Maine has 5,500 miles of coastline which includes long stretches of fine white sand. These beaches make up a large section of the state's southern coastal area but are also noticeable to anyone heading north along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In summer they provide a seaside playground for the entire family as tourists and residents soak up the sun, swim, build sandcastles and enjoy the coastal vistas. In winter you may be less inclined to swim or sunbathe but on fine days the beaches of Maine remain a popular venue for long walks.
For many people a highlight of Old Orchard Beach, which lies north of Portland, is Old Orchard Pier. The pier extends into the Atlantic Ocean for a distance of 500 feet and is the epitome of the traditional day out at the seaside as it offers the chance to take part in games of skill, enjoy fast foods and shop for souvenirs. The pier is also the venue for firework displays, concerts and fairs during the summer months. If you want somewhere quieter along this seven mile stretch of sand head north to Pine Point or south to Ocean Village. Old Orchard Beach is accessed via exits 36 and 42 off the Maine Turnpike.
Ogunquit Beach is a major attraction in the town which shares its name. In summer its pristine white sands provide a place in the sun for visitors wanting to take the rays while enjoying the area's superb scenery. Visitors are inspired by the sights and sounds of the Atlantic Ocean breaking on the nearby granite cliffs and enjoy looking back from the water's edge to the town's famous row of birch trees with evergreens rising above them. The area known in Ogunquit as "Footbridge Beach" is located off Ocean Street. The town's "North Beach" can be reached via Bourne Avenue in the Wells area. The beaches are included on the route of the Ogunquit Trolley.
Kennebunk Beach includes both rocky coastline and stretches of sand. They are all connected by sidewalks and the Kennebunk website reports the beach is also known as the "Kennebunk Workout" due to its popularity with walkers, joggers and rollerbladers. The beach is stretched out along Kennebunk's Beach Avenue beginning at Gooch's Beach and passing Lords Point. They are popular with early morning walkers and offer a good vantage point for the area's spectacular sunrises. You have the choice of driving to Kennebunk Beach or travelling there by trolley. There are no food outlets so you'll have to take refreshments with you. However, there are bathrooms.
Goose Rocks Beach also lies in the Kennebunk area. It is popular with walkers as it is three miles long and provides the opportunity to enjoy a six-mile long round trip if you start at one end and walk to the other. The beach is made up of two half moons of fine white sand and is enjoyed by bird watchers as piping plovers and lesser terns nest in the area. The entrance to the beach lies three miles east of Cape Porpoise on Route Nine.
