Guide to Best Beaches in and near Camden Maine 2024
Exploring the Best Beaches in Camden, Maine
Camden, Maine, is a quaint, coastal town nestled on the edge of Penobscot Bay, offering visitors access to both saltwater and freshwater beaches. With a population of around 5,000 residents, this scenic gem in Midcoast Maine is known for its natural beauty and historic charm. From miles of trails in Camden Hills State Park to the peaceful waters of Megunticook Lake, Camden offers the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature during the summer months.
The town of Camden boasts an impressive range of outdoor activities year-round. Whether you're enjoying a summer day at the beach or hiking to the top of Mount Battie for a panoramic view of Penobscot Bay, Camden has something for everyone, including beach lovers. Let’s dive into the best beaches in Camden and the surrounding area, all within a short drive of downtown Camden.
Laite Memorial Beach Park (Camden)
Laite Memorial Beach Park is a hidden gem located on Bay View Street in the heart of Camden. This beach offers a magnificent pebble beach and stunning views of Camden Harbor. Locals love this spot for its easy access and proximity to downtown Camden, making it a great option for a quick visit. It’s especially popular during high tide when the waters of Camden Harbor invite visitors for a refreshing swim.
- Town: Camden
- Distance from Camden: Right in town, on Bay View Street
- Parking Situation: Limited parking available along the street
- Open Season Dates: Open year-round, popular during summer months
- Fees: Free
- Sand Type: Rocky with some sandy patches
- Amenities: Picnic tables, public restrooms, children’s playground, scenic harbor views, and a swim float
Why locals love it: It’s a great place to have a family picnic, take in the views of the boats in the harbor, or let the kids enjoy the children’s playground.
Barrett’s Cove Beach (Camden)
Located on the shores of Megunticook Lake, Barrett’s Cove Public Beach offers a relaxing alternative to saltwater beaches. This small freshwater beach is a great spot for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. With its picnic area, restrooms, and swim float, this spot is popular for families looking to escape to nature while staying close to Camden.
- Town: Camden
- Distance from Camden: 10-minute drive
- Parking Situation: Free parking near the beach
- Open Season Dates: Year-round, busiest during summer months
- Fees: Free
- Sand Type: Sandy with some grassy areas
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, swim platforms, and a boat launch at nearby Shirttail Point Park
Why locals love it: The large grass embankment provides ample space for families to relax, and the lake’s calm, fresh waters are perfect for swimming.
Lincolnville Beach (Lincolnville)
A short 10-minute drive from Camden, Lincolnville Beach is one of the most popular spots for locals and tourists alike. This sandy beach sits along Route 1, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a great place for sunbathing or taking a scenic stroll along the coast of Maine. With easy access to local shops, restaurants, and the Lincolnville Ferry Terminal, it’s a perfect place for a summer day trip.
- Town: Lincolnville
- Distance from Camden: 10-minute drive
- Parking Situation: Paid parking available
- Open Season Dates: Year-round, busiest in summer months
- Fees: Parking fees may apply
- Sand Type: Sandy
- Amenities: Public restrooms, local shops, and eateries nearby
Why locals love it: It's the perfect blend of beach relaxation and convenience, with plenty of dining options just steps away from the sand.
Birch Point Beach State Park (Owls Head)
Located a 25-minute drive from Camden, Birch Point Beach State Park is known for its stunning crescent-shaped sandy beach and peaceful atmosphere. The picnic tables and outdoor grills make it a great option for a day out with the family, while nature lovers can explore the trails and coastline.
- Town: Owls Head
- Distance from Camden: 25 minutes by car
- Parking Situation: Ample parking available
- Open Season Dates: Mid-May to Labor Day
- Fees: Entrance fee required
- Sand Type: Sandy
- Amenities: Picnic areas, restrooms, hiking trails
Why locals love it: It’s one of the best places for a peaceful beach day surrounded by the natural beauty of Maine’s coastline.
Rockport Marine Park (Rockport)
Just a short drive from Camden, Rockport Marine Park offers a small beach and stunning views of the small harbor park. The beach is mostly rocky, but it's a popular spot for locals to enjoy a quiet afternoon by the water. The park also offers picnic tables and bathroom facilities.
- Town: Rockport
- Distance from Camden: 5-minute drive
- Parking Situation: Free parking available
- Open Season Dates: Open year-round
- Fees: Free
- Sand Type: Rocky
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, scenic views
Why locals love it: It’s a great place for a peaceful escape from the busier beaches in the area, and it’s close to downtown Rockport.
Crescent Beach (Owls Head)
This quiet, hidden gem is located in Owls Head, about a 25-minute drive from Camden. Crescent Beach is a small, secluded beach, perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat. While the beach is more pebbly than sandy, it’s a great option for beachgoers seeking solitude.
- Town: Owls Head
- Distance from Camden: 25 minutes by car
- Parking Situation: Limited parking
- Open Season Dates: Open year-round
- Fees: Free
- Sand Type: Pebbly
- Amenities: Quiet beach, limited facilities
Why locals love it: The serene atmosphere and lack of crowds make it an ideal spot to relax.
Sandy Beach (Rockland)
Located just 20 minutes from Camden, Sandy Beach in Rockland is a popular spot for families and tourists. With a sandy beach and proximity to downtown Rockland, it’s a great option for a beach day close to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
- Town: Rockland
- Distance from Camden: 20 minutes by car
- Parking Situation: Paid parking nearby
- Open Season Dates: Year-round
- Fees: Free, parking fees may apply
- Sand Type: Sandy
- Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas
Why locals love it: It’s the perfect place to combine a beach visit with a trip to downtown Rockland.
Fun Facts
"Where the Mountains Meet the Sea" - the town slogan. Camden is one of the few places on the East Coast where the mountains (Camden Hills) rise directly from the ocean, offering stunning views of both Penobscot Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Hollywood Favorite: Camden has served as the filming location for several well-known movies, including Peyton Place (1957) and Carousel (1956), thanks to its charming, picturesque setting.
Home to the Camden Snow Bowl: Camden is the only place in the U.S. where you can go skiing with views of the ocean. The Camden Snow Bowl offers winter activities, and from the top of the slopes, you can see the waters of Penobscot Bay!
Camden and its surrounding beaches provide the perfect backdrop for summer relaxation and family fun. Whether you're exploring the hidden gems of Laite Memorial Beach Park or taking a trip to the best beaches just outside Camden, you're sure to find a great spot for every type of beachgoer.