If you came to the shore to simply relax, then Clinton and Westbrook will not disappoint. Indeed, they are the kind of shoreline havens where the simple pleasures are the best. Arrive on Friday to several local bed-and-breakfasts all happy to fold down your sheets, including the Captain Stannard, the Bushnell House Inn, and the Westbrook Inn. Want something with more of a resort atmosphere? Try Water’s Edge Resort & Spa. After checking in, make your way to the Boston Post Road for shopping, and after a “find” or two, grab yourself a seat at Bill’s Seafood and enjoy a Fisherman’s Platter to the hum of the singing bridge nearby — then dance to their Dixieland band until the wee hours. Need to stretch out and digest a bit? Bring a blanket and catch an outdoor flick at the Clinton Town Beach. In the morning, sleep late if you like, but early birds will find local sportfishing captains ready to weigh anchor for a day of angling on the Sound. Head back to the Clinton Town Beach or to West Beach in Westbrook. Both are just right for digging your toes into the sand and your brain into a good book. Paddle through the beauty of the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge. Or enjoy a tour and tasting at Chamard Vineyards, where, if the sun is high, you can also grab lunch at The Bistro Mediterranean & Tapas Bar. A nice shower. An even nicer nap. And it’s time to explore. Head to East Main Street for a visit to Cindy Stevens Fine Art — a studio, a gallery, and a neat place for “people of all ages to get creative,” then on to Clinton Antique Center. When it’s time for dinner, either buy a bottle of soda or wine and head to Lobster Landing, where lobster in any and every form is a treat — or grab a table at Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale, where everything comes highly recommended. And if elegant French cuisine tempts, head to Café Routier. But don’t stay up too late because both towns feature popular outlet malls offering discounts on high-end merchandise, so stamina matters. Not into shopping? Pick up some sandwiches at Edd’s Place and spread a blanket at West Beach in Westbrook. Westbrook, where the sandbar stretches far into the Sound and the swimmin’ is easy.

Expanded tour of Clinton

Expanded tour of Westbrook