Want to find the Best Beaches in Maine? We've got you covered.
Maine summers are short and when you work 40+ hours Monday-Friday, you have to maximize every single weekend moment. Monday mornings in summer have me checking the long range forecast from the National Weather Service to keep an eye on the weekend conditions. My favorite Maine beaches are all bookmarked and depending on weather, cloud cover, fog and temperature, I can determine the best place to visit.
I have been bringing my boy to Maine beaches since he was 1 1/2. People always say I’m crazy for driving 2 hours to to go to the beach. I hope that this tribute proves those people wrong and solidifies that a good beach is always worth the road trip to a Maine beach! Dresden may be a reluctant hiker, but he never hesitates to spend time at the beach. We’ve explored beaches in Maine from Machias to Vinalhaven over to St. George and Bristol all the way down to Long Island and Saco in search of the best. Where will your next beach adventure take you? Find some inspiration below!
Roque Bluff State Park– Machias
This quiet, sandy Maine beach has beautiful sea roses, a picnic area, and hiking trails.
Sand Beach Acadia National Park– Bar Harbor
Fine sand like this is rare in Downeast Maine. This gem is accentuated by excellent hiking trails and gorgeous views. Worth braving the crowds for. This is one of our favorite Maine beaches because it has access to Great Head Trail, which is great for people of all skill levels.
Lanes Island Preserve– Vinalhaven
This sweet spot offers all the sea roses your heart can desire along with hiking trails around the preserve and a nice picnic spot. Don’t forget the ferry ride which is an adventure all on its own.
Drift Inn Beach– St. George
This rocky and sandy town beach is one for the locals. We spent an afternoon here while visiting an old college friend and his family. Sheltered enough for paddleboarding.
Pemaquid Beach– Bristol
Gorgeous glacial sand, shimmering water and the best snack shack! Worth a stop at Moody’s Diner on the ride home.
Reid State Park– Georgetown
Two long, sandy beaches in one park with interesting tidal patterns great in all seasons. Bonus points, we get to drive through Dresden, Maine. This Maine Beach is another Maine State Park gem.
Popham Beach State Park– Phippsburg
Wide, long and full of low-tide exploration potential. Because of erosion from the Kennebec River and Atlantic, be sure to plan your visit around the tide.
South Beach– Long Island
Well worth the logistics including a ferry ride and mile walk down Beach Ave. This trip is truly a great adventure. You get to take the Mail Boat to get there which gives you a taste of all the Casco Bay islands.
Scarborough Beach State Park– Scarborough
Maine surf beach perfection, sea roses and laid back vibe. Snack shack has delicious french fries and homemade ice cream sandwiches. See my tribute to our favorite beach here!
Ferry Beach– Scarborough
This bayside beach offers a gentler surf than Scarborough Beach State Park and provides interesting crab exploration when the tide goes out. This spot is a good jumping off point for paddling.
Pine Point– Scarborough and Old Orchard Beach
Tourists delight. Great surf, people watching, stroll for miles.
We hope you enjoyed our tour of Maine beaches! Well…what are you waiting for? Grab your Gazeteer, swimsuit, cooler, and toys and hit the road!
Wishing you sun and blue skies,
Willow
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