Maine is a state for all seasons, but its finest season may very well be the summer. Not only is there an amazing number of things for you to do all over the state during this time of year, but coastal areas become even more beautiful and idyllic as their many beaches transform into the number one place to be for locals and visitors alike.
If you’re staying with us at the Stage Neck Inn sometime this summer, you’ll have access to a variety of beautiful sandy shores right in York Harbor. However, if you want to spread your wings a bit and see what else is around, there are more gorgeous beaches for you to enjoy just a few minutes away in Kittery.
Here’s a look at some of our favorite beaches in Kittery, Maine, and all they have to offer.
Seapoint Beach
When visiting Maine’s many beautiful beaches, you should know that swimming at some of them is not always safe and may even be prohibited depending on where you go. This is most often due to strong currents and dangerous tides.
Of course, there’s plenty to enjoy about a sandy shore overlooking the stunning Atlantic Ocean other than swimming, but if you are looking to dive in, make sure to visit somewhere safe for it, like Seapoint Beach in Kittery.
Seapoint Beach is a quiet, secluded stretch of sand that welcomes non-residents provided they park in the area designated specifically for them. That area is a short walk from the beach and has about a dozen parking spaces. The beach itself offers a great opportunity to search for beautiful shells and sea glass, and you can even walk your dog there, provided you do so before or after the busiest hours.
Crescent Beach
Crescent Beach can be found just a little bit south of Seapoint Beach. It offers about a 600-yard stretch of beautiful shoreline flanked by wild blueberry bushes. The views of the Atlantic are majestic, but the beach itself is fairly rocky, which can be a deal breaker for some. Swimming here can also be dangerous, thanks to the tide, so perhaps opt for another location if you want to take a dip.
As you can probably guess, this beach is better to stop off and take a stroll through than to spend the day lying out. But it’s definitely a great location if you appreciate it for its strengths rather than its weaknesses.
Fort Foster
If you’re looking for somewhere in Kittery to spend a full day with the family, then Fort Foster is an amazing option. This almost 90-acre park is on the southern end of Gerrish Island and is loaded with things to see and do, including hiking trails, picnic sites, a playground, lighthouse views, historic fort ruins, and three small beaches.
On top of these amazing features, Fort Foster welcomes dogs all day long, provided they’re leashed. Your pup will be able to make a ton of friends if they come along for the trip, as this park is easily one of the most popular spots for dog owners in the area.
Keep in mind that there is an admission fee to Fort Foster of $20 per vehicle, or a pedestrian/biker admission fee of $5 for adults and $1 for children. The park is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Long Sands Beach
If you’re looking for a more traditional day of sand, sun, and ocean waves, sticking around York Harbor may be your best bet. Long Sands Beach offers everything you want from a beach trip, including kayaking, surfing, volleyball, tide pools, and more. The sand is soft, and there’s plenty of it —the beach stretches for nearly two miles. You’ve also got lifeguards on duty, along with public restrooms available.
Short Sands Beach
Long Sands Beach’s shorter-sanded counterpart offers plenty of summer activities as well. This popular destination comprises about a quarter mile of sandy shores interspersed with some rockier spots and fascinating tide pools to explore. There’s a seasonal lifeguard on duty, a large playground, a gazebo, grassy areas, basketball courts, and public restrooms.
Short Sands Beach is also conveniently located near various other fun activities, so you’ve got your options open whenever you’re ready to leave the sand. And the area is also known to host free live music and other entertainment during the summer months, so make sure to check out the schedule. Look up “Ellis Park” to see what activities are taking place during your stay.
Cape Neddick Beach
Not everyone is looking to kick back on the sand and soak up the sun during their visit. If you are more interested in strolling along a scenic beach and taking in some of Maine’s natural beauty, then you’ll love Cape Neddick Beach.
Cape Neddick Beach is a somewhat secluded spot, although it’s quite popular with the locals. Walking along its shores, you’ll be able to see some stunning views, including some fantastic angles of the Cape Neddick Lighthouse. And remember: you didn’t really visit Maine if you didn’t spend at least a little time appreciating the beauty of one of the many famous lighthouses.
Enjoy Your Stay in Maine!
We hope this guide helped you plan out your trip to Maine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day on the sand or just a scenic sunset walk, there’s no doubt that one of these spots will be just what you’re looking for. Enjoy your stay!
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.