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VISITOR GUIDE

2026

Relax. Explore. Repeat. Year Round!

themainebeaches.com

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RELAX. EXPLORE. REPEAT.

YEAR ROUND.

Whether this is your first visit to The Maine Beaches or your fiftieth, there’s a good chance you already anticipate long, sandy shorelines, iconic lighthouses, charming historic villages, and the world’s best lobster rolls. If your flavor of adventure is culinary, you’re in luck. Specialty food shops, farmers’ markets, and roadside farm stands make this a dream for anyone who loves to cook (or just loves to eat). From fresh-caught seafood restaurants and trendy brewpubs to gourmet doughnuts and fine dining, the region’s flavors are as varied as its landscapes—and yes, there’s lobster everywhere you turn. Families can enjoy everything from vintage-vibe boardwalk arcades and drive-in movies to must-do staples as waterparks and mini-golf courses. Culture seekers will find museums, live-music festivals, and a vibrant theater scene to round out the days. And history lovers can ring in America’s 250th Birthday overlooking the site where the first U.S. naval warship was built.

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Wells Reserve at Laudholm*

If you’re craving time on the water, there’s more than one way to make a splash. Book a fishing charter, spot seals and seabirds on a wildlife tour, or check out five iconic lighthouses from the best vantage point—the sea itself. Angling for dry land? Cast a line from a beach, pier, or jetty and see what bites. Head away from the shore to marvel at natural landmarks like Mount Agamenticus in York, where the trail-marked summit offers views of the nearby ocean as well as towering Mount Washington in New Hampshire (it’s the only place in the East you can get that kind of topographical double take). Horton Woods, a 100-acre wildlife preserve near Saco, is popular with birders, hikers, and snowshoers. So come for the beaches—they’ve been drawing visitors for generations. But stay for everything else. Because when it comes to The Maine Beaches, the shore is just the start.

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RESOURCES Visitor Information The Maine Beaches’ Chambers of Commerce and Maine’s Visitor Center are all ready to help visitors with information. York Region Chamber of Commerce One Stonewall Ln., York | GatewaytoMaine.org Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce 20 Shore Rd., Ogunquit | Ogunquit.org

Drive From

Time

Miles*

Boston, MA

1.5 hr

84 mi

Providence, RI

2.5 hrs

140 mi

Sanford-Springvale Chamber of Commerce 510 Main St., Springvale | SanfordChamber.org

Hartford, CT

3 hrs

177 mi

Burlington, VT

3.75 hrs

234 mi

Kennebunk-Kennebunkport-Arundel Chamber of Commerce 16 Water St., Kennebunk | GoKennebunks.com

New York, NY

5 hrs

293 mi

Montreal, QC

5.5 hrs

327 mi

Philadelphia, PA 6.75 hrs

387 mi

Wells Chamber of Commerce 136 Post Rd., Wells | WellsChamber.org

Biddeford+Saco Chamber of Commerce+Industry 28 Water St., Biddeford | BiddefordSacoChamber.org

*Mileage and time to Biddeford.

Old Orchard Beach Chamber of Commerce 11 First St., OOB | OldOrchardBeachMaine.com Maine Visitor Information Center I-95 and US Route 1, Kittery | MaineTourism.com

On the Roadway E-ZPASS/Tolls The Maine Turnpike is part of the E-ZPass system that allows for reciprocal use with toll systems primarily on the East Coast. MaineTurnpike.com. ME Hands-Free Driving Law Maine prohibits talking, texting or using a hand-held device while driving, even while stopped at a light or in slow or stopped traffic. Fines can be up to $250. EV Charging Stations Currently there are 70+ locations throughout The Maine Beaches area where visitors can charge EVs. We recommend Charge Hub’s app or visiting ChargeHub.com for up-to-date information. Ocean view from Perkins Cove, Ogunquit 2

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Transportation Portland International Jetport PortlandJetport.org Boston Logan International Airport MassPort.com Biddeford Municipal Airport BiddefordMaine.org Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport SanfordMaine.org/airport The Amtrak Downeaster Daily round-trips from Boston North Station to Wells, Saco, OOB (seasonal), and north to Portland. AmtrakDowneaster.com

CONTENTS The Maine Beaches Communities....................................5 The Yorks................................................................................6 Ogunquit................................................................................8 Wells.......................................................................................10 Sanford-Springvale.............................................................12 The Kennebunks..................................................................14 Biddeford+Saco...................................................................16 Old Orchard Beach.............................................................18 Inland Towns........................................................................20 Head to the Beach..............................................................21 Lighthouses..........................................................................24 Maine and America’s 250th...............................................26 Maine Lobster......................................................................28 Map of the Region..............................................................30 Local Eats..............................................................................32 Coastal Spirits.......................................................................34 Places to Stay.......................................................................36 Camping................................................................................38 That’s Entertainment......................................................... 40 Get Outside..........................................................................42 Parks and Preserves............................................................46 Back to the Land................................................................ 48 Wonderful Winter................................................................49 Holiday Events.....................................................................50 Shopping...............................................................................52 Family Fun.............................................................................54 Relax and Rejuvenate.........................................................56 Events Calendar...................................................................58 Special Gatherings............................................................. 60 This publication was paid for in part by grants from the Maine Office of Tourism. ©2026 The Maine Beaches Association. Images in this publication marked with * are courtesy of the Maine Office of Tourism. Publication design by: Market Connections, 82 Patton Ave Ste 710, Asheville, NC 28801

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Cliff House

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The Maine Beaches

COMMUNITIES When it comes to The Maine Beaches, the sand and sea are just the prologue. Beyond the breakers lies a collection of distinct Maine towns—each with its own rhythm, flavor, and sense of place.

Dock Square, Kennebunkport*

In the York Region, history meets horizon: clapboard homes, colonial tales, and that picture-perfect Nubble Lighthouse keeping watch over it all. Just up the coast, Ogunquit hums with creative energy—equal parts arts colony and seaside escape. Wells offers a gentler rhythm, a mix of tide pools, trails, and vintage treasures that make it the quintessential “Antiques Capital of Maine.” Wander beyond the tide and discover salt-marsh trails rich with wildlife and the sweeping summit views from Mount Agamenticus. Inland, Sanford–Springvale trades ocean breezes for lake views and forest adventures—a four-season playground where you can paddle, hike, or catch a ballgame under the lights. The Kennebunks deliver small-town glamour with a seafaring twist: think stately inns, boutique-lined streets, and swoon-worthy dockside dining. Head north to the twin cities of Biddeford and Saco, where mill buildings hum with new creative life—craft breweries, galleries, and a buzzy culinary scene that’s as modern as it is Maine. And when it’s time to kick off your shoes, Old Orchard Beach brings back the magic of a Pier—arcade lights, fried dough, and the ocean’s applause at the end of every perfect day. From bustling harbor towns to sparkling inland lakes, The Maine Beaches region is a whole world of unique character in a place small enough that you can experience as much as you have energy and inclination.

Downtown Biddeford* Wells Reserve at Laudholm* Perkins Cove Draw Bridge*

Read on to discover more about the communities, attractions, activities, and amenities that make up The Maine Beaches region.

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Communities

YORK REGION From coast to countryside, York, Kittery, Eliot, and South Berwick offer a little something special for every kind of traveler.

The Nubble Lighthouse and Cape Neddick

The Beach and Beyond Our wide sandy beaches may have lured you here—but there’s a whole world waiting just beyond the waves. Start with a must-see: the iconic Nubble Lighthouse. Perched on a rocky island and officially known as the Cape Neddick Light Station, it’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine (maybe even the world). Snap a selfie, soak in the sea views, and you’ll see why it’s been inspiring postcards for generations.

The Witch Grave Local legend says a witch lies beneath a heavy granite slab in York’s Old Burying Yard. That’s hard to confirm. But we do know that when Mary Nasson died in 1774, her husband memorialized her with an intricately carved headstone. Its most notable feature? A hefty stone topper. It didn’t take long for the ensuing lore to take flight. Visit The Museums of Old York to learn more and decide for yourself, witch or not. Curiosity encouraged. Broomstick optional.

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Next, trade your beach towel for a pair of walking shoes and make the easy climb (or quick drive) up Mount Agamenticus. At 692 feet high, it’s the best lookout around, with panoramic views from the storied Boon Island Light to the distant peak of Mount Washington. When it’s time to slow things down, pack a picnic and head to Fort Foster Park. This local gem is known for its peaceful trails, scenic kayaking, and wide-open spaces. It’s also a sanctuary for native plants and wildlife, so you might catch a glimpse of some rare and threatened or endangered species.

Long Shore Beach* York Harbor

Inland Insider Venture inland to South Berwick and discover the historic elegance of the Hamilton House (ca. 1785), browse exhibits at the Counting House Museum, or tour the home of beloved writer Sarah Orne Jewett, whose stories captured the spirit of coastal Maine. Paddle down the Salmon Falls River launching from the peaceful shores of Vaughan Woods State Park, a 250-acre retreat with ample chance for both hiking and picnicking. And with winter weather comes thrills, chills, and classic New England charm at Powderhouse Hill’s community ski area. From there, take a scenic drive to Eliot—once known as Kittery’s Upper Parish back when farming, shipbuilding, and brick making ruled

the day. Today the welcoming, laid back community offers peaceful trails at Douglass Woods and scenic views of Dover Point, NH, from River Road near Sandy Hill Farm

Round Out Your Adventure If shopping’s on your list, head to Kittery’s US Route 1 for an exciting array of outlets and big-name stores. Mix in a few local gems like Bell Farm Shops, The Clown Wines & Gifts, Ocean Fire Pottery, The Shops at Cape Neddick, and Signature Finishes so you can get a few one-of-a-kind treasures you can’t find anywhere else. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find a stay for every style and budget. Book a cozy beachside cottage, camp under the stars, settle into a charming B&B or historic inn, or enjoy the convenience of a motel or hotel just steps from the sand. No trip is complete without a great meal. Dig into a meal at one of Maine’s famous lobster and seafood shacks, or branch out with a lineup of tasty local restaurants that make every meal a culinary adventure. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a weeklong vacation, the towns of the York Region will deliver years of treasured memories.

Sarah Orne Jewett House Mount Agamenticus THEMAINEBEACHES.COM |

Communities

OGUNQUIT Perfectly placed at the center of everything, Ogunquit makes a lively hub for your Maine getaway. An ideal spot to unpack, unwind, and explore in every direction.

Perkins Cove

Small Town Charm. Big Time Cool Seaside soul meets creative spirit in Ogunquit, a walkable, welcoming little village with a big personality. It’s the kind of place both travel writers and everyday visitors fall in love with. Friendly and diverse, full of stellar restaurants and artsy boutiques, Ogunquit has a laid-back vibe that encourages lingering. At just four square miles, this “beautiful place by the sea” (the Abenaki meaning of Ogunquit) packs a serious vacation punch. Its long, sandy beach, which regularly pops up on Tripadvisor’s Top 25 list, is reason enough to visit. But there is so much more.

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For a different, equally spectacular view of the coast, lace up your walking shoes for the Marginal Way, a beloved cliff-side path that traces the shore from the village center to Perkins Cove. Along the trail you’ll pass rugged headlands, tucked-away coves, rolling surf, and tide pools that change with every hour. It’s a landscape right out of an adventure tale, even if yours ends with an ice-cream cone on a sunny bench.

Boats, Brushes, and a Bit of Magic Ogunquit’s natural beauty has been inspiring visitors for generations. In the 1890s, the sea-salt breezes and golden coastal light drew artists to establish the Ogunquit Art Colony, where they painted side-by-side with the Perkins Cove fishermen mending nets and unloading their catch. It was an unlikely pairing that somehow made perfect sense: one shaping the day’s bounty from the sea, the other capturing the scene on canvas. It’s not so different today. Lobster boats still set out from the harbor, and if you wander the docks at the right hour, you might spot a painter with an easel. Perkins Cove has grown into a charming little haven of galleries, shops, and cafés where creativity and coastal heritage meet with easy grace. Nearby, the Ogunquit Museum of American Art keeps that magic alive, celebrating those who started it all and inspiring a new generation of artists.

A Village for All Seasons The New Kid Ogunquit may have an old soul, but it’s actually one of Maine’s newest towns. It was officially incorporated in 1980 after centuries as part of neighboring Wells. Today, its vibrant downtown offers live entertainment into the night, and just a mile down the road, Perkins Cove offers fine dining, shopping, and fishing and sightseeing excursions.

