Oakland MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Oakland, Maine.
1. Oakland Waterfront Park
LAKESIDE FAMILY RECREATION
Oakland Waterfront Park is an easily accessible recreational space located on the northern end of Messalonskee Lake. The park features a boat launch, swim area, picnic tables, and grills, as well as a beautiful 32-square-foot gazebo. During summer months, visitors can enjoy the wildly popular Summer Concert Series hosted on Thursday nights throughout the season.
2. Pleasant Point Park
MULTI-ACTIVITY WATERFRONT PARADISE
Pleasant Point Park is the centerpiece of Oakland's recreational properties, offering a beautiful beach area on the northern tip of McGrath Pond. This 30-acre park boasts walking trails, a swim area, and a canoe/kayak launch alongside athletic fields that host various sporting events. Visitors can enjoy this truly special place that offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities year-round.
3. Messalonskee Stream Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE HIKING
The Messalonskee Stream Trail is a 2.7-mile path built in 2007 that features two trailheads and runs alongside the scenic riverbank. Hikers can explore the ruins of the 1882 Cascade Woolen Mill, representing a significant part of Oakland's manufacturing history. Dedicated hikers can join the '100 Mile Hike Club' and receive a free t-shirt by tracking their miles with the Recreation Department.
4. Oakland Town Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKE SWIMMING
Oakland Town Beach is a nice little park located on Messalonskee Lake in the Belgrade Lakes region, featuring a swimming area, picnic tables, and a small playground. The beach area is narrow and sandy, complemented by a large grass lawn with shade trees for additional relaxation space. Visitors should note that dogs are not allowed in the park and swimmers should remain within the designated roped areas due to a downstream dam.
5. The Oakland House Beaches
PRIVATE OCEAN GETAWAY
The Oakland House features two private ocean beaches with lovely views of the Deer Isle Bridge and Pumpkin Island. Visitors can take a bracing dip in the waters of Penobscot Bay or launch kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore the scenic coastline. The property serves as a perfect starting point for embracing the outdoor lifestyle of mid-coastal Maine.
6. Belgrade Lakes
CHAIN OF PRISTINE WATERS
Belgrade Lakes is a chain of seven interconnected lakes offering multiple swimming and boating opportunities near Oakland. Visitors can enjoy crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and abundant fishing opportunities throughout the region. The area is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities that attract tourists throughout the warmer months.
7. Popham Beach State Park
MILES OF SANDY SHORELINE
Popham Beach State Park is one of Maine's most popular oceanfront destinations featuring a long stretch of sandy beach at the mouth of the Kennebec River. The park offers spectacular views of offshore islands, including Fox Island which can be reached on foot at low tide. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, fish, and explore the historic Fort Popham nearby.
8. Reid State Park
DRAMATIC OCEAN LANDSCAPES
Reid State Park features magnificent sand beaches and dunes, rocky headlands, and tidal pools along the Atlantic coastline. The park is home to Mile and Half Mile beaches, some of Maine's most pristine and scenic sandy beaches. Visitors can swim in the lagoon, explore walking trails, or climb Griffith Head for panoramic views of the coastline and islands.
9. Lake St. George State Park
YEAR-ROUND LAKE RECREATION
Lake St. George State Park offers a picturesque freshwater beach and swimming area on the northeastern shore of the lake. The park provides various recreational opportunities including fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming during summer months. Winter visitors can enjoy ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, making this a truly year-round destination.
10. Damariscotta Lake State Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY LAKE DESTINATION
Damariscotta Lake State Park features a sandy beach on the shores of one of the most popular lakes in the region. The park provides picnic tables, grills, changing rooms, and toilet facilities for day visitors enjoying the swimming area. With its clean, clear waters and scenic surroundings, this park is a favorite summer destination for families seeking lakeside recreation.