Jackson MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Jackson, Maine.
1. Jackson Beach
RIVERSIDE TRANQUIL RETREAT
Jackson Beach is a small, quiet riverside beach situated along the Penobscot River, offering scenic sandy shores and calm waters. It provides visitors with a peaceful escape suitable for swimming, picnics, and relaxation away from busy crowds. This spot is ideal for families and those looking to enjoy a natural haven close to the city.
2. Jasper Beach
UNIQUE PEBBLE SHORELINE
Jasper Beach is renowned for its striking oceanfront views and distinctive smooth pebbles rather than sand, creating a beautiful and unusual landscape. Visitors can relax by the semi-circular shoreline, where reddish bluffs rise on either side and seagulls are a common sight. The remote setting offers a picturesque and tranquil beach experience on Maine's coast.
3. Pemaquid Point
SCENIC COASTAL HEADLAND
Pemaquid Point is famous for its rugged granite shoreline meeting the sea and its historic white lighthouse, attracting about 100,000 visitors annually. The site features a museum, an art gallery, and spectacular tidal pools, offering breathtaking scenery perfect for photography and exploration. Visitors enjoy climbing on the rocks and soaking in panoramic Atlantic vistas from this iconic coastal landmark.
4. Popham Beach
EXPANSIVE SAND BEACH
Popham Beach is a beloved state park at the tip of the Phippsburg peninsula, known for its long sandy shoreline and dramatic Atlantic surf. The park offers amenities like picnic tables, bathhouses, and lifeguard services, making it a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and shell collecting. Historic Fort Popham is located nearby, enriching the area with cultural significance.
5. Lake St. George State Park
CRYSTAL CLEAR LAKESIDE
Lake St. George State Park offers a pristine lakeside beach with clear waters ideal for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park features picnic areas, campsites, and a swimming area with lifeguards in season, making it perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Its peaceful natural setting is surrounded by forested hills, providing a quintessential Maine summer experience.
6. Swan Lake State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKESIDE
Swan Lake State Park boasts a spacious freshwater beach and grassy picnic areas along the wooded shoreline of Swan Lake. Visitors can swim, paddle, or enjoy fishing from the shore, while playgrounds and barbecue areas cater to group and family outings. The tranquil lake atmosphere is popular for day trips from nearby towns and cities.
7. Sandy Point Beach
PENOBSCOT BAY SHORE
Sandy Point Beach features a long stretch of sandy shoreline bordering Penobscot Bay, with views of passing boats and rocky outcrops. Tidal pools and gentle waves invite swimming and beachcombing, while adjacent trails and picnic areas offer additional outdoor recreation. The beach's accessible location makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
8. Moose Point State Park
TIDAL ROCKY BEACH
Moose Point State Park combines an oceanfront picnic area with tidal pools and rocky beaches perfect for exploration at low tide. The park's wooded trails provide stunning coastal views, and its open, grassy spaces are ideal for gatherings and relaxation. This scenic retreat is particularly popular for its breathtaking sunsets and wildlife sightings.
9. Craig's Pond
HIDDEN SWIMMING HOLE
Craig's Pond is a secluded freshwater swimming spot surrounded by dense forests, famous for its exceptionally clear, deep blue water. The area is ideal for swimming, kayaking, and trout fishing, with public access points that keep it a cherished local secret. Its tranquil setting offers a peaceful alternative to busier lakefront beaches.
10. Belfast City Park Beach
HARBORFRONT URBAN BEACH
Belfast City Park Beach sits along the Passagassawakeag River, just before it meets Penobscot Bay, offering sandy swimming areas and gentle currents. The park includes a pool, playground, and walking trails, making it a family-friendly destination in the heart of Belfast. Its urban location provides easy access to restaurants and waterfront attractions in downtown Belfast.