When it comes to things to do, Ogunquit checks every box. Love to shop? Wander from one indie boutique to the next. Craving fresh seafood or farm-to-table fare? Pull up a chair because the town’s culinary scene is deliciously diverse. Ready for some nightlife? Cue the live music, late-night dancing, and show-stopping performances at the iconic Ogunquit Playhouse. Prefer the great outdoors? Set sail, go fishing, or simply claim a sunny spot on the sand and do nothing. Streets buzz with music and events year round. Each season shows off another aspect of the landscape. Chase the spring flowers, book your summer beach trip, fall in love with autumn color, and drop back by again for the holidays. Travel+Leisure ranked Ogunquit as #2 in its list of Top 25 Christmas Towns. There is no wrong time to visit.

Plein Air at OMAA Celebrating Pride Day*

Welcome Home In Ogunquit, making everyone feel like they belong is a point of pride. Friendly, warm, and proudly inclusive, this seaside village has long been a favorite LGBTQ+ destination. Many of its shops, restaurants, and businesses are gay-owned and operated. Colors here tend toward the whole rainbow, even in winter. With accessible beaches, walkable streets, and plenty of lodging options, Ogunquit makes it simple for everyone to kick back and enjoy. When the day winds down, you’ll have your pick of more than 75 places to stay—from charming bed & breakfasts and cozy inns to stylish cottages, full-service resorts, and family-friendly suites, many of them all too happy to host your favorite four-legged travel companion.

Marginal Way THEMAINEBEACHES.COM |

Communities

WELLS With miles of wide, sandy shoreline and countless opportunities to get outside and play, it’s no wonder families keep coming back to Wells year after year.

Thanks to a combination of friendly locals, a broad choice of places to stay, tasty dining options, one-of-kind shopping, and easy access to the rest of the coast, Wells is a vacation destination that feels like a beloved tradition even after only one visit.

Stretch Out. Slow Down. Dive In. The beaches in Wells offer seven miles of oceanfront that include rolling dunes, splash-worthy tidal pools, and photo-perfect jetties. Visitors will agree that it is all unquestionably lovely. While sitting back and enjoying the sun and surf is always rewarding, adventurers will also find the beach a lively launchpad for adventure. Choose a boat, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard to traverse sparkling coastal waters and scenic estuaries. Just steps away, Wells Harbor Community Park invites visitors to extend their beach days with fun on the playground, sightseeing from the accessible observation tower, and cool summer concerts in the gazebo. Don’t miss the Wells Harbor Shellfish Lab, a perfect outing for curious minds and would-be marine biologists of all ages. Wells is closer than you think, and getting here couldn’t be easier. By car, just hop off the Maine Turnpike at Exit 19 and cruise straight onto US Route 1. Prefer to sit back and let someone else do the driving? The Amtrak Downeaster rolls into the Wells Regional Transportation Center five times a day from Boston’s North Station. It’s a relaxed ride that drops you right into vacation mode before you even unpack.

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Wells Beach Wells Harbor Shellfish Lab*

Relics and Rustic Adventures When it comes to treasure hunting in Wells, the cat is out of the bag. The town is known as the Antiques Capital of Maine for good reason. Dozens of vintage shops, antiques stores, one-of-a-kind dealers, and shopping events draw collectors to seek out the rare, priceless, and nostalgic. Those inclined to branch out in search of stunning natural beauty will find winding trails through lofty pine forests and sweeping salt marshes along the mile-long Carson Trail at the internationally renowned Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. Or discover hikes, natural walks, kayak estuary tours, creative and wellness programs, events, and much more on the 2,250 protected acres of the Wells Reserve at Laudholm. The Town of Wells Wildlife Commons is located a bit more inland, on the quiet side of town. Here, visitors will observe a diverse variety of Southern Maine landscapes like trout streams, tall forests, and cascading waterfalls. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy the scenic exercise of hiking and the stimulating pursuit of nature photography, or just the simple pleasure of a woodland picnic.

Eat Wells. Stay Wells. Billy’s Chowder House, a Wells tradition since 1979, has gathered plenty of accolades for its signature New England Clam Chowder, full of potatoes, chopped local clams, and the richness of its seaside tradition. Beyond its assortment of clam shacks and seafood grills, Wells also boasts Congdon’s Family Restaurant & Bakery, home to proprietary “old school” doughnuts, Thai fare, and a classic steakhouse for those who crave a little turf with their surf. It is also home to New England’s very first Food Truck Park, Congdon’s After Dark.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge Wells Reserve at Laudholm

When you visit Wells, you’re sure to receive a warm welcome to an abundance of lodging options, from beachside cottages to full-service hotels and classic motels. No matter your definition of cozy, we have you covered— even if you prefer outdoors and uncovered at a primitive campsite or tucked in a home on wheels at a full-service RV site. THEMAINEBEACHES.COM |

Communities

SANFORD – SPRINGVALE Drift inland and explore a whole other world away from the shoreline.

Paddleboarding Local Lakes* Sanford Lagoons Sanford Farmers’ Market*

A short drive from the region’s scenic ocean beaches, the inland towns around Sanford-Springvale are great for a day trip or a longer stay. The area offers a lot choices for outdoor recreation activities in every season of the year. The Mousam Way Trail or Waterboro Barren Preserve are open for those looking to walk, hike, Nordic ski, and snowshoe. Bird watchers should flock to Sanford Lagoons, one of York County Audubon’s premier birding sites, with over 225 species of birds that have been recorded throughout the year. The orchards and farms across the area from Lebanon to Limerick offer opportunities to pick your own fruit while enjoying the beauty of the rolling countryside. Seasonal crops include apples, strawberries, and blueberries. Farmers’ Markets in Sanford, North Berwick, and Dayton offer fresh produce and local crafts all summer long.

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The Plot Thickens In Sanford–Springvale, culture and history share top billing in local theaters and museums. At Nasson Little Theatre, audiences will find a varied and ever-changing repertoire ranging from Broadway favorites and original plays to delightfully over-the-top murder-mystery dinners. A few blocks away, the state-of-the-art Sanford Performing Arts Center hosts world-class musicians, comics, dance performances, plays and more. And if you’re eager for a little old-fashioned summer stock, The Hackmatack Playhouse in Berwick has been delivering timeless, barn-theater magic for over fifty years. Offstage, history takes a starring role in a visit to this inland region. The Sanford–Springvale Historical Museum traces the industries and individuals that shaped this corner of Maine, while the Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery offers a place of quiet reflection—a living tribute to those who served, set amid serene, tree-lined grounds.

Wings, Swings and Fancy Things The bird’s-eye view of Southern Maine shows off a patchwork of forest, farmland, and coast. Experience it yourself from a sightseeing flight out of the Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport. Capture a few mile-high selfies in your choice of fixed wing with Southern Maine Aviation or helicopter with Pine Tree Helicopters. If you prefer your high point to occur sometime around the seventhinning stretch, take in America’s favorite pastime at historic Goodall Park. There the Sanford Mainers take a field once graced by legends like Babe Ruth and Dustin Pedroia. After the final inning, cool off with an ice cream, stroll around Number One Pond, and maybe catch some Independence Day fireworks. Home-run evening, for sure. Goodall Park

Painting of Alfred Shaker Village

A Simple History Long before Maine drew crowds of vacationers, Alfred was home to a very different kind of movement. It was here, in 1793, that the story of the state’s Shakers began and where Elder Joseph Brackett later penned the timeless hymn “Simple Gifts.” The Alfred Shaker Museum keeps that spirit alive. Wander galleries rich with artifacts and handcrafted treasures. Then stick around for workshops, events, and a charming gift shop that offers a deeper glimpse into the life and cultural influence of this unusual religious sect. It’s the perfect place to slow down, listen, and experience a uniquely Maine chapter of America’s past.

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Communities

THE KENNEBUNKS Whatever it is, you’ll feel it too: that sense of place that draws you in and wonders if you can’t stay just a little bit longer.

Dock Square* Gooch’s Beach* Mother’s Beach

Ask any visitor to The Kennebunks, as Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel are collectively known, and chances are it’s not their first trip. The area inspires dedication. Maybe it’s the endless stretches of soft, golden sand. Maybe it’s the dining, whether it’s lobster rolls served on weathered picnic tables steps away from the beach or fine dining with white-glove service. Maybe it’s the historic sea captains’ homes with widow’s walks, museums brimming with maritime lore, and a glimpse of Walker’s Point, the Bush family’s so-called “Summer White House.”

What’s in a Name? No one knows exactly when Mother’s Beach acquired its name, but shallow, calm waters and a sandy slope perfect for baby’s first beach outing tell you everything you need to know about why. It’s a family favorite. The cheerful playground steps from the waves only sweetens the deal.

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Shore Things Kennebunk’s Gooch’s, Middle, and Mother’s Beaches are the sort of wide, sandy, postcard-worthy spots that beg for barefoot walks, shell seeking, and the quintessential beach nap under a floppy hat. In Kennebunkport, locals swear by Goose Rocks Beach, three miles of soft sand ideal for long walks and the bucket-and-shovel set. Adventurers and lovers of natural drama gravitate toward Colony Beach, where a scramble on the rocks will give you a front-row seat to watch the Atlantic dash against the shore.

Choose Your Own Adventure

Christmas Prelude in Dock Square

There’s no such thing as a “typical day” in the Kennebunks. One morning, you might hit a local bakery for a latte on the way to an e-bike tour along the water; the next, you could be kayaking through a salt marsh or watching a whale break the surface of the water from the deck of a boat. You could hit up one of dozens of independent shops and galleries to find the thing you didn’t even know you needed. Could be a piece of hand-thrown pottery or a novel to read while sipping a cocktail on a sun-warmed porch. And no matter whether you prefer a bed in a cottage, a historic B&B, a celebrated resort hotel, or an upscale campground under the stars, you’ll find your perfect spot to dream up tomorrow’s fun.

The Woods Await The beauty of the Kennebunks doesn’t end at the water’s edge. Head inland a bit and you’ll find the scenic paths of the Kennebunk Land Trust or the pine-shadowed trails weaving through Kennebunkport Conservation Trust’s Emmons Preserve. Cyclists love the twists and turns of Arundel’s Flow Trail, and the Hope Woods Trail is an accessible oasis for everyone. Hikers and bikers can follow the seasons in real time along the Eastern Trail, a stretch of the legendary East Coast Greenway, and take in the sights from the first snowfall to the last golden leaf and all the beauty in between.

Every Day is a Holiday The Kennebunks are a four-season love affair. Their calendar is packed year-round with events for the whole family. Halloween fills the communities with revelers, pumpkins, and ghost tours. Pajama Shopping Day kicks off the holiday season with plenty of glad tidings and holiday joy leading up to December’s Christmas Prelude. And when February rolls around, Paint the Town Red turns the coast into one long sweet (and salty) Valentine.

The Old Country Arundel, the Kennebunks’ inland little sister, is Maine at peak pastoral with its landscape of weathered barns, winding roads, and rolling green pastures. Settlers in the mid-1600s kept close to the coast but abandoned their homes during the Indian Wars from 1680 to 1720. After the hostilities ended, a new settlement, named Arundel, grew up along the Kennebunk River. Farmers started to work the rich land west of what is now US Route 1 and local meeting houses and churches began to dot the landscape. Today, the churches are gone, but several early farms and farmhouses remain. Arundel, the original name of the whole area, offers a different kind of coastal escape: slower, softer, more rooted. It’s the place to meander country lanes, linger at farm stands, and wander through the many antique shops where tradition still shapes the region.

Walker’s Point THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 15

Communities

BIDDEFORD+SACO Two towns, one unstoppable current of creativity.

A River Runs Through It On either side of the Saco River, Biddeford and Saco have transformed from historic mill towns into one of Maine’s most exciting twin cities destinations, where brick 19th-century industrial buildings now house buzzy restaurants, indie boutiques, and art spaces. These towns have been busy reinventing themselves, and the rest of the country has noticed. Come for the history, stay for a craft beer beside the rushing river and a view of what visionary spirit can do for a historic pair of towns.

