With over 3,500 miles of coastline, the beaches in Maine are some of the best in New England. While Old Orchard Beach offers fun in the form of Palace Playland and those killer pier fries, the rest of our state beaches are fairly laid back. While it’s true that some of the coast is rocky and rugged, wide swaths of it offer sandy beaches perfect for a summer day. Despite lots of competition, we think this might be the best beach near Portland, Maine. Read on to find out why!
Google Maps
Crescent Beach State Park is located in Cape Elizabeth, about 8 miles (and a beautiful 20 minute drive) from Portland.
Scott R / TripAdvisor
It’s known for its 1-mile sandy beach which creates a large cove for swimming, SUPing and kayaking.
ReddyBro / TripAdvisor
It’s also known as one of the most popular beaches in the area.
Stephanie G / TripAdvisor
But, despite its popularity it’s one of the easiest to access beaches in the area.
starre / Flickr
While many beaches have limited parking with fees upwards of $10 a day, Crescent Beach State Park will cost you only $6 for an entire day.
A TripAdvisor Member / TripAdvisor Note: Non-Maine residents will be paying $8 per day.
The large parking area leads to a sandy path with smaller paths leading ot the beach.
starre / Flickr
While there are rocks in some areas, most of the beach is sandy perfection.
Stephanie G / TripAdvisor
And, during low tide the beach real estate is huge!
A TripAdvisor Member / TripAdvisor
What we especially love about this beach is how much space there is to spread out.
Scott R / TripAdvisor
Most nice days, the main section of the beach will be full of people, but a simple walk down the beach in either direction will lead to emptier areas for some privacy.
abbymorgan / TripAdvisor
Between the low cost, plentiful parking, large beach area and clean amenities we think Crescent Beach State Park is the perfect summer weekend destination.
Michelle Starin
Crescent Beach State Park is open every day from dawn to dusk. Entry costs are:
Google Maps
Scott R / TripAdvisor
ReddyBro / TripAdvisor
Stephanie G / TripAdvisor
starre / Flickr
A TripAdvisor Member / TripAdvisor
Note: Non-Maine residents will be paying $8 per day.
abbymorgan / TripAdvisor
Michelle Starin
- Maine residents 65 and older / free
- Kids 5 – 11 / $1
- Kids under 5 / free
- Adult Maine residents / $6
- Adult Maine non-residents / $8
- Senior Maine residents / $2
For specific driving instructions to Crescent Beach State Park, click here. You’ll just need to enter your own starting point.
Another great beach to visit in southern Maine is this one. The low tide there is a must-see!
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