Best Surfing Beaches in Maine

Higgins Beach, located in Scarborough, Maine, is a charming coastal destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere and picturesque setting. This half-mile stretch of pristine sand offers a tranquil escape with its calm surf and inviting shores. The beach is nestled between historic Prouts Neck and Crescent Beach State Park, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and accessibility. It is famous for its shipwreck embedded in the sand, striped bass fishing, and surfing opportunities. The community retains a small-town feel, with numerous classic New England cottages lining the area.

The beach has long been a public access point, though parking is limited, with a municipal lot accommodating about 75 vehicles. Despite its small size, Higgins Beach has managed to maintain its quaint charm, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. The area has seen some gentrification, with new homes emerging, yet it remains a cherished summer colony for many families.

Higgins Beach is approximately 7 miles south of Portland and 110 miles north of Boston, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway. Its proximity to these cities ensures that visitors can enjoy both the tranquility of the beach and the amenities of nearby urban centers.

Wells Beach in Maine offers a serene and expansive coastal experience with nearly seven miles of sandy shoreline. Located between Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, it provides a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, beachcombing, and exploring the nearby tidal pools and jetties surrounding Wells Harbor. The area is also rich in cultural events, including summer concerts at Wells Harbor Community Park and various festivals throughout the year. The beach's proximity to Boston, about 90 minutes north, makes it an ideal weekend getaway for those seeking a tranquil oceanfront experience.

Wells Beach is part of a larger coastal community that includes other beautiful beaches like Moody Beach and Drakes Island Beach. The town of Wells itself is known for its friendly atmosphere and historical significance, being one of the oldest towns in Maine. The beach area is complemented by a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and recreational activities like golf and mini-golf.

The scenic drives around Wells offer stunning views of lighthouses and historic landmarks, adding to the area's charm. Overall, Wells Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the quintessential Maine coastal lifestyle.

This 1.5 mile, sandy oasis known as Long Sands Beach is fantastic for any family outing -- it's even dog friendly! On-site amenities making it convenient for families further adds to the experience.

Kennebunk Beach, located in the picturesque coastal town of Kennebunk, Maine, offers a serene and inviting atmosphere. The beach is part of a series of beaches along Beach Avenue, including Gooch's Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother's Beach. These beaches are known for their intimate settings, with Gooch's being the largest and most popular. The area is rich in history and natural beauty, with historic sea captains' homes nearby and a variety of outdoor activities available throughout the year.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the tide pools during the summer months. The beaches are connected by sidewalks, making them a favorite spot for walkers and joggers. The town of Kennebunk itself is steeped in colonial history and offers a charming downtown area with shops and restaurants.
The nearby Kennebunkport adds to the charm with its quaint riverside setting and historic architecture, making the area a beloved summer destination for over a century.

Crescent Beach in Kittery, Maine, is a picturesque rocky beach known for its unique shoreline and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Located just south of Seapoint Beach, it offers a tranquil setting for those who enjoy walking or exploring the coastline. The beach is flanked by wild blueberry bushes and features a mix of cobblestones and small rocks, making it less suitable for swimming due to strong tides. It's a great spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful coastal experience. Visitors often enjoy it during early mornings, evenings, or off-season due to limited parking, which is generally reserved for Kittery residents.
The area is conserved by the Kittery Land Trust, which aims to preserve open spaces from development. However, the constant human activity and large number of dog walkers have impacted the local wildlife, leading to concerns about maintaining the natural habitat.
Despite these challenges, Crescent Beach remains a charming destination for those who appreciate its rugged beauty and serene atmosphere.

Gooch's Beach is a picturesque stretch of coastline in Kennebunk, Maine, known for its soft white sand and serene ocean views. Located near the mouth of the Kennebunk River, it offers a tranquil setting for activities like swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is approximately 3 miles long and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It features a wooden seawall along most of its length, with a small active dune near the river mouth. The beach is well-suited for family outings and offers lifeguards during the summer season. Visitors can enjoy the scenic walks along the beachfront promenade, which connects Gooch's Beach to other nearby beaches like Middle Beach and Mother's Beach.
The beach's proximity to Kennebunkport's historic district and various attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the area. The beach is named after John Gooch, a local resident who owned an inn in the late 1800s. It is a dog-friendly beach, allowing dogs during certain hours of the day, depending on the season.
Gooch's Beach is also a great spot for nature lovers, with opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the Maine coast.

York Harbor Beach is a charming, small sandy beach nestled along a rocky shoreline in York, Maine. It is affectionately known as 'Mothers' Beach' due to its suitability for toddlers. The beach offers a serene atmosphere, making it perfect for family outings. Located nearby are several attractions, including the historic Nubble Lighthouse and scenic hiking trails like the Cliff Walk. York Harbor itself is a year-round vacation destination, offering rich colonial history, stunning beaches, and fun family activities.
The area is surrounded by beautiful parks, such as Hartley Mason Park, which provides shade and benches for relaxation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local shops and restaurants within walking distance, offering everything from seafood to casual dining options.
York Harbor Beach is a great spot for those seeking a tranquil beach experience with easy access to local amenities and attractions.

Old Orchard Beach's 7 miles of pristine, golden sand is sure to please any family -- especially considering it's lifeguard protected. The beach's center, however, is its iconic pier where you can do anything from playing carnival games, eating, shopping, dancing and even watching concerts.