Main (Street) Attraction Both Biddeford and Saco’s Nationally Accredited Main Streets celebrate their past while gazing excitedly toward the future. You’ll find apartments, maker studios, breweries, and start-ups in the lofty redbrick spaces that once held textile looms and bolts of fabric. You’ll even find chic, uptown accommodations at the Lincoln Hotel, where you can relax luxuriously in the lobby bar or make use of on-premises spa services. Downtown is where Biddeford and Saco’s food scene shines. A delicious mix of casual cafés, modern pubs, and destination-worthy restaurants has earned the area a spot on Maine’s culinary map. Enjoy an afternoon stroll along the Riverwalk, linking downtown Biddeford to Saco Island and beyond. Stop at Riverfront Park for views of the Saco River, enjoy the waterfalls, peek into the Biddeford Mills Museum, and cap the day with a show at Biddeford’s City Theater—a jewel-box venue celebrated for its near-perfect acoustics. 16 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Cruise on Saco Bay* Sacred Profane Brewery* Trails at Ferry Beach State Park

Funtown Splashtown USA Riverwalk, Biddeford*

Thrills Every Minute Fun does not stop at the city limits. Just a few minutes away, you’ll find two of New England’s top amusement spots. Funtown Splashtown USA, Maine’s largest amusement park, has been delighting generations. Aquaboggan Water Park, the state’s first, makes a great double date with the retro-cool Saco Drive-In Theater next door. Cinephiles and devotees of the really big screen will also note that Maine’s only IMAX is just around the corner. From big-name brands at The Shops at Biddeford Crossing to Saco Valley Shopping Center’s Renys, where locals love the adventure gear, outdoor clothing, proprietary chocolate, and maple syrup, browsers will find plenty of opportunities to find something special. Once outfitted, consider a hike or a bike ride on the region’s many trails, or hop aboard a tour boat for a trip out to Wood Island Lighthouse.

Big Fun Maine’s biggest amusement park did not start out as a thrillseeker’s haven. Funtown Splashtown USA began in 1960 as a roadside food stand called Marvel Drive-In on Route 1. In 1963, the owners added the Go-Kart track. Four years later, Marvel had transformed into Funtown USA. Today the 50-ride playground of slides, pools, and games celebrates nearly six decades of family fun.

Salt, Sand, Sun River towns they may be, but Biddeford and Saco know their way around a beach towel. Biddeford Pool stretches out in two miles of soft sand and lazy-lagoon calm, while Fortunes Rocks is the go-to for wave chasers and sand-dollar sleuths. Want peace, quiet, and neighborhoody vibes? Hills Beach is the locals’ little secret. Hop across the river for Kinney Shores and Bay View, where sandcastles rise, coolers roll in, and family beach days are practically an art form. Or head south to Camp Ellis and Ferry Beach State Park, the southern tip of the 7-mile stretch of sandy beaches, perfect for jetty strolls, paddle sessions, or a breezy sail around Saco Bay. Biddeford Pool THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 17

Communities

OLD ORCHARD BEACH Two centuries in, and the vibe is established. Get ready to discover why Old Orchard Beach is loved by generations of vacationers as Maine’s premier seaside resort.

Annual OOB Car Show

Nostalgia by the Numbers For nearly 200 years, summer folk have flocked to Old Orchard Beach. Today, it’s hard to find a more deeply authentic beachside culture. The same attractions that drew visitors decades ago continue to lure new travelers, enchanted by the area’s original character and lively atmosphere. The beach itself, a seven-mile stretch of golden sand, is centered by the iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier, established in 1898 and fortified for the modern era some 100 years later. No visit to OOB would be complete without a stop at Pier French Fries, a longtime counter-serve eatery featuring the title treat. These beauties are cut daily from locally grown potatoes. Ask anyone who knows: they’re the best fries you’ll ever have on vacation. You will also find hot dogs, fried dough, and even poutine!

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Old Orchard Beach’s Palace Playland first opened in 1902. That’s right—it was barely the twentieth century. For context, the teddy bear (after then-President Teddy Roosevelt) had just been invented. The amusement park continues to delight visitors of all ages with the updated thrill rides (experience “Sea Viper” and “Kraken”) that join the hand-painted carousel and Ferris wheel. The pier itself is a delicious destination. It supports popular over-ocean pubs and walk-up stands offering all the favorite summer foods. Just steps away are a variety of local shops selling beach decor, souvenirs, surf gear, sundries, and unique local crafts. Mainstay sweets include taffy and fudge, and it won’t be long till the kids find out about Dickinson’s Candy Factory, where freshly made delights join treasured treats of the past.

Spark After Dark The town cranks up the volume with a weekly fireworks display. Enjoy a concert under the stars at OOB Baseball Park. In August, the Beach Olympics, a weekend of fun competitive activities and other warm-weather hi jinks, benefits Special Olympics Maine. In September, Old Orchard Beach hosts one of New England’s largest car shows, emphasizing restored muscle cars and other classic automotive gems.

Stay and Play Lodging here runs the gamut from historic inns and seaside resorts to old-fashioned camping. Outdoorsy types can also bike along the Eastern Trail, the northern

part of a system that runs from Key West, Florida to Fort Kent, Maine. Surf from the easy access of our long flat beaches, play a round of golf—regular or mini—or charter a deep-sea fishing trip. Camp Ellis Jetty is a great place to drop a line in the water or to capture photos of the entire Saco Bay area.

Make a Plan If an Old Orchard Beach vacation has been a part of your family’s annual tradition, we’re pleased to welcome you back and hope you once again enjoy your stay. If you’re considering exploring our area for the first time, we invite you to relax and immerse yourself in a truly classic seaside experience.

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Communities

INLAND TOWNS The smaller towns in the region reward those inclined to step off the beach path.

Explore More Beyond the Shore You don’t have to go very far to find your inland escape. It’s close enough to the beach for an easy day trip, but you may be surprised at the many inviting opportunities to make the most of your vacation year-round. In Cornish, antiques shops and vintage boutiques spill along Main Street, mingling with historic inns and quirky, come-hungry dining spots. A quick hop over to Limington and you’ll find even more vintage merchants and tucked-away finds that make every stop feel like a little adventure.

Cornish Trading Co.

Wild Life Salt water gets a lot of attention in this part of the world, but Lake Arrowhead and Little Ossipee Pond in the towns of Waterboro and Limerick give paddlers a wide array of opportunities for freshwater exploration, from mornings fishing in a quiet cove to a sunset tour amongst loons and croaking frogs. Lake Arrowhead Mousam River

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The western side of the Maine Turnpike is dotted with campgrounds—more than half a dozen near Salmon Falls in Lebanon and Acton alone. Trade the beach crowds for forest trails and quiet preserves, where you can hike, walk, snowshoe, or ski at Mousam Way Trail or Waterboro Barren Preserve. Come harvest time, rows of orchards and rolling fields stretch from Lebanon to Limerick, inviting you to pick your own apples, strawberries, and flowers straight from the source. And for a taste of local life, browse the farmers’ markets in North Berwick and Dayton, fully stocked with fresh produce, handmade goods, and homegrown small-town charm.

Activities

HEAD TO THE BEACH More than two dozen beaches stretch along Maine’s southern coast from Kittery to OOB. Each one is framed by postcard-perfect seaside towns, iconic lighthouses, and stunning natural scenery. Wander the boardwalks, treat yourself to a cone from a classic ice cream stand, or sit back in your beach chair, soak up the sun, and follow the rhythms of the tide.

Endless Summer

Goose Rocks Beach, Kennebunkport Surf at Ogunquit Beach*

Maine’s beaches are a hub of seaside activity, from a quiet morning surf or a golden-hour stroll with friends to a full day of family fun and the simple pleasure of searching for sand dollars and jewel-toned sea glass. Join the beach fun with a game of cornhole, bocce ball, or ladder toss, or toss a beach ball in the surf as the waves roll in. Junior architects can build out their showplace sandcastles. And lovers of little live things can wade at low tide to find tiny periwinkles and crabs scuttling between flat stones and seaweed. Fill your cooler with a few sandwiches, lobster rolls, and locally made soft drinks for a beachside spread. Bring your surf-fishing gear and do a little casting for stripers, or plan on catching up on that summer reading and maybe a few midday winks. Stay into the evening for spectacular sunsets or rise early for yoga in tune with an unforgettable sunrise.

You’ll probably need both a sense of adventure and a wet suit to try surfing in Maine (the water temperature can be ... invigorating). Stand-up paddle boards and kayaks provide an easier ride through the tide. Kids love skim boarding at the water’s edge. Should you need to dry off, local amusement parks have been serving up classic thrills for generations. Splash around a waterpark. Speed over the track on an old wooden roller coast. Feel like a kid again. Want to share your fun with your canine friends? Several beaches, such as Fort Foster and Gooch’s, are dog friendly at some point during the day and at certain times of the year. Check ahead for days, hours, and rules regarding dogs, so you and Fido can make the most of your vacation. THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 21

York Region

Ogunquit

Sanford-Springvale

Harbor Beach Access via Harbor Neck Rd., York This family-oriented beach offers gentle surf and neighboring Hartley Mason Park provides benches and shade trees.

Footbridge Beach Walk-in from Ocean St. Parking Lot This quiet, sandy beach, reached by a bridge over the Ogunquit River, is great for leisurely walks, looking for shells, and watching the tides.

Beach at the Foot of the Lake Mousam Lake, Shapleigh This small public beach area sits adjacent to the bridge that separates Lower and Upper Mousam Lake.

Long Sands Beach Along U.S. Route 1A, York This two-mile-long white sandy beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and volleyball. Surfing “mixed-use zones” are set off by orange buoys.

Little Beach Various Access Points Reached via the Marginal Way, this mostly rocky pocket beach is a great spot to relax or have a picnic.

Short Sands Beach Along U.S. Route 1A, York This sandy pocket beach is located in Ellis Park, offering promenade walkway with benches, gazebo, grassy area, and playground. Fort Foster Beach End of Pocahontas Rd., Kittery With a lovely coastal trail, this yearround dog-friendly trio of sandy beaches offers views of Portsmouth Harbor and the Isles of Shoals.

North Beach Parking at end of Ocean Ave. This beach offers vast amounts of white sand between Moody Beach and Footbridge Beach, with ample space even during high tide.

The Kennebunks

Ogunquit Beach 115 Beach St. The area’s main beach offers over three miles of white sand, largeto mid-sized waves on the ocean side, and mild to calm on the river.

Goose Rocks Beach King’s Hwy., Cape Porpoise This three-mile-long beach is wide, smooth, sandy, with lovely views of Eastern Goose Rocks.

Wells Drakes Island Beach End of Drakes Island Rd. With a summer-community feel, this beach offers a rock jetty for fishing and exploration. Wells Beach Access Points on Atlantic Ave., Mile Rd., and Webhannet Dr. This seven-mile-long sandy beach is wonderful for families, surfers, and sea-glass hunters. Shops, restaurants, and arcade nearby. Wells Harbor Beach At Wells Harbor Park, Harbor Rd. Set at the mouth of the Webhannet River, it’s a great beach for children with sand bars and tidal pools.

Fortunes Rock Beach, Biddeford* 22 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Holdsworth Park 278 Main St., Springvale Enjoy swimming in fresh, clear water, a sandy beach, playground, picnic pavilions, and trails.

Colony Beach Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport Perfect for those who love to climb on its rocks, sit and watch the surf, or to fish from the impressive jetty.

Gooch’s Beach 80–150 Beach Ave., Kennebunk The .6-mile stretch of sand and surf offers a wide variety of beach activities, is dog friendly, and known for bass fishing off the jetty. Middle Beach 150–160 Beach Ave., Kennebunk Also known as Rocky Beach, this is a narrow and (yes) rocky beach, made up of mostly smooth pebbles and rock-fringed tide pools. Mother’s Beach 160–260 Beach Ave., Kennebunk This sandy beach is bookended by large rock formations that deter large waves, makes it a good kids.

Biddeford+Saco

Old Orchard Beach

Bayview Beach Bayview Rd. and Seaside Ave., Saco A broad, sandy beach with a slow, gradual water entry and plenty of room to relax. Great for families.

Old Orchard Beach Access points along West and East Grand Ave. Maine’s Premier Beach Resort since 1863, OOB invites you to relax along seven miles of beach punctuated by The OOB Pier and amusements for the whole family.

