Winter Harbor MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Winter Harbor, Maine.
1. Schoodic Point
ROCKY OCEANFRONT PENINSULA
Schoodic Point offers a dramatic rocky coastline with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a favorite spot for seaside walks, picnics, and scenic photography. Visitors can enjoy watching waves crash against the granite shore and often spot seabirds and marine wildlife in this peaceful, natural setting. This area is part of Acadia National Park and is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquility.
2. Grindstone Point
SCENIC COASTAL ESCAPE
Grindstone Point is situated at the southern end of Winter Harbor, offering stunning water views and a peaceful waterfront escape. This peninsula is known for its picturesque vistas of Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island across Frenchman Bay. It's ideal for leisurely beachcombing, tide-pooling, and taking in the serene Maine coastline.
3. Sand Beach
CLASSIC OCEANSIDE SWIMMING
Sand Beach is a sandy crescent nestled between rocky Maine headlands within Acadia National Park, about a 40-minute drive from Winter Harbor. The beach is known for its uniquely soft sand, formed from crushed shells, and offers a popular swimming spot during the summer months, with facilities for changing and restrooms nearby. The cool North Atlantic waters attract visitors seeking an invigorating swim and a scenic oceanfront experience.
4. Schoodic Beach
SECLUDED LAKESIDE SWIMMING
Schoodic Beach features a freshwater swimming area along the pristine shores of Donnell Pond, located a short drive inland from Winter Harbor. The gently sloping beach provides clear waters for swimming, paddling, and relaxing, surrounded by forested hills. This quiet spot is popular for families and those seeking a tranquil alternative to ocean surf.
5. Thunder Hole
DRAMATIC OCEANFRONT LANDMARK
Thunder Hole is a famous coastal attraction where incoming waves force air and seawater through a natural rock crevice, creating spectacular booms and sea spray. The site offers a viewing platform to experience this dramatic phenomenon up close, especially at mid- to high tide. Visitors are also treated to sweeping ocean views and the rugged beauty of Acadia's shoreline.
6. Frazer Point
TIDAL WATERFRONT PICNIC AREA
Frazer Point offers a picturesque setting at the head of Winter Harbor, where visitors can enjoy waterfront picnicking, tidepool exploration, and stunning views of the harbor and islands. This point is a part of the Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia National Park and features picnic tables and shoreline access. It's a great spot for family outings, nature observing, and enjoying the peaceful tidal waters.
7. Lamoine Beach
BAYFRONT SANDY BEACH
Lamoine Beach stretches along the shore of Frenchman Bay, offering a wide sandy waterfront with gentle tides ideal for swimming and beachcombing. The beach provides beautiful views of Mount Desert Island across the bay and is known for its relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere. This coastal escape is popular for picnics, kayaking, and shell collecting.
8. Tidal Falls Preserve
RIVERSIDE WATERFALL AND TIDES
Tidal Falls Preserve features a scenic stretch of the Taunton River, where powerful tidal currents create a natural waterfall phenomenon at certain times of day. Visitors can watch eagles and seals from the riverside picnic area while enjoying the sights and sounds of the changing tide. The preserve is an excellent spot for nature walks, wildlife observation, and a riverside escape.
9. Donell Pond Public Lands
REMOTE SWIMMING HOLES
Donell Pond Public Lands offers expansive freshwater beaches, rocky shores, and secluded swimming holes set against a backdrop of forests and hills. The area is popular for swimming, canoeing, and hiking, with several beach access points along the clear, spring-fed pond. Visitors seeking a more rustic and remote waterfront experience will appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility found here.
10. Long Pond
FRESHWATER LAKE SWIMMING
Long Pond is a large freshwater lake on Mount Desert Island offering a sandy swimming area, boat access, and scenic views. The clear waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, with a public landing on the southern end of the pond. It is a favored destination for visitors seeking calm, inland waters and a relaxing lakeside retreat.