15 Best Beaches in Maine

Imagine a coastline where rugged cliffs meet pristine stretches of sand, where the scent of salt air mingles with pine, and the Atlantic whispers tales of maritime adventure. Welcome to Maine, a state renowned for its dramatic beauty, but perhaps less celebrated for its incredibly diverse and captivating beaches. While the waters might be bracing, the allure of Maine’s shores is undeniable, offering everything from bustling boardwalks to serene, secluded coves.

You will discover a world where classic New England charm blends seamlessly with stunning natural landscapes, providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. To truly embrace the magic, plan your visit from late spring through early fall, when the weather is most inviting. Always pack layers, even in summer, as coastal breezes can be cool, and don’t forget your sunscreen and bug spray for those tranquil evenings. Prepare to be enchanted; your ultimate Maine beach adventure awaits!

Sandy Beach, Arcadia National Park

Nestled within the majestic Acadia National Park, Sandy Beach is a true marvel, distinguished by its unique pink-hued sand, a result of crushed shell fragments. Unlike many rocky Maine shores, this sheltered cove offers a surprisingly gentle slope into the cool Atlantic waters, making it an inviting spot for a dip on a warm summer day. You can spend your time here sunbathing on the soft sand, exploring the fascinating tide pools at low tide, or simply marveling at the dramatic backdrop of granite mountains rising directly from the sea.

The scenery is simply breathtaking, providing endless opportunities for stunning photography. It is a perfect spot for families with children due to its relatively calm waters and the sheer beauty that captivates all ages. While it can get busy, the sheer natural splendor makes it worth navigating the crowds. Remember to arrive early to secure a good spot and truly soak in the tranquility before the peak rush.

Old Orchard Beach, Old Orchard

Old Orchard Beach is the epitome of a classic American seaside resort, buzzing with energy and nostalgia. Its seven-mile stretch of sandy beach is famous for the iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier, jutting out into the ocean and hosting restaurants, shops, and an amusement park, Palace Playland, right on the sand. You can spend your days here building sandcastles, swimming in the invigorating Atlantic, or trying your luck at the arcade games.

As evening approaches, the pier comes alive with the scent of fried dough and the sounds of laughter from the rides. This beach is a vibrant playground for families and young groups, offering endless entertainment beyond just sun and surf. Historical trolley rides add to the charm, connecting you to the town’s rich past as a popular vacation destination since the 19th century.

Long Sands Beach York

Long Sands Beach in York is a magnificent stretch of golden sand, living up to its name with over a mile and a half of open coastline. It is a favorite among surfers due to its consistent waves, but its vast expanse also makes it perfect for long walks, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the bracing ocean air. At low tide, a natural tidal pool often forms near the southern end, offering a sheltered spot for young children to splash.

The beach provides stunning views of the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, perched on its rocky islet offshore, creating a quintessential Maine postcard scene. This beach caters to a wide range of visitors, from families seeking space to play, to avid surfers catching waves, and walkers enjoying the expansive shore. It is less commercialized than some other beaches, offering a more natural and serene experience.

Crescent Beach State Park, Cape Elizabeth

Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth is a true gem, celebrated for its gentle, crescent-shaped shore and calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal destination for families with young children. The beach is protected by a small island, Richmond Island, which acts as a natural breakwater, ensuring tranquil conditions perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Beyond the inviting waters, the park offers shaded picnic areas with grills, a playground, and pleasant walking trails through the coastal forest. You can easily spend a full day here, enjoying a leisurely picnic, watching boats sail by, and letting the kids splash safely in the surf. It is a beloved spot for local families and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to some of Maine’s busier beaches, providing a peaceful escape just a short drive from Portland.

Ogunquit Beach, Ogunquit

Ogunquit Beach is consistently ranked among the best beaches in the country, and for good reason. This three-and-a-half-mile peninsula of soft white sand is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Ogunquit River on the other, creating a unique tidal estuary. You can choose your adventure here: swim in the ocean, paddle in the warmer river waters, or simply stroll along the pristine shore.