Biddeford Pool At Gilbert R Boucher Memorial Park The surf here is usually calm with easy access, and ample space, even during high tide, to play or relax. Biddeford Rotary Park 550 Main St., Biddeford This riverside park has a playground, sandy beach, volleyball court, picnic grove, and trails. Camp Ellis Beach 9–7 North Ave., Saco Set at the mouth of the Saco River, this small, sandy beach, jetty, and fishing pier is a well-kept secret. Ferry Beach State Park 95 Bayview Rd., Saco More than a sandy beach, there’s hiking trails and a nature center. Limited beach during high tide. Fortunes Rocks Beach Fortunes Rock Rd., Biddeford This two-mile stretch of sandy beach has room to stretch out and waves popular for surfing. Kinney Shores Oceanside Dr., Saco This neighborhood beach has an access path between two houses. A great spot to search for sea glass.

Ocean Park West Grand Ave., OOB Set in the quiet historic village Chautauqua-by-the-Sea, the beach spans from the outlet of Branch Brook to Googins Rocks. Long Sands Beach, York*

Beaches for All So that everyone can enjoy a day at the beach, our coastal communities have made beach wheelchairs available to visitors. These chairs are equipped with large, wide wheels that glide over the sand. Several beach locations also feature Mobi-Mats that are designed for greater accessibility for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and beach wagons. Availability is limited, so be sure to plan ahead. In York, beach wheelchairs are available FCFS through the lifeguards at Harbor Beach (1), Long Sands (2) and Short Sands (2) bathhouses, 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily. On Ogunquit Beach there is a ramp onto the sand. There are beach wheelchairs available for use. Call the town office at (207) 646-5139. Wells has four chairs available FCFS at the lifeguard shack on Wells Beach, and one at the lifeguard stand on Drakes Island Beach, 9 am to 3 pm daily from July 4 weekend to Labor Day weekend. Mobi-Mats are available at each beach right-of-way. The Kennebunks have two beach wheelchairs for public use which are available to rent for a small fee through each town’s recreation departments. Mobi-Mats are available at Mother’s Beach. Biddeford offers free beach wheelchairs for use at Pool Beach during the summer season, reserved through the Recreation Department The Saco Parks and Recreation Department has a beach wheelchair to borrow at Bayview Beach and Mobi-Mats at the entrance. OOB has several beach wheelchairs available daily, at no charge, FCFS along the beach. The OOB Recreation offices has five for longer term use. Mobi-Mats are in place at several beach entrances.

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Sightseeing

LIGHTHOUSES Lighthouses don’t blink when the weather gets wild. They shine on.

Whaleback Ledge Light Boon Island Light

While the days of the manned lighthouse are all but gone, replaced by superior automation tools to alert boaters should they come too close to rocky shoreline, these distinctive landmarks still hold a special place in the hearts of those who come to The Maine Beaches. Visit our website to read more Lighthouse Tales.

Celebrate Maine Open Lighthouse Day September 12, 2026 Held yearly on the second Saturday of September, the state-wide event offers visitors a chance to explore and learn more about Maine’s many lighthouses. Sponsored by the United States Coast Guard, the American Lighthouse Foundation, and the Maine Office of Tourism.

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Whaleback Ledge Light

Boon Island LIght

Est. 1872, Piscataqua River, Kittery GPS: 43.0586°, -70.6966°

Est. 1811, Cape Neddick, York GPS: 43.1214°, -70.4764°

All lighthouses are engineering marvels, but some provoke true How in the world did they build that? moments. Whaleback, at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, certainly fits the bill.

At 133 feet high above sea level, about the height of a 10-story building, this granite giant is not only the tallest lighthouse in Maine but in all of New England.

According to the American Lighthouse Federation, “the water around Whaleback Light is seemingly always agitated, and the wind never ceases...” Prior to its establishment, the waters here were notoriously treacherous to ships. The lighthouse is not open to the public. The best view is from Fort Foster at Kittery Point.

This light’s particular location has a storied past right out of a swashbuckling tale of adventure and survival, complete with shipwrecks, human endurance, and even cannibalism. The current structure’s great height makes it visible from many spots along Maine’s southern coast. Some great vantage points include Sohier Park in York (also home to the Cape Neddick Light), from the top of Mt. Agamenticus, and from points along the shore. But the best way to view it is by boat.

Cape Neddick Light “Nubble Lighthouse” Est. 1874, Sohier Park Road, York GPS: 43.165°, -70.5916° On July 1, 1879, the Knubble Light (original spelling) was completed on a “Nub” of land off the eastern end of Cape Neddick and began protecting maritime trade up and down The Maine coast. The light’s classic white-clapboard quarters and red outbuildings perched high upon a rocky island outcropping make it an ideal subject for the perfect vacation photo or a plein-air painting. Don’t miss when The Nubble is lit twice each year: for a week in midsummer as part of York Days and then each November in a Festival of Lights for the holiday season. The lighthouse can always be viewed from Sohier Park where parking is free, or via a lighthouse cruise. There is no public access.

Wood Island Lighthouse Est. 1808, Biddeford Pool GPS: 43.4569°, -70.3291° Sitting at the mouth of the Saco River, Wood Island Lighthouse is known as the home to a famous four-legged lighthouse keeper. When Keeper Thomas H. Orcutt brought a Scotch Collie mix puppy named Sailor home in 1896 to the island, he had no idea that the dog would become known worldwide.

Goat Island Lighthouse

In December of 1897, when Orcutt failed to respond to a passing boater’s bell, the dog, sensing something wrong, howled, then took hold of the rope and rang the bell. Sailor rang the bell for every ship that went by for nearly a decade until his passing in 1906.

Est. 1833, Cape Porpoise GPS: 43.3583°, -70.4249°

The best way to view the light is from the Audubon Sanctuary in Biddeford Pool. The Friends of Wood Island Lighthouse offers summer tours by boat from Vine’s Landing.

The Kennebunk Conservation Trust later restored the light, keepers’ quarters, and outbuildings in the style of a 1950s New England home and arranged for it to be manned again.

C lockwise from top left: Goat Island Lighthouse; Whaleback Light; Boon Island Light; Wood Island Lighthouse; and Nubble Lighthouse.

Nubble Light Wood Island Light

Built to protect boaters from a shoal of rocky islets and reefs at the head of Cape Porpoise Harbor, Goat Island Light was automated in 1990, making it the longestmanned light in Maine.

The lighthouse welcomed its new keepers Scott and Karen Dombrowski in 1993. It remains under their care to this day. In summer, it’s a private residence. View the light from Cape Porpoise or visit by boat at high tide.

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Celebrate 250 Years

LET FREEDOM RING During 2026, the United States of America will celebrate the 250th anniversary of its founding. Our country’s history has deep roots in the towns of The Maine Beaches. From hidden harbors that helped birth the first U.S.-launched privateers to towns from which patriot militias once marched to fight, the Pine Tree State (then a province of Massachusetts) played a bold role in the Revolutionary War. As we gear up to celebrate the Semiquincentennial, there’s no better time to walk these storied streets, stand where history happened, and discover how the mainland’s easternmost state helped break the dawn of the American story.

The First Inhabitants of Our Lands The official “People of the Dawnland,” also known as the Wabanaki Nations, are a vast confederacy of Algonquin-speaking peoples that comprises the coastal tribes Abenaki, Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Wawenock, Pequawket, and others. In an enduring testament to the region’s cultural and geographical distinctions, countless place names in The Maine Beaches can be directly translated from their indigenous roots. Saco is from an Eastern Abenaki word that means “land where the river comes out,” and nearby Kennebunk translates to “long cut bank.” Ogunquit means “beautiful place by the sea” in Abenaki and Algonquin. We honor the Indigenous peoples who were the original stewards of the lands, woods, and waters on which we now live and recreate. Marshes of the York River

1620

1623

1624

1647

1652

1653

English settlers who would become known as Pilgrims arrive in Plymouth.

English settlers first arrived in what would become The Maine Beaches.

Originaly called Agamenticus— the Abenaki name for the local river—York is first settled.

Kittery, the oldest town in Maine, is officially incorporated.

York, the second oldest town in Maine, is incorporated.

Wells is the third town in Maine to be incorporated.

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Old Burying Yard, York The Sir William Pepperell House, Kittery Reenactors at Fort McClary

Time Travel To York and Kittery From colonial roots to revolutionary feats, centuries of history come to life in The Maine Beaches. Start your journey at The Museums of Old York, where the past isn’t just on display, you can walk right through it. This collection of historic buildings includes everything from rugged barns and salty taverns to elegant colonial homes and even the Old York Gaol (yes, a real 18th-century jail). Don’t miss the Old Burying Yard, where weathered headstones, including the legendary Witch Grave, still whisper stories from centuries past. History buffs will love Fort McClary State Historic Site in Kittery. Its pre-Civil War blockhouse and coastal defenses once guarded the harbor. Today, they offer spectacular views of Portsmouth Harbor, its iconic lighthouses, and the surrounding islands. A little farther up the Piscataqua River, Badger’s Island played a starring role in Revolutionary history. The USS Ranger, commanded by the famed John Paul Jones, was built and launched there in 1777. Your journey through the past continues at the Kittery Historical & Naval Museum, where you follow the currents through 250 years of shipbuilding history that demonstrate this region’s critical role in shaping the tide of history.

Maine’s Semiquincentennial Commission was established to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout 2026, they will strive to unite Maine’s stories with America’s legacy, via events that will encourage lifelong learning and curiosity about Maine’s past, present, and future for its residents and visitor alike. maine.gov/sos/america250me/

1665

1658

1775

1776

1783

1820

A trading post is established in the vicinity of Cornish village.

What was the territory of Maine is absorbed by Massachusetts Bay Colony.

York's militia sends 60 men in response to the battles of Lexington and Concord.

Many early area settlers join the Continental Army, becoming Revolutionary War heroes.

The Treaty of Paris ratifies the independence of the 13 original colonies, now American states.

Breaking from Massachusetts, Maine achieves statehood.

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Dining

MAINE LOBSTER Maine’s southern coast has a robust lobstering industry—making it so darn easy for these tasty crustaceans to travel straight to your plate. Visitors will delight in the countless opportunities to savor fresh lobster perfectly prepared. Choose from casual picnic-table eateries and fine-dining restaurants with creative lobster-based options to long-established, family-run eateries or a new hot spot run by an award-winning chef.

How to Order a Lobster Nothing says summertime in Maine like a freshly caught lobster. Diehard fans buy it live, take it home, boil it up, and pick out every tasty shred of meat. But for those inclined to let someone else do the dirty work, here are a few tips to look like a pro when you put in your lobster order. The Shore Dinner is a classic. This meal comes complete with a 1¼- to 1½-pound lobster, corn on the cob, a small bag of steamer clams, chips, drawn butter, and a jaunty plastic “lobstah” bib. As its name suggests, the Lazy Man’s Lobster delivers all the saltysweet goodness of a Shore Dinner with a fraction of the work. The restaurant cooks the lobster, then they do all the hard work of cracking the claws, knuckles, and tail—leaving the meat for you to enjoy. The fan-favorite Lobster Roll is a toasted top-loader bun filled with cooked chunks of claw, knuckle, and tail meat. Dressed sometimes in drawn butter, sometimes in light mayonnaise, this delicacy typically served cold and seasoned with salt, pepper, and proprietary spices. A popular newcomer on many menus is Lobster Mac and Cheese. This is a luxurious take on a comfort food classic, combining sweet, tender chunks of lobster with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and pasta. Visitors may also find creative dishes such as lobster pizza, lobster bao, and sometimes even lobster ice cream.

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Lobster Facts Latin name: Homarus americanus Only a cooked lobster is bright red. Pulled out of the water it is greenish brown with touches of orange and blue, but can also (rarely) be blue, yellow, orange, calico, cotton candy, albino, and even natural red. Lobsters can grow up to four feet long and weigh up to 40 pounds and can live as long as 100 years. Lobsters have a crusher claw and a pincer claw. Some have the crusher claw on the right side and others have it on the left.

