I really wanted to take my 14-month-old yellow lab to the beach during Labor Day weekend, as I've…read morenever taken her to one before, but I was unsure which beaches allowed dogs. Not being able to find many places around Portland at first, I almost changed my mind until I saw a review written by Diana K about the nearby Bayview Beach. Parking was tough at Bayview due to the lack of clearly marked parking spaces. Not wanting to rush intruding into someone else's parking space in the surrounding neighborhood, we decided to drive down further, and stumbled upon this gem. While this beach had a similar issue, with limited parking, there are a couple of lots across the roads that's opened to the public; for a fee of course. The beach itself was really nice, despite the seaweeds washed up on the shore. The area is nice and peaceful, despite the ample amount of people at the beach at the time. There were a ton of dogs at the beach, both large and small. While dogs must be leashed from the month of July to August (9-5 pm), I believe they can be off leash all other times. Will definitely be coming back!

It was a nice quiet beach! Lots of bark/ seaweed wash up the day we arrived. Beach houses for rent,…read more few miles from Old Orchard Beach which Makes it a good spot to hang out with a muzzled age group.

My first and last time at the beach in 2020. It was also my first time at a Maine beach and I had…read moreno idea how clean and serene they were. I guess I'm just used to all the garbage and crowds along the Jersey Shore. The only downside is that parking is a bit pricey, at $20 a pop. But if you are an early bird and can make it there before I think either 8 or 9, then parking is only $5. Since we came on a Tuesday (at around noon), there weren't much people around, which was super nice. The weather for that day was only forecasted at the low 70s with some clouds, but it turned out to be a great beach day. It was warm, but not sweltering. Warm enough to go in the water - but only if you're brave. The water was icy cold. But after a while, you just become numb and don't even notice it (lol). There aren't really any waves but there is a very strong current so you definitely don't want to mess around with that. I never went out further than past my stomach, especially since I don't swim very well. Even just standing there with the water up to my waist, I could feel the currents pulling me. The best part of this beach is that it's only a 20-minute drive from Portland. We were visiting for the week and staying in Downtown, and didn't want to drive far to get to a beach so Ferry Beach was perfect for us. If I lived in the area, I would totally get a season pass.

Very nice small protected beach. The parking lot is also small but I've never had a problem getting…read morea spot. If you live in Scarborough get a beach pass for $40 at city hall. Very nice at low tide with a tidal pool for kids to play in. You can walk the beach all the way to the Black point Inn.

Nice walk through pine trees, we ran into a friendly snake. Sunned on the rocks and watched the…read moreseagulls and crows do their thing. Seems to be a sharky area from the sign. Good place for a walk and a reboot in nature.

Ferry Beach is perfect for those with little ones! I think of Ferry Beach more as a "Mother's…read moreBeach" as it's not connected to a large mass of the Atlantic. There are lots of children for yours to make friends with, shallow waters, and a sandy beach with no debris. During the summer hours, the entrance fee to park in the private lot is $15 (CASH ONLY) per vehicle from 9 AM-3 PM and $5 before 9 AM and after 3 PM.

I visited Old Orchard Beach in the off-season, so most of the shops, restaurants, and amusements…read morewere closed; but I actually found that to be part of the charm. Without the summer crowds, the beach felt quiet and serene. I could walk for miles along the sand with only the sound of the waves and the gulls for company. The pier was closed, but it was still nice to see it up close and I can imagine how lively it must get in the warmer months. A few local spots were still open and the locals I met were friendly and welcoming! The chilly air gave the town a calm, coastal feel that was really refreshing. If you're looking for the classic seaside excitement, definitely come back in the summer. But if you enjoy peaceful walks, ocean views, and a slower pace, Old Orchard Beach in the off-season has its own quiet beauty.

Old Orchard Beach is the perfect mix of relaxation and fun, whether you are visiting as a couple or…read morewith the whole family. The West Grand area is especially nice with clean bathrooms, easy access to the sand, and plenty to do nearby. Staying right on the beach at places like Ocean House or Beechwood is ideal. It is so much better than commuting in and out each day. There is something for everyone, big kids, little kids, and kids at heart. From the water to the boardwalk, you will never be bored. Just remember, like at any beach, keep a close eye on the little ones in the waves. If you are not staying overnight, be prepared for parking fees ranging from 20 to 40 dollars per day. But once your feet hit the sand, it is worth every penny. Old Orchard Beach has that classic seaside charm that makes you want to come back year after year like we do.

