Deer Isle MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Deer Isle, Maine.
1. Sand Beach
SCENIC COVE BEACHFRONT
Sand Beach is a small, picturesque public cove just five minutes from the village of Stonington. The beach features smooth granite rocks, clear blue-green waters, and is ringed by tall trees, creating a tranquil and immersive coastal experience. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls along the shoreline and listen to the distant sound of Mark Island Light.
2. Reach Beach
EGGEMOGGIN REACH VIEWS
Reach Beach is a sandy and rocky beach situated on Gray's Cove, offering easy water access and beautiful views of Eggemoggin Reach. The beach is ideal for swimming, kayaking, picnicking, and beachcombing, welcoming visitors seeking a quiet escape in nature. Birders and nature lovers will appreciate the peaceful setting and varied shoreline habitats.
3. Barred Island Preserve
TIDE-EXPOSED SANDBAR WALK
Barred Island Preserve features a scenic trail to a sandbar that emerges during low tide, allowing hikers to walk directly to Barred Island. The preserve offers sweeping views of Goose Cove and dramatic coastal landscapes that change with the tides. It's a unique spot for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing the dynamic coastal environment.
4. Edgar M. Tennis Preserve
WILDERNESS WATERFRONT TRAILS
Edgar M. Tennis Preserve offers miles of tranquil walking trails along the coastline, where visitors can explore secluded beaches and dramatic oceanfront landscapes. The preserve is known for its peaceful forested paths, rocky shorelines, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. It's a prime destination for hikers and those seeking a quiet, natural escape by the water.
5. Causeway Beach
BRIDGE-SIDE COASTAL SPOT
Causeway Beach is a small public beach located next to the bridge that connects North Deer Isle to Little Deer Isle. Its convenient location makes it perfect for a quick dip, relaxing on the sand, or enjoying sunset views over the water. Often less crowded, it provides a peaceful setting for both locals and visitors traveling to the island.
6. Scott's Landing Preserve
PENOBSCOT BAY SHORELINE
Scott's Landing Preserve boasts grassy meadows, forested trails, and a stretch of shoreline along Penobscot Bay. It provides visitors with opportunities for gentle walks, picnics, and shoreline exploration, all set against the backdrop of sweeping bay views. The preserve is ideal for families and those looking to enjoy both woodland and waterfront scenery.
7. Sand Beach at Acadia National Park
FAMED OCEANFRONT PARK BEACH
Sand Beach in Acadia National Park is a renowned crescent-shaped stretch of sand bordered by granite mountains. Known for its ocean swimming, stunning views, and brisk Atlantic waters, it draws visitors from across the region. The beach is popular for sunbathing, hiking the nearby trails, and enjoying the extraordinary coastal scenery.
8. Birch Point Beach State Park
SHELTERED BAY SWIMMING
Birch Point Beach State Park features a gentle, crescent-shaped sandy beach along a sheltered bay that is perfect for swimming and picnicking. The park is known for its calm waters, scenic picnic areas, and views of the surrounding islands. Families and beachgoers can enjoy a quintessential Maine coastal outing in this peaceful location.
9. Holbrook Island Sanctuary
WILD SEASIDE NATURE RESERVE
Holbrook Island Sanctuary offers a mix of rocky and sandy beaches, tidal pools, and extensive waterfront hiking trails. The sanctuary is prized for its untouched landscape, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and beachcombing. It's a haven for nature seekers looking for a more secluded Maine coastal experience.
10. Walker Pond
FRESHWATER SWIMMING RETREAT
Walker Pond in Sedgwick is a large freshwater lake that provides a quiet, scenic escape for swimming, canoeing, and picnicking. The pond features a public beach and boat launch, making it accessible for families and paddlers exploring the region. Surrounded by woodlands, it offers a tranquil alternative to ocean beaches.