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NEW HAMPSHIRE

LEBANON

Sarah Orne Jewe House

Mount Agamenticus

Regional Airport (SFM)

NORTH BERWICK

BERWICK

SOUTH BERWICK Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park

ELIOT

Ea ste rn

Tra il

nw a

Gr ee

York Village

KITTERY

PORTSMOUTH

Drakes Island Beach

WELLS

Wells Harbor Beach Wells Beach

North Beach Footbridge Beach

Ogunquit Beach

Li le Beach

OGUNQUIT

Marginal Way

Atl ant

Boon Island Lighthouse

Cape Neddick “Nubble Light”

Cape Neddick Beach Short Sands Beach

YORK

Long Sands Beach

York Harbor Beach

Fort Foster Beach

Whaleback Lighthouse

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k Do wne aste

THE MAINE BEACHES MAP

Amt ra

CORNISH

PARSONFIELD

Sac o Riv er

LIMINGTON

Limington Rips

c Sa o r

ve Ri

HOLLIS

Alfred Shaker Museum

ALFRED

LYMAN

111

GOODWIN MILLS

Mousam River

oR ive

Sa c

Kennebunk River

nw a

ree

Tra i

LIMERICK

WATERBORO

Ossipee Hill

Lake Arrowhead

SHAPLEIGH

Southern Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery

SANFORD

nw ay

KENNEBUNK

Grand Beach

Ocean Park

Kinney Shores

Wood Island Lighthouse

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Biddeford Pool

Hills Beach

Bayview Ferry Beach State Park Camp Ellis Beach

Clifford Park

Fortunes Rocks Beach

Goat Island Lighthouse

Goose Rocks Beach

Walker’s Point

KENNEBUNKPORT

ARUNDEL

Biddeford Municipal Airport (B )

BIDDEFORD

SACO

OLD ORCHARD BEACH

Ea ste rn

The Colony Beach Gooch’s Beach Middle Beach Mother’s Beach

son Car e hel efug Rac dlife R Wil

tic O ce

NEWFIELD

ACTON

SPRINGVALE

Sanford Seacoast

ree lG Tra i Eas ter n

Food & Drink

LOCAL EATS If there’s one thing you’ll never want for in The Maine Beaches, it’s good food. From sunrise doughnuts and seaside lobster rolls to chef-driven tasting menus and late-night food trucks, the region’s dining scene is as diverse as the coastline itself. Bring your appetite. You’re going to need it.

Rise and Shine Breakfast is serious business here, even if you’re on vacation. Locals line up early at Congdon’s Doughnuts in Wells, while The Holy Donut in Arundel draws crowds for its cult-favorite Maine potato doughnuts, made from local spuds for a signature cake-like texture (also GF versions). If your vibe is French pastry, then you’ll definitely want to hit Kittery’s Beach Pea Baking Co. tout de suite for croissants that rival anything in Paris. Classic roadside diners make breakfast and lunch a democratic affair. Try the retro-cool Palace Diner in Biddeford, legendary Maine Diner in Wells, or The Goldenrod in York, serving comfort-food classics and ice cream since the 1890s.

Elements Books The Holy Donut Rococo Ice Cream

Seaside Staples Some foods just taste better with an ocean view. Lobster rolls, fried clams, French fries, and ice cream comprise the four iconic Maine Beaches food groups. You’ll find them almost everywhere you turn, often alongside burgers and pizza. Don’t miss Maine’s signature sandwich: the Italian—a sub-style roll stuffed with ham and American cheese instead of salami and provolone, plus sour pickles and other veggies. Grab one from Amato’s, where it was invented, or any number of local sandwich shops. When it’s time for something sweet, the only question is: one scoop or two? Try Big Daddy’s Ice Cream in Wells or Ogunquit for homegrown flavors like Wild Maine Blueberry, or sample inventive creations like Molasses Gingersnap at Rococo in Kennebunk. Then stick around at the latter for a sophisticated nightcap at the dessert bar next door.

Fish & Whistle

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The beyond-yummy Whoopie Pie, a chocolate cake-like sandwich with cream filling, is Maine’s official state treat. Invented a century ago, it’s still made fresh at family-friendly places like Cafe 64 in Old Orchard Beach.

Beyond the Boardwalk Venture inland for Shains of Maine, a classic diner that offers 50+ flavors of ice cream, frozen yogurt and sherbet, plus lobster rolls and fried seafood dinners. In the village of Cornish, Krista’s serves handcrafted dishes with flair, and nearby Bay Haven Lobster Pound is a seafood-lover’s dream.

Star Power The region’s restaurant scene holds its own on the national stage, with acclaimed chefs and unforgettable meals. Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery is a seafood institution, while Surf Point 360 in Ogunquit pairs gorgeous ocean views with fresh, modern flavors. Kennebunkport’s Earth at Hidden Pond in is a destination-worthy culinary experience, and the White Barn Inn consistently turns local, seasonal ingredients into something truly extraordinary. And you can’t go wrong with a classic Surf & Turf at Joseph’s by the Sea in Old Orchard Beach.

Street Eats and Global Flavors For a more casual evening, follow the stream of locals to Congdon’s After Dark, New England’s first food-truck park, where a rotating lineup of trucks serves everything from tacos to Thai. Hours are 4 p.m. until late into the night, daily during the summer and on weekends in spring and fall. And wherever you roam, you’ll stumble upon treats from all around the world, India to Italy, plant-based to rare steak. There’s truly something for every palate and every dietary preference.

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Breweries and Cideries

Distillers

After Harvest Cider Company 82 Sanborn Rd., Acton

Round Turn Distilling 32 Main St., Biddeford

Barreled Souls Brewing 743 Portland Rd., Saco

Wiggly Bridge Distillery 441 U.S. Rte 1, York

Corner Point Brewing Company 1 Sullivan St., Berwick

Wild Bevy Distilling 596 N Berwick Rd., Wells

Funky Bow Brewery 21 Ledgewood Ln., Lyman

Retailers

Kennebunkport Brewing Company 8 Western Ave., Kennebunk Lucky Pigeon Brewing 40 Main St., Biddeford (GF) Odd by Nature Brewing 1400 U.S. Rte 1, Cape Neddick Sacred Profane Brewery & Tankpub 50 Washington St., Biddeford SoMe Brewing Company 1 York St., York Tributary Brewing Co. 10 Shapleigh Rd., Kittery Woodland Farms Brewery 306 U.S. Rte 1 C., Kittery (Non-alcoholic) Xota Brewing 721 Main St., Waterboro

Bradbury Brothers Market 167 Main St., Cape Porpoise Bow Street Beverage Superstore 655 Post Rd., Wells Brew England 193 Main St., Biddeford The Clown 659 U.S. Rte 1, York KPORT Provisions 15 Western Ave., Kennebunk Maine & Vine 45 Ocean Ave., Kennebunkport Prospect Hill Winery 318 Orrills Hill Rd., Lebanon (Seasonal) Tully’s Beer & Wine 45 Wells Plaza, Wells

Brew Pubs and Bars Banded Brewing Company 32 Main St., Biddeford Batson River Brewing & Distilling The Lincoln Hotel, Biddeford Batson River Brewing & Distilling 12 Western Ave., Kennebunk Batson River Fish Camp 73 Mile Rd., Wells Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. 180 Main St., Biddeford Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. 335 Main St., Ogunquit Coastal Alchemist 14 Village Square Ln, Ogunquit GFB Scottish Pub 32 Old Orchard St., OOB Lone Pine Brewing Company 32 E Grand Ave., OOB River Junction Brewing Company 1491 Main St, Sanford The Run of the Mill Public House & Brewery 100 Main St., Saco Sebago Brewing Co. 65 Portland Rd., Kennebunk The Wallingford Dram 7 Wallingford Sq., Kittery Wine House on Main 17 Main St., Kennebunk York Beach Beer Company 33 Railroad Ave., York

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Food & Drink

COASTAL SPIRITS Vacations call for slowing down, savoring the moment, and sipping something delicious.

Across The Maine Beaches, you’ll find an impressive collection of breweries, distilleries, cideries, and wineries, each pouring the region’s character into every glass. From sunlit beer gardens and seaside tasting rooms to cozy wine bars and bottle shops, you can raise a glass to more sunny days at the beach. Many of these producers are family affairs, including The Funky Bow Brewery in the woods of Lyman and Wiggly Bridge Distillery in York, both led by father-son entrepreneurial teams. Wells’ Wild Bevy creates spirits from responsibly foraged, locally sourced Maine botanicals. Enjoy a bit of high-concept drinking in the form of progressive iterations like nonalcoholic and gluten-free breweries. The area’s agriculture traditions are evident in viticulture (wineries), pomology (cideries), and in whiskey and gin infused with botanicals. The spirit behind all these spirits is quintessentially local. Pubs in The Maine Beaches tend to be quirky, full of droll merchandise and great food, and stirred with an insider’s wink, with a strong chaser of locally curated live music and revelry. Oddity by the Ocean, hosted by Odd by Nature Brewing in Cape Neddick, bills itself as the largest craft-beer-and-music festival in the region. While not a bar in the traditional sense, The Rococo Dessert Bar in Kennebunk mixes the signature ice creams they scoop up next door with spirits to deliver adult takes on floats, milkshakes, and affagatos. They also offer unique plated desserts and a assortment of cocktails, wines, beers, plus teas, coffees, and non-alcoholic choices.

Sip Smart A glass (or two) is all part of the fun, but safety always comes first. Even one drink can impair vision, judgment, and motor skills, so plan ahead. Designate a driver, call a ride, or stick close to home. That way, you can keep the good times (and good pours) going all vacation long.

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Sweet Dreams The classic resorts, hotels, motels, and inns that populate The Maine Beaches shoreline helped define the whole of Maine as the original Vacationland. Ogunquit’s Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort and Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick both offer timeless hospitality and unmatched resort-style service to create an unforgettable experience. Friendly staff meets your every need, from superbly presented meals and a round of golf to time relaxing in the on-site spa. Visitors can choose from places with names that give off the spirit of “summer at the beach.” Sea View Inn in OOB, York’s The Cutty Sark Motel, Lafayette’s Oceanfront Resort in Wells, and Kennebunkport‘s The Nonantum Resort are all a short walk from the rolling surf, shopping, and dining options. The Nonantum Resort The Lincoln Hotel The Wanderer Cottages

Places to Stay

CHECK IN, CHILL OUT From oceanfront resorts and historic inns to cozy cottages and family-friendly motels, you’ll find near endless variety of ways to rest, recharge, and wake up to the waves.

Rest on Tradition The region’s well-appointed B&Bs, inns, and cottages offer personalized details and lots of historic charm. Kennebunkport Captains Collection, a quartet of lovingly restored sea captains’ homes, channels the town’s maritime heritage in high style. Both Sea Cliff House in Old Orchard Beach and The Viewpoint Hotel in York promise perfect locations, warm welcomes, top-shelf service, and a relaxed stay.

Family-Friendly For families, this stretch of coast delivers fun from check-in to checkout. The Dunes on the Waterfront in Ogunquit and The Colony Hotel in Kennebunkport are beloved for their beachy ambiance and easy access to everything kids (and parents) love. Meadowmere Resort in Ogunquit keeps all ages entertained with an indoor pool and activities galore, while Hidden Pond Resort & Tree Spa in Kennebunkport redefines the family getaway with luxe cottages, built-in bunk beds, play area, and even babysitting services. 36 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Grownups Only If your vacation vibe is more about cocktails and quiet corners, the past few years have brought a batch of adult-oriented lodging options to the area. Both Kennebunk’s The Wanderer Cottages and AWOL in Kennebunkport promise impeccably designed cottages, quiet time, and an endlessly chill vibe for your next romantic getaway.

The Cliff House Maine

Pretend You Live Here Those looking for longer stays or a more homey experience should check out one of the area’s many vacation rentals. Maine Seaside Rentals offers a range of properties from Kennebunk to Biddeford, while Jean Knapp Rentals serves Ogunquit, Wells, Cape Neddick, and York with diverse options.

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With more than 40 campgrounds to choose from, you’ll find a stay for every style. Enjoy family-friendly RV resorts with full hook-ups and kid-friendly activities, simple tent sites tucked into the woods, glamping accommodations with all the creature comforts, and cozy cabins for a weekend getaway. Many parks offer live music, craft nights, and trails right from your campsite, and a few are specifically geared toward adults. Most campgrounds welcome visitors from May through September, but a few stretch the season into spring and fall. The beaches are quieter. The leaves put on a show. And camping feels even more magical.

The York Region Burnette’s Campground, York Camp Eaton, York Harbor Cape Neddick Campground, Cape Neddick Dixon’s Coastal Maine Campground, York Libby’s Oceanside Camp, York Harbor York Beach Camper Park, York

Wells Beach Acres Campground Riverside Family Campground Sea-Vu Campground Sea-Vu West Stadig Campground Sun OutdoorsTM Wells Beach Thousand Trails Moody Beach

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Camping

TENT REVIVAL Imagine the campfire’s crackle mixing with ocean breezes, the scent of pine, and the soft hush of nature all around … there’s nothing quite like a Maine night under the stars.

