Maine is the northeasternmost state in the contiguous United States, celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline studded with lighthouses, lobster shacks perched over sheltered coves, the dramatic granite peaks of Acadia National Park, and vast northern forests roamed by moose. From the vibrant restaurant scene of Portland to the tranquil islands of Penobscot Bay, Maine offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and coastal charm.
Top beaches
A ranked editor’s shortlist of the coastline worth planning a day around in Maine.
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- lifeguards (summer)
- restrooms
- showers
- parking
- pier amusements
- restaurants
Old Orchard Beach
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- lifeguards (summer)
- restrooms
- showers
- concession stand
- parking ($8–$12/hour)
- nearby Marginal Way cliff walk
Ogunquit Beach
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- restrooms
- limited parking (resident sticker required July–August)
- calm water
- lifeguards (summer)
- snack bar nearby
Kennebunk Beach (Mother's Beach)
-
- restrooms
- limited street parking
- lifeguards (seasonal)
- surf-friendly
- nearby Dunstan Landing kayak launch
Higgins Beach
-
- restrooms
- changing rooms
- lifeguards (summer)
- free Island Explorer bus access
- spectacular mountain backdrop
Sand Beach, Acadia National Park
-
- restrooms
- picnic areas
- parking ($6–$8 non-resident day use)
- lifeguards (summer)
- dunes
- barrier beach
Reid State Park Beach
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- restrooms
- snack bar
- picnic area
- parking ($5 day use)
- calm swimming area
- volleyball court
Pemaquid Beach
-
- restrooms
- showers
- parking
- lifeguards (summer)
- boardwalk
- restaurants and ice cream shops within walking distance
Wells Beach
What to bring
A short packing list for a comfortable beach day — adjust for season and the specific spot.
- Sun protectionHigh-SPF sunscreen, hat, polarised sunglasses, light long-sleeve cover-up.
- HydrationReusable bottle, salty snacks for longer days, electrolyte sachets if it’s hot.
- FootwearWater shoes for pebble or rocky entry, flip-flops for sand, dry pair for the trip home.
- Swim & coverQuick-dry towel or sand-resistant mat, change of swimwear, light cover-up for restaurants.
- Cash & valuablesSmall notes for beach clubs and rentals; waterproof pouch for phone, keys, cards.
- ExtrasReef-safe sunscreen near protected coastline, a book, a small first-aid kit for jellyfish or scrapes.
Beach safety
Hard-earned guidance — read this before you swim, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the coast.
Critical
Swim where lifeguards are posted and follow flag warnings — green is safe, yellow is caution, red means no swimming. Rip currents are the leading beach hazard worldwide.
Caution
Watch for tide changes and marine life — jellyfish blooms, sea urchins on rocky entries, occasional shark or stingray advisories. Don’t swim alone, especially at dawn or dusk.
Tip
Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes and after every swim. Take shade between 11 am and 3 pm — the sun is harsher than people expect, even when the air is cool.
Practical
Keep valuables out of sight or back at the accommodation. Beach theft is a small-but-real risk at busy beaches; never leave bags unattended while you’re in the water.