Nestled in the northeastern corner of the United States, Maine is renowned for its rugged coastline and picturesque landscapes. If you’re on the hunt for the best beaches in Maine, you’re in for a treat. The state boasts a diverse range of coastal gems that cater to every preference, from bustling shorelines with plenty of amenities to secluded hideaways perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Maine’s beaches offer more than just sand and surf; they provide a gateway to the state’s rich maritime history and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore tidal pools, or enjoy a scenic picnic, Maine’s coast has something special in store for you. From the popular Old Orchard Beach to the serene sands of Popham Beach State Park, each location tells a unique story. So, grab your beach towel and let’s dive into the enchanting world of Maine’s coastal treasures.
10. Reid State Park
Reid State Park, located in Georgetown, Maine, is a true gem of the Mid-Coast region. Known for its sprawling beaches, picturesque sand dunes, and diverse wildlife, this park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and beachgoers alike. One of the best features of Reid State Park is its variety of landscapes, from rocky shorelines to grassy picnic areas, offering something for everyone. The park boasts some of the best beaches in Maine, including Mile Beach and Half Mile Beach, which provide ample space for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
The park’s popularity is not just due to its beautiful beaches but also its rich ecosystem. Visitors can explore the lagoon and salt marsh, which are home to various bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Additionally, the park offers hiking trails that wind through forests and along the coast, providing stunning views and opportunities to spot local flora and fauna. With its diverse offerings and natural beauty, it’s no wonder Reid State Park is highly popular among locals and tourists. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea or an adventure in nature, Reid State Park has it all.
9. Kennebunk Beach
Kennebunk Beach, nestled along Maine’s picturesque coastline, is a true gem that embodies the charm and beauty of the state’s shoreline. Stretching over a mile, this sandy haven is often hailed as one of the best beaches in Maine, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The beach is renowned for its soft, golden sands that are perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply taking a leisurely stroll. The gentle surf makes it an ideal spot for swimming, especially for families with young children.
One of the best features of Kennebunk Beach is its stunning natural beauty. The beach is flanked by grassy dunes and sea grasses, providing a serene backdrop to the ocean views. Additionally, the beach offers a variety of amenities, including picnic areas, restrooms, and lifeguards on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The beach’s popularity is also boosted by its proximity to the charming town of Kennebunk, where visitors can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea or an adventure-filled outing, Kennebunk Beach offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination.
8. Goose Rocks Beach
Goose Rocks Beach, nestled in the charming town of Kennebunkport, is a coastal gem that perfectly embodies the allure of Maine’s shoreline. Stretching over three miles, this expansive beach is celebrated for its soft, powdery sand and clear, inviting waters. The beach’s gentle slope into the ocean makes it an ideal spot for swimming and wading, especially for families with young children. One of the best features of Goose Rocks Beach is its serene and picturesque atmosphere, offering a peaceful retreat from the more crowded tourist spots. It’s no surprise that it’s often listed among the best beaches in Maine.
The beach is highly popular for its stunning sunsets, which paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, providing a perfect backdrop for evening strolls. Additionally, Goose Rocks Beach is a haven for nature lovers, with its diverse wildlife and beautiful tidal pools that reveal fascinating marine life during low tide. The beach is also known for its excellent conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and other water sports, making it a versatile destination for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a quiet day by the sea or an active beach experience, Goose Rocks Beach offers something for everyone.
7. Higgins Beach
Higgins Beach, nestled in the charming town of Scarborough, Maine, is a coastal gem that offers a blend of natural beauty and vibrant community spirit. This expansive beach is celebrated for its soft, sandy shores and picturesque views, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. One of the best features of Higgins Beach is its accessibility; it’s just a short drive from Portland, making it a convenient day trip for those looking to escape the city bustle.
The beach is highly popular for its excellent surfing conditions, drawing enthusiasts from all over to catch the perfect wave. Additionally, Higgins Beach is known for its stunning sunsets, which paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, creating a magical backdrop for evening strolls. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds and seals, adding to its natural allure. Often listed among the best beaches in Maine, Higgins Beach offers a unique combination of recreational activities and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Maine coastline. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy a picnic with friends, Higgins Beach has something for everyone.
6. Crescent Beach State Park
Crescent Beach State Park, nestled along the shores of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, is a true gem of the coastal region. Known for its stunning mile-long beach, the park offers a serene and picturesque setting that draws visitors from all over. The beach itself is a crescent-shaped stretch of sand, hence the name, and is often considered one of the best beaches in Maine due to its pristine waters and gentle surf. The park is highly popular for its swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking opportunities, making it an ideal destination for families and beach enthusiasts alike.
One of the best features of Crescent Beach State Park is its diverse ecosystem. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, marine life, and plant species that thrive in the coastal environment. Visitors can explore the tidal pools, walk along the scenic trails, and even enjoy a game of beach volleyball. The park also offers amenities such as restrooms, picnic areas, and a snack bar, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure in nature, Crescent Beach State Park has something for everyone.
5. Acadia National Park (Sand Beach)
Acadia National Park (Sand Beach) is a jewel nestled along the rugged coast of Maine, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor recreation. The park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which include towering granite peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes. However, it’s the stunning coastline that truly sets Acadia apart, with Sand Beach being one of the best beaches in Maine. This picturesque shoreline, tucked between mountains and rocky cliffs, provides a serene escape for beachgoers.
