Pemaquid Beach Park: An Unusual Beauty

Maine is known for its rocky coastline that winds for over 3,000 miles, up and down peninsulas and around coves and bays. A tiny percentage of that is sand beach, and most of that is south of Reid State Park in Georgetown. Yet here, in the heart of Midcoast Maine, is a rare jewel: a quarter of a mile of fine, white sand.

Why Pemaquid Beach Stands Out

Scientists will tell you this is a "pocket beach" and the sand is left over from the last glacier. But beachgoers will tell you that this is one of the best places to spend a sunny, summer afternoon. And, if you're hearty, it's great place for a bracing dip in the ocean. The water here is clear and pure. In fact, Pemaquid Beach has been consistently ranked as the cleanest beach in the state by the Maine Healthy Beaches Program.

A Family Beach

Pemaquid Beach has been a favorite for families for decades. With that in mind, the Parks Commission makes several amenities available to make your day at the beach more enjoyable. We offer large changing rooms, complete with hot showers (there's an outdoor shower, too). You don't need to bring lunch -- there's a popular snack bar serving hot dogs, hamburgers -- even salads. You'll find a rental shop stocked with beach chairs, umbrellas and toys. If you forgot your sunscreen or camera, you'll find those here, too.

Beachcombers' Rest

But there's more to Pemaquid Beach than fun in the sun. Since 2003, the Parks Commission has partnered with the Pemaquid Watershed Association to offer a unique nature center called "Beachcombers' Rest". Located inside the beach pavilion, the nature center features exhibits and displays describing the ecology of the beach.

Summer Activities at Beachcombers' Rest

Throughout the summer, Beachcombers' Rest offers a series of hands-on exploration events. Plan to spend some time discovering the underwater world of the tidepool or the mysteries of sea glass. Get face-to-face with a Hermit Crab during the weekly Touch Tank visits. Or sign up for one of the summer's Sand Castle competitions. It's a fun way to learn -- for kids and grown-ups alike.

Community Room

Right next to Beachcombers' Rest, inside the pavillion, is the Community Room. This space is equipped with tables and chairs to accomodate up to 60 people. In addition, the Community Room is outfitted with a full kitchen, including an oven, stove, grill, refrigerator and sink. Two large barn doors open on the park's picnic area, providing additional room, plus easy access to the beach. With all these amenities, the Community Room is a perfect spot for a meeting, seminar, or wedding reception.

Discover Pemaquid Beach Park

Pemaquid Beach Park is not just a beach; it's a community hub that offers a perfect blend of recreation, education, and relaxation. Whether you're a local or a traveler seeking a unique beach experience, Pemaquid Beach Park offers something for everyone. As the sun sets on the sparkling waters, visitors leave with memories of a day well spent and plans to return to this slice of seaside paradise.