Boothbay MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Boothbay, Maine.
1. Barrett's Park
POPULAR SWIMMING SPOT
Barrett's Park offers a serene swimming area on Linekin Bay, making it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking a classic Maine coastal experience. The park provides amenities such as picnic areas and grassy spaces perfect for relaxing after a swim. Its proximity to downtown Boothbay Harbor allows easy access to waterfront recreation within minutes of the village.
2. Hendrick's Head Beach
SANDY COASTAL RETREAT
Hendrick's Head Beach is a charming sandy beach located on Southport Island, just a short drive from Boothbay Harbor. The gentle surf and iconic lighthouse views make it a popular spot for families and photographers. Visitors enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing in this scenic setting.
3. Grimes Cove Beach
SECLUDED OCEANFRONT COVE
Grimes Cove Beach is tucked away in East Boothbay and provides a quiet cove for swimming and tidepool exploration. The rocky shoreline adds to the beach's natural beauty, offering tranquil views and a peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for families and those looking to enjoy a less crowded coastal escape.
4. Newagen Seaside Inn Beach
PRIVATE WATERFRONT ACCESS
Guests of Newagen Seaside Inn enjoy access to a private waterfront beach area perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the ocean. The inn's location on Southport Island provides sweeping views of the Atlantic and a tranquil setting away from the crowds. The rocky beach and clean waters create a quintessential Maine coastal experience.
5. Popham Beach State Park
EXPANSIVE SANDY SEASHORE
Popham Beach State Park is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and dramatic ocean views, making it one of Maine's most popular beaches. The park is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and exploring the nearby historic fort and scenic walking trails. Its unique setting at the mouth of the Kennebec River offers both tidal pools and gentle surf.
6. Reid State Park
NATURAL BEACH ECOSYSTEM
Reid State Park features long stretches of beach backed by dunes, rocky headlands, and abundant birdlife, making it a beloved destination for nature lovers. The park's beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing, with fresh and saltwater swimming options available. It's famous for its scenic beauty, wildlife habitats, and panoramic coastal views.
7. Cabbage Island
ISLAND LOBSTER PICNIC
Cabbage Island is accessible via boat tour from Boothbay Harbor and is renowned for its traditional Maine lobster bakes and waterfront scenery. After enjoying a classic meal, visitors can stroll the island's beaches or wade in the gentle waters. The island provides a unique blend of culinary delight and coastal relaxation.
8. Knickerbocker Lake
LAKESIDE SWIMMING SPOT
Knickerbocker Lake offers a freshwater alternative for swimming and kayaking within the Boothbay region. Surrounded by forest and wildlife, the lake is a peaceful escape for families and those seeking a calm, non-ocean waterfront setting. Public access points make it easy to enjoy a day by the water.
9. Damariscotta River
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
The Damariscotta River flows through the heart of the region and is known for its tidal swimming holes, kayaking routes, and scenic riverbanks. Visitors enjoy exploring the river by paddle, taking in the oyster farms and natural beauty of the estuary. Several public access points and parks allow for riverside picnics and swimming.
10. Ocean Point
ROCKY SHORELINE VIEWS
Ocean Point boasts dramatic rocky beaches and stunning views across the Atlantic, making it an iconic spot for sunsets and seaside strolls. While swimming is possible at some sheltered spots, most visitors come for the scenery, walking, and tidepool exploration. It remains a favorite among artists and photographers seeking classic Maine coastal vistas.