Of all the states in New England, Maine is not one that leaves people scratching their heads about where to take a dip. With more coastline than California (true story!) and plenty of lakes and rivers, if the temps get hot there’s always somewhere to cool down. But that doesn’t mean each one is perfect. Some can get so busy that visitors drive to find it only to turn around when there’s no place to lay their towel. This year, head to the beach we’re featuring here. It’s never empty, but it is a bit off-the-beaten-path which adds to its beauty.

Anyone who knows Maine will understand that Phippsburg isn’t exactly on the beaten path. That’s exactly why we love Popham Beach State Park so much. While popular, it’s not quite as easy to access as some of the more southern beaches and that makes it extra-special.

rdpine / TripAdvisor

You’ll find it at the very tip of Phippsburg Peninsula, about 14 miles from Bath.

Nikki / TripAdvisor

To find it, you’ll drive down a long stretch of road where cell reception goes in and out. In fact, quite a few people report having to service at all.

OHRetirees / TripAdvisor

Once you arrive, there should be plenty of parking spots unless you’ve chosen one of the nicest Maine summer weekend days. In that case, you’ll want to arrive as early as possible.

Stephen J / TripAdvisor

Once on the beach, you’ll find one of the longest in the state. There’s plenty of room to spread out.

Becki G / TripAdvisor

If you like your beach trips to include some extra sightseeing Fox Island and Wood Island are both offshore in the distance. And the beach is right at the mouth of the Kennebec River.

pavdw / Flickr

If you’re not the type to sunbathe, plan on doing some exploring. If you know where to look you just might find a sand dollar!

brandonbo / TripAdvisor While focused on a different beach, there are some great sand dollar searching tips here.

And if you can’t make this trip in the summer, be sure to check it out at other times of year. It’s just as beautiful, though you probably won’t want to go for a swim.

jonesroadcaddie / Flickr

Popham Beach State Park is open year-round from 9 a.m. to sunset unless a notice is posted saying otherwise. An entry fee of $6 for adult residents, $8 for adult non-residents, and $2 for senior non-residents is collected all year. Be sure to check the official website for more information. You can reach the park on 207-389-1335.

rdpine / TripAdvisor

Nikki / TripAdvisor

OHRetirees / TripAdvisor

Stephen J / TripAdvisor

Becki G / TripAdvisor

pavdw / Flickr

brandonbo / TripAdvisor

While focused on a different beach, there are some great sand dollar searching tips here.

jonesroadcaddie / Flickr

Love exploring Maine’s less-known side? For more like this be sure to take the hidden beaches road trip that will how you Maine like never before!

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Address: Popham Beach, Phippsburg, ME 04562, USA