Western York County Apple Valley Campground, Acton Beaver Dam Campground, Berwick Cole’s Mine RV Resort & Campground, Lebanon Lazy Frog Campground, Lebanon Lebanon KOA on Salmon Falls River, Lebanon Little Ossipee Lake Campground, East Waterboro Nadeau’s Nest, Lebanon

Sanford Apache Campground Huttopia Southern Maine Yellowstone Park–ME

The Kennebunks Hemlock Grove Campground, Kennebunkport/Arundel

Pine Ridge Campground, Acton Potter’s Place Adult RV Park, Lebanon Salmon Falls River Camping Resort, Lebanon Spacious Skies Walnut Grove, Alfred Windsong Campground, Parsonsfield

OOB Old Orchard Beach Campground

Red Apple Campground, Kennebunkport

Paradise Park Resort

Sandy Pines Campground, Kennebunkport

Pinehirst RV Resort

Yankeeland RV Resort, Kennebunk

Powder Horn Family Camping Resort

Biddeford+Saco

Sun RetreatsTM Old Orchard Beach

Ocean Pines Campground, Biddeford

Sun OutdoorsTM Old Orchard Beach Downtown

Shamrock Campground, Biddeford

Sun RetreatsTM at Wild Acres

Silver Springs Campground & Cottages, Saco Sun OutdoorsTM Saco/OOB, Saco

Icon Key RV Sites

Tent Sites

Glamping/Cabins

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Activities

THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT Storied playhouses, summer-stock theaters, concerts under the stars, and history everywhere you turn. The arts and culture scene thrives in communities throughout our region.

Ogunquit Museum of American Art Seashore Trolley Museum

In the Spotlight The Ogunquit Playhouse began its life as a converted garage in 1933. These days its reputation as America’s foremost regular theater regularly draws Broadway talent to its seaside stage. Also in Ogunquit, the historic Leavitt Theatre mixes first-run blockbusters, live music, comedy, and the occasional silent film soundtracked by live piano. Catch the ocean breeze plus sweet melodies when you pack a picnic for the Wells Summer Concert Series at the Hope Hobbs Gazebo. In Arundel, Vinegar Hill Music Theatre takes a century-old barn and transforms it into an intimate venue that hosts local acts and national names. Enjoy community theater at Biddeford’s City Theater, Sanford’s Nasson Little Theatre or the Sanford Performing Arts Center. Up in Berwick, the Hackmatack Playhouse keeps Maine’s beloved summer-stock tradition alive season after season.

The Brick Store Museum

Perfectly Curated Maine’s beaches have long inspired artists. Creativity is part of our landscape. Throughout the region, galleries and arts organizations host exhibitions, open studios, and seasonal art walks, Local fairs and craft shows feature handmade wares. Head to Ocean Park in July and August for the Saco Bay Artists’ Art Sale. Open April to November, the Ogunquit Museum of Art is Maine’s only museum that is dedicated entirely to American art. Just up the road near Perkins Cove, you’ll spot the Barn Gallery’s bright red facade. Head inside to explore paintings, sculpture, and photography by local artists.

Past Lives This region brims with history. In Kittery, the state’s oldest town, the Kittery Historical & Naval Museum celebrates the roots of this nation’s naval history and Maine’s proud maritime legacy. Step into the Brick Store Museum in Kennebunk and discover the local history, art, and culture of the town back in the old days.

Step into more recent history at White Columns in Kennebunkport, home to the George H.W. Bush Hometown Collection, which offers a glimpse into the former first family’s long connection to the area. In the towns of Biddeford and Saco, the redbrick mills that ring their Historic District tell the story of Maine’s hardworking past, echoed by preserved rural landmarks like the Alfred Historic District . Each reveals how Maine’s story unfolds through generations of ingenuity, labor, and heart. Hop aboard and take a ride at the Seashore Trolley Museum in Kennebunkport, the oldest and largest of its kind in the world,and trace the technological leaps in America’s transit history through vintage streetcars. And in Arundel, come see 50+ vintage automobiles at The Maine Classic Car Museum, with models dating from as early as 1913 and a wide assortment of automotive curiosities and ephemera.

The Maine Classic Car Museum Hackmatack Playhouse THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 41

Activities

GET OUTSIDE There’s nothing like unlimited access to water, land, and in town activities on vacation. The Maine Beaches gives you all of that.

Wells Reserve at Laudholm* Tide pooling in Kittery Finestkind Scenic Cruises*

With tidal rivers and freshwater lakes, wild marshlands and pine-scented forests, scenic trails and sweeping coastal views, The Maine Beaches region is a living, breathing year-round invitation to get outside. Whether you’re paddling through a salt marsh, watching a bald eagle soar overhead, or simply pausing to listen to the wind move through the trees, nature draws you in and keeps you coming back.

Water’s Edge The coastline is a natural playground. At low tide, rocky coves transform into magical, miniature worlds, teeming with starfish, periwinkles, and tiny crabs. Stroll the shoreline for sea glass, sand dollars, and shells — just remember to return any creatures you meet to their homes. If you’re into the big-picture view, coastal strolls and scenic drives abound. Pull off to watch harbor seals sunning on the rocks, or wander through tidal estuaries alive with shorebirds and seabreezes. Every morning walk can be a new adventure.

Current Affairs Water is the heart of life here. Hop aboard a sailboat, schooner, or catamaran for a breezy afternoon cruise, or take a high-speed RIB boat for an ecoadventure. Looking to net more hands-on experience? Join a working lobster boat for an up-close look at Maine’s most iconic crustacean and get a few maritime tales for the road. Whale-watching tours out of Kennebunk bring you close to humpbacks, minkes, and finbacks—plus the occasional playful harbor or gray seal. 42 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

While you’re out to sea, take a moment to cast your gaze back to land for a new perspective on our historic seaside villages, lined with the restored sea captains’ homes, architectural masterworks, and coastal estates. The waters of The Maine Beaches are world-renowned for boating and sailing. Our ports are favored by luxury yachts, vintage sloops, and one-design racers flitting along in packs. Experienced sailors can charter a boat, or novices can hire a captain and enjoy the views. Attention, thrill seekers: kite surfers should take a ride to Ferry Beach. Jet skiing and parasailing services are available in Old Orchard Beach.

Net Positive For anglers, Maine’s waters are a dream come true. Head offshore on a deep-sea charter and feel the thrill as striped bass, mackerel, bluefish, or haddock tug at your line. No matter whether you’re an old salt or a first-timer, plenty of outfitters offer family-friendly trips so even beginners can get hooked on the fun. Landlubbers are always welcome to try surf casting from the beach, shore, or jetty. No license is required for saltwater fishing here, but don’t forget the essentials: bait, tackle, a little patience, and maybe a bit of sunblock. Colony Beach, Kennebunkport Surf casting along the shoreline Paddle the Kennebunk River

Oars Up Sea kayaking lets you slip quietly into salt marshes and sheltered coves, where herons stalk the shallows and eagles wheel overhead. Explore around the mouth of the Saco River by using the Marblehead or Vines Landing boat launches. Stand-up paddleboarding is easy to pick up and offers a new perspective on the coastline. Visitors can take tours and lessons or rent a board here.

Freshwater Refresh Venture inland and you’ll discover a world of meandering rivers, mirror-like lakes, and untamed woodlands. Paddle the tidal stretches of the Mousam or Kennebunk rivers, keeping an eye out for eagles, egrets, and other coastal birds. Around Sanford, calm waters make an ideal setting for a day of waterskiing. And stay tuned for fall. Autumn turns every riverside stroll into a front-row seat for serious color. Inland waters also deliver some of the region’s best fishing. You’ll need a freshwater license, except during the state’s Free Fishing Weekends in late May/early June and in mid-February. Make sure you come back in winter when frozen lakes like Great East and Square Pond become prime spots for ice fishing with trophy-sized togue, a type of lake trout. Check the local bait shop for ice conditions, the best fishing places, and info on a local derby.

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Trail Hopping Step away from the shoreline and you’ll discover a whole new landscape—one of forested paths, hidden waterfalls, and sweeping inland views. The Eastern Trail, part of the East Coast Greenway, runs from Kittery to Canada, offering miles of hiking and biking for every skill level. For a closer connection to nature, wander the trails at Wells Reserve at Laudholm, where tidal marshes, meadows, and woodlands meet. For a bit more adrenaline, mountain bikers can tackle the twisting single-track that crisscrosses Clifford Park in Biddeford. Or pedal into the wild on the multi-purpose Sanford-Springvale Rail Trail, a six-mile journey through changing scenery that’s beautiful in every season.

Wells Reserve at Laudholm

Par Excellence With more than a dozen golf courses in the area, you can always find your moment of zen on a rolling green fairway. The historic Cape Arundel Golf Course has hosted presidents, professional athletes, and movie stars (including Maine’s own Patrick Dempsey). The PGA includes Saco, Wells, and York as top Maine golfing destinations, specifically citing the Championship course at The Ledges in York. Don’t overlook local gems like Biddeford-Saco Country Club with its Donald Ross-designed front nine or the Sanford Country Club for a quiet morning round. You don’t have to be a scratch golfer to take to the mini-greens at Pirate’s Cove in Old Orchard Beach, but don’t be surprised if you run into an animatronic T. Rex on the back nine at Arundel’s Raptor Falls. Over at Wonder Mountain in Wells, you can’t bring your golf cart, however, go-karting is encouraged between rounds.

Golf Courses Cape Neddick Country Club, York The Ledges Golf Club, York York Golf & Tennis Club, York Merriland Farm Par 3, Wells Atlantic Pines Golf Club, Wells Lebanon Pines Golf Course, Lebanon Links at Outlook Golf Course, Berwick Pine Hollow Little Par 3 Golf, Sanford Province Lake Golf Course, Parsonsfield Sanford Country Club, Sanford Dutch Elm Golf Course, Arundel Cape Arundel Golf Club, Kennebunkport Hillcrest Golf Driving Range and Par 3 Pitch and Putt, Kennebunk Webhannet Golf Club, Kennebunk Abenakee Club, Biddeford Biddeford-Saco Country Club, Saco

Pirate Cove Mini Golf Cape Neddick Country Club

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Deep Brook Golf Course, Saco Dunegrass Golf Club, OOB

Take A Breather Not every adventure needs to be high-energy. Often the magic is in slowing down. The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge offers 50 miles of protected habitat, where you can birdwatch along the Atlantic Flyway or photograph unique coastal flora. Picnic in a sun-dappled grove, follow a boardwalk through a bog, or simply pause to breathe it all in—the salty air, the shifting light, the sound of leaves whispering overhead. Birders should pack their binoculars, install the Merlin® App, and start their list. The mix of lowland forests and coastal estuaries make The Maine Beaches an ideal spot for migrating coastal species and waterfowl. Soft adventure seekers will enjoy time at Fort McClary State Historic Site, Fort Foster Park, and Sohier Park in York. And when the day winds down, there’s no better place to reflect on it all than a quiet coastal overlook, a lakeside dock, or a sun-warmed trail bench.

Fort McClary State Park

Elevate Your Adventure York’s Mount Agamenticus is a modest 692-foot-high peak that sprawls out across 30,000 acres of protected land. A short hike (or drive) to the summit rewards you with panoramic views stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Presidential Range. Miles of trails invite hiking, biking, horseback riding, and even ATV adventures, with a universally accessible path known as “The Big A” making it a climb perfect for just about everybody. The Big A Trail Trail biking

Get in Gear Whether you bring your own wheels or rent a bike and essentials from a local outfitter, you’ll find ample opportunity for cycling. Trails weaving through the conservation lands of the Kennebunkport and Arundel Conservation Trusts offer scenic routes for every skill level, from leisurely forest rides to heart-pumping climbs and gnarly descents. Seasoned riders can test their mettle with their pedals on the single-track trails of Parsonsfield, with 25 miles of rugged terrain and unforgettable rides.

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PARKS & PRESERVES

Conservation is a way of life in Maine.

