The Family Beach Close to Portland
Crescent Beach State Park sits on Route 77 in Cape Elizabeth, eight miles south of Portland. It is a crescent-shaped cove of sand about a quarter mile long, sheltered on both ends by low rocky headlands. The shape of the cove breaks up the ocean swell, making the water calmer here than at the more exposed beaches nearby. That, combined with a gradual sandy bottom, is why this has been the default family beach for Portland-area residents for generations.
The park covers 243 acres, and the beach is only part of it. Behind the sand, a spruce and fir forest reaches back from the shore, threaded with nature trails. Picnic areas sit in the trees between the parking lot and the beach. It feels more like a park than a typical state beach, with enough room and shade to spend a full day without being stuck on the sand the whole time.
The Beach
The sand is fine and the bottom slopes gradually. At low tide, the beach widens considerably and the water is shallow enough for toddlers to wade well out from shore. The cove’s orientation and rocky headlands reduce wave action, so on most summer days the water is calm enough for relaxed swimming.
Water temperature ranges from the mid-50s in June to the low 60s by August. Cool but swimmable on a warm day, especially in the shallow areas close to shore where the sun warms the water over the sand.
Low tide is the best time for families at Crescent Beach. The beach nearly doubles in width, tide pools appear in the rocky areas at both ends, and the shallow water warms in the sun. Check tide charts and plan your visit around a mid-day low tide for the best experience.
Lifeguards are on duty during peak summer hours, typically from late June through Labor Day. Restrooms with changing areas and outdoor showers are near the beach access.
Beyond the Sand
The nature trail behind the beach winds through a coastal spruce and fir forest. It is flat, well-maintained, and about a mile round trip. The trail connects to Kettle Cove, a small rocky cove with views of Richmond Island, about a 15-minute walk from the main beach.
Two Lights State Park, another Cape Elizabeth park centered around a rocky headland near the Two Lights lighthouses, is a short drive south on Route 77. It has no beach, but the rocky shoreline is dramatic and the views stretch to the horizon. The two parks make a natural pair for a day in Cape Elizabeth.
Combine Crescent Beach with a stop at Two Lights State Park and lunch at The Lobster Shack at Two Lights, one of the most scenic lobster spots in Maine. It sits on a rocky point with the lighthouses visible and lobster boats working the traps offshore.
Practical Details
Crescent Beach State Park is open year-round, 9 AM to sunset. Day use fees are $8 per person for non-residents, $6 for Maine residents. Children under 5 and Maine residents 65 and older are free. Children 5-11 pay $1.
The parking lot holds a moderate number of cars. On hot summer weekends, it fills by mid-morning. The gate closