When you think about visiting a beach, your first thoughts are probably about the sun and sand and splashing in the waves. So, why would we mention beaches in Maine when fall and winter are upon us? Because beaches can be a joy to visit during the cooler months.
- Beaches are less crowded during the fall and winter. Imagine experiencing the true essence of a beach without hundreds of people around.
- You may spot wildlife that hasn’t been scared away by crowds of people.
- You can close your eyes and be enveloped in the sounds of the crashing waves.
- You may be lucky enough to walk along the shore without seeing any other people. It is certainly easier to get fantastic pictures without having to wait for someone to get out of the frame.
- Fewer crowds mean that parking is easier and you do not have to claim a spot on the sand early in the day.
- When you visit a beach in the winter, you are bundled up under warm clothing. That clothing also serves as a form of protection from the sun. It can be wonderful to spend the day at the beach without having to slather sunscreen on your entire body every two hours.
Many beaches in Maine are open year-round and these are a few of our favorites.
Hendricks Head Beach
Hendricks Head is only 15 minutes away in Southport. Even in the summer months, it can provide an intimate beach experience right on the peninsula. Why we love it:
- You can see Hendricks Head Lighthouse from the beach. The lighthouse is on private property and it is not open to the public. The beach is a great way to get photos of the lighthouse without having to pay for a day-cruise.
- The beach is along the Sheepscot River. The waters here are calm and therefore ideal for families and dogs.
- It is super dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed off-leash year-round at this beach. Dogs must be under voice control of their owners at all times but they can feel free to run and play.
- There is a small outcrop called Kitten Island that many people like to climb.
- If you need a break from the beach, the Hendricks Head Hiking Trail is an easy half-mile loop trail.
Popham Beach State Park
Approximately 30-40 minutes away, Popham Beach is a large sandy beach in Phippsburg. It is one of 33 state parks in Maine. Why we love it:
- You can see Fox and Wood Islands off the shore. At low tide you can walk to Fox Island.
- Also visible from shore are Pond Island and Seguin Island lighthouses. The distinct sound of their foghorns breaks through the rhythmic sounds of the rolling surf.
- This is another dog-friendly spot. Leashed dogs are welcome on certain parts of the beach year-round.
- Fishermen are known to catch striped bass and bluefish here.
- A picnic area provides a scenic place for lunch.
- If you need a break from the beach, you can tour Fort Popham. The Civil War-era fort at the mouth of the Kennebec River is open to the public mid-April through the end of October. Visitors may also park outside of the gate and walk in from November through March with the understanding that facilities are closed during the off season.
Reid State Park
This beach is also about 30-40 minute away in Georgetown. The park was donated to the state of Maine by Walter E. Reid in 1946. His intention was that it be preserved forever as a state treasure. Why we love it:
- The park has features that are rare to Maine including two long, wide sand beaches. The park also boasts large sand dunes which are even more rare of a sight in this state than the beaches.
- Those who venture to the top of Griffith Head can see three lighthouses: Seguin Island, the Cuckolds, and Hendrick Head.
- Many islands are visible from the park including Damariscove, Outer Head, and Southport.
- Birding enthusiasts can frequently see endangered birds such as Piping Plovers and Least Terns. The area is also a favorite spot for numerous species of herons and egrets.
- If you need a break from the beach, there are hiking opportunities at Reid State Park. The Little River Trail is an easy 2.8 mile hike with a special feature. Sea shells are found along the forest floor. While it may seem odd to see them so far from the water, they are evidence of the raccoons that eat clams and leave their “litter” in the uplands.
