The 10 Best Beaches in Maine That Are Hidden from the Usual Crowds

Birch Point State Park Beach in Owls Head doesn’t really come up on top ten lists (until now). However, this overlooked crescent of tranquility, soft sand and gentle tides definitely deserves a bit more fanfare than it gets. Need more proof? Envision shaded spots for picnics and boulders to climb if you’re feeling particularly adventurous. Add to that epic panoramas of Mussel Ridge Islands. You might even spy a lobster boat. We rest our case.

Where to stay:

• Cottage on Private Beach (4 guests): $457/night
• Owls Head Beachfront Cottage (5 guests): $150/night
• Owls Head Village Post Office (6 guests): $180/night

An ecological gem situated south of Machiasport, Jasper Beach entices in-the-know visitors with its colorful pebbles and serene ambiance. It’s also a terrific place for peeping wildlife. Wondering how to make the most of your time? Carve out a few hours to stroll the empty shoreline and gaze at the majestic migratory birds. Don’t leave without picking up some souvenir stones and driftwood.

Where to stay:

• Frisky Fish Cottage (4 guests): $145/night
• Oceanfront House (6 guests): $185/night
• Ocean-View Cottage (7 guests): $120/night

We absolutely love the dramatic coastline of Maine, but if you’re seeking something a bit, well, less rocky, consider heading to the 2,250-acre Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve. Follow the scenic Knight Trail to Barrier Beach Trail to Laudholm Beach. Soak in the splendor of grass meadows, cinematic Mount Agamenticus and aspen groves and marshlands on the trek. While the ultimate reward—solitude, salty breezes, soft sand, seashells and glistening tidal pools—awaits at Laudholm Beach.

Where to stay:

• Updated Cottage (4 guests): $182/night
• Riverfront Home (5 guests): $198/night
• Sunny Condo (6 guests): $179/night

You probably haven’t heard of Phippsburg (truth be told, it wasn’t on our radar until research started for this article). Just outside this low-key town an hour’s drive from Portland is a destination worth the detour. Follow the lightly trafficked, hilly trail over Morse Mountain to Seawall Beach. In approximately 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at a peaceful slice of coastline with gorgeous dune views and rocks to rest. Afterward, treat yourself to a well-deserved beer and some steamers at Spinneys.

Where to stay:

• Driftwood Oceanfront Cottage (6 guests): $280/night
• Phippsburg Cottage (6 guests): $288/night
• Stunning Family Friendly Home from Marriot Home & Villas by Marriott International (12 guests): $550/night

Who says a beach must be lapped by ocean waves? That’s far too narrow a definition if you ask us. Especially when lovely spots like Pennesseewassee Beach exist. Perched on the shores of Norway Lake, this idyllic idol provides a serene and wonderfully shaded setting for a splendid day. If you’re keen on swimming or busting out that pool float that’s been collecting dust in the attic since last year, the warm gentle waters certainly won’t disappoint.

Where to stay:

• One-Bedroom Cottage (2 guests): $127/night
• Eagle’s Nest (4 guests): $100/night
• Remodeled Lakefront Home (6 guests): $265/night

One way Mother Nature guards her most exquisite earthly phenomena? Keeping them cleverly hidden. Case in point: the secret beach at Barred Island Preserve. During high tide, it’s entirely concealed. So, what does that mean for visitors? You’ll need to keep a close eye on the tidal tables and the clock in order to tick this tranquil treasure off your bucket list. Wondering how to get there? Just follow the moss-covered path for about a mile.

Where to stay:

• Spirit Soaring Loft (2 guests): $149/night
• Shorefront Shingled Home (3 guests): $156/night
• Dow Road Cottage (4 guests): $127/night

Despite being one of a handful of sandy swaths in the Midcoast Maine region, this under-rated respite from the hustle and bustle still doesn’t get the credit it deserves. Though, it’s not like that’s such a big thing. If more people knew about Sandy Point Beach it wouldn’t be such a sublime setting for sunbathing, swimming, strolling and seaside picnics. With any luck, you might even witness some ospreys nesting.

Where to stay:

• Cozy Cabin (4 guests): $250/night
• Cape-Style Beachfront Home (7 guests): $190/night
• Knotty Pine Cabin (10 guests): $300/night

Not just one of the most beautiful and quiet hidden beaches in Maine but the entire country, Roque Bluffs State Park ranks among the last remaining seaside escapes where it’s actually possible to spend the entire day without seeing another living soul (save, perhaps, your travel companion). Seriously! The dramatic cliffs, pebbly-clad coast, glacial striations, gentle waves and views of Englishman Bay feel very much like a for-your-eyes-only situation. Don’t believe us? Go and see for yourself.

Where to stay:

• Charming Beachfront Cottage (4 guests): $171/night
• Refurbished Oceanfront House (6 guests): $185/night
• Family-Friendly Cottage (7 guests): $120/night