The beach is easily accessible from the charming village of Ogunquit via scenic footbridges, and it is also the starting point for the famous Marginal Way, a stunning cliff-walk that offers panoramic ocean views. This beach appeals to couples seeking a romantic stroll, families enjoying the expansive sand, and art lovers drawn to Ogunquit’s vibrant gallery scene. Its beauty and accessibility make it a must-visit.

Scarborough Beach State Park, Scarborough

Scarborough Beach State Park offers a quintessential Maine beach experience with its expansive, clean sands and excellent conditions for swimming and bodyboarding. This wide, flat beach stretches for a mile, providing ample space even on busy summer days. The waves here are often just right for gentle bodyboarding, making it a favorite for families with older children and those looking for a bit more action than calm waters.

Beyond the main beach, the park also features a small salt marsh, attracting various bird species, making it interesting for nature enthusiasts. You can spend your day soaking up the sun, enjoying the invigorating Atlantic waves, or taking a leisurely walk along the shore, admiring the coastal landscape. It is a well-maintained state park with good facilities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Willard Beach, South Portland

Willard Beach in South Portland offers a charming, local beach experience just minutes from downtown Portland. This crescent-shaped sandy beach is a beloved spot for residents, known for its calm waters, picturesque views of Casco Bay islands, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It is particularly popular with dog owners, as dogs are allowed on the beach during specific off-peak hours and seasons.

You can enjoy a leisurely swim, watch local fishing boats and ferries pass by, or simply relax on the sand with a good book. There is also a small playground nearby, making it convenient for families with young children. Willard Beach provides a refreshing escape from city life without venturing too far, offering a genuine glimpse into local Maine coastal living.

Higgins Beach, Scarborough

Higgins Beach, nestled in a quiet residential area of Scarborough, is a hidden gem primarily known and loved by locals and avid surfers. This beautiful sandy beach boasts a unique character, with a tidal river, the Spurwink River, flowing into the ocean at one end, creating fascinating sandbars and tide pools at low tide. While the surf can be excellent here, it also offers ample space for beachcombing, exploring marine life in the pools, and simply relaxing away from the larger crowds.

You will find a more serene atmosphere here, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature. Its slightly tucked-away location adds to its charm, making it feel like a true discovery. Be sure to respect the residential nature of the area.

Goose Rocks Beach, Kennebunkport

Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport is renowned for its unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking natural beauty. This three-mile stretch of fine, soft sand is protected by a barrier reef, which creates incredibly calm, shallow waters perfect for families with young children and anyone seeking a serene swimming experience. The beach is framed by stunning coastal homes and offers picturesque views of the offshore islands.

You can spend your days here building elaborate sandcastles, gently wading in the clear waters, or simply soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. It is a private beach with public access, meaning non-residents need a town beach pass during summer, which helps maintain its exclusive and uncrowded feel. This beach is truly a slice of heaven for those who value peace and pristine surroundings.

Short Sands, York

Short Sands Beach in York is a vibrant, family-friendly cove that offers more than just sand and sea. Tucked into a picturesque bay, this beach is bordered by a bustling park area complete with a playground, an amphitheater, and a variety of shops and eateries just steps away. You can enjoy swimming in the relatively calm waters, exploring the tide pools at low tide, or simply relaxing on the sand.

What makes Short Sands truly unique is its proximity to amenities: after a swim, you can easily grab an ice cream, browse souvenir shops, or even visit the nearby arcade. It is a lively hub for vacationers, perfect for families looking for convenience and entertainment alongside their beach day. The iconic Nubble Lighthouse is also just a short drive away, making for a perfect scenic detour.

Reid State Park, Georgetown

Reid State Park in Georgetown is a magnificent coastal preserve offering a diverse array of natural wonders. Unlike a single beach, Reid boasts multiple sandy stretches, including Mile Beach and Half-Mile Beach, alongside dramatic rocky headlands, salt marshes, and impressive dune systems. You can spend your day swimming in the invigorating ocean waters, exploring the tidal pools teeming with marine life, or hiking the scenic trails that wind through the park’s varied ecosystems.

Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, as the park is a significant nesting and feeding ground. The park also provides excellent facilities, including bathhouses and picnic areas with ocean views. Reid State Park is a nature lover’s paradise, offering more than just a beach day – it is an immersive coastal experience for all ages.

Ferry Beach, Scarborough

Ferry Beach in Scarborough is a tranquil and highly family-friendly beach, particularly appealing to those with young children due to its calm, shallow waters. Situated along the Scarborough River estuary, the beach benefits from protected conditions, making it a safe and enjoyable spot for splashing and gentle swimming. You will find soft, golden sand here, perfect for building sandcastles, and the views across the estuary towards Pine Point are quite lovely.

It is a popular spot for paddleboarding and kayaking on the calm river side. While it may not have the big waves of some other Maine beaches, its peaceful atmosphere and safe swimming conditions make it a beloved local secret. It is a wonderful place to unwind, collect shells, and enjoy a quiet day by the water.

Pine Point

Pine Point Beach in Scarborough is an expansive, wide beach that offers miles of uninterrupted sandy shoreline, connecting seamlessly to Old Orchard Beach at low tide. This makes it an ideal spot for incredibly long walks, beachcombing, and simply enjoying the vastness of the Maine coast. The beach is known for its relatively gentle waves, making it suitable for swimming, and its proximity to some of Maine’s best clam shacks.

You can spend your day strolling for miles, collecting shells, or indulging in fresh seafood right off the beach. It is less crowded than its Old Orchard neighbor, offering a more relaxed experience while still providing ample space for activities. This beach is perfect for those who love long walks on the beach and appreciate easy access to delicious local cuisine.

Laudholm Beach, Wells

Laudholm Beach, part of the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve at Laudholm Farm, offers a unique blend of pristine beach and vital conservation land. This quiet, unspoiled stretch of sand is accessed via a scenic walking trail through fields and salt marsh, adding to its secluded charm. You will not find commercial establishments here, only the raw beauty of the Maine coast.

It is a perfect spot for peaceful walks, bird watching, and nature photography. The beach is less about swimming and more about appreciating the delicate ecosystem and tranquil surroundings. It appeals to nature lovers, birders, and anyone seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. The Wells Reserve itself provides educational opportunities and well-maintained trails to explore before or after your beach visit.

Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg

Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg is a truly dynamic and spectacular beach, known for its ever-changing sandbars and the ability to walk to nearby islands at low tide. This expansive sandy beach offers powerful waves for surfing and bodyboarding, as well as vast stretches of sand for walking and exploring. At low tide, you can walk across a sandbar to Fox Island or even to Wood Island, which hosts a historic fort.

This unique feature makes Popham Beach an adventure in itself. You can spend your day riding the waves, exploring the islands, or visiting the nearby Fort Popham, a historic Civil War-era fort. It is a fantastic destination for active beachgoers, history enthusiasts, and families looking for an exciting and varied coastal experience.

Plan Your Visit

From the vibrant energy of Old Orchard to the serene solitude of Laudholm, Maine’s beaches offer a diverse tapestry of coastal experiences waiting for you to uncover. You have explored the unique pink sands of Acadia, surfed the waves at Long Sands, and discovered the family-friendly calm of Crescent Beach. Each sandy stretch, rocky cove, and tidal pool holds its own distinct charm, promising more than just a day by the ocean – it is an invitation to connect with nature, embrace adventure, and create lasting memories.

Whether you are a solo explorer, a couple seeking romance, or a family on a grand adventure, Maine’s coastline has a perfect spot just for you. So, pack your bags, consult your budget, and prepare to be captivated by the raw beauty and quintessential charm of the Pine Tree State’s spectacular shores. Your unforgettable Maine beach escape begins now!