The Top 11 Beaches for Families in Maine for 2023

The Top 11 Beaches for Families in Maine for 2023

The Top 11 Beaches for Families in Maine for 2023 Explore the scenic shores and aquatic adventures at these favorite sandy spots.

Maine's 3,500 miles of jagged coastline hides over 230 beaches along its shores. But less than 2% of that is sandy beach, making finding the perfect spot to dig your toes in the sand a challenge. Fortunately, the top places to lounge, swim, and play dot the southern region between Portland and Kittery.

From surfing waves to collecting shells, the best beaches in Maine balance natural beauty with accessibility and family-friendly features. Read on for the can't-miss coastal destinations to add to your summer travels.

1. Long Sands Beach: Historic Coastline of York

Incorporated in 1652, York is one of the first English settlements in Maine. Long Sands Beach stretches over a mile long, bordered between York Harbor and the mini golf courses of York Beach Village.

The soft sand hosts seaside resorts and summer events at the York Beach Surf Club. And you can recharge with over 100 flavors of ice cream at the vintage Goldenrod candy shop. With restrooms, metered parking, and a scenic coastal trail, it's both historic and convenient.

Top Things to Do

• Learn about York's history at the 1719 Old Gaol Museum
• Ride the rides and play games at the York Beach Surf Club
• Grab a scoop (or two) of nostalgic sweets at the Goldenrod

2. Wells Beach: Miles of Family-Friendly Shores

Over a mile of seaside dunes and grassy knolls make Wells Beach a perfect pick for families. Connected to Crescent Beach and the Wells jetty, there's plenty of room to spread out with the kids.

Friendly waves and lifeguards on duty during peak months provide peace of mind. And you can explore the area's nature preserves, coffee shops, and seafood shacks if you need a break from the beach. The Amtrak Downeaster also stops nearby for car-free access.

Top Things to Do

• Book clam shack fare and lobster rolls at the Wells Beach Lobster House
• Rent bikes or grab a scoop of gelato at Scoop Deck
• Experience the wilds of Maine at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm trails

3. Main Beach: Hub of Ogunquit Beach Life

Art galleries, boutiques, and the 1933 Ogunquit Playhouse theater define this walkable beach town. Main Beach offers a quieter, less crowded spot to swim than the bustling center. But it's still close enough to walk and enjoy the quaint village vibes.

You can rent beach chairs or grab burgers from the on-site snack shack. With lifeguards, restrooms, outdoor showers, and plentiful parking, it has all the amenities for a no-fuss seaside retreat.

Top Things to Do

• Browse over 60 stores and eateries along Ogunquit's beachfront Marginal Way
• Catch a Broadway-style show at the historic Ogunquit Playhouse
• Rent bikes or kayaks to explore Ogunquit Beach and the tidal marshes

4. Goose Rocks Beach: Cottage-Lined Shores of Kennebunkport

In the heart of dockside Kennebunkport, Goose Rocks Beach balances natural scenery and resort amenities. Cottages dot the dunes leading down to family-friendly waves. And two resorts, the Goose Rocks Beach Club and The Tides Beach Club, offer pools, restaurants, and vacation rentals just steps from the sand.

You'll need to grab a parking pass for beach access. But once there, you can dip in the calm cove waters, fly kites on the sandy field, or watch boats cruise nearby.

Top Things to Do

• Charter a fishing trip or lobster cruise from Kennebunkport harbor
• Tee off on the oceanside greens at the Cape Arundel Golf Course
• Sip seasonal cocktails and dine on seafood flatbreads at The Tides Beach Club

5. Biddeford Pool: Seaside Picnic Spot

Biddeford Pool emerges at low tide to create a sandy escape surrounded by roaring ocean waves. It may not have lifeguards or rentals. But you can get daily parking passes to access this lesser-known local gem.

Bring a blanket, beach toys, picnic snacks, and your camera. At high tide, watch the powerful swells crash against the rocky edges. And at low tide, explore the pools and thick mudflats. With stellar views and few crowds, it's a peaceful place to enjoy nature's beauty.

