Lewiston MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Lewiston, Maine.
1. Androscoggin River
SCENIC RIVER ADVENTURES
The Androscoggin River offers a great waterway to drift or paddle a boat or kayak from Lewiston to Lisbon Falls. Visitors can enjoy nice scenery and peaceful surroundings while exploring the river. The river is central to Lewiston's outdoor recreation scene and splits the Twin Cities of Lewiston and Auburn.
2. Auburn Riverwalk
RIVERSIDE URBAN PATH
Auburn Riverwalk is a mile-long paved path stretching from a small park beside Great Falls in Auburn to a pedestrian bridge that crosses the river to Simard-Payne Memorial Park in Lewiston. The path offers excellent views of the Androscoggin River and its Great Falls. It's a popular spot from which to watch local events like the Liberty Festival on July 4th and the Great Falls Balloon Festival in August.
3. Range Pond State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACH ESCAPE
Range Pond State Park welcomes visitors with a wide sandy beach perfect for swimming, picnicking, and playing. The park is easily accessible with a smooth, surfaced promenade that parallels the pond for 1,000 feet immediately next to the beach. Small boats, canoes, kayaks, and windsurf boards are common sights on the water's surface, making it a versatile recreational destination just a short drive from Lewiston-Auburn.
4. Sebago Lake State Park
POPULAR LAKESIDE RECREATION
Sebago Lake State Park, set on the lake's north shore, is one of Maine's first and most popular parks. Its sandy beaches, sheltered wooded areas, picnic areas, and boat launches make it a favorite summer spot to spend a day. In addition to extensive recreational day use, the park's campground is particularly popular with families looking for a longer lakeside getaway.
5. Mt. Blue State Park
MOUNTAIN VIEWS BEACH
Mt. Blue State Park's Webb Beach is a truly family-friendly sand beach with clear cold water and stunning mountain views. The park offers diverse recreational options including hiking, trail riding, biking, and picnicking during warm months. Winter visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating, making it a year-round destination.
6. Simard-Payne Memorial Park
RIVERSIDE FESTIVAL GROUNDS
Simard-Payne Memorial Park is a riverside green space connected to Auburn via the pedestrian bridge from the Riverwalk. The park serves as a venue for major Lewiston events including the Great Falls Balloon Festival and Liberty Festival. Its riverfront location provides scenic views of the Androscoggin River and easy access to water activities.
7. Lake Auburn
FISHING AND BIRDING PARADISE
Lake Auburn offers exceptional fishing opportunities for bass and lake trout in a scenic setting. The lake's surrounding environment makes it a great birding destination year-round for wildlife enthusiasts. Located near the Twin Cities of Lewiston and Auburn, it provides accessible outdoor recreation for locals and visitors alike.
8. Casco Bay
COASTAL SAILING ADVENTURES
Casco Bay provides stunning coastal views and adventures through options like the Portland Tall Ship Cruise. Visitors can explore the bay's islands, lighthouses, and marine wildlife during various boat tours. The bay is within reasonable driving distance from Lewiston, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking ocean experiences.
9. Portland Harbor
URBAN MARITIME EXPERIENCE
Portland Harbor offers scenic water experiences through tours like the Harbor Lights and Sights Cruise. Visitors can enjoy views of the working waterfront, historic buildings, and coastal scenery. The harbor is also a departure point for various maritime adventures including lighthouse tours and whale watching excursions.
10. Great Falls
URBAN WATERFALL WONDER
Great Falls is an impressive waterfall on the Androscoggin River between Lewiston and Auburn. The falls have played a significant historical role in the industrial development of both cities. Viewing areas along the Auburn Riverwalk provide excellent opportunities to appreciate the power and beauty of this natural feature.