Tread Lightly Many of our public and private lands, parks, preserves, land trusts, and conservation areas are open to visitors. Please help us protect Maine’s priceless resources: • Check ahead to know if you’ll be on public or private land. • Always stay on designated trails or in marked areas. • Plan around peak hours of the day to avoid crowds. • Avoid introducing invasive species: rinse and dry your boat before and after use and don’t transport firewood. • Please don’t damage the trees; we need them. • Only build fires in approved sites; do not leave them unattended and extinguish them thoroughly. • If you pack it in, please be sure to pack it out. This includes biodegradables like apple cores and banana peels.

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Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Decades of stewardship, tireless advocacy, and care have shaped a coastline where wild beauty still thrives and visitors can reconnect with both nature and themselves. In 1970, the Coastal Maine National Wildlife Refuge was renamed for pioneering ecologist Rachel Carson, whose work transformed how we understand and protect our natural world. Today, the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge stretches 50 miles and encompasses more than 5,000 acres along the southern coast of Maine, preserving tidal rivers, salt marshes, and nesting grounds across towns from Kittery to Cape Elizabeth.

York and Kittery The southern gateway to Maine’s coast is rich in both history and habitat. Start in York Harbor, where the Fisherman’s Walk and Cliff Walk trace dramatic ocean views, then venture inland to the forested slopes of Mount Agamenticus for panoramic vistas. Kittery’s Fort McClary State Historic Site and Fort Foster Park mix picnic-perfect views with early American history, while the Great Works Regional Land Trust safeguards miles of trails and woodlands, including Douglas Memorial Woods, Desrochers Memorial Forest, and the Kenyon Hill Preserve. The York Land Trust protects a patchwork of preserves from Highland Farm to Smelt Brook that feel worlds away from the coast’s bustle.

Ogunquit and Wells Ogunquit’s beauty extends beyond its famous beach and charming village. Follow the cliff-hugging Marginal Way for its dramatic sea view, or wind through the network of trails at Beach Plum Farm, Old Boston Preserve, or the Ogunquit River Trail Network to catch views of tidal marshes, wildlife, and four seasons of loveliness. Just up the coast in Wells, the Wells Reserve at Laudholm and Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge are havens for migrating birds and rare plants. The Wildlife Commons, Tatnic Woods, and Tilton Homestead offer quiet spots to hike, picnic, and explore.

Wells Reserve at Laudholm East Point Audubon Sanctuary

Sanford, Berwick, and Beyond

Arundel, Biddeford+Saco

The scenery shifts inland into upland forests, freshwater ponds, and rolling hills. Sanford’s Mousam Way Trails will take you through wildlife-rich wooded landscapes, while Bauneg Beg Mountain in North Berwick offers gorgeous views and peaceful solace.

Arundel’s Community Trails and Welch Woods are a favorite spot for day hikers and cyclists. Explore the maritime forest of Ferry Beach State Park, wander the dunes of Saco Heath Preserve, or birdwatch at East Point Audubon Sanctuary on Biddeford Pool. Saco Bay Trails maintains scenic stretches of trails on the coastline, while Milliken Mills and Blueberry Plains in Old Orchard Beach provide peaceful paths through forest and field.

Berwick’s Great Works Regional Land Trust manages an array of scenic preserves, including Grants Meadow, Keay Brook, and Newichawannock Woods. Each offers a rare glimpse into the wild side of Southern Maine.

The Kennebunks The Kennebunk Land Trust cares for more than a dozen nature preserves from Alewive Woods and Sea Road Preserve to Wonder Brook and Hope Woods. You’ll find a rich array of stunning hikes and birdwatching opportunities. In neighboring Kennebunkport, the Conservation Trust maintains trail networks through Emmons, Smith, and Tyler Brook Preserves, as well as picturesque spots like Goat Island Lighthouse and Ganny’s Garden.

The Eastern Trail

Rails to Trails The Eastern Trail is a 65-mile long multi-use greenway stretching from Kittery to South Portland. The trail system was constructed along the old Eastern Railroad Corridor that connected Boston to Portland from 1842 until 1945. It’s part of a traffic-free route linking 25 cities from Florida to Maine. The Eastern Trail Alliance’s website offers maps that are marked and geo-tagged with various points of interest to help in the planning of bicycle rides and cycling trips. Perfect for cycling, hiking, or birding, the trail links many of the region’s natural highlights and invites you to experience this unforgettable landscape at nature’s pace. THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 47

Activities

BACK TO THE LAND The Maine Beaches has been home to prolific farmsteads and orchards for centuries.

In every season visitors will discover a variety of ways to get back to the land—for a few hours or a weekend.

Spiritwind Maine Maple Sunday

Whether you’re just looking to try some locally grown produce and baked goods, want to spend some time up close with farm animals, or enjoy a traditional New England fall experience complete with hay rides and PYO apples and pumpkins, you can find it here. Frinklepod Farm in Arundel offers an abundance of fresh organic produce and pick-your-own rows which allow guests to fill a pitcher with seasonal blooms to arrange themselves. They also offer a unique Farm Stay experience that can be booked via Airbnb. The kids will love a fall visit to Zach’s Farm in York. Their annual Corn Maze has made top lists in both Maine and New England for years. On certain nights you can even play flashlight tag in the maze. Three Charm Farm Goat & Sheep Creamery in Alfred produces small-batch artisanal yogurt and cheeses, which include chèvre and fresh feta, from combining goat and sheep milk. Visitors will also find Three Charm Farm’s products in local markets, and in many restaurant dishes. Spiritwind Farm, in Lebanon, is a historic 100-plus-acre working farm with a variety of animals that visitors can interact with and learn about.

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In Springvale, McDougal Orchards is a seventhgeneration family farm specializing in tree fruit, fall raspberries, and pumpkins available for U-pick and in the farm store, early August through October. In fall it’s also all about apples, one of Maine’s most important cash crops. McDougal grows dozens of varieties, including state heirloom cultivars like Black Oxford. Also: a corn maze, a fairy village, and miles of walking trails. Here in Maine, spring means taps on the trees and smoke in the air as sap is turned into sweet elixir. On Maine Maple Sunday on the last weekend of March, head to the towns around Limerick, Cornish, and Buxton to visit local sugarhouses for sweet samples, demonstrations, and tours.

Chill Out Along the southern coastline, Maine’s famous snow cover is rarely daunting, though the occasional storm will leave a blanket of sparkling snow on the ground. Here the state’s famous cold is often kept in check by the region’s warming maritime influences. Lovers of lower-key fun will enjoy a crowd-free beach experience this time of year. In winter the dogs can run free and the snow-frosted lighthouses can be contemplated with only the white-capped blue surf for a soundtrack. When it’s time to head inside, warm yourself body and soul in the signature saunas at The Spa at Cliff House in Cape Neddick or at the Admiral’s Inn in Ogunquit. Lower winter rates at many of The Maine Beaches’ resorts and hotels only ups the allure during this special time of year.

Activities

WINTER WONDERFUL Discover a whole different side and season in The Maine Beaches.

Nice Ice Want to glide through the season? You can do that in real time at places like West Brook Skating Rink in Biddeford. This fresh-air adventure often extends through mid February, just in time for the city’s WinterFest, a weekend of sledding games and other “cabin-fever-busting” fun. Meanwhile, semi-indoor rinks like The Waterhouse in Kennebunk offer free ice skating November through March (all rinks operate weather and temperatures permitting). For an experience that’s grounding, but no less exhilarating, try snowshoeing at sites including Wells Reserve at Laudholm, an estuarine research facility open year round.

Cozy, Comfort Food While some of the restaurants that cater to the summer crowds may be on hiatus, so many of the great dining options in the region continue to serve up locally-sourced seasonal specials. Winter is an excellent season for seafood lovers. Oysters are best in months that end in “r”. December to March is Maine scallop season and lobsters are always in season. But in the colder months they develop harder shells and a higher meat yield. The first week in March is Maine Restaurant Week, when residents and visitors alike are encouraged to dine out to support local independent restaurants.

The Nubble Lighthouse THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 49

Celebrate

HOLIDAY EVENTS

Wells Lobster Buoy Tree Dock Square Shops

Tis the Season Some might argue that the moment the last beach towels are packed away, The Maine Beaches have already started hauling out the holly. From cozy craft fairs to seaside parades, November and December bring a flurry of festivities that make every town feel like a snow globe come to life. When November arrives, lace up for a Veterans Day 5K in Wells, browse handmade treasures at the League of Maine Craft Show, and stroll the Saco Main Street Market for early holiday finds. On Thanksgiving weekend the region lights up. Literally. Watch as the Nubble Lighthouse in York twinkles to life while pajama-clad patrons hunt for local finds on Small Business Saturday invites shoppers to come in their pajamas (and perhaps shop for pajamas). Biddeford+Saco keep the glad tidings going strong throughout the weekend with the Biddeford Holiday Stroll and “Saco Bucks Saturday” that rewards hometown shopping, even if its only your hometown for the weekend. 50 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Let Your Heart Be Light There’s a reason why Country Living named Kennebunkport one of the Top 20 Christmas Family Destinations in the world. Spreading joy for more than forty seasons, The Kennebunk’s magical Christmas Prelude is ten-plus days of twinkling lights on the trees, in the town square and hanging on nearly every building you pass. Take in a service of caroling at the Franciscan monastery, fireworks, hot cocoa and s’mores, and the arrival of Santa by lobster boat. The brilliant glow and sweet holiday melodies spread region-wide through early December with the Saco Main Street Tree Lighting, the Heart of Biddeford Merry & Bright, and Old Orchard Beach’s Celebration by the Sea. Those who prefer their holiday spirit to be accompanied by brass bands and decorated floats will not want to miss the Festival of Lights Parade in York, Saco’s Holiday Festival and Parade of Lights, and the Wells Christmas Parade. And don’t forget about Ogunquit’s Christmas by the Sea. It promises to be both holly and jolly. We hear even the lobsters will be wearing red. While plenty of locations in the region will be welcoming the New Year in high spirits, the few, the proud, and the hearty will be kicking off the new year at The Lobster Dip in Old Orchard Beach. No, it’s not a savory treat—it’s a polar plunge for a good cause. Attendees brave the 30-something temps of the Atlantic on New Year’s Day to raise money for Special Olympics Maine. Insider Tip: Plan your visit for the first or second weekends in December and it is possible to find a celebration in nearly every community. The Maine Beaches is a veritable movable feast of holiday cheer.

Shopping for Christmas crafts Christmas Prelude Tree Lighting

New Year, New Dos And while you’re making New Year’s Resolutions don’t forget to add the Sanford Mainers to the calendar, with their June and July season. All summer long you can enjoy the Kennebunk Summer Concert Series on Wednesdays, which lines up nicely so you can scoot down to the Wells Summer Concert Series for a toe-tapping Saturday. Check the local calendar to catch a performance of York’s Ellis Park Summer Concert Series. If your visit takes your inland, don’t miss Sanford’s Maine Attraction Waterski Show, where the lake becomes a glittering stage for summer’s grand finale. See page 58 for our full Calendar of Events. The Lobster Dip, OOB THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 51

Shopping

FIND IT HERE No matter where you shop, expect friendly service and personal touches you find only in Maine.

Suger Dock Square Shops, Kennebunkport

Whether you’re hunting down designer labels, classic Maine apparel, or a handcrafted treasure, you won’t have to go far to find something you can’t wait to take home. From chic boutiques to one-of-a-kind galleries, souvenir stands to antique shops, your retail therapy is mere steps away.

Hit the Outlets First stop Kittery, where the outlets are a little slice of shopping heaven for those looking for great deals on national brands. Clothes? Home goods? Books? Jewelry? Camping gear? Whatever you’re looking for, odds are you’ll find it here.

Antique and Vintage Along Route 1, the towns of Wells and Arundel are a haven for lovers of antique lovers and vintage finds. Shopkeepers have spent decades scouring New England’s back roads and coastal barns for American ironwork, nautical brass, farmhouse finds, and reimagined pieces of history. Browse antique malls, curated shops, and galleries. Mark your calendar for the Wells Outdoor Antiques Show and Sale held in June or the Kennebunk Antiques Show and Sale in August, two can’t-miss events for collectors and casual browsers alike.

