Waterville MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Waterville, Maine.
1. Waterville Beach
WIDE OCEANFRONT SANDS
Waterville Beach offers an expansive sandy shoreline that stretches impressively at low tide, making it perfect for long walks, volleyball, and birdwatching. The beach is known for its versatility, with some days bringing surfable waves and others providing calm waters ideal for stand-up paddleboarding. Its gentle slope and soft sand make it particularly family-friendly, and it tends to remain uncrowded even during peak times.
2. Corcoran's Pond
SCENIC MOUNTAIN POND
Corcoran's Pond is a picturesque, mountain stream-fed pond located near Town Square in Waterville Valley, offering kayak, canoe, pedal boat, and paddle board rentals for visitors. The pond features a small swimming beach and is stocked with fish at the start of summer, attracting families and anglers. Its tranquil setting is complemented by mountain views, making it an idyllic spot for waterfront relaxation.
3. Greeley Ponds
REMOTE WILDERNESS PONDS
Greeley Ponds is a pair of pristine, hike-in ponds nestled between Mount Osceola and Mount Kancamagus, serving as the headwaters of the Mad River. The area features a small sandy beach and offers dramatic cliff views, making it ideal for swimming, fishing, and backcountry picnicking. The ponds are stocked with eastern brook trout and can only be accessed via hiking or biking trails.
4. Mad River
RIVERSIDE SWIMMING HOLES
The Mad River runs through Waterville Valley and is known for its clear, rocky pools that provide excellent natural swimming holes and fly fishing opportunities. Rainbow trout can be found in the river, drawing anglers and nature enthusiasts. The river's serene setting and accessible banks make it a favorite escape for families seeking a refreshing dip or riverside picnic.
5. China Lake
EXPANSIVE LAKESIDE RETREAT
China Lake is a large freshwater lake near Waterville, featuring multiple public access points and sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing. Boating, fishing, and water sports are popular here, with scenic vistas and picnic areas lining the shores. The lake's clean water and family-friendly atmosphere make it a summer favorite for locals and visitors alike.
6. Messalonskee Lake (Snow Pond)
PICTURESQUE FRESHWATER LAKE
Messalonskee Lake, locally known as Snow Pond, offers clear waters with public beaches and boat ramps just a short drive from Waterville. Visitors enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing in a tranquil environment surrounded by forested hills. The well-maintained Snow Pond Center for the Arts adds cultural enrichment to the natural beauty of the area.
7. Belgrade Lakes
CHAIN OF RECREATION LAKES
The Belgrade Lakes comprise a chain of scenic lakes west of Waterville, known for their clear waters, sandy beaches, and vibrant summer communities. Water activities abound, including swimming, boating, paddling, and fishing for a variety of freshwater species. The lakes are surrounded by charming villages, marinas, and nature preserves that make for a complete waterfront getaway.
8. Great Pond
ICONIC MAINE SWIMMING LAKE
Great Pond is the largest of the Belgrade Lakes and is celebrated for its clean, inviting waters and sandy public swimming beaches. It offers ample space for boating, water skiing, and fishing, and its shoreline is bordered by cabins and conservation areas. The lake inspired the classic film 'On Golden Pond' and remains a beloved summer destination.
9. Cobbosseecontee Lake
RECREATIONAL LAKE HUB
Cobbosseecontee Lake, southwest of Waterville, is renowned for its long stretches of swimmable shoreline, sandy beaches, and public parks. The lake is a hotspot for swimming, boating, and bass fishing, with campgrounds and picnic sites available for summer visitors. Iconic for its lighthouse and islands, it's a classic Maine lake experience.
10. Kennebec River
RIVERFRONT RECREATION CORRIDOR
The Kennebec River flows through Waterville, providing scenic river walks, fishing spots, and several informal swimming holes along its banks. Paddling and kayaking are popular summer activities, with tranquil stretches and adjacent parks for shoreline relaxation. The river's connections to local trails and historic sites make it a versatile outdoor destination.