It may be almost August, but there’s still plenty of beach weather to go around here in southern Maine. If you’re looking for a better experience than the Eastern Promenade beach, these are our favorite southern Maine beaches. Featuring beaches in South Portland, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough, and Raymond, there’s a little something for everyone at these southern Maine beaches. Dive right in!
Willard Beach-South Portland
If you’ve been past Southern Maine Community College (or SMCC as the locals call it) then you’ve probably already seen Willard Beach. At just 4 acres, this may be one of the smaller beaches in southern Maine, but it boasts views of Spring Point Lighthouse, as well as the beautiful ocean. Willard is considered a dog friendly southern Maine beach, though in the summer, dogs are only allowed on the beach from 7-9 am and 7-9 pm. This starts May 1 and goes until November 1, every year. Willard is a bit of a rocky beach, so make sure you wear good walking shoes while you’re taking in the views! Want a treat before or after your walk? Check out nearby Scratch Baking Co. for homemade breads, sandwiches, and other fresh baked goods. For one of the best bagels in town, visit 158 Picket Street Cafe, and prepare to be amazed!
Fort Williams Park-Cape Elizabeth
Travel a little further down the coast and you’ll find the most photographed lighthouse in the world at Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth. During the summer, Fort Williams is an extremely popular beach for dogs, people, and even barbecues. Like many southern Maine beaches, Fort Williams is a little bit rocky, but this just adds to the charm of this stunning beach. When visiting Fort Williams, make sure to check out the remnants of the fort that used to be used as the headquarters of Harbor Defenses of Portland during World War II, which has a fascinating history! After walking the beach and cliff walk, you’ll probably work up an appetite, so stop by the Bite Into Maine lobster roll food truck. With six different varieties of lobster rolls, the little food truck might be the best part about this southern Maine beach, besides the views!
Pine Point-Scarborough
If you’re tired of the crowds and sheer amount of people that cover Old Orchard Beach, come check out Pine Point Beach in Scarborough. This southern Maine beach is a quiet but lovely spot, and gives relaxing a whole new meaning. Pine Point Beach is four miles long, making it a great beach for the casual stroll along the sand with friends or family. Some consider Pine Point Beach to be one of the few hidden gems left in the area, and it’s easy to see why. For barbecue lovers, nearby The Garage BBQ will tantalize your taste buds, and leave you stuffed beyond belief. Coming with a few friends? Try The Overhaul platter, loaded with brisket, sausage, a half rack of ribs, half a chicken, cornbread, pickles, and 2 sides that you get to pick. You may have to roll yourself back home after this extravaganza!
Crescent Beach-Cape Elizabeth
Crescent Beach is part of Crescent Beach State Park, which is part of the Maine State Park system. This means that this is one of the beaches that you have to pay to get into, but it is worth it. For Maine state residents, admission is $6 per person. For out of state residents, admission is $8. Crescent Beach is a small, crescent shaped beach (hence the name!) that unlike many other southern Maine beaches, is sandy, rather than rocky, and perfect for dipping your toes into the sand. Southern Maine beaches in the summertime also mean ice cream, and some of the best in the area can be found at Kettle Cove Creamery and Cafe, just a quarter of a mile away from Crescent Beach.
Tassel Top Park-Raymond
The last of the southern Maine beaches on this list is Tassel Top Park, located in Raymond. Tassel Top is the only beach listed here that is not on the ocean, but instead on Sebago Lake. Like Crescent Beach, you have to pay to get in. Adults from the ages of 11-64 can purchase a day pass for $5.00, and dogs or any other pets are not allowed on the beach or in the park. On a warm summer day, Tassel Top is incredibly refreshing, and just plain beautiful to look at. For those looking to make a day of it, there are plentiful picnic tables and outdoor grills available as well, making the extra distance well worth the trip!
We love living here in Maine, and one of the best things are these incredible southern Maine beaches, along with our plentiful restaurant and craft beer scene. Didn’t see your favorite beach mentioned? Let us know in the comments below where your perfect summer day is spent in southern Maine!
