Craving a peaceful seaside escape with rugged beauty and timeless charm? Let me take you up the coast to my favorite beaches in Maine. I’ve walked these shorelines at sunrise, sipped coffee to the sound of crashing waves, and found quiet moments that still stay with me. Whether you’re visiting with someone special or just need a little solitude, these spots are pure Atlantic soul.

Highlights:

  • One of my favorite ways to spend a morning is strolling Ogunquit Beach hand-in-hand, then following the Marginal Way—a scenic coastal path that always leaves me in awe.
  • When I want that nostalgic, summer-at-the-shore feeling, I head to Old Orchard Beach. You’ll find wide sandy stretches, a classic boardwalk, and just enough kitsch to make it fun.
  • Sand Beach in Acadia National Park is where I go to feel connected to nature. I’ve explored tide pools here and sat on the rocky edge listening to the ocean—it’s absolutely magical.
  • On slower days, I pick up a local coffee and make my way to Crescent Beach near Cape Elizabeth. You’ll love the soft breeze and the sound of the waves—it’s quiet, simple, and soothing.
  • If you’re craving space and stillness, Popham Beach State Park is my go-to. I’ve walked its long sandy shorelines with just the pines and sea for company—it’s a little pocket of calm I always return to.

Recommended Beaches in Maine:

Biddeford Pool Beach -30 minutes south of Portland, ME

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Biddeford Pool Beach -30 minutes south of Portland, ME - Walk along sandy shores and admire scenic coastal views.                                    

Birch Point Beach State Park - 15 minutes south of Rockland, ME

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Birch Point Beach State Park - 15 minutes south of Rockland, ME - Enjoy a peaceful picnic and explore quiet coastal trails.                                    

Cleaves Cove Beach - minutes south of downtown Kennebunkport

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Cleaves Cove Beach - minutes south of downtown Kennebunkport - Explore rocky shores and enjoy a secluded beach escape.                                    

Colony Beach - just minutes from downtown Kennebunkport

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Colony Beach - just minutes from downtown Kennebunkport - Walk along the jetty and enjoy picturesque harbor views.                                    

Crescent Beach State Park - 20 minutes from Portland, ME

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Crescent Beach State Park - 20 minutes from Portland, ME - Swim in calm waters and relax on sandy shores.                                    

Drake's Island Beach - 35 minutes from Portland, ME

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Drake's Island Beach - 35 minutes from Portland, ME - Explore tidal pools and enjoy a peaceful beach day.                                    

Ferry Beach State Park - 25 minutes south of Portland

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Ferry Beach State Park - 25 minutes south of Portland - Walk scenic nature trails and enjoy family-friendly beach fun.                                    

Footbridge Beach - 20 minutes on foot from downtown Ogunquit

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Footbridge Beach - 20 minutes on foot from downtown Ogunquit - Cross the footbridge and enjoy soft sandy shores.                                    

Fortune’s Rocks Beach - 40 minutes from Portland, ME

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Fortune’s Rocks Beach - 40 minutes from Portland, ME - Surf gentle waves and walk along expansive sandy shores.                                    

Gooch's Beach - Just minutes from Kennebunk

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Gooch's Beach - Just minutes from Kennebunk - Walk along smooth sands and enjoy scenic ocean views.                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)