Willard Beach

Near Willard Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Saltwater Grille offers upscale seafood with city skyline views, providing a sophisticated dining experience. For a more casual meal, Docks Seafood is a great choice, serving a variety of fried and steamed seafood platters. Another popular spot is DiMillo's On the Water, a landmark floating restaurant known for its seafood and harbor views. For those looking for something different, Tuscan Table offers stylish Italian cuisine with homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas. Lastly, Hot Suppa serves Southern comfort food in a cozy Victorian setting.

For accommodations near Willard Beach, several hotels offer convenient and comfortable stays. The Best Western Merry Manor Inn provides a casual atmosphere with dining and pool facilities. The Quality Inn & Suites is another option, offering free breakfast and an exercise room. For a more upscale experience, the Portland Sheraton at Sable Oaks features an indoor pool and a gym. Lastly, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland offers modern rooms and a free airport shuttle.

Willard Beach is well-equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The beach features restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic tables, making it ideal for family outings. A snack bar is available during the summer months, providing refreshments for beachgoers. Additionally, the beach offers ADA accessibility, including beach wheelchairs, to ensure that everyone can enjoy the facilities.

The beach's proximity to the Spring Point Shoreway Trail and the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse adds to its appeal, offering scenic walks and historical attractions nearby. Visitors can also access Fisherman's Point park via a staircase at the south end of the beach, providing additional views and recreational opportunities.

For those with disabilities, Willard Beach provides accessible facilities, including restrooms and beach wheelchairs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

Willard Beach offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Swimming and sunbathing are popular pastimes, while the tidal pools at low tide provide an exciting opportunity for kids and nature enthusiasts to explore marine life. The beach is also a great spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, with the calm waters of Casco Bay offering a serene paddling experience.

For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, the Spring Point Shoreway Trail is accessible from the beach, leading to the historic Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. This trail offers scenic views and a chance to learn about local maritime history.

During certain hours, dogs are allowed on the beach, making it a dog-friendly destination for families with pets.

Willard Beach offers several accessibility features to ensure that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the beach. The beach is ADA accessible, with facilities such as restrooms and beach wheelchairs available. These accommodations allow everyone to participate in beach activities comfortably. Additionally, the beach's proximity to accessible parking and its flat terrain make it easier for visitors with mobility issues to navigate the area.

Parking at Willard Beach is convenient, with a free parking lot available for up to 75 cars. The lot is located on Willow Street, just a short walk from the beach. On-street parking is not permitted, so visitors should plan to use the designated parking area. The proximity of the parking lot to the beach ensures that visitors can easily access the beach's amenities and activities without a long walk.

Willard Beach is named after the Willard family, who once operated a hotel on the beach in the 1800s. This historical connection adds a layer of charm to the area. The beach's unique location, tucked between Fisherman's Point and Southern Maine Community College, creates a tranquil atmosphere that contrasts with the bustling city life nearby.

The beach's small size and accessibility make it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists. Its dog-friendly policy during certain hours also makes it a popular destination for families with pets. The beach's history as part of a fishing village is still evident in the fishing shacks that line the shore.

Willard Beach is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The nearby Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, accessible via the Spring Point Shoreway Trail, offers a glimpse into maritime history and stunning views of Portland Harbor. Visitors can also explore Fisherman's Point park, which provides views of Portland Head Light and the open ocean.

For those interested in exploring further, Fort Williams Park and Bug Light Park are nearby, offering additional lighthouse views and hiking trails. The charming city of Portland, with its historic Old Port district and delicious seafood, is just a short drive away.

The beach's location in Casco Bay allows visitors to enjoy the sights of ferries and lobster boats, adding to the scenic beauty of the area.