Medford MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Medford, Maine.
1. Sebec Lake
EXPANSIVE PRISTINE LAKESIDE
Sebec Lake offers a stunning freshwater escape with over 10 miles of clear water, sandy beaches, and secluded coves. This recreational hotspot is popular for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can also enjoy picnic areas and public boat launches for a full day of lakeside relaxation and adventure.
2. Nickerson Lake
QUIET SWIMMING HOLE
Nickerson Lake is well-known among locals for its peaceful beaches and crystal-clear swimming spots, surrounded by forested shoreline. The lake features a small public beach, perfect for families seeking an uncrowded place to swim, sunbathe, or launch a canoe. Its gentle, shallow waters make it ideal for young children and relaxing summer afternoons.
3. Piscataquis River
RIVERFRONT PICNIC RETREAT
The Piscataquis River runs through Dover-Foxcroft and provides a tranquil spot for swimming, fishing, and riverside picnics. Several public access points and small sandy stretches invite visitors to wade in the cool, clean water. It's a favorite destination for those looking to escape summer crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of inland Maine.
4. Lake Wassookeag
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKE PARK
Lake Wassookeag is a picturesque lake with a public beach area, boat launch, and recreational facilities ideal for families. The gently sloping sandy shore offers safe swimming and pleasant sunbathing, with nearby trails and playgrounds adding to its appeal. The lake is also popular for kayaking, canoeing, and summer picnics.
5. Higgins Beach
SEASIDE SURF AND SAND
Higgins Beach in Scarborough is renowned for its wide sandy shores, gentle surf, and vibrant local beach scene. It's a beloved destination for swimmers, surfers, and beachcombers alike, thanks to scenic coastal views and convenient nearby amenities. Early mornings often bring sand dollars and peaceful walks along the water's edge.
6. Old Orchard Beach
CLASSIC OCEANFRONT BOARDWALK
Old Orchard Beach boasts a lively seven-mile stretch of sandy beach, with a historic pier, amusement park, and plenty of waterfront attractions. Visitors can swim in the Atlantic, explore shops and restaurants, or enjoy the vibrant summer atmosphere. It's a quintessential Maine destination for beachgoers, families, and fun-seekers alike.
7. Schoodic Lake
REMOTE WILDERNESS WATERFRONT
Schoodic Lake features deep, clean water and scenic rocky shores, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing within a forested wilderness setting. Public access points offer swimming holes and launch areas, while the peaceful setting provides an idyllic retreat. Wildlife watching and quiet paddling are highlights for nature lovers.
8. Moosehead Lake
MAINE'S LARGEST LAKE GEM
Moosehead Lake is Maine's largest lake, famous for its breathtaking vistas, sandy and rocky beaches, and endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Swimming, paddleboarding, and boating are popular, while local towns offer dining and lodging nearby. Its vast expanse makes it a must-see for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
9. Popham Beach State Park
SPECTACULAR SANDY PENINSULA
Popham Beach State Park features a wide, sandy shoreline stretching for miles and is considered one of Maine's most scenic oceanfront beaches. The park is ideal for swimming, surfing, and picnicking, with dramatic tidal changes revealing sandbars and tidal pools for exploration. Its natural beauty and amenities attract visitors from across the region.
10. Reid State Park
PRISTINE TIDAL LAGOON BEACH
Reid State Park is celebrated for its long sandy beach, tidal lagoons, and gentle surf that draw swimmers, sunbathers, and birdwatchers alike. The park provides lifeguarded swimming areas, picnic spots, and nature trails through dunes and salt marshes. Its wild coastal beauty is perfect for a classic Maine beach getaway.