Portland may be known for its craft breweries, lighthouses, and cobblestone charm, but just beyond the city limits, a quieter kind of beauty awaits. Along Maine’s rugged southern coast, you’ll find soft sand, cold surf, and salty breezes that invite you to let go and stay awhile. Whether you're looking for a calm morning stroll or a classic boardwalk sunset, these beaches near Portland offer the perfect coastal escape—each with its own rhythm, charm, and sense of place.
Best Beaches Near Portland, Maine:
Morning stillness at Willard Beach
Willard Beach felt like the kind of neighborhood spot that holds a thousand quiet stories. The sand was soft, the tide slow, and dogs ran freely alongside early walkers. It was peaceful but lived in—like a favorite sweater that still fits just right. I remember thinking, “If I lived nearby, I’d start every day right here.” The calmness of Casco Bay felt like it belonged to everyone, and no one.
What I Loved Most: Watching sailboats pass just beyond the breakwater while a local taught her toddler to dig sandcastles with seaweed and shells. It was the kind of moment that stayed with me.
My highlights? A buttery breakfast sandwich and iced latte from Scratch Baking Co., just a short walk up the street. I took it to-go and ate on a bench with sea breeze in my hair and sunlight on my face.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Portland: ~10 minutes
- Vibe: Local, peaceful, pet-friendly
- Highlights: Views of Spring Point Ledge Light, quiet sand, community feel
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or weekday afternoons
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Address: 20 Willow St, South Portland, ME 04106
Nature and waves at Crescent Beach State Park
Crescent Beach had a wild elegance. With sweeping dunes, winding trails, and the smell of salt and pine in the air, it felt like a beach wrapped in nature’s arms. I remember thinking, “This is where you come when you want the sea to feel vast and personal all at once.” The crescent-shaped shoreline curved gently like a welcome, and I followed it with sandy feet and a full heart.
What I Loved Most: Walking the entire arc of the beach barefoot, the breeze tangling my hair and gulls circling overhead. It felt like the ocean was in conversation with the land.
My highlights? A post-hike lunch at Rudy’s of the Cape nearby. I had the grilled haddock sandwich with lemon aioli and truffle fries. Sitting outside with pine trees above and sand still on my ankles—it was just right.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Portland: ~20 minutes
- Vibe: Scenic, spacious, natural
- Highlights: Hiking trails, dunes, expansive beach
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings or late afternoons
- Cost: $8 for Maine residents / $10 for non-residents
- Hours: 9 a.m. to sunset
- Address: 66 Bowery Beach Rd, Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107
Waves and sun at Scarborough Beach State Park
Scarborough Beach brought the Atlantic front and center. The surf was strong, the beach wide, and the sun hot enough to remind me it was truly summer. I remember thinking, “This is the kind of beach that wakes you up.” Kids ran in and out of waves, lifeguards watched from tall chairs, and families staked out their perfect sandy patch with colorful umbrellas.
What I Loved Most: Standing ankle-deep in the cold surf, laughing as the waves caught me by surprise. The water was bracing—and exactly what I needed.
My highlights? A stop at Bite into Maine (Scarborough) afterward. I had their picnic-style lobster roll with chilled mayo and chives, and a side of chips. Rich, simple, and deeply satisfying.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Portland: ~25 minutes
- Vibe: Active, classic, surf-friendly
- Highlights: Big surf, lifeguards, long shore
- Best Time to Visit: Early summer mornings or after 3 p.m.
- Cost: $10+ per car (seasonal pricing)
- Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Address: 418 Black Point Rd, Scarborough, ME 04074
Quiet beauty at Ferry Beach
Ferry Beach was a quiet gem. Tucked away in Saco, it had a softness to it—gentle waves, shaded picnic areas, and long stretches of smooth sand. It felt like a family memory waiting to happen. I remember thinking, “If I lived here, this would be my go-to spot to think and breathe.” It was welcoming without being loud.
What I Loved Most: Finding a driftwood log to lean against while I watched clouds shift and kids chase seagulls down the shoreline. It was beautifully uneventful in the best way.
My highlights? A turkey wrap and blueberry lemonade from Rapid Ray’s in Saco, eaten at a picnic table with sand stuck to my calves. No frills, all comfort.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Portland: ~30 minutes south
- Vibe: Low-key, family-friendly, relaxing
- Highlights: Shaded picnic spots, soft sand, tide pools
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays or early evening
- Cost: $7 per person (state park fee)
- Hours: 9 a.m. to sunset
- Address: 95 Bayview Rd, Saco, ME 04072
Long walks on Pine Point Beach
Pine Point Beach stretched on like a promise. Long and wide, it gave you room to wander, to think, to just be. The sand was soft, the water cool, and the breeze steady. I remember thinking, “This is where the day stretches with the tide.” There were moments of conversation and moments of stillness—and both felt natural.
What I Loved Most: A long solo walk toward the jetty, the rhythm of the ocean syncing with my footsteps. It felt like every breath got a little easier.
My highlights? Fried clams and onion rings from Bayley’s Lobster Pound, right around the corner. I ate them at a weathered picnic table, watching boats pass through the channel.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Portland: ~25 minutes
- Vibe: Spacious, quiet, local
- Highlights: Long walks, soft sand, access to the jetty
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset
- Cost: $10–$15 for parking
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Address: 20 King St, Scarborough, ME 04074
Classic fun at Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach was pure summer nostalgia—bright boardwalk lights, cotton candy in the air, kids darting between waves and arcade games. It was loud, lively, and completely joyful. I remember thinking, “This is summer with a capital S.” The beach was wide, the water inviting, and the laughter—contagious.
What I Loved Most: Watching the sunset from the pier as the lights came on and the sky turned sherbet orange. It felt like something out of a memory I hadn’t made yet.
My highlights? Fried dough and a lemonade from Pier Fries. Sticky fingers, powdered sugar smiles, and not a care in the world.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Portland: ~30 minutes south
- Vibe: Playful, busy, classic
- Highlights: Pier, boardwalk, amusement rides
- Best Time to Visit: Summer evenings for full effect
- Cost: Free access; pay for parking and activities
- Hours: Beach open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Address: 1 Old Orchard St, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064
Where the City Meets the Sea
From the neighborhood ease of Willard Beach to the big-sky magic of Old Orchard, Portland’s coastal neighbors offer everything from stillness to celebration. You don’t need to go far to find open skies and ocean air—just a towel, a good sandwich, and a little time to spare. Because sometimes, the best way to fall in love with Maine is with your toes in the sand.
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