Amity MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Amity, Maine.
1. Ogunquit Beach
PRISTINE SANDY SHORES
Ogunquit Beach stretches for 3½ miles and is considered the ideal New England beach with fine, soft sand and swaying beach grasses on the dunes. The Main Beach area offers concessions and equipment rentals where the Ogunquit River meets the sea, creating warmer swimming waters. Visitors can explore the less crowded Footbridge and North beaches by walking northward along this expansive shoreline.
2. Old Orchard Beach
CLASSIC BEACHFRONT ENTERTAINMENT
Old Orchard Beach is one of Maine's most popular beach destinations, known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly amenities. The beach features a lively pier with restaurants, shops, and amusements that create a classic seaside resort experience. Visitors enjoy the expansive sandy shoreline that offers plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games.
3. Sand Beach
NATURAL COASTAL GEM
Sand Beach is a stunning natural attraction nestled within Acadia National Park with unique sand composed largely of crushed shells. Despite the chilly water temperatures, it remains a popular spot for brave swimmers and those looking to enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery. The beach is framed by mountains and rocky shores, creating one of the most picturesque settings along the Maine coast.
4. Wells Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COASTAL RETREAT
Wells Beach offers a classic Maine coastal experience with miles of sandy shoreline perfect for long walks and beachcombing. The beach area includes convenient facilities and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and relatively calm waters. Visitors appreciate the mix of natural beauty and accessible amenities that make this a comfortable beach destination for all ages.
5. Popham Beach State Park
DRAMATIC TIDAL LANDSCAPES
Popham Beach State Park features one of Maine's most spectacular beaches with dramatic tidal changes that transform the landscape throughout the day. At low tide, visitors can walk to Fox Island across a temporary sand bar, creating a unique beach experience not found elsewhere in the state. The expansive sandy beach offers plenty of space even during busy summer days, with views of offshore islands and historic Fort Popham nearby.
6. Crescent Beach State Park
SHELTERED COASTAL SANCTUARY
Crescent Beach State Park features a mile-long half-moon beach scattered with skipping stones and surrounded by beautiful beach roses. The park offers excellent amenities including paddleboard and kayak rentals, a snack bar, picnic areas with grills, and a playground for children. Visitors can also explore the adjacent, less-developed Kettle Cove for a more secluded beach experience with dramatic granite formations.
7. Fort Foster Beach
HISTORIC COASTAL PARK
Fort Foster Beach combines historical significance with natural coastal beauty, offering a pebbly to sandy shoreline within the grounds of a former military installation. The beach typically sees lighter crowds than more popular Maine beaches, providing a more peaceful waterfront experience. Visitors can explore military ruins, enjoy picnic facilities, and take in panoramic views of Portsmouth Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean.
8. Moody Beach
SERENE PRIVATE SHORELINE
Moody Beach is a beautiful coastal stretch in the Wells area that offers a quieter alternative to some of Maine's busier beaches. The beach is largely private with limited public access, which contributes to its more peaceful atmosphere and less crowded conditions. Visitors who access the public portions can enjoy the pristine sandy shoreline and excellent views of the Atlantic coastline.
9. Seapoint Beach
LOCAL'S HIDDEN GEM
Seapoint Beach is a less-touristed coastal gem along Route 103 that features a mix of sandy shores and rocky outcroppings. The beach offers beautiful views of the Atlantic and a more authentic Maine coastal experience away from commercial development. Locals and in-the-know visitors appreciate this spot for its natural beauty and relatively uncrowded atmosphere even during peak summer months.
10. Kettle Cove
RUGGED COASTAL POCKET
Kettle Cove is a secluded pocket beach adjacent to Crescent Beach State Park that offers a more intimate coastal experience. The beach features a pebblier shoreline flanked by dramatic granite shelves that create a striking natural setting. After enjoying the cove, visitors can stop at the nearby Kettle Cove Creamery and Café for classic Maine treats like ice cream cones and fresh lobster rolls.