Sanford MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Sanford, Maine.
1. Gateway Park
SCENIC RIVERSIDE VIEWS
Gateway Park is located at the intersection of Riverside Avenue and Washington Street, overlooking one of the many dams along the Mousam River. The park offers some of the most undersold scenic views in Sanford Maine, perfect for capturing photos during sunrise, winter snow, or colorful nighttime displays. Visitors can cherish these photo opportunities for years to come while enjoying the riverside atmosphere.
2. Number One Pond
WATER SKI SHOW DESTINATION
Number One Pond is a wider point on the Mousam River that offers 360-degree views of Sanford with great nature mixed in with historic homes. The pond is famous across the state for hosting the Maine Attraction Water Ski Show Team, which performs circus-like routines on water with pyramids, synchronized routines, gymnastics, and jumps. Free performances are held every Thursday night in July, complete with pre-show entertainment and food options.
3. Indian's Last Leap
POPULAR SWIMMING HOLE
Indian's Last Leap is a place of Springvale folklore and a popular swimming hole located along the Mousam Way North trail. Visitors can access this natural swimming spot by hiking the 3.9-mile trail that circles from the northern edge of Number One Pond through scenic and rugged terrain. The swimming hole provides a refreshing escape during warm weather while being surrounded by Maine's natural beauty.
4. 278 Main Street Beach
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SWIMMING SPOT
The 278 Main Street Beach in Springvale is a great spot for family swimming in fresh, clear water. This community favorite offers a sandy beach, playground, and picnic pavilions for visitors to enjoy. It also provides convenient access to the Mousam Way Trail for those looking to combine swimming with hiking.
5. Ferry Beach
CALM WATERS SANDY BEACH
Ferry Beach on State Route 208 features a two-mile stretch of sand with generally calm waters and easy access for swimmers. The beach offers plenty of space, even during high tide, for visitors to play games or relax by the ocean. Its calm waters make it particularly appealing for families with children or those who prefer gentler swimming conditions.
6. Bayview Beach
MORE THAN JUST SAND
Bayview Beach at 95 Bayview Road in Saco is much more than a simple beach destination. The state park features a sandy beach, inland hiking trails, and a nature center for visitors to explore and enjoy. Beach space may be limited during high tide, so visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly for the best experience.
7. Camp Ellis Beach
RIVER MEETS OCEAN
Camp Ellis Beach on North Avenue in Saco is located at the mouth of the Saco River and is considered a well-kept secret despite being close to amenities. This small, sandy beach features a rock jetty and a fishing pier for visitors to enjoy. It offers a unique experience where the river meets the ocean, providing diverse water activities and scenic views.
8. Fortunes Rocks Beach
WAVES FOR WATER SPORTS
Fortunes Rocks Beach on Fortunes Rock Road in Biddeford is a two-mile stretch of sandy beach that offers ample room to stretch out, relax, walk, and jog. The beach is known for having larger waves than normal, making it great for various water sports enthusiasts. Visitors appreciate the spaciousness that allows for both active recreation and peaceful relaxation along the shore.
9. Hills Beach
SCENIC RIVER VIEWS
Hills Beach on Hills Beach Road in Biddeford is a lovely sand beach located at the mouth of the Saco River. The beach offers scenic views of Basket Island and boats traveling around the rock jetty. Visitors can enjoy the unique perspective of watching river traffic while relaxing on the sandy shoreline.
10. Rotary Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Rotary Park on Main Street is a 72-acre riverside park with numerous amenities for water and land recreation. The park features trails, playgrounds, a sandy beach, picnic grove with grills, volleyball court, skate park, and boat launch. Visitors can enjoy both water activities along the river and land-based recreation in this comprehensive park setting.