North Haven MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near North Haven, Maine.
1. Big Beach at Mullen Head Park
ISLAND SAND BEACH RETREAT
Big Beach at Mullen Head Park offers a scenic stretch of sand on the eastern side of North Haven Island, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil oceanfront setting, accessible by bike and perfect for a quiet waterfront escape. The park's location provides striking views of the surrounding Penobscot Bay, making it a favorite spot for both locals and travelers.
2. Calderwood Island
MEADOWS AND COASTAL VIEWS
Calderwood Island is a 75-acre haven featuring open meadows, quiet beaches, and sweeping panoramas of Penobscot Bay. The island's inviting waterfront offers excellent opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and shoreline exploration. Its preserved natural beauty and serene environment make it an ideal destination for a peaceful coastal escape.
3. Burnt Island
TIDE-ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURE
Burnt Island, accessible by foot at low tide, offers a unique opportunity to circle an entire island via a scenic trail. The shoreline features picturesque beaches perfect for quiet relaxation, wildlife spotting, and picnics. Surrounded by calm waters, it's a favorite waterfront retreat for those seeking solitude and nature.
4. Penobscot Bay
SWEEPING OCEANFRONT SCENERY
Penobscot Bay surrounds North Haven with stunning ocean vistas, dotted with islands and tranquil coves ideal for waterfront recreation. Visitors enjoy kayaking, swimming, and boating along its rugged coastline and sandy stretches. The bay's clean waters and striking views create a quintessential Maine seaside experience.
5. Goose Rocks Lighthouse
HISTORIC WATERFRONT LANDMARK
Goose Rocks Lighthouse sits in the waters near North Haven and stands as a picturesque symbol of the area's maritime history. While not a swimming destination, it offers iconic waterfront views, accessible by boat tours or kayak excursions. The lighthouse's dramatic setting makes it a popular spot for photos and boaters exploring local beaches and islands.
6. Ames Knob
SCENIC BAY OVERLOOK
Ames Knob offers a short hike to North Haven's highest point with panoramic vistas of Penobscot Bay and the Camden Hills. While not a traditional swimming spot, the summit reveals expansive waterfront landscapes and is a wonderful location for picnicking or relaxing after beach visits. It's a favorite for those wanting to combine hiking with coastal scenery.
7. Sand Beach at Deer Isle
CLASSIC ISLAND BEACH
Sand Beach on Deer Isle features gentle surf, soft sand, and accessible swimming in a family-friendly setting. Visitors can take in views of Maine's rocky shoreline while enjoying the sheltered cove, perfect for sunbathing or relaxing by the water. Its proximity to tidal pools and nature trails enhances the classic beach-day experience.
8. Lincolnville Beach
BAYSIDE SWIMMING AREA
Lincolnville Beach is a small yet charming sandy strip on Penobscot Bay's western shore, popular for swimming, picnicking, and people-watching. The shallow waters and oceanfront park make it ideal for families and casual beachgoers. With nearby restaurants and a lively ferry landing, it's a vibrant spot to soak up coastal Maine ambiance.
9. Birch Point State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SANDY COVE
Birch Point State Park features a sweeping crescent-shaped sandy beach known as Lucia Beach, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Its sheltered waters and scenic rocky headlands draw families and visitors seeking a classic Maine swimming hole. The park's picnic areas and hiking trails complement the inviting shoreline.
10. Laite Memorial Beach
HARBORFRONT SWIMMING SPOT
Laite Memorial Beach in Camden is a compact, harborside beach offering saltwater swimming and panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. The grassy park surrounding the beach is ideal for picnics and family outings. Its close proximity to downtown Camden provides easy access to local shops and restaurants after a refreshing swim.