Photo by Melissa Weston

Summer Fun on Maine’s South Coast

Miles of white sand, saltwater taffy, long estuaries to explore by kayak, and several iconic lighthouses – what’s not to love about this stretch of Maine’s picturesque shoreline?

Wells and York are all about families kicking back, and their beautiful beaches are open to all. Each offers a wide range of lodging and dining choices. Visit the local Chamber of Commerce offices or the Maine Tourism Information Center for more information about various businesses and events throughout the region.

Sea Viper roller coaster at Palace Playland, Old Orchard Beach

Photo courtesy of Palace Playland, Old Orchard Beach

Maine’s longest stretch of sand beach makes Old Orchard Beach a magnet for summer vacationers. 7 miles of soft white sand that’s meticulously cleaned each night by volunteers. Smaller beaches spread north along Scarborough’s coast. Some – such as the beautiful Western and Ferry beaches – are protected by the long peninsula of Prouts Neck.

With all this coastline, you can expect a variety of water sports – surfing, paddle-boarding, sailing, fishing and kayaking. Scarborough Marsh has miles of meandering channels alive with birds, to explore on foot or in a kayak or canoe. The Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center runs guided nature walks and canoe trips through the 3100-acre estuary. Birders flock to Prouts Neck Bird Sanctuary. The Wells Reserve at Laudholm offers seven miles of walking trails in a protected estuarine environment.

This flat coastline is great to explore on two wheels, and you can follow the Eastern Trail, a greenway of backroads and trails for bicycles. Also an easy walk away from the Old Orchard Beach Pier and amusement park, the Beachfront Condotel has two-bedroom and studio units with kitchens and Jacuzzis. For RV enthusiasts, Seacoast RV is Maine’s premier RV dealer for recreational vehicles, camper sales, service, parts and accessories. They carry an extensive line of new and used recreational vehicles and campers for sale from leading manufacturers as well as motorhome rentals.

If all the saltwater makes you hungry for seafood, you won’t find it fresher than at Ken’s Place (207-883-6611) on Pine Point Road in Scarborough. Nothing fancy, but Maine’s best ocean-fresh fried clams, lobster rolls, chowders and a raw bar. A must visit!