Cape Elizabeth MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
1. Crescent Beach State Park
CLASSIC MAINE OCEAN BEACH
Crescent Beach State Park features a mile-long, crescent-shaped sandy beach ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities. The park offers gentle surf, grassy dunes, and picnic areas, all set against the backdrop of Maine's picturesque coastline. Visitors can also enjoy walking trails, nature watching, and panoramic views of fishing boats and offshore islands.
2. Kettle Cove State Park
COASTAL COVE RETREAT
Kettle Cove State Park provides a scenic coastal setting with a smaller sandy beach and beautiful tidal cove for swimming, paddling, and exploring. A picturesque walking trail circles the cove, offering excellent views of the Atlantic and opportunities for birdwatching. The cove's sheltered waters are especially popular for families and kayakers.
3. Two Lights State Park
DRAMATIC ROCKY HEADLANDS
Two Lights State Park is renowned for its rugged rocky shoreline and panoramic ocean vistas rather than a sandy beach, but visitors can enjoy the rolling surf, picnic spots, and sweeping views. The park sits atop 41 acres and is a favorite place to watch waves crash against the rocks and spot ships at sea. Adjacent to the historic Two Lights lighthouse, it is also a great place for coastal walks and photography.
4. Fort Williams Park
ICONIC WATERFRONT PARK
Fort Williams Park is best known as the home of Portland Head Light, offering dramatic rocky shores, small sandy areas, and stunning ocean views. While not a traditional swimming beach, the park's accessible coastline is perfect for picnicking, tide pooling, and seaside walks. The park also features historic ruins and open fields overlooking Casco Bay.
5. Scarborough Beach State Park
EXPANSIVE SURF BEACH
Scarborough Beach State Park boasts a long, sandy oceanfront acclaimed for its surf and warmer summer water temperatures. This popular beach offers ample space for swimming, body surfing, and sunbathing, along with lifeguards and facilities in season. Its natural dunes and scenic beauty attract both families and outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Willard Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY HARBOR BEACH
Willard Beach is a small, sandy stretch nestled in a protected harbor, offering gentle waves and beautiful views of Casco Bay and nearby islands. The beach is popular with locals for swimming, picnicking, and launching kayaks, and features a playground and seasonal snack bar. Its sheltered setting makes it ideal for families and those seeking calmer waters.
7. Higgins Beach
SURFING AND SANDY SHORES
Higgins Beach is celebrated for its broad, sandy expanse, excellent surf, and laid-back atmosphere. The beach draws both surfers and swimmers, and low tide reveals the remains of a historic shipwreck embedded in the sand. Its picturesque surroundings and classic New England charm make it a favorite spot for beachgoers.
8. Ferry Beach
CALM TIDAL WATERS
Ferry Beach is a tranquil sandy beach situated along the Scarborough River, providing gentle waters ideal for swimming and wading. The beach is conveniently located near a boat launch, making it popular with paddlers and families seeking quieter conditions. Nearby walking trails and marsh views enhance its appeal as a peaceful escape.
9. East End Beach
URBAN WATERFRONT ACCESS
East End Beach sits on the edge of Portland's Eastern Promenade, offering sandy shores and designated swimming areas with city skyline and harbor views. The beach is a popular spot for launching kayaks, walking dogs, or enjoying a swim in Casco Bay. Its proximity to Portland's vibrant downtown makes it an accessible urban oasis.
10. Sebago Lake State Park
LAKESIDE SANDY BEACHES
Sebago Lake State Park features extensive sandy beaches on Maine's second-largest lake and is renowned for its clear, fresh water and recreational opportunities. The park offers supervised swimming areas, boat rentals, campgrounds, and hiking trails, making it an all-ages destination. Its natural beauty and spacious setting create the perfect lakeside escape from the coast.