The northernmost state in New England, Maine (ME) features an impressive coastline spanning 228 miles of picturesque shores. The beaches are a combination of rocky and sand lined, so there’s something for everyone. It’s best to visit its seashores in the summertime when the weather is warmest, inviting beachgoers to wade and swim in the water.
12 Best Beach Towns to Live in Maine
Maine has quintessential beach appeal because of its 228 miles of coastline (3,478 miles, according to the NOAA). Top-notch lobster rolls and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean may be found in any of the Pine Tree State’s top beach towns. The northeastern shores are some of the most popular in the summer, and with …
Top Beaches and Coastal Towns in ME
There are many impressive beach towns and coastal cities to discover in “The Pine Tree State”. Ogunquit, York, and Rockport are just a few of the favorite seaside communities. Whether you’re looking to move to the shores of Maine and call it your home, or just visit, their often secluded beaches are the perfect places to relax in nature and escape the city life.
Guide to Visiting the Beaches in Maine
Most people are shocked to hear that Maine, the most northern state in the East, has more coastline than California, with 3,478 miles according to NOAA (versus Cali’s 3,427 miles). However, when not measuring every zip and zag, Maine’s coastline is still impressive at 228 miles (versus Cali’s 840 miles according to CRS).
The Pine Tree State is fortunate to have some of the top beaches in New England running along its southeastern border, where the state meets the sparkling Atlantic. Maine has so many beautiful beaches that it would be impossible to see them all in a single vacation.
Some of its most outstanding coastlines, with powdery white sand and mild surf, may be found in the state’s southernmost region. A select number of the state’s beaches are hidden, hard to get to, and breathtaking due to their location. You can find playgrounds, ice cream stands, lobster shacks, lifeguards, and parking near other shores.
The first 50 miles of Maine’s coastline are home to popular tourist beach destinations, including York, Kennebunkport, and Old Orchard Beach. After exploring the sands, take in some of the finest sights Maine offers, including fascinating museums and breathtaking landscapes.
Cities and beach towns are ready to welcome visitors with things to do, events, attractions, excellent seafood restaurants, and cultural opportunities.
Maine Coastal Climate
Maine is a popular tourist destination all year, with over 35 million visitors in some years. June through August, when Maine’s summer weather is at its peak, and the ocean is at its warmest, see the highest number of visitors.
Summers are mostly dry and sunny, with just a few wet days each month. Daytime highs average in the middle to low 80s throughout these months, with lows in the high 50s to low 60s.
However, the ideal time to go to Maine is around September. Fewer people will be out and about when late summer and early fall rolls along, but the weather will still be pleasant. This is also the beginning of the fair season, when many different types of fairs, such as agricultural and artisan shows, are held.
Sharks
In Maine’s waters, sharks seldom interact with humans and pose little danger. Shark attacks are quite uncommon. Off the coast of Maine, however, eight different types of sharks have been spotted: spiny dogfish, blue sharks, makos, sand tigers, basking sharks, porbeagles, threshers, and even great whites.
The great white shark is no stranger to Maine’s coast. The steady rise of the state’s seal population over the last several decades has coincided with an uptick in great white shark sightings.
Activities
Water sports, fishing, seeing lighthouses, strolls, and picnics may all be enjoyed on Maine’s stunning coastlines. Several pathways for hiking or biking in the nearby forests border many coastal regions. Looking for seashells and other beach treasures is a great activity to do when the ocean is too cold to swim in during the winter.
Accommodations
Many of Maine’s beaches allow guests to stay in quaint cottages on the sea, making for a relaxing getaway. In much of this New England state, you may stay at a charming hotel, motel, or bed and breakfast inn near or overlooking the water.
It’s also possible to find several five-star hotels all along the shore. Numerous lodging options are available, all of which will provide you with a memorable vacation experience regardless of your budget.
The beaches in the Pine State are must-see coastal spots for anyone craving some time by the ocean. Although they are less well-known than specific beaches in other states, even the most devoted beachgoers will enjoy these lesser-visited spots.
