Holden MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Holden, Maine.
1. Fields Pond Audubon Center
NATURE TRAILS AND LAKE
Fields Pond Audubon Center features 229 acres of wetlands, forests, and a picturesque pond offering a peaceful lakeside escape. Visitors can enjoy scenic nature trails, birdwatching, kayaking on the pond, and educational programs. The waterfront area is especially popular for paddling and quiet relaxation surrounded by wildlife.
2. Fields Pond
LAKESIDE FISHING AND PADDLING
Fields Pond is an 85-acre serene pond known for its excellent fishing, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities right in Holden. The lakeside area offers picnic spots and calm waters, ideal for swimming, paddling, or casting a line for bass and perch. Early mornings provide a tranquil setting for nature lovers seeking a quiet escape.
3. Dedham Beach at Phillips Lake
CLEAR WATER SWIMMING
Phillips Lake in Dedham is a popular local spot for freshwater swimming and lakeside sunbathing. The public beach area boasts clear waters, scenic views, and a sandy shoreline perfect for families. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are common activities enjoyed in this peaceful lakeside setting.
4. Acadia National Park Sand Beach
OCEANFRONT SCENIC BEACH
Sand Beach in Acadia National Park is a stunning crescent of oceanfront sand surrounded by rocky Maine coastline and pine forests. Visitors can swim in the brisk Atlantic, relax on the sandy shore, or explore nearby coastal trails. The beach is especially famed for its dramatic scenery and photo opportunities.
5. Bar Harbor Shore Path
SEASIDE WALKING TRAIL
The Bar Harbor Shore Path offers picturesque waterfront walking along Frenchman Bay with stunning ocean and island views. This easy trail winds past rocky beaches, historic homes, and tidal pools, providing ideal stops for sunbathing and dipping your feet in the water. It is a popular spot for both sunrise and sunset strolls.
6. Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery and Craig Pond
TRANQUIL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery sits adjacent to Craig Pond, a crystal-clear lake perfect for swimming, canoeing, and fishing. The hatchery grounds offer picnic areas and educational exhibits, while the pond is known for its peaceful swimming holes and natural beauty. It's a favorite destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
7. Peaked Mountain Pond
REMOTE MOUNTAIN SWIMMING
Peaked Mountain Pond is a hidden gem nestled in the hills near Dedham, ideal for a secluded swim or paddle. The small, undeveloped lakeshore provides a tranquil escape surrounded by forests and mountain views. Hikers often combine a swim here with a trip to nearby Peaked Mountain for panoramic vistas.
8. Green Lake Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKESHORE
Green Lake Beach in Ellsworth offers a sandy lakeside area for swimming, sunbathing, and beach games. The large lake features exceptionally clear water, boat rentals, and picnic facilities, making it ideal for families and groups. Lifeguards are on duty during summer, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
9. Hancock Point Beach
TIDAL BAY SWIMMING
Hancock Point Beach provides a peaceful setting along Frenchman Bay for swimming, beachcombing, and taking in scenic ocean views. The gentle tidal waters and pebble beach are beloved for their tranquility and natural surroundings. It is a popular spot to launch kayaks and watch the changing tides.
10. Pushaw Lake Public Beach
EXPANSIVE FRESHWATER BEACH
Pushaw Lake Public Beach is a popular freshwater destination near Orono with sandy shoreline and roped-off swimming areas. The spacious beach attracts swimmers, kayakers, and picnickers, with nearby amenities including restrooms and boat access. The lake's warm summer waters make it a go-to waterfront escape for the region.