Top Things to Do

• Reserve seasonal, waterfront dining at Goldwaithe's Pool Lobster restaurant
• Tour Wood Island Lighthouse to learn about Biddeford Pool's maritime history
• Visit nearby Fortunes Rocks Beach for bolder waves and scenic cliffside trails

6. Old Orchard Beach: Classic Boardwalk & Carnival Fun

This lively, old-fashioned beach spot spans seven miles of golden shores peppered with seafood shacks, mini golf courses and amusement park rides. The 1898 pier stretches 500 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, with several bars and eateries lining its wooden planks.

Kids and adults alike will love riding the roller coasters and carnival attractions at Palace Playland park. And you can watch weekly fireworks over the waves in summer. With endless options for food and family fun, it captures the nostalgic essence of summers by the sea.

Top Things to Do

• Capture Instagram-worthy sunset views along the Old Orchard Beach Pier
• Scream on thrill rides like the Galaxi Coaster or Cliffhanger at Palace Playland
• Chow down on fried seafood or salt water taffy along the bustling boardwalk

7. Crescent Beach State Park: Tranquil Beach & Estuary Trails

True to its name, the sandy shores of Crescent Beach curve in a protected cove that creates calm swells perfect for swimming. As a state park beach, hours are limited during peak season. But you'll also avoid overwhelming crowds.

Kayak rentals let you paddle through winding marsh channels to hidden spots teeming with wildlife. On land, picnic areas, hiking trails, and food trucks enhance the laidback vibes. Located less than 10 miles from Portland, it's an easy escape to serene nature.

Top Things to Do

• Paddle through the winding Basin marsh channels teeming with birds
• Hike through wooded trails to scenic Eagle Point overlooking Casco Bay
• Enjoy a relaxing picnic on the lawn before heading back to the sand

8. Higgins Beach: Scenic Surf Spot in Scarborough

Towering white pines and beach roses line the rugged shores of Higgins Beach, creating picture-perfect views. The reliable waves also make it one of Maine's most popular surfing beaches. So you're likely to see wet-suited riders along its rocky edges.

At low tide, glimpse the skeletal remains of the steamship St. Croix that wrecked in 1897. Or grab a snack next door at the nostalgic, seasonal Higgins Beach Market. Nestled in the quiet community of Scarborough, it's a treasured respite for water sports.

Top Things to Do

• Test your skills riding the waves or learn to surf with Maine Surf Lessons
• Spot shorebirds and seals during a scenic cruise on the Nonesuch Excursions boat
• Sip coffee and nibble pastries beachside at The Buzz coffeeshop

9. Ferry Beach: Family-Friendly Shore & Marsh Trails

Neighboring the more popular Old Orchard Beach, Ferry Beach provides a quieter shoreline perfect for younger kids and leisurely strolls. Gentle waves, sandy dunes, and scenic marsh trails encourage lazy days of picnicking, flying kites, building sandcastles, or digging for clams.

Grassy knolls scattered with shady trees offer retreats when you need a break from the sun. And a boat launch provides paddle access deeper into the wilds of Scarborough Marsh. With restrooms and outdoor rinse stations, it has all the basics for hassle-free fun.

Top Things Do

• Launch kayaks or canoes to explore the winding channels of Scarborough Marsh
• Let kids go wild building masterpiece sand sculptures along the soft, sandy stretches
• Follow winding paths through seaside thickets and across wooden footbridges

10. Popham Beach State Park: Scenic Wildlife Haven

As Maine's busiest state park beach, Popham Beach spans over a half-mile of unspoiled, glittering sand. A sandbar connecting to Fox Island emerges at low tide, creating a bridge to explore. Picnic areas, grills, trails and bathrooms provide amenities along its peaceful edges.

But its true treasure lies in the diverse coastal habitat supporting nesting plovers, migrating birds, harbor seals, deer, and foxes. For the best chance at snagging one of the limited parking spaces, aim to arrive early in the morning. The natural splendor and solitude make it worth the effort.

Top Things to Do

• Photograph the iconic lighthouse views from the Seguin Island shipwreck remains
• Spot nesting plovers, egrets, herons and other birds along the remote shoreline
• Enjoy front-row seats to the region's best sunsets behind nearby islands

11. Sand Beach: Dramatic Nature Scene of Mount Desert Island

Nestled against forested cliffs inside Acadia National Park, Sand Beach offers a striking contrast to most sandy strips. On one end, golden sand ideal for sunbathing and sand castle building. On the other, piles of polished shells, mussels and crabs remain from the last high tide.

