Northport MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Northport, Maine.
1. Ruggles Park Beach
VILLAGE WATERFRONT & SWIMMING
Ruggles Park Beach is the vibrant centerpiece of Bayside Village in Northport and offers a lively waterfront escape with a swimming-friendly beach, town pier, and scenic views of Penobscot Bay. Visitors can swim off the pier at high tide, lounge on the sandy shore, or enjoy the safety of a lifeguard during summer months. The park also features a playground, picnic space, and proximity to the Northport Yacht Club.
2. Saturday Cove
QUIET HARBOR BEACH ACCESS
Saturday Cove in Northport offers a peaceful and uncrowded waterfront area perfect for launching kayaks, beachcombing, and relaxing by the shoreline. The cove is known for its tranquil harbor atmosphere and provides direct access to Penobscot Bay's tidal waters. With picturesque scenery and gentle waves, it is an inviting spot for a quiet swim or an afternoon picnic.
3. Bayside Village Waterfront
HISTORIC COASTAL VILLAGE
The Bayside Village Waterfront in Northport is a charming enclave where visitors can enjoy sandy stretches, a classic village pier, and safe swimming opportunities in the Atlantic. The area blends historic cottages with beautiful bay views, making it an ideal place for sunbathing, boating, and swimming. The village ambiance and easy water access create a quintessential Maine coastal experience.
4. Lincolnville Beach
POPULAR SANDY BAYFRONT
Lincolnville Beach, just south of Northport, is a broad sandy public beach along Route 1 with sweeping views of Islesboro and Penobscot Bay. The beach is family-friendly with shallow swimming, easy ferry access, and nearby seafood restaurants. Its gentle tides and bustling atmosphere make it a favored summer destination for both locals and travelers.
5. Belfast City Park Beach
RIVERSIDE SWIMMING & RECREATION
Belfast City Park Beach sits along the Passagassawakeag River and features a sandy swimming area, scenic walking paths, and ample green space. The park provides supervised swimming during the summer, a playground, picnic areas, and sweeping water views. Its location near downtown Belfast makes it a convenient and well-loved spot for families seeking a riverside beach day.
6. Knight's Pond Preserve
WOODED LAKESIDE SWIMMING HOLE
Knight's Pond Preserve is a hidden gem offering a freshwater swimming hole nestled within scenic woodlands in Northport. The pond features calm waters ideal for swimming, canoeing, and peaceful relaxation in a natural setting. Trails surround the preserve, making it a great spot for combining hiking with a refreshing lakeside dip.
7. Ducktrap Beach
TIDAL RIVER BEACH
Ducktrap Beach is a secluded, picturesque spot where the Ducktrap River meets Penobscot Bay, offering both freshwater and saltwater swimming experiences. This beach is known for its natural beauty, tidal pools, and gentle river currents, making it a favorite for families and nature enthusiasts. The area is perfect for wading, exploring, and enjoying a quiet escape from larger crowds.
8. Pitcher Pond
FRESHWATER LAKESIDE GETAWAY
Pitcher Pond, straddling the border of Lincolnville and Northport, is a serene freshwater lake popular for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Surrounded by forested hills, the pond offers clean, clear waters and peaceful surroundings. It is a beloved summer retreat for those seeking a private and refreshing lakeside escape.
9. Birch Point State Park
PENOBSCOT BAY BEACH PARK
Birch Point State Park, located a short drive from Northport, features a crescent-shaped sandy beach along the sheltered waters of Penobscot Bay. The park is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and exploring tide pools, with stunning views of offshore islands. Its natural setting and uncrowded atmosphere appeal to those looking for a classic Maine beach experience.
10. Swan Lake State Park
LARGE INLAND SWIMMING BEACH
Swan Lake State Park boasts a spacious sandy freshwater beach on the eastern shore of Swan Lake, providing excellent swimming, picnicking, and boating amenities. The park's clean, gradual lake entry is perfect for families, and its tranquil setting is surrounded by forested hills. Visitors will find ample facilities and a peaceful escape just a short drive from Northport.