Dreaming of a perfect beach day in Maine but don’t know where to start? With miles of coastline and countless beaches, choosing the right one can be tricky. Some have soft sands and gentle waves, while others are known for rugged beauty and thrilling surf.
A few are hidden gems, tucked away from the crowds, while others are lively spots with boardwalks, seafood shacks, and breathtaking views. But which ones truly stand out? If you’re looking for the best beaches Maine has to offer, you won’t want to miss these top picks.
1. Old Orchard Beach
If you’re searching for a vacation spot that has something for the whole family, Old Orchard Beach is the perfect pick. As one of the most popular beaches in Maine, it boasts 7 miles of sandy shoreline—perfect for tossing a football, soaking up the sun, or getting lost in a good book.
But the fun doesn’t stop at the beach—Palace Playland offers thrilling roller coasters, and the Old Orchard Beach Pier is packed with great seafood, lively bars, and even comedy shows. Visit on a Thursday in summer to catch the weekly fireworks display, lighting up the sky for a perfect end to your beach day! For even more exciting things to do in Old Orchard Beach, check out our blog “Old Orchard Beach: Top Things To Do in OOB Maine”, for a detailed guide filled with must-visit spots and local favorites.
2. Cape Elizabeth
Cape Elizabeth’s coastline is a dream for beach lovers, stretching 12 miles into the Atlantic and marking the entrance to Casco Bay. As one of the most scenic Maine beaches, it offers plenty of ways to enjoy the coast. For a small fee, you can soak up the sun, take a dip, or hunt for hermit crabs at Crescent Beach State Park, a stunning mile-long stretch of sand.
Over at Kettle Cove State Park, tide pools and scenic oceanfront trails offer a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Before you leave, don’t forget to snap a photo of Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest and most iconic lighthouse!
3. Scarborough
If you love long beach days with minimal distractions, Scarborough is the perfect escape. This laid-back coastal town, known for being home to some of the best Maine beaches, offers soft sandy shores, scenic saltwater marshes, and plenty of bird-watching spots. At Scarborough Beach State Park, you’ll find lifeguarded swimming areas with water temperatures reaching the high 60s in summer—ideal for a refreshing dip.
For adventure seekers, Pine Point Beach and Higgins Beach are great for kayaking and surfing, while Higgins Beach is also a top destination for striped bass fishing—so don’t forget your gear! Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Scarborough’s beaches truly showcase the beauty of the best Maine beaches and have something for everyone.
4. Wells
Locals call Wells the “friendliest town in Maine,” and it’s easy to see why. This charming coastal spot is the perfect place to unwind, making it a must-see for anyone exploring the best beaches in Maine to visit. Wells Beach offers soft sand, rolling dunes, and a stunning shoreline at low tide.
Drake’s Island Beach is great for a refreshing swim or a peaceful stroll, while Crescent Beach has tide pools teeming with crabs and other sea creatures. When you’re ready for a break from the beach, explore Wells’ antique shops, where you’ll find everything from vintage furniture to fine china and handmade quilts.
5. Acadia National Park
A trip to Acadia National Park feels like stepping into an untouched wilderness. Every trail leads to stunning landscapes just waiting to be captured through your camera lens. Along the rugged coastline, cobalt waves crash against granite cliffs, where spruce trees cling to the rocky edges.
Look closer, and you might spot harbor seals basking on the rocks or hear peregrine falcons calling from above. Inland, winding trails and rustic carriage roads weave through forests and ponds, inviting you to explore. With its dramatic scenery, Acadia stands out among the beautiful beaches in Maine, offering a unique blend of rugged coastlines and sandy shores.
Acadia is an outdoor lover’s dream, packed with thrilling activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even rock climbing. With more than 47,000 acres of natural beauty, you can roam freely for a small entrance fee. And when you’re ready to take a break, the charming New England town of Bar Harbor is just around the corner, offering cozy spots to relax, dine, and soak in the coastal charm.
6. Ogunquit
At just 4 square miles, Ogunquit proves that great things come in small packages. True to its name—meaning “beautiful place by the sea” in the Abenaki language—this charming coastal town is known for its vibrant arts scene and LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere.
