Brooklin MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Brooklin, Maine.
1. Harriman Point
EXPANSIVE OCEANFRONT PRESERVE
Harriman Point offers nearly two miles of shoreline with sweeping views across Blue Hill Bay toward Mount Desert Island. This is the largest continuous stretch of publicly accessible coastline on the Blue Hill Peninsula, perfect for beachcombing, hiking, and birdwatching. Trails lead visitors through scenic terrain, tide pools, and unique rock formations for an immersive coastal experience.
2. Hog Island
HISTORIC ISLAND BEACHES
Hog Island, once owned by author E.B. White, features a mix of pocket beaches and granite ledges on the edge of Eggemoggin Reach. The island is popular for picnicking, camping, and kayaking, offering stunning oceanfront views and protected anchorages for boats. Walking trails and abundant wildlife make this a quintessential Maine waterfront escape.
3. Naskeag Point
BOAT LAUNCH & BEACH
Naskeag Point provides public access to a sand beach and a municipal boat ramp at the tip of the Brooklin peninsula. It serves as the primary launch point for exploring surrounding waters, including trips to Hog Island, and is a favorite for waterfront picnics. Visitors enjoy scenic vistas of Eggemoggin Reach and easy water access for swimming or kayaking.
4. Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park
WILD ISLAND WATERFRONT
Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park is a 1,230-acre preserve with miles of undisturbed shoreline along Penobscot Bay and several secluded beaches. The park offers swimming, beachcombing, and trails through forests and salt marshes teeming with wildlife. Its peaceful coves and scenic waterfronts make it a cherished area for quiet outdoor recreation.
5. Emery Cove Beach
QUIET COVE SWIMMING SPOT
Emery Cove Beach offers a tranquil lakeside setting for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking just outside of Brooklin. The beach is surrounded by natural beauty, providing a peaceful escape for families and individuals alike. Shallow, calm waters make it ideal for a refreshing dip during the summer months.
6. Blue Hill Falls
TIDAL SWIMMING HOLE
Blue Hill Falls is known for its dramatic tidal current, forming a unique natural swimming hole where the reversing falls create swift-moving water. Adventurous swimmers and kayakers flock here for the thrill, while others appreciate the scenic riverside environment. It's a dynamic waterfront spot that highlights Maine's striking tidal landscapes.
7. Sandy Point Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RIVER BEACH
Sandy Point Beach sits along the Penobscot River, offering sandy shoreline and gentle water access, ideal for swimming and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by trails and a historic pier, making it a popular spot for both recreation and relaxation. Visitors enjoy panoramic views and opportunities to explore tidal habitats.
8. Acadia National Park – Sand Beach
ICONIC OCEANFRONT SWIMMING
Sand Beach, located within Acadia National Park, is a picturesque crescent of white sand sheltered by rocky cliffs and pine forests. It's one of the few ocean beaches in Maine suitable for swimming, with crisp, clear Atlantic waters. The beach also serves as a starting point for scenic hikes along the Great Head Trail.
9. Hulls Cove Beach
TIDAL COVE NEAR PARK
Hulls Cove Beach features a small, pebbly shoreline with gentle tidal pools near the entrance to Acadia National Park. This spot is perfect for families seeking a quiet waterfront venue for wading and exploring marine life. Its proximity to Bar Harbor and the park makes it a convenient stop for beachgoers.
10. Echo Lake Beach
FRESHWATER LAKESIDE SWIMMING
Echo Lake Beach, located inside Acadia National Park, offers one of Mount Desert Island's most popular freshwater swimming spots. With a sandy shore, clear waters, and lifeguards during summer, it's a family favorite for swimming and picnicking. The surrounding mountains add breathtaking scenery to this peaceful lakeside retreat.