China MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near China, Maine.
1. China Lake
YEAR-ROUND RECREATION DESTINATION
China Lake is an important area resource spanning 3,845 acres with a maximum depth of 85 feet in the west basin. The lake features five mapped islands, including Bradley Island which is owned by the Town of China, and offers year-round recreational opportunities. It serves as both a recreational destination and a drinking water source for municipalities served by the Kennebec Water District.
2. Town Boat Launch
PUBLIC WATER ACCESS POINT
The Town Boat Launch provides public access to China's waterways for boating enthusiasts. Located at 191 Alder Park Road, this facility offers a convenient entry point for exploring the local waters. While China does not have public beach facilities, this boat launch serves as an important access point for water recreation.
3. Bradley Island
TOWN-OWNED LAKE ISLAND
Bradley Island is a public island situated in the west basin of China Lake and is owned by the Town of China. Visitors can boat to this natural retreat for day use activities in a serene lake setting. The island offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of China Lake from a different perspective.
4. Indian Island
HISTORIC CHURCH-OWNED ISLAND
Indian Island (also known as Round Island) is a tiny island in China Lake owned by the China Baptist Church. Pastor Ronald Morrell and the church welcome respectful visitors who appreciate the natural environment. This unique destination combines historical significance with natural beauty in the east basin of China Lake.
5. Messalonskee Lake
POPULAR RECREATIONAL WATERS
Messalonskee Lake is a beautiful body of water located just west of China in the nearby town of Oakland. The lake offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities with several access points for visitors. Its proximity to China makes it a convenient alternative for water recreation when exploring the region.
6. Lake St. George State Park
STATE PARK BEACH ACCESS
Lake St. George State Park is located approximately 25 miles east of China and features a sandy beach on the shore of Lake St. George. The park provides swimming, picnicking, and camping facilities with lifeguards on duty during the summer season. Visitors can enjoy a full day of water recreation with convenient amenities including changing rooms and picnic areas.
7. Damariscotta Lake State Park
SCENIC SWIMMING BEACH
Damariscotta Lake State Park offers a beautiful freshwater swimming beach about 30 miles south of China. The park features a sandy beach with designated swimming areas and picnic facilities overlooking the pristine lake. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities in a well-maintained natural setting.
8. Androscoggin Riverlands State Park
RIVER RECREATION AREA
Androscoggin Riverlands State Park provides access to the scenic Androscoggin River approximately 35 miles west of China. The park features 12 miles of river frontage with multiple access points for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the river corridor while hiking the extensive trail system that runs alongside the water.
9. Popham Beach State Park
STUNNING ATLANTIC OCEANFRONT
Popham Beach State Park, located about 50 miles south of China, is one of Maine's most spectacular oceanfront beaches. The park features miles of sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean with dramatic views of offshore islands. Visitors can swim in the ocean, explore tidal pools, and walk to Fox Island during low tide.
10. Reid State Park
ICONIC MAINE SEASHORE
Reid State Park, approximately 55 miles from China, was Maine's first state-owned saltwater beach and remains one of its most popular. The park features Mile and Half Mile beaches with warm saltwater swimming lagoons and dramatic rocky headlands. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the diverse coastal environment that includes sand dunes and maritime forests.