Waterboro MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Waterboro, Maine.
1. Lake Arrowhead
TRANQUIL WATER RECREATION
Lake Arrowhead offers plenty of room for paddling, boating, and water recreation in a tranquil corner of southwestern Maine. The lake features many beaches great for picnics and swimming with family and friends. Fishing enthusiasts can catch brook trout, lake trout, perch, and bass in these pristine waters.
2. Little Ossipee Lake
CLEAN WATERS AND RECREATION
Little Ossipee Lake anchors Waterboro's center and is known as one of Maine's cleanest lakes. Covering 557 acres with a perimeter of 12.7 miles, it offers a public boat launch with no boating restrictions. Visitors can enjoy boating, swimming, fishing, water skiing, wakeboarding, paddle boarding, kayaking, and in winter, ice fishing and snowmobile trail access.
3. Bunganut Lake Camping Area
WATERFRONT FAMILY CAMPING
Bunganut Lake Camping Area in Alfred provides lakeside camping with easy access to water recreation. The campground offers a perfect base for exploring the waterfront and enjoying activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. Visitors appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere and natural beauty of this lakeside retreat.
4. Ossipee Mountain Summit
PANORAMIC HIKING VIEWS
Ossipee Mountain stands as the highest point in the area at 1,058 feet, offering spectacular views from its summit fire tower. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding lakes and landscape after a moderate climb. The mountain provides a perfect complement to the region's water activities with its land-based adventure opportunities.
5. Waterboro Barrens Preserve
UNIQUE NATURAL LANDSCAPE
Waterboro Barrens Preserve features a network of hiking trails through a strange and distinct landscape unlike anywhere else in the region. Nature enthusiasts can spot rare butterflies and moths commonly found in this unique ecosystem. The preserve offers a fascinating terrestrial counterpoint to the area's abundant water features.
6. Mackworth Island
COASTAL WALKING TRAIL
Mackworth Island offers stunning views of Casco Bay with a scenic walking path around the perimeter. Visitors can enjoy coastal vistas, beach access points, and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The island's proximity to Portland makes it an accessible escape that feels worlds away from urban life.
7. XOTA Brewing Company
LAKESIDE CRAFT BEER
XOTA Brewing Company crafts local beers in a setting that complements Waterboro's waterfront charm. Visitors can enjoy locally-made brews while taking in the relaxed atmosphere of this lake region establishment. The brewery serves as a perfect post-lake activity for adults exploring the Waterboro and Lake Arrowhead area.
8. Five Ponds Public House
LAKESIDE LOCAL DINING
Five Ponds Public House offers draft beers and fresh local foods near the waterfront areas of Waterboro. Diners can enjoy quality meals after a day of lake activities in a comfortable, welcoming environment. The restaurant specializes in locally-sourced ingredients that showcase the flavors of Maine.
9. Old Orchard Beach
CLASSIC MAINE SHORELINE
Old Orchard Beach features seven miles of sandy shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean just a short drive from Waterboro. The iconic pier extends into the ocean, offering dining, shopping, and entertainment options for beachgoers. This classic Maine beach destination combines natural beauty with amusement park attractions, making it perfect for families seeking oceanfront fun.
10. Ferry Beach State Park
SEASIDE FOREST RETREAT
Ferry Beach State Park combines a sandy beach with rare tupelo trees and a picturesque coastal ecosystem near Waterboro. Visitors can explore nature trails through maritime forests before reaching the Atlantic shoreline for swimming and sunbathing. The park offers picnic areas, changing facilities, and a perfect balance of forest and ocean experiences for day-trippers.