DownEast & Acadia Region Saltwater Beaches

The northeastern region of Maine is home to some of the state’s most charming communities and unique maritime history. Mount Desert Island was home to the Wabanaki, “The People of the Dawnland,” and has been a favorite vacation spot for many Mainers and visitors alike for centuries. While the dramatic granite shoreline is perhaps the focal point of the Bold Coast, there are also delightful beaches.

• Sand Beach in Acadia National Park has 300 yards of soft sandy beach tucked between rocky headlands. Backed by forested cliffs and lapped by chilly Atlantic waters, it’s one of the most scenic beaches in New England. The water temperature rarely rises above the mid-50s in summer, but brave swimmers still take the plunge. Lifeguards are typically on duty in peak season, and nearby trails like the Great Head Trail provide spectacular elevated views of the cove.
• Roque’s Bluff State Park, near Jonesboro, is a half-mile crescent of sand and pebbles along Englishman Bay. This spacious beach feels wonderfully uncrowded, with views stretching toward offshore islands and open ocean. In addition to saltwater swimming, the park features freshwater Simpson Pond, picnic areas and wooded trails, making it an ideal stop for families looking to spend a full day outdoors.
• Jasper Beach in Machiasport is entirely made of smooth stones and pebbles polished by the sea. When waves roll in, the stones create a distinctive rattling sound that adds to the beach’s wild, remote character. Sturdy shoes are recommended for walking along the shoreline, but the reward is a striking coastal landscape that feels untouched and unforgettable.