The Maine Beaches

Along the shore between Boston and Portland, Maine sprawls over 30 miles of pristine beach. With a variety of spots to choose from along Maine’s southern coast, from quiet coves to bustling beaches, there’s something here for everybody.

When you’re not relaxing in the sand or splashing in the surf, there’s still so much to do in The Maine Beaches area. Explore Maine lighthouses, or browse The Maine Beach’s antiques and outlet stores. Soak up some culture or hit an amusement park for a day of family fun. Learn about the rich history of the area, or hit one of the area’s golf courses.

The Maine Beaches region is made up of seven beach communities, each with its own subtle flavor. York, just north of New Hampshire, is home to Cape Neddick and nearby Nubble Lighthouse. The picturesque lighthouse remains a bright beacon, as the town decorates it with Christmas lights twice a year—once for “Christmas in July” and once for the winter holidays. York also is home to several historical museums and Mount Agamenticus offers great hiking. Kittery hosts an array of outlet stores, historic forts and a Naval Museum.

Ogunquit, once an artist’s colony, enjoys its reputation as a year-round resort town. The town hosts several lively festivals each year, including Christmas by the Sea, a Mardi Gras celebration in February and a fall festival dedicated to the arts. Don't forget to shop the boutiques in the charming downtown.

Home to a wildlife refuge and four beautiful beaches, Wells boasts seven miles of oceanfront. Treat yourself to landscape ranging from pine trees to salt marshes at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge or explore the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, with over seven miles of trails perfect for hiking, snowshoeing and cross country skiing.

Explore the rich manufacturing history of the Sanford/Springvale area at the Sanford Historic Museum, or take in its miles of nature trails and golf courses.Sanford also hosts several seasonal festivals, including Summer Daze in August, Harvest Daze in the fall and Holly Daze during the winter holidays.

The Kennebunks, which include Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel, are home to three gorgeous sandy beaches. Shop the day away at the many boutiques, antique shops and galleries, then stop to refuel at an outdoor lobster restaurant. Drive by President George Herbert Walker Bush’s summer retreat or learn about the area’s shipbuilding tradition at the Brick Store Museum.

Whether you’re looking to relax on white sandy beaches or treat your kids to a day at an amusement or water park, the twin cities of Biddeford and Saco await you. With several beaches to choose from, including Ferry Beach State Park, as well as nature trails for four-season recreation, there’s so much to do. Funtown Splashtown USA, New England’s biggest family amusement and water park, and Aquaboggan Water Park are great places to make memories. In June, check out La Kermesse, the festival celebrating the area’s rich Franco-American heritage.

Looking for a fun, carnival atmosphere? Try Old Orchard Beach. With its busy beachfront, evening entertainment and a lively pier where you can browse stores or try its famous pier fries, Old Orchard Beach absolutely bustles in the summertime. Palace Playland, a beachfront amusement park, is a favorite stop for visitors of all ages. For a more relaxing scene, try nearby Ocean Park, a cottage community. Or, head out to sea on a peaceful kayak or whale watching expedition.

Plan your visit to The Maine Beaches today!

My favorite spot in the Maine Beaches region is Nubble Light. We have been coming to Maine for 46 years and still love just sitting on the stone benches and looking at the light, watching the birds and the waves. We never get tired of it even after all these years.

–Irene B., Amsterdam, NY​