Although Maine’s coastline is longer than California’s, only about 70 miles is lined by beaches. But they are such beautiful stretches of white sand many families travel each year to spend their vacations at one. These four Maine beaches are especially good for family travelers, with gentle waves and long, shallow water entry.
Old Orchard
The longest of Maine’s beaches — it extends for 3 miles — Old Orchard is also the most developed, with an amusement park, 500-foot pier and direct access by Amtrak train from Boston. Family-friendly hotels and inns line the shore, but don’t impede multiple access points to this free beach. Wide enough so there’s plenty of sand space even at high tide, the beach also appeals to kids thanks to Palace Playland Park’s oceanside carousel, bumper cars, slides and thrill rides. Older generations love its authentic retro vibe.
Ogunquit
A series of beaches along an oceanfront of more than 3 miles offer both variety and elbow room. Wide sands, shallow water, gentle surf and sandbars leave plenty of places for young children to play and practice swimming. All this makes Ogunquit popular and especially crowded on weekends. For more space, head to the northern end at Footbridge Beach, accessed by a long footbridge over the tidal Ogunquit River.
Crescent Beach, Cape Elizabeth
Although smaller than the other two, Crescent Beach has several advantages for families. These include abundant and close parking, large changing and shower facilities, and a large shaded picnic area that gives families a space to take a break from the sun and eat lunch. The water entry is gentle enough for young kids, and older kids can rent kayaks at the beach or take kayak tours there.
Wells
The 1.5 miles of white sand bordering Wells is backed by dunes and tall grasses, giving it a remote feel despite its location along one of the busiest stretches of the Maine Coast. The beach is wide even at high tide, and kids love wading in the tidal pools and discovering small sea creatures among the rocks.
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