Camden MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Camden, Maine.
1. Barrett's Cove Public Beach
LAKESIDE PICNIC & SWIMMING
Barrett's Cove Public Beach offers a tranquil lakeside escape on Megunticook Lake, just outside Camden. This family-friendly freshwater beach features designated swimming areas, picnic tables, barbecues, and a swim float, making it ideal for both relaxing and recreation. Visitors also enjoy views of Camden Hills State Park while swimming or lounging on the open lawn.
2. Laite Memorial Beach
HARBORFRONT CITY BEACH
Laite Memorial Beach is a charming saltwater beach perched along Camden Harbor with beautiful views of Penobscot Bay. Families can enjoy picnicking on the grassy hillside, a pebble shoreline for swimming and wading, and playground facilities for children. The beach's central location makes it easily accessible from downtown Camden and perfect for a quick waterfront escape.
3. Shirt Tail Point
RIVERSIDE SWIMMING HOLE
Shirt Tail Point is a favorite spot for a quick freshwater dip within Camden, located on the shore of Megunticook Lake. The area features a shallow swimming zone, a small grassy picnic area, and easy access for launching canoes or kayaks. Its peaceful setting attracts both swimmers and paddlers looking for a quiet waterside retreat.
4. Lincolnville Beach
OCEANFRONT SMALL TOWN BEACH
Lincolnville Beach is a sandy saltwater beach located right on Route 1, overlooking beautiful Penobscot Bay and the distant Islesboro Island. Visitors can swim in the ocean, watch the ferry to Islesboro, or enjoy local seafood from nearby eateries. Its convenient location, gentle waves, and charming small-town vibe make it a favorite stop along the Maine coast.
5. Birch Point Beach State Park
PENOBSCOT BAY ESCAPE
Birch Point Beach State Park features a sandy crescent beach on scenic Penobscot Bay, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing. The quiet park offers opportunities for saltwater swimming and breathtaking views of the bay's rugged shoreline. Its relaxed ambiance and natural beauty draw both locals and visitors for a day by the sea.
6. Megunticook Lake
SCENIC FRESHWATER LAKE
Megunticook Lake is one of Camden's most popular natural attractions, offering several public access points for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. The lake's deep, clear waters are surrounded by forested mountains, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy both sunny beaches and shaded picnic areas around the lake's edge.
7. Camden Harbor Park
HARBORFRONT RECREATION AREA
Camden Harbor Park stretches along the town's bustling waterfront, offering green space and easy access to the harbor's edge. While not a typical swimming beach, visitors can enjoy scenic water views, picnic spots, and opportunities to watch boats coming and going from the picturesque harbor. The park's paths and seating areas make it a peaceful place to soak in the coastal atmosphere.
8. Ducktrap Beach
RIVERSIDE AND OCEAN BEACH
Ducktrap Beach sits at the mouth of the Ducktrap River where it meets Penobscot Bay, creating a unique blend of river and ocean environments. Visitors enjoy sandy stretches, gentle surf, and opportunities for swimming or exploring tidal pools. Its quieter setting makes it popular for families and those looking for a less crowded beach day.
9. Walker Park
LOCAL RIVERFRONT RETREAT
Walker Park in Rockport offers riverfront access with grassy picnic areas and a small pebble beach ideal for wading and relaxing by the water. Families appreciate the playground, shaded areas, and serene atmosphere away from the busier town beaches. It's a great spot for enjoying a picnic and taking in views of the Goose River.
10. Rockport Harbor Beach
SCENIC HARBOR BEACH
Rockport Harbor Beach is a small, intimate beach tucked into Rockport's charming inner harbor. Its gentle waters are suitable for swimming and paddleboarding, and visitors enjoy picnicking with a backdrop of sailboats and historic buildings. The beach's convenient location in the heart of Rockport village makes it easily accessible for a spontaneous swim or waterfront stroll.