Best Beaches in Maine

Maine is home to some of the most scenic and unique beaches in New England. From sandy Atlantic beaches and rugged rocky coastline to quiet coves and dramatic national park shoreline, Maine offers a completely different coastal experience compared to warmer beach destinations.

Whether you are looking for family-friendly beaches, scenic coastal views, peaceful nature, surfing, or charming seaside towns, Maine’s coastline delivers unforgettable coastal experiences across every region of the state.

Best Beaches in Maine (Quick Picks)

Best Beaches in Maine

Ogunquit Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Maine, Ogunquit Beach features soft sand, scenic dunes, and a beautiful stretch of Atlantic coastline near the charming town of Ogunquit.

Old Orchard Beach

Known for its classic New England beach-town atmosphere, Old Orchard Beach offers seven miles of sandy shoreline, a historic pier, restaurants, and family attractions.

Sand Beach

Located inside Acadia National Park, Sand Beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs and forested scenery, creating one of the most scenic beach environments in Maine.

Popham Beach State Park

This scenic state park beach is known for wide sandy shoreline, tidal sandbars, and beautiful natural coastal scenery along the Kennebec River mouth.

Higgins Beach

Popular with surfers and locals, Higgins Beach offers beautiful shoreline, rocky scenery, and one of the better surfing environments in Maine.

Reid State Park

Reid State Park features sandy beaches, dunes, rocky headlands, and scenic Atlantic Ocean views in a more natural setting.

Maine Beach Comparison

BeachBest ForHighlights
Ogunquit BeachOverall experienceSoft sand and coastal town
Old Orchard BeachFamiliesPier and attractions
Sand BeachSceneryAcadia National Park
Popham BeachNatureSandbars and state park
Higgins BeachSurfingWaves and rocky scenery
Reid State ParkQuiet coastal sceneryNatural environment

Best Beach Regions in Maine

  • Southern Maine: Ogunquit, Old Orchard Beach, York, Kennebunk, and Wells
  • Midcoast Maine: Popham Beach, Reid State Park, Camden area beaches
  • Downeast Maine: Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island coastline
  • Casco Bay Region: Portland-area beaches and island coastline

Things To Do at Maine Beaches

  • Walk scenic coastal trails
  • Explore lighthouses and harbor towns
  • Surf and paddleboard
  • Watch lobster boats and sailboats
  • Visit Acadia National Park
  • Enjoy seafood restaurants and coastal villages
  • Photograph rocky Atlantic coastline and sunsets

Best Time to Visit Maine Beaches

Summer offers the warmest weather and busiest beach season, while fall provides fewer crowds and spectacular coastal foliage. Late spring and early autumn are excellent for scenic coastal trips and outdoor activities.

Travel Tips for Visiting Maine Beaches

  • Ocean water stays cool even during summer
  • Bring layers because coastal weather changes quickly
  • Arrive early at popular beaches during summer weekends
  • Check tide schedules for rocky and tidal beaches
  • Combine beach visits with lighthouse and harbor exploration

Plan Your Beach Trip

Turn your beach search into a complete trip — book stays, discover experiences, and prepare like a pro.

🏨 Stays 🌊 Things to do 🏖️ Essentials 🧳 Packages ✈️ Flights ⛺ Beach Tents

FAQs About Maine Beaches

What is the nicest beach in Maine?

Ogunquit Beach is widely considered one of the best beaches in Maine because of its soft sand, scenic coastline, and nearby coastal town atmosphere.

Are Maine beaches warm enough to swim?

Yes, many people swim during summer, although Maine’s Atlantic water remains cooler than beaches farther south.

What is the most scenic beach in Maine?

Sand Beach inside Acadia National Park is one of the most scenic beaches in Maine because of its dramatic rocky surroundings.

Does Maine have sandy beaches?

Yes. Southern Maine is home to several large sandy beaches including Ogunquit Beach, Old Orchard Beach, and Wells Beach.

Explore Maine Beaches Below