Spend a day soaking up the sun at the beach

Maine's Atlantic Beaches

Maine's Atlantic beaches might be known for their relatively chilly waters, peaking at approximately 65 degrees Fahrenheit even in the summer months. Despite this, Mainers will tell you how refreshing a dip in the ocean can be on a hot summer day. If that doesn't appeal to you, there are still plenty of activities and atmospheres to enjoy on Portland-area beaches.

Portland and Surrounding Beaches

Although East End Beach is the only public beach in Portland, located off Eastern Promenade, there are more than a half-dozen other beaches within 20 miles of downtown, each offering distinct characteristics and benefits. Every summer, these beaches host families and friends enjoying the sand, as well as kayakers, sailors, surfers, paddleboarders, swimmers, and more. Maine beaches are beautiful year-round and are ideal places for quiet walks during the offseason.

Willard Beach

Besides East End, the closest beach to downtown is Willard Beach in South Portland. This 4-acre beach is beloved by locals for its view of Spring Point Ledge Light, gentle surf, snack bar, small but free parking lot, and abundant sea glass.

Crescent Beach

Located slightly farther south in Cape Elizabeth, mile-long Crescent Beach is a popular option for families. It offers a classic beach feel with grass-covered sand dunes, picnic areas, and lifeguards at certain hours.

Scarborough Beaches

Scarborough, located one town south of Cape Elizabeth, hosts four public beaches: Scarborough Beach State Park, Pine Point Beach, Higgins Beach, and Ferry Beach.

Scarborough Beach State Park

Scarborough Beach is part of Scarborough Beach State Park, which charges an entry fee of $10 for adults and $7 for children aged 5 to 11. The dunes here are home to protected birds like plovers and least terns, making it a popular spot for birders to see these species as well as great blue herons and other local wildlife.

Ferry Beach

Known for its calm waters, Ferry Beach is great for kids, and low tide is especially enjoyable for exploring the larger beach and tide pools.

Higgins Beach

Higgins Beach is a year-round hot spot for surfers, attracting wave enthusiasts even in the colder months.

Pine Point Beach

Pine Point Beach is ideal if you're looking for a long, 4-mile beach to stretch out on.

Old Orchard Beach

Pine Point Beach connects to Old Orchard Beach, known as "OOB" (pronounced "oh-oh-bee"). Considered southern Maine's most popular beach, vacationers flock to OOB, its pier, and Palace Playland for a lively atmosphere and a wide range of attractions.

Parking

Parking availability and prices vary by season and location. Expect to pay between $8 and $15 for all-day parking at most beaches, and try to arrive early as lots fill up quickly in the summer.