter (December–March). The motel remains open year-round, but the heated pool is less of a draw when air temperatures are cold, and beach walks are bracing rather than recreational. Best for travelers seeking solitude or a winter getaway at reduced rates.

"The staff were super friendly and helpful, the location directly on the beach was amazing, and kids enjoyed all the TV channels." - Erin, United States · Family · 9/10

"It's such an older part of town, but when we walked into our room, it smelled clean and was very well kept." - Blanchette, United States · Couple · 9/10

"Great location, clean rooms. Marc and the rest of the staff went above and beyond to make us comfortable, and we extended our stay with no problem." - Steve, United States · Couple · 10/10

"Friendly owner and staff. Pool was heated and the kids loved it. Wonderful access to the beach." - Steve, United States · Family · 9/10

"We were in a Queen Deluxe with a view of the beach. It was beautiful. Mark and the staff were excellent." - Lauren, United States · Family · 10/10

"I loved being able to look out my window and see the ocean so close. Everything is within walking distance." - Jessica, United States · Couple · 10/10

On the margins: Parking is tight. The motel has 28 rooms and 28 parking spaces - a 1:1 ratio that works until guests need overflow parking, which means street spots or paid lots across the street. Several families noted this frustration, though the staff tries to accommodate. Bathrooms are small, a few guests found beds uncomfortable, and some rooms on the side patios don't have dedicated sitting areas. None of these are deal-breakers, but they're worth knowing. The motel does not serve breakfast, though many restaurants are walking distance away.

Is On the Beach Motel actually on the beach? Yes. The motel sits steps from the sand with a private walkway to the beach. Most rooms have direct or limited ocean views. This is not hyperbole - it's the main reason guests book here.

Is breakfast included? No. The motel does not offer a complimentary breakfast, but Old Orchard Beach has numerous cafes and diners within easy walking distance, many opening by 7 or 8 a.m. A Keurig is in every room if you want coffee before heading out.

Is the pool heated year-round? The saltwater pool is heated to 90 degrees and open seasonally, typically May through October. Call ahead to confirm exact dates for your visit. In summer and early fall, it's a major draw for families.

Does the motel have a cable TV option? No. The motel switched to Smart TVs several years ago to reduce costs and accommodate guests with streaming subscriptions. You'll have local broadcast channels and can connect your own streaming services via WiFi or Bluetooth.

What's the parking situation? Each room includes one free parking space. The motel has exactly 28 spaces for 28 rooms. If you need additional parking for a second vehicle, street parking nearby or paid lots across the street may be necessary. Parking spaces are tight, and the staff advises caution when maneuvering in and out.

How far is On the Beach Motel from the pier and downtown? The Old Orchard Beach Pier is approximately 0.3 miles south (about a 6-minute walk). Downtown shops and restaurants are similarly close. Palace Playland amusement park is roughly 0.1 miles away. This location is a major advantage for guests who want to be in the heart of the action.

Is the motel pet-friendly? The JSON does not indicate a pet policy. Contact the motel directly to confirm whether pets are allowed.