Goose Rocks Beach is beautiful. This is the second time that we have stayed in this area…read more My family and I rented a home for a few days within walking distance of the beach. The beach was immaculately clean, and I was happy that in early June, we were allowed to bring the dogs on the beach all day (as long as they were leashed).

My absolute happy place…read more Beautiful water and sand. When it's low tide, you can walk forever! The inlet allows for some waves, but the tides allow for a family friendly experience. Very walkable beach. When tide is low you can walk to Timber Point. Limited parking so you'd have to walk or ride your bike!

Wow, Town of Scarborough, what has happened to this beach?! The entire length from the parking lot…read moreto the jetty is a mess! You used to rake the beach every morning now its covered in seaweed and debris. I get protecting the plovers (which you have by roping off ten feet before the dunes) but this is ridiculous!

This is my favorite beach around. Lots of parking and even some free parking. So much space to get…read morea spot, with amazing views and the water is typically clean. Once in a while you will get the red seaweed but other than that is always clear. You can find sand dollars most days and the stretch of beach is massive if you just want to take a walk. This beach is where I frequent most!

This inn has a back to the past feel that is perfect for those quiet travelers who can appreciate…read morethe solitude and peace of nature. It is a block away from the Atlantic Ocean and beach. It is operational seasonally and closes the end of October. After reading recent reviews, the facts in them are true! This is not a HOTEL, there are no elevators, minibars, pools, daily maid service and plenty of stairs to climb. The place is a couple of hundred years old but pretty well maintained and my room was very clean. I booked a larger room on the first floor that was pretty quiet and very clean. The furniture was basic, had a minifridge and large bathroom. Coffee and muffins were put out for all at 7 AM and coffee and cookies at 2 PM. There is a restaurant on premises that serves breakfast starting at 8 AM and dinner from 4 to 9 PM. The bar is open during dinner hours only. So, this is a basic B&B in an out of the way beach town. DO NOT come here if you need modern furniture/wall art, minibars, pools, in room coffee or need pampering. Do not bring kids. Stay at one of the chain motels along the highway. You'll be happier!

(SIDE NOTE: I usually come to Higgins during the off season, so I can't speak to what it's like in…read morethe height of summer.) I always like walking Higgins. There's a shipwreck from 1897 there! I don't know if any other locals have noticed, but it seems like it's less and less exposed (the sands seem to be shifting a lot) these past few years. But the last time we came at low tide, it *was* there with its incredible ecosystem that exists in its adjacent tide pools! Higgins is super popular with: 1. Surfers! 2. People walking their doggos! 3. Plovers! There is an incredible amount of signage here in spring/summer educating and informing folks about where they can't bring their dogs because of the nesting area of our endangered/near-threatened shorebirds. If you're visiting: please, please pay attention to this and respect where both you and your four-legged friend can't run around in. It's tough parking here (from May 1st to September 15th if you park on the road you have to pay an hourly fee; there's also a public lot a few blocks away that's $10 a day), but it's a beautiful space with an expansive stretch of sand with a tidal river to the left.

EXTREMELY LIMITED PARKING!…read more But when you can find parking, this is it! 1.4 mile trail. Has views of the water with a few spots to look out, sit on some rocks, and even a really cute bench. We were there on a day where waves were rough and got to watch the surfers. Trail is accessible for able bodied individuals. Most of it is flat and easy to navigate. Some spots have roots or rocks, but overall do able.

Beautiful scenic trail to hike on. Very level flat pathway through woodland area and side paths…read morealong the waterfront. Smaller beach area full of rocks and shells. Amazing views and lots of birds to watch. Bring binoculars! A few benches to sit and enjoy....

Parking close to the beach. A great place to go for warm spring day. Great views Ang lots of room…read morefor walking.

love this beach. it's an hour away but worth it to spend a beautiful day on the shore. plenty of…read moreroom. lots of beach to walk or just sun all day with a good book and a cooler full of treats. highly recommend