Daniel is a copywriter who has well and truly been bitten alive by the 'travel bug'. After ticking off several North American National Parks and exploring Europe by train, his sights are now set on South East Asia. Usually with at least one camera locked and loaded, you'll find Daniel wherever there are mountains, lakes or beaches.
While Maine’s coastline outstretches even California, it’s the abundance of beautiful sandy beaches that truly leaves an impression on its visitors. In this article, we journey from the coves and woods of Crescent Beach to the pristine natural expanse of Drake’s Island Beach, unveiling 12 of Maine’s most breathtaking beaches. Get ready to delve into a world of sun, sand, and serenity as we explore these coastal gems.
Crescent Beach
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Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth, a short drive from Portland, boasts a diverse landscape of beaches, coves, and woods. Its centerpiece, a mile-long crescent-shaped beach, offers a range of activities from sunbathing to boating due to its warm waters and light surf. A few steps away, trails for walking and nature watching provide a peaceful escape. In winter, the park remains a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, welcoming hikers and cross-country skiers.
Higgins Beach
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Set in the picturesque town of Scarborough, Higgins Beach is a quaint scenic spot, where approximately 300 cottages dot the landscape. Best known for surfing and striped bass fishing, this 0.6-mile beach provides a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. While recent years have seen an influx of modern homes, the majority of the neighborhood still consists of long-standing families, preserving the beach’s authentic charm. Its public accessibility and the steady return of familiar faces emphasize the enduring allure of this small-town beach.
Kennebunk Beach
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Kennebunk Beach, located off Routes 9 & 35, comprises a string of beaches – Gooch’s Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother’s Beach. Offering a delightful mix of sandy and rocky shores, these beaches invite visitors to sunbathe, surf, or explore the seaside. Unique features include lifeguard services in the peak season and accessibility measures at Mother’s Beach with a durable Mobi-Mat and beach wheelchair rental, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all beach-goers.
York Beach
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Embracing the Atlantic Ocean in the Gulf of Maine, York Beach, a charming village in the town of York, offers a refreshing blend of natural beauty and engaging activities. It’s known for its two distinct beaches: Long Sands Beach, perfect for a tranquil walk, and Short Sands Beach, where the Cape Neddick Light (“Nubble Lighthouse”) stands. The latter is surrounded by a bustling downtown with historic buildings, shops, and abundant dining options. Seasonal events, such as the vibrant York Days and the twice-annual Lighting of the Nubble, further enrich the York Beach experience.
Ferry Beach State Park
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Ferry Beach State Park, strategically placed between Old Orchard Beach and Camp Ellis on Bay View Road in Saco, stands as a notable point of interest for beach-goers and nature lovers alike. Named after the historic Saco River ferry crossing, the park displays an uncommon stand of tupelo trees within its 100-acre area. Its broad, white sand beaches, scenic nature trails, and informative guided programs, along with convenient picnic tables and changing areas, ensure an engaging experience for all visitors.
Ogunquit Beach
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Stretching three miles from the Ogunquit village to Moody Beach, Ogunquit Beach is recognized as one of Maine’s top beach destinations. Its broad, flat sand expanses, particularly noticeable at low tide, cater to families and outdoor games. A notable feature is the Marginal Way, a three-mile coastal path leading to Perkins Cove. This quaint fishing village is sprinkled with charming shops, inviting eateries, and a functional drawbridge, enriching the beachside experience.
Goose Rocks Beach
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Located in the peaceful coastal village of Kennebunkport, Goose Rocks Beach presents a three-mile-long scenic vista of fine white sand between the Little River and Batson’s River. The beach offers expansive walking areas, especially during low tide, and the shallow waters and lack of surf make it perfect for families. A stroll down the westerly end of the beach reveals intriguing tidal pools, and the resort offers beach wagons for a pleasant walk to the beach.
Biddeford Pool
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A historical gem, Biddeford Pool, known as the site of Maine’s first recorded settlement, offers a vibrant beach experience. One of Biddeford’s three public beaches, it is ideal for picnicking, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the sand. The beach stands out for permitting shore fires, given the necessary permit, for an enchanting beachside evening. The proximal Goldwaithe’s Pool Lobster conveniently provides snacks and beachside eats, ensuring a fuss-free day at the beach.
Scarborough Beach State Park
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Offering some of the warmest swimming conditions in New England, Scarborough Beach State Park is a must-visit for beach lovers. With water temperatures peaking in the high 60s during July and August, and lifeguards ensuring safe swimming zones, it’s a favorite spot for the summer months. Remember that parking is limited to both on-site and off-site spaces, which often fill up quickly on weekends, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot.
Popham Beach State Park
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Popham Beach State Park, based in the town of Phippsburg, Sagadahoc County, Maine, is a bustling beachfront park drawing high visitor numbers. Nestled between the mouth of the Morse River and Atkins Bay, this 605-acre park offers a host of activities from swimming and kayaking to fishing, picnicking, and hiking. Visitors can also explore historical sites like Fort Popham and Fort Baldwin, and at low tide, transient sandbars offer brief access to Wood and Fox Islands.
Wells Beach
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Stretching over a mile, Wells Beach is tucked along the coast of Maine, marked by sandy stretches, sea dunes, and a connection to Crescent Beach and the granite-constructed Wells Beach jetty. Lifeguards are posted during the busy season ensuring visitor safety, while local eateries stand ready to cater to beachside hunger pangs. Its location on the Amtrak Downeaster route from Boston makes it an accessible seaside escape for northbound visitors.
Drake’s Island Beach
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Drake’s Island Beach offers a relaxing haven with ample space, marked by beautiful sandy dunes and pristine natural areas. The beach’s rocky jetty adds a touch of adventure, making every walk on the water both entertaining and scenic. This year-round destination, with lifeguards on duty during the peak season, promises a tranquil beach experience for those seeking to enjoy Maine’s coastal beauty.