Spend the day soaking up the sun at Ogunquit Beach, a nearly 4-mile stretch of soft sand divided into Main Beach, North Beach, and Footbridge Beach. As one of the popular beaches in Maine, it attracts visitors looking for both relaxation and adventure. And when hunger strikes, you won’t have to go far—ice cream shops and local eateries are just a short stroll away!
7. Georgetown, ME
Georgetown’s charming small-town feel and stunning coastline make it a perfect beach getaway in the summer. Connected to the mainland by bridge, this historic island offers sandy shores, impressive dunes, and a thriving habitat for endangered shorebirds. Head to Mile and Half Mile beaches in Reid State Park, home to a famous beach in Maine, for a day of sun, surf, and picnicking by the dunes.
For a change of scenery, explore the wildlife-rich forests and rocky cliffs of the Josephine Newman Audubon Sanctuary. And no trip to Georgetown is complete without a visit to Five Islands, a quaint fishing village known for fresh lobster and breathtaking harbor views. Whether you’re after adventure or relaxation, Georgetown delivers a classic Maine coastal experience.
8. York, ME
York’s scenic coastline is the perfect getaway for a classic beach vacation. Long Sands Beach offers plenty of space for volleyball and sunbathing, but if you’re on the hunt for sand dollars, be sure to visit at low tide. Short Sands Beach is a family favorite, perfect for searching for sea glass or letting kids enjoy the on-site playground.
But there’s more to York than just the beach! Stop by The Goldenrod to watch candymakers pull fresh saltwater taffy, or add some excitement to your trip at York’s Wild Kingdom, New England’s only zoo and amusement park.
9. Kennebunkport
Sure, politicians like the Bush family have vacationed here for years, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of them near Walker’s Point. But Kennebunkport is so much more than a high-profile getaway. This southern Maine coastal gem is all about relaxed, sea-centric bliss, where rugged shorelines meet charming summer homes and sailboats dot the horizon.
In town, local lobstermen deliver the morning’s fresh catch to open-air cafés, serving up some of the best seafood dishes. Artists showcase their work along Dock Square’s wharves, creating a vibrant and creative atmosphere for visitors to explore. Even the beaches here are low-key and peaceful, with hidden footpaths leading you straight to the shore. You’ve found the perfect spot to escape the crowds and enjoy nature. Relax by the coast and take in the stunning views.
10. Phippsburg
If you’re looking for a relaxed beach day, Phippsburg, Maine, is the perfect spot. This mid-coast town sits between the Kennebec and Morse rivers, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape. Popham Beach State Park boasts strong waves and a wide shoreline—perfect for surfing.
As one of the stunning oceanfront beaches in Maine, it offers breathtaking views and plenty of space to unwind. At low tide, you can even walk out to Fox Island for a little adventure.
For more scenic spots, visit Hunnewell Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand with stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere. Head Beach is privately owned but welcomes visitors in summer. It offers a quiet retreat with soft sand and gentle ocean waves.
Stay Steps from the Shore at Seagrass Inn
Maine’s beaches offer more than just sand and waves—they create unforgettable experiences. From sunrise at Popham Beach to fireworks over Old Orchard Beach, each spot has something special. The best way to take it all in? Stay somewhere close to the action.
For a relaxing stay in Old Orchard Beach, Seagrass Inn is the perfect choice. Just steps from the shore, it offers comfortable rooms, easy access to attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere. Plan your coastal escape and book your stay today!
FAQs
What beach in Maine has the best sand dollars?
Exploring the sandy shores of York, Maine, is always full of surprises, but one treasure stands out—sand dollars. Long Sands Beach is the best spot in the state to find them. It remains a favorite destination for beachcombers year-round.
What is the oldest beach in Maine?
The Old Orchard Beach area first appeared in historical records around 1653. Thomas Rogers settled the area in 1657 after arriving at Goosefare Brook in 1636. He named it “The Garden By The Sea.”
When should I visit Maine coast?
Maine’s peak season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but crowds vary throughout. June is quieter since the weather can still be chilly or rainy. By late August, the coast stays warm as summer crowds fade, creating a peaceful retreat. It’s the best time for quiet beach days.
What month is best to swim in Maine?
The lake is great for swimming all summer, with August offering some of the warmest water. Maine’s August weather ranges from dry and pleasant to hot, humid, or rainy.
