The coast of Maine offers some of the most beautiful places to enjoy sun, sand, and surf in the country. But while you really can’t go wrong with any of the state’s stunning beaches for picturesque views and peaceful ambiance, certain areas are better suited for family-friendly swimming than others, particularly in Southern Maine.
If you’re looking for a safe, comfortable, and gorgeous spot for you and your family to dive into the Atlantic during your next trip to Maine, you’ll want to choose one of these beaches:
- York Harbor Beach
- Ogunquit Beach
- Short Sands Beach
- Long Sands Beach
- Goose Rocks Beach
- Old Orchard Beach
- Birch Point State Park Beach
- Wells Beach
York Harbor Beach
Nestled within the rich history of Maine, York Harbor Beach stands as an iconic gem, boasting unparalleled charm and beauty. With its serene waters, this beloved beach beckons visitors of every generation to bask in its tranquil embrace.
Despite its modest size, York Harbor Beach exudes an aura of seclusion and intimacy, setting it apart from its neighboring shores. Beyond its allure for picnics and stunning photography, this coastal haven is conveniently adjacent to the Stage Neck Inn, promising a seamless blend of relaxation and luxury just steps away.
Ogunquit Beach
There are a number of rocky beaches in Maine, which may not be ideal for children hoping to swim during their trip. Soft sand beaches provide you with ample space to relax while kids can comfortably run around and play. That is why many families looking to vacation in Maine choose Ogunquit Beach.
This beach offers over three miles of wide sandy shores with some of the most breathtaking ocean views you’re likely to find in all of Maine. It’s also located right in the heart of the town of Ogunquit, which offers fantastic shopping, great restaurants, and all kinds of entertainment.
Short Sands Beach
Short Sands Beach in the village of York is another pristine sandy shoreline that can be the perfect setting for an idyllic day in the sun with you and your family. Not only is it a great spot to sunbathe and swim all day long, but it also has a playground, basketball courts, a picnic area, and tide pools for you and your little ones to explore.
There are a number of eateries, shops, and even an arcade located right near Short Sands Beach as well. You can easily walk to any of these spots when you’re ready to pack the beach bag up and continue your adventure.
Long Sands Beach
Should you choose York as your Maine vacation destination, you’ll have access to more than one of the best family-friendly beaches in the state. Long Sands Beach is an incredibly popular coastal destination, thanks to its gorgeous white sand shores, tide pools, raft rentals, volleyball courts, and convenient public facilities.
This beach is also conveniently located right near plenty of great spots to grab something to eat or pick up any items you may need for your day on the sand.
Goose Rocks Beach
Don’t let the name fool you — Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport isn’t rocky at all. The shoreline of this beach is composed of soft golden sand, and it offers some of the best family-friendly swimming in all of Maine.
Located in a cove to keep any rough Atlantic waters far away, your little ones will be able to play all day in the gentle surf on this beach. Additionally, Goose Rocks Beach is a calmer and more laidback area than some other sandy shores along the Maine coast.
If you’re looking for some peace and quiet during your stay, this may be the best option for you.
Old Orchard Beach
For those who want to center their stay in Maine almost exclusively around the New England coast, Old Orchard Beach can be the perfect choice. This famed coastal resort town will send you back to simpler times with its beautiful boardwalk, iconic pier, and an array of quaint shops and cozy restaurants.
The beach itself is an expansive seven-mile stretch of pristine sandy shores, with gentle waters and spectacular views. There are a myriad of options for overnight accommodations nearby as well, so you’ll never have to be too far from the sand and sun.
Birch Point State Park Beach
Step into the spectacular natural wonder that Maine has to offer by taking a trip to Birch Point State Park, a 62-acre expanse of protected land highlighted by its gorgeous stretch of sandy shoreline along Penobscot Bay.
The beach can be found in a little pocket of the Maine coast that keeps the waters safe, calm, and fantastic for family-friendly swimming.
Wells Beach
Wells Beach in the town of Wells offers one of the most peaceful and picturesque shorelines in the state. Its broad sandy shores and calm waters are an excellent location for a day on the beach with the whole family.
You’ll also find watercraft rentals, volleyball nets, and convenient amenities here, which can make it easy to spend your whole day, or even your whole trip, right there on the beach.
Bring Your Family to Maine This Summer
You can make memories to last a lifetime when you vacation in Maine, especially when you make one of the state’s beautiful beaches your destination. If you’re looking to enjoy the beauty of Maine’s coastline with your family during your next trip, any of these beaches can offer a fun-filled experience the whole family will enjoy.
Stage Neck Inn is an iconic destination where families and friends share delightful experiences that evolve into lifetime memories. Offering spacious accommodations with modern amenities and classic décor, breathtaking ocean and harbor views and the ocean’s relaxing sounds make for the perfect stay at our oceanfront resort in York Harbor, ME. Book your stay online now.