One of the best features of Sand Beach is its unique composition. Unlike many beaches in the area, Sand Beach is comprised of tiny fragments of shell that give it a distinctive look and feel. The beach is also known for its relatively calm waters, making it a popular spot for swimming and wading, especially during the warmer summer months. Additionally, the park’s extensive network of hiking trails offers breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding wilderness, making it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The combination of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and ample recreational opportunities makes Acadia National Park (Sand Beach) a highly popular destination for visitors from around the world. Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore, explore the trails, or simply take in the stunning scenery, Acadia National Park has something to offer everyone.
4. Popham Beach State Park
Popham Beach State Park, located in Phippsburg, Maine, is a true gem along the state’s picturesque coastline. Known for its expansive sandy shores and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, this park is often cited among the best beaches in Maine. One of the park’s best features is its unique landscape, which includes a long, sandy beach that stretches out to the Fox Island, a small, uninhabited island that can be accessed during low tide. This unique geographical feature makes it a popular spot for beachcombing, exploring tidal pools, and enjoying scenic walks along the shoreline.
The park’s popularity is also due to its diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can engage in activities such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking. The park also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with a variety of seabirds and shorebirds frequently spotted in the area. Additionally, Popham Beach State Park is a great spot for surfing, with consistent waves that attract surfers from all over the region. The park’s amenities, including restrooms, showers, and a picnic area, make it a convenient and enjoyable destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure-filled outing, Popham Beach State Park has something for everyone.
3. Scarborough Beach State Park
Scarborough Beach State Park, nestled along the picturesque coast of Maine, is a true gem that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Known for being one of the best beaches in Maine, this park is a haven for both locals and tourists alike. The expansive sandy beach is the park’s crown jewel, providing ample space for sunbathing, beachcombing, and enjoying the refreshing Atlantic waters. The beach is also a popular spot for swimming, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of visitors.
One of the standout features of Scarborough Beach State Park is its excellent surfing conditions, making it a favorite among surfers of all skill levels. The consistent waves and the scenic backdrop create an ideal setting for catching some waves. Additionally, the park offers convenient amenities such as picnic areas, snack bars, and restrooms, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The park’s proximity to Portland and other nearby attractions adds to its appeal, making it a highly popular destination for day trips and family outings. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, take a dip in the ocean, or ride the waves, Scarborough Beach State Park offers a perfect coastal escape.
2. Ogunquit Beach
Ogunquit Beach, a coastal gem nestled in southern Maine, is renowned for its expansive shoreline and vibrant atmosphere, making it a strong contender for one of the best beaches in Maine. Stretching over three miles, this beach offers a delightful blend of soft sand, invigorating surf, and stunning views. The beach is divided into two main sections: the Main Beach and Footbridge Beach. The Main Beach is a bustling hub of activity, perfect for those who enjoy a lively beach experience. Here, you can indulge in a variety of water sports, beach games, or simply relax and soak up the sun.
One of the standout features of Ogunquit Beach is the Marginal Way, a scenic cliff walk that offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. This paved pathway is ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, or even a romantic sunset walk. Additionally, the beach is highly popular for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and lifeguards on duty during the peak season, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist exploring the best beaches in Maine, Ogunquit Beach is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable day by the sea. The beach’s accessibility, combined with its natural beauty and numerous amenities, makes it a favorite among beachgoers of all ages.
1. Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach, nestled along the stunning coastline of Maine, is a vibrant and lively destination that has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for generations. Known for its seven miles of sandy shoreline, Old Orchard Beach is often hailed as one of the best beaches in Maine, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting attractions. The beach itself is a major draw, with its soft sands and inviting waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports.
One of the standout features of Old Orchard Beach is its iconic pier, which stretches out over the Atlantic Ocean and is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The pier is a hub of activity, providing visitors with a mix of classic seaside amusements and modern attractions. Additionally, the beachfront is dotted with numerous eateries serving up fresh seafood, making it a food lover’s paradise. The lively atmosphere, coupled with the scenic beauty of the coastline, makes Old Orchard Beach a highly popular destination for families, couples, and friends seeking a memorable beach getaway. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, enjoy thrilling rides, or indulge in delicious seafood, Old Orchard Beach has something for everyone.
Best Beaches In Maine Summary
In search of the best beaches in Maine? You’ve explored the rugged coastline, felt the Atlantic breeze, and perhaps even sampled some of the state’s famous lobster rolls. From the sprawling sands of Old Orchard Beach to the picturesque hideaways like Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, Maine’s beaches offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, a couple seeking a romantic sunset, or an adventurer eager to explore tidal pools, Maine’s coast has it all.
As your journey along the shore comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the unique charm of each location. The sound of waves crashing against the rocks, the sight of seagulls soaring overhead, and the feel of sand between your toes—these are the memories that will linger long after you’ve left. Maine’s beaches are more than just scenic spots; they are gateways to relaxation, adventure, and connection with nature. So, whether you’re planning your next trip or simply reminiscing about your favorite coastal moments, remember that the best beaches in Maine are always waiting to welcome you back.