Cushing MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Cushing, Maine.
1. Langlais Sculpture Preserve
OUTDOOR ART IN NATURE
The Langlais Sculpture Preserve features large-scale outdoor wooden sculptures nestled along a short walk in the beautiful Cushing landscape, as the artist Bernard Langlais intended. This 10-acre art environment, which was once Langlais' home, is now protected by Georges River Land Trust and offers more than a dozen works to see. The preserve offers a perfect combination of art appreciation and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination on a beautiful summer day.
2. Popham Beach State Park
SANDY ATLANTIC SHORELINE
Popham Beach State Park offers one of Maine's most spectacular stretches of sandy Atlantic shoreline, located just a short drive from Cushing. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the beach with views of offshore islands. The park features changing tides that create a dynamic beach environment, sometimes revealing a temporary land bridge to nearby Fox Island.
3. Reid State Park
PRISTINE COASTAL BEACHES
Reid State Park features Maine's first State-owned saltwater beach with sweeping views of the Atlantic and nearby islands. The park offers Mile and Half Mile beaches, warm saltwater lagoons, and rocky tidepools for exploration. Nature enthusiasts can also enjoy walking trails through maritime forests and observing diverse coastal wildlife.
4. Pemaquid Beach Park
WHITE SAND CRESCENT
Pemaquid Beach Park features a crescent of white sand perfect for swimming and sunbathing in the relatively sheltered waters of Muscongus Bay. The family-friendly beach offers amenities including a snack bar, restrooms, and a freshwater shower. Nearby attractions include the historic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, making this a well-rounded destination for a day trip from Cushing.
5. Friendship Harbor
AUTHENTIC LOBSTERING VILLAGE
Friendship Harbor is a picturesque working waterfront located in the predominantly fishing village of Friendship, just west of Cushing. Visitors can watch lobster boats coming and going, explore the birthplace of the distinctive Friendship Sloop, and enjoy the authentic coastal Maine atmosphere. The harbor provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, photography, and experiencing Maine's maritime heritage.
6. Ogunquit Beach
MILES OF SOFT SAND
Ogunquit Beach features 3.5 miles of soft white sand and dunes, making it one of Maine's premier beach destinations within driving distance from Cushing. The beach is known for its relatively warm swimming conditions during summer months and the picturesque Marginal Way footpath along nearby cliffs. Visitors can enjoy tidal pools at low tide and various water activities during high tide.
7. Sand Beach at Acadia
STUNNING NATIONAL PARK BEACH
Sand Beach at Acadia National Park offers a rare sandy beach nestled between mountains and rocky shores, providing a unique coastal experience about two hours from Cushing. The beach is staffed with lifeguards during summer months, though swimmers should be prepared for the chilly Atlantic waters rarely exceeding 55°F. Visitors can combine beach time with exploring the park's hiking trails, including the scenic Ocean Path that begins at the beach.
8. Echo Lake Beach
FRESHWATER MOUNTAIN SWIMMING
Echo Lake Beach offers a freshwater swimming alternative within Acadia National Park, featuring warmer waters than the nearby Atlantic beaches. The lake is nestled between mountains with a small sandy beach area and is staffed with lifeguards during the summer season. After swimming, visitors can explore hiking trails around the lake or enjoy picnicking in this scenic mountain setting.
9. Thomas Point Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY COASTAL RETREAT
Thomas Point Beach provides a family-friendly waterfront experience on the shores of Casco Bay, within an hour's drive of Cushing. The beach offers sandy shores, picnic areas, and swimming in the protected waters of Thomas Bay. Beyond swimming, visitors can enjoy nature trails, special events, and the annual Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival that has been running for over four decades.
10. Long Sands Beach
EXPANSIVE OCEAN PLAYGROUND
Long Sands Beach stretches for over a mile along Route 1A in York, offering panoramic ocean views and ample space for sunbathing and swimming. The beach features amenities including bathhouses, food vendors, and lifeguards during the summer season. Visitors can enjoy the iconic view of Cape Neddick Lighthouse (Nubble Light) from the beach's northern end.