Since appearing in Hollywood films like "The Cider House Rules," it has gained fame as a unique, unspoiled example of nature's dramatic interplay. Come early to claim a parking spot and experience one of Acadia's natural wonders in a stunning setting.

Top Things Do

• Spot resident wildlife like beavers, mink and bald eagles along the shore's edges
• Take a scenic drive along Park Loop Road overlooking Sand Beach and Thunder Hole
• Hike scenic wooded trails to reach remote corners of Acadia National Park

Plan Your Visit to Maine's Top Beaches

The best time to visit Maine beaches runs Memorial Day through Labor Day when all amenities are open. But to avoid peak crowds, target June or September. Late summer also brings warmer air and water temperatures.

Pack layers, especially if visiting early or late in the season when the water remains cold. And don't forget the sunscreen - the sun reflects intensely off the water. Be mindful of the tide schedules, and always check weather and surf conditions before swimming.

With scenic trails, iconic lighthouses, and lobster shack dining, Maine beaches let you immerse in the essence of a true New England summer. So grab the kids, load up the car with beach toys and snacks, and start exploring the Pine Tree State's treasured coastal corners.

Share Your Favorite Spots

What hidden gems or activities do you love at Maine beaches? Share your insider tips and experiences by leaving a comment below!

Meta Title: Top 11 Family Beaches in Maine for Swimming, Surfing, Tide Pools & More

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which beach in Maine is the best?

Some of the most popular and highly rated beaches are Old Orchard Beach, Popham Beach State Park, Sand Beach in Acadia National Park, and Goose Rocks Beach. But the "best" beach depends on what you want to experience, from family-friendly waves to scenic trails.

2. What is the prettiest beach in Maine?

Maine beaches like Sand Beach and Popham Beach tend to top lists for most scenic due to their undeveloped, dramatic landscapes. But coastal favorites like Higgins Beach, Crescent Beach and Goose Rocks also offer quintessential New England charm.

3. Where are the best beaches in Southern Maine?

The majority of Maine's best beach destinations lie between Portland and Kittery in the south. Top picks include Ferry Beach, Goose Rocks Beach, Crescent Beach State Park, Higgins Beach, and Long Sands Beach.

4. What is the warmest beach in Maine?

Beaches along Maine's southern coast and islands tend to be the warmest compared to beaches Up North or Down East. Some of the warmest ocean temperatures reach the low 70s Fahrenheit in areas like York Beach, Wells Beach, and southern Casco Bay.

5. Which Maine beach has the biggest waves?

Beaches along Maine's southern coast see the biggest surf, thanks to exposure to the Atlantic swells. Top surfing beaches include Higgins Beach, Gooch’s Beach. Fortunes Rocks Beach and Scarborough Beach have some of the most challenging waves.

6. Can you have beach fires in Maine?

Most beaches prohibit fires, but a few allow small cooking fires below the high tide line, like Biddeford Pool Beach, with the proper permit. Many areas offer fire pits at nearby lodging to enjoy beachside bonfires.

7. Where can you go clamming in Maine beaches?

Some of the most popular spots for clam digging are tidal flats like Scarborough Beach, Ferry Beach, Popham Beach, and various beaches between the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers. Always check current shellfishing closures before harvesting.

8. Is there sharks in Maine beaches?

Sharks live in the North Atlantic waters and can occasionally be spotted from Maine beaches. But attacks are extremely rare, with only one documented unprovoked attack from a porbeagle shark over the last 200 years.

9. How cold is the water at Maine beaches?

Ocean temperatures vary by location but average 55-60°F between April and June and reach up to the low 70s F at their warmest points in July and August before cooling again in fall.

10. Why are there no waves at beaches in Maine?

All Maine ocean beaches have waves unless they reside in an extremely sheltered bay or inlet. However, southern beaches tend to have smaller waves due to their geography and position inside the Gulf of Maine rather than directly facing the Atlantic.

Hope this updated guide gives you plenty of inspirational fodder for planning your upcoming Maine beach adventures! Let me know if you have any other questions.