Maine Beach Guide, Public Pools, Lake Swimming & Ocean Beaches
Visiting a Maine Beach near you is a summer tradition. Maine offers some exceptional free beaches. Find Maine Public Beaches, State Parks, and Lake Swimming beaches and enjoy your Maine Summer Vacation.
Famous Maine Atlantic Ocean beaches include; Ogunquit Beach, Old Orchard Beach, York Beach, Wells Beach, and dozens of others. During the summer, millions of beach-goers flock to Maine’s great coastal beaches. Not only does Maine offer beautiful Atlantic ocean beaches, but also thousands of spring-fed freshwater ponds, riverfront beaches and lake swimming.
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Maine Beaches & Public Swimming
Beachmere Inn, 62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 207-646-2021
Ocean front accommodations in the heart of Ogunquit on the Marginal Way with breathtaking ocean views. Luxury suites and unique rooms, fireplaces, kitchenettes, private balconies or patios. Enjoy an on-site spa, exercise room and hot tub. Reception rooms for weddings, meetings and events. Beachmere Inn is a leader in guest services, event coordination and hospitality. A stunning location perfect for weddings, elopements, vow renewals, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and even bachelor - bachelorette weekend getaways. Open year round. Walk to everything in town or enjoy drinks from our ocean view Blue Bistro.
Visit Beachmere Inn - Ogunquit ME
Exploring the Splendor of Maine Beaches
Maine, known as “Vacationland,” is a treasure trove of stunning natural beauty, and its beaches are no exception. From the iconic coastal sands to hidden freshwater gems, Maine beaches offer a unique blend of picturesque landscapes, recreational opportunities, and charming seaside towns. Whether you’re a sunbather, a surfer, or someone seeking tranquility by the water, Maine has a beach to suit your desires. Read about the most remarkable beaches in Maine.
Ogunquit Beach: A Coastal Gem
The Charm of Ogunquit
Nestled along Maine’s southern coast, Ogunquit Beach is a three-and-a-half-mile stretch of pristine sand that has captivated visitors for generations. The name “Ogunquit” means “beautiful place by the sea” in the Abenaki language, and it’s easy to see why. With its wide, sandy shores, clear blue waters, and picturesque views, Ogunquit Beach is a haven for beach lovers.
Activities and Attractions
Ogunquit Beach offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages. The gentle surf is perfect for swimming, while the expansive sands are ideal for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and building sandcastles. For those who enjoy a leisurely stroll, the Marginal Way, a scenic cliff walk, provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.
Dining and Accommodation
Ogunquit’s charm extends beyond its beach. The town is home to an array of quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Seafood lovers will delight in the fresh catches served at local eateries, and there are plenty of options for ice cream and snacks along the beach. Accommodation ranges from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxurious oceanfront resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every visitor.
Old Orchard Beach: A Classic Seaside Experience
A Rich History
Old Orchard Beach is a classic New England seaside destination with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Known for its lively atmosphere, this seven-mile stretch of sandy beach is a favorite among families and those looking for a fun-filled beach experience.
The Pier and Palace Playland
One of the standout features of Old Orchard Beach is its historic pier, which extends 500 feet into the Atlantic Ocean. The pier is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a bustling hub of activity. Adjacent to the pier is Palace Playland, New England’s only beachfront amusement park, offering rides and games for all ages.
Seasonal Events
Old Orchard Beach is also known for its vibrant events calendar. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy weekly fireworks displays, live concerts, and various festivals. The annual Beach Olympics and sand sculpture competitions add to the beach’s lively charm.
Sensational Saltwater Beaches
Kennebunk Beach
Located in the charming town of Kennebunk, Kennebunk Beach is a series of three distinct beaches: Gooch’s Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother’s Beach. Each offers something unique, from the family-friendly sands of Mother’s Beach to the scenic beauty of Gooch’s Beach, perfect for surfing and long walks.
Popham Beach State Park
Popham Beach State Park, located in Phippsburg, is one of Maine’s most popular state parks. The beach features extensive sand flats at low tide, providing ample space for exploration. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and exploring the nearby Fort Popham, a historic Civil War-era fortification.
Crescent Beach State Park
Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth offers a mile of crescent-shaped beach with gentle surf and scenic views. The park is perfect for families, with picnic areas, walking trails, and opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Hidden Freshwater Gems
Sebago Lake State Park
Sebago Lake, Maine’s second-largest lake, is a freshwater paradise. Sebago Lake State Park, located on the north shore, offers sandy beaches, clear waters, and a host of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. The park’s beaches are perfect for swimming and relaxing, surrounded by lush forests and scenic beauty.
Rangeley Lake State Park
Rangeley Lake State Park, located in western Maine, is a serene retreat for nature lovers. The park’s beaches are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the lake’s abundant trout and salmon populations.
Moosehead Lake
Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in Maine, offers numerous secluded beaches along its vast shoreline. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming, all while taking in the breathtaking wilderness scenery. Lily Bay State Park, located on the lake’s eastern shore, is a popular spot for camping and picnicking.
Beach Safety and Conservation
While enjoying Maine’s beautiful beaches, it’s essential to prioritize safety and conservation. Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and responsible beach visit:
- Swim Safely: Always swim in designated areas and pay attention to lifeguard instructions. Be aware of tides and currents, and never swim alone.
- Respect Wildlife: Maine’s beaches are home to various wildlife species. Observe animals from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitats.
- Leave No Trace: Practice “Leave No Trace” principles by cleaning up after yourself and disposing of trash properly. Help keep Maine’s beaches clean and pristine for future generations.
Maine’s beaches offer a diverse and enchanting array of experiences, from the bustling atmosphere of Old Orchard Beach to the serene beauty of Sebago Lake. Whether you’re looking for a classic seaside adventure or a tranquil escape into nature, Maine’s beaches have something for everyone. To discover more about these stunning destinations and explore additional photos and information, visit MELiving.com/Beaches. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Maine’s beaches for yourself!
Maine Beaches & Public Swimming by Region
Discover Maine Beaches by region. Aroostook, Downeast, Katahdin, Kennebec, Lakes, Mid-Coast, Portland and South-Coast.
Aroostook ME Beaches
Fort Kent, Houlton, Presque Isle
Downeast & Acadia ME Beaches
Bar Harbor, Blue Hill, Deer Isle, Eastport, Lubec, Cherryfield, Machias
Katahdin & Moosehead ME Beaches
Bangor, Brewer, Greenville, Lincoln, Millinocket, Orono
Kennebec & Moose River ME Beaches
Augusta, Skowhegan, Waterville, The Forks
Lakes & Mountains ME Beaches
Auburn, Lewiston, Norway, Bethel, Farmington, Naples
Midcoast ME Beaches
Bath, Boothbay Harbor, Camden, Rockland, Brunswick, Belfast, Searsport
Greater Portland ME Beaches
Portland, Freeport, Yarmouth, Westbrook, Cape Elizabeth
South Coastal ME Beaches
Biddeford, Kennebunk, Kittery, Ogunquit, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, Wells, York
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