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Beyond the Beach The storybook village of Cornish, tucked in northwestern York County, has become a favorite destination for antique lovers and day-trippers alike. Its walkable downtown is lined with vintage shops, a whimsical toy store, and an herbal apothecary. Even Down East Magazine has noted its rediscovered charms. In Sanford, Main Street mixes together general stores and local bargains (yes, there’s a local Maine favorite surplus store, Marden’s) with neighborly energy, while the region’s smaller towns are home to everything from quilt and craft shops to pottery studios, florists, and gemstone dealers.

Shop Local in Every Season In York, stop in at Bell Farm Shops, a unique destination for home and garden gifts and decor. The Shops at Cape Neddick make browsing effortless with an array of shops all under one roof. Spend an afternoon wandering through charming downtowns and partake in some spontaneous browsing. Start the day along Ogunquit’s Main Street, then follow Shore Road down to Perkins Cove, where boutiques and galleries take coastal chic to a whole other level In Downtown Kennebunk and Lower Village, discerning shoppers will find an inviting mix of boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores. Just across the river, Dock Square in Kennebunkport is a treasure trove of souvenirs, gifts, home décor, and fine galleries. In the trending towns of Biddeford and Saco, locally owned shops a nd one-of-a-kind finds line the Main Streets. Just off the Turnpike, Exit 32, The Shops at Biddeford Crossing offer three levels of national brands and big-name favorites. Along East and West Grand Avenue in Old Orchard Beach and in nearby Ocean Park, you’ll find a colorful mix of Maine-made treasures and beach-inspired wares at locally-owned shops.

Top Shopping Areas Kittery Outlets, U.S. Route 1 York Village, York Street Wells, U.S. Route 1 Arundel, U.S. Route 1 Ogunquit, Main Street, Beach Street, Shore Road, and Perkins Cove Kennebunk, Downtown and Lower Village Kennebunkport, Dock Square Biddeford+Saco, Main Street and Pepperell Mill Campus

Kittery Trading Post Salt + Silver

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Funtown Splashtown USA Raptor Falls Mini Golf

Activities

FAMILY FUN From classic amusements and quirky indoor adventures to championship golf and America’s favorite pastime, The Maine Beaches offer a fun-filled day.

Catch the Thrill Buckle up for big excitement at Funtown Splashtown USA, with waterpark, rides, and games for the young and young at heart. York’s Wild Kingdom blends a full-scale zoo and an amusement park for adventure unlimited. Budding marine biologists should stop by the Wells Harbor Shellfish Lab, where interactive exhibits, including a tide pool touch tank, give visitors an up-close-and-personal look at the creatures that make Maine’s coastal environments their home.

Flightseeing Tour Goodall Park, Sanford

Seeking a bigger rush? Zip through the treetops on a ropes course at Take Flight in Kittery, or take to the skies with a scenic flight-seeing experience from Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport.

Inside Scoop Conquer your rainy days with a few frames at Garden Street Bowl in Kennebunk, or try old-school candlepin bowling at Bowl-a-Rama in Sanford. Catch a blockbuster in IMAX and 3D at Apple Cinemas in Saco, or settle in for dinner, drinks, and a show at Smitty’s Cinema Sanford, complete with arcade games and bowling. Nothing beats a summer night at the Saco Drive-In at Aquaboggan. One of the nation’s oldest, this blast-from-the-past drive-in theater plays first-run features and classic favorites under the stars. Head to their classic concession stand for popcorn, churros, drinks, and more.

Diamond Days America’s pastime is a pitch-perfect way to spend an evening in The Maine Beaches. The Sanford Mainers, part of the New England Collegiate Baseball League, play at historic Goodall Park, which has hosted legends including Babe Ruth and Dustin Pedroia. The Old Orchard Beach Bugs also bring collegiate action to The Ballpark. Feel ready to go out for the majors? Start your journey to the big league in the batting cages at Sky View Golf Range. 54 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Movie Theaters The Leavitt Theatre Main Street, Ogunquit Flagship Premium Cinemas Wells Plaza, Wells Smitty’s Cinema Main Street, Sanford Apple Cinemas Saco IMAX US Route 1, Saco The Saco Drive-In US Route 1, Saco

Amusements Fun-O-Rama Beach Street, York York Wild Kingdom 1 Animal Park Road, York

Take Flight Aerial Adventure US Route 1, Kittery Wonder Mountain Fun Park US Route 1, Wells Raptor Falls Mini Golf & Ice Cream Portland Road, Arundel Aquaboggan Water Park US Route 1, Saco Funtown Splashtown USA US Route 1, Saco Martel’s Mini Golf US Route 1, Saco Jungle Adventure 3D Mini Golf Old Orchard Street, OOB Palace Playland Old Orchard Street, OOB Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf 1st Street, OOB

Bowl-a-Rama, Sanford Take Flight Aerial Adventure

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Wellness

RELAX & REJUVENATE It doesn’t have to break the bank to yield peace and rejuvenation. Watch the sunrise from any of our beaches as the waves lap the sand. Now breathe deep.

Hidden Pond

Retreat

Rewilding

Booking a stay at a wellness retreat is the prefect way to reconnect with your partner, your bestie, or even yourself. Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport offers myriad ways to slow down and recenter. Try forest bathing, art classes, yoga and meditation, flower arranging or even a mixology session with the in-house bartender.

Connect to Wilderness is led by a Registered Maine Guide and a Certified Forest Therapy Guide and offers all sorts of nature-based experiences. Book a Mindfulness Hike, Forest Therapy Guided Walk, or a Star Gazing Night Walk.

Many of the hotels and resorts up and down the area include an onsite spa or gym. Cliff House Maine on Cape Neddick features a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor seasonal pools, 24-hour fitness center, and yoga classes. In Ogunquit, Meadowmere boasts a full-service spa, health club with sauna and steam room, indoor pool, and a library for a quiet cerebral moment. River’s Edge Spa in Kennebunkport offers spa and salon services with a river view. Perfect for a full-day experience or a quick pedicure after days of toes in the sand. 56 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Whether during a guided walk, an organized class, or just on your own, an afternoon spent photographing the nature all around you can be uplifting. So many places here are ideal for that very endeavor. Wells Reserve at Laudholm has a variety of trails that wind through various habitats. East Point Audubon Sanctuary’s seabird spectacle is even more impressive in winter, but an amazing spot in all seasons. Sign up for a session with Blue Fern Forest Bathing where you can spend several mindful hours reconnecting with nature on the area’s inland trails.

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Calendar of 2026

EVENTS No matter when you choose to visit The Maine Beaches, there’s likely to be an event going on. Some visitors even plan their annual vacations to coincide with their favorite Maine Beaches event.

Christmas in July, Nubble Lighting

January

June

Annual Lobster Dip New Years Day Old Orchard Beach

Ogunquit Pride June 5 – 7, Ogunquit

February Paint the Town Red All February long The Kennebunks Biddeford WinterFest February 6-8 Downtown Biddeford

March Biddeford Saco Restaurant Week March 15 – 22 Biddeford+Saco Maine Maple Sunday March 21-22 Region-wide Mary’s Walk March 21, Downtown Saco

April / May Ogunquit Lobster Bite Challenge April 25, Ogunquit May Day May 2, Kennebunk Memorial Day Parades May 25, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport 58 | THEMAINEBEACHES.COM

Lobster Rock in OOB June 8, Old Orchard Beach BonAire! A Celebration of Ogunquit June 13, Ogunquit Pride in the Bunks June 13, The Kennebunks La Kermesse, Franco-American Festival June 20 – 23 Biddeford Maine Made Crafts Show June 26 – 27, Wells Saco Main Street Arts Festival June 20, Saco

Fireworks Display July 5, York Waterboro Old Home Days July 11 – 12, Waterboro Summer Solstice Craft Show July 11 – 12, Wells Native American Pow Wow July 18 – 19, Wells Christmas in July Nubble Lighting July 24, Cape Neddick Harbor-Fest July 25, Wells

August Ogunquit Art Association Art Auction August 1, Barn Gallery, Ogunquit

July

York Days August 2 – 9, York

4th of July Parade and Fireworks July 3, Sanford

Annual Illumination Night August 3, Ocean Park

Fireworks Display July 4, Ogunquit

Maine Made Crafts Show August 8 – 9, Wells

Fireworks Display July 4, The Kennebunks

Camp Ellis Harborfest August 8 – 9, Camp Ellis

July 4th Parade, Concert & Fireworks July 4, Old Orchard Beach

Heart of Biddeford Fringefest and Riverjam August 14 – 15, Biddeford

November

Seasonal Events

League of Maine Craft Show November 7 – 8, Wells

Sanford Mainers Baseball June through July, Sanford

Annual Beach Olympics, to Benefit Special Olympics August 13 – 15, Old Orchard Beach

Veterans Day 5K November 14, Wells

Kennebunk Summer Concert Series Wednesdays: June through August

Saco Main Street Market November 22, Saco

Wells Summer Concert Series Saturdays: Late June through August

Lighting of the Nubble November 27, Cape Neddick

Music on Main Series 4th Fridays: June, July, and August, Saco

Annual Breakaway 5K Race August 15, Old Orchard Beach Chili-Fest August 22, Wells

September Summer Solstice Craft Show September 5 – 6, Wells Capriccio Music Festival September 12, Ogunquit Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival September 7 – 8, Wells Annual OOB Jeepfest September 12, Old Orchard Beach Capriccio Kite Festival September 12, Ogunquit Annual Car Show September 18 – 19 Old Orchard Beach Heart of Biddeford Oktoberfest September 26, Biddeford

October League of Maine Craft Show October 10 – 11, Wells Harvest Chill Fall Festival at Vinegar Hill October 12, Arundel Family Jamboree, October 17, Wells

Pajama Shopping Day— Small Business Saturday November 28, The Kennebunks Biddeford Saco Holiday Stroll November 28 – December 31, Biddeford Saco Bucks Saturday November 28, Saco

December Christmas Prelude December 3 – 13 The Kennebunks

Music on the Patio Series June through September, Springvale Ellis Park Concert Series July through September, York Maine Attraction Waterski Show July through September, Sanford For more information visit TheMaineBeaches.com/events/ or Facebook.com/TheMaineBeaches/

Saco Main Street Tree Lighting December 4, Saco Holiday Festival and Parade of Lights December 5, Saco Heart of Biddeford Merry & Bright December 5, Biddeford Festival of Lights Parade December 6, York Celebration by the Sea December 5, Old Orchard Beach Christmas by the Sea December 11 – 13, Ogunquit Wells Christmas Parade December 13, Wells

York Harvestfest & Kidsfest October 17, York OgunquitFest October 23 – 25, Ogunquit Pumpkin Harvest Festival October 24, Saco The Sanford Mainers THEMAINEBEACHES.COM | 59

Special Gatherings

RSVP, I DO It could be the inspiring ocean views or the coastal hospitality, probably both, that has long made The Maine Beaches a beloved site for saying “I do.”

Let’s Get Together

It’s no wonder we‘ve earned top spots on wedding destination lists from WeddingWire, U.S. News & World Report, and Forbes. The Maine Beaches makes it easy to relax, celebrate, and let your love take center stage on your special day. Start imagining your perfect wedding. Does it waltz through a grand ballroom at a historic hotel? Linger on the lawn at a seaside estate? Walk barefoot into the surf to kiss the bride? Our area is rich with outdoor venues that allow everyone to enjoy beautiful coastal vistas and mild temperatures. Select from a diverse collection of waterfront venues, converted country barns, and charming inns. The region’s communities are a veritable smorgasbord of caterers and bakers, florists, DJs, musicians, and officiants to make your moment an affair to remember. Need to entertain out-of-town guests before the big event? No problem. Venture out in smaller groups, schedule a relaxing beach yoga class, or charter a scenic boat cruise.

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The area has also consistently been a favored spot for family gatherings, reunions, and group events. Easy to reach, just an hour from Boston, yet with a laid back, away-from-it-all feeling, it’s a ready-made locale for everything you could want. When it comes to company retreats or conferences, The Maine Beaches makes it easy to mix business with pleasure. The setting? Equal parts stunning coastline and polished convenience. Modern, well-kept venues meet a top-notch network of local professionals who make meeting planning seamless. Then, once the work wraps, cue the play. Trade your conference badge for flip-flops. Explore miles of soft, sandy beaches. Tee off on a premier golf course or charter a boat for a little post-meeting adventure.

In Maine, a marriage license can be obtained by filing one’s intentions at the town office for a $40 fee. The licenses are valid for 90 days and there’s no waiting period. Because when it’s meant to be, why wait?

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