Planning your summer vacation often includes a visit to the beach. Maine can boast to having some of the best beaches anywhere. Miles of soft, sandy beaches, seeming to go on forever. Tides that make the beaches interesting and fun in that there is great exploring to be done during low tide, where many small islands suddenly become accessible to walk out to, tidepools are visible to explore, horseshoe crabs can be found.
Although it is only April, our family has already visited the beach twice this year, taking advantage of these warm days. One of our favorite beaches is Popham Beach, part of Popham Beach State Park. There you will find tidepools, miles of soft sandy beaches, dunes, and plenty of space to stretch out and take in the beautiful vista. Truly one of the most beautiful beaches you will find anywhere and just about 35-minutes from James Place Inn in Freeport. We love to pack a picnic lunch, some beach toys and make a day of it. Clean restrooms and changing areas make the park very user-friendly. You can also visit Fort Popham while you are there, taking in a bit of local history.
Heading south of Freeport will offer even more beach options. Scarborough Beach is another gem of a state park. Beautiful soft beaches, perfect for a walk. Great views of the Maine shoreline, looking over onto Prout’s Neck and Cape Elizabeth. A great way to spend an afternoon.
Another favorite beach of ours is Kettle Cove, located near Crescent Beach on Cape Elizabeth. Kettle Cove is small and very much a local’s hangout. You will see a lot of divers here, quite a few new to the sport and getting instruction. This beach is a great place for kids as it is small enough for them to roam safely yet there are a lot of rocks for climbing and tidalpools to investigate. You can also visit lighthouses while here in Cape Elizabeth and hit a great lobster shack, Two Lights, while you are at it. Top it off with some ice cream and you have a fun and full day! (One of the great treats of both of these beaches is the great ice cream shop located just outside of the entrance to the parks. It is surely one of our favorite stops after a fun day in the sun)!
Higgins Beach is another favorite among the locals. Located just south of Portland, Higgins Beach is in a quiet area. A bit smaller but still a delightful beach, soft and sandy.
Looking for a bit more action? Old Orchard Beach is the place for you. The community of Old Orchard Beach has plenty to do in-seaon. There are shops, restaurants, carnival games and rides, and a boardwalk to explore. Miles of soft, white sands are at Old Orchard Beach and the water has a sandbar that seems to go on forever. The one thing you will have to contend with at Old Orchard Beach are the crowds. It is a favorite for those looking for a lot of activity instead of the peace and quiet. Driving and parking can be a challenge. It is part beach, part people watching, part amusement park.
All of these beaches are within 30-45 minutes of Freeport, making them ideal for a day-long visit. Those in Portland make for an opportunity to visit lighthouses as well. These beaches really are a treasure and one to be enjoyed on your visit. So many opportunities and pleasures await you when you get to Maine. We’ll look forward to seeing you soon. And remember to call and we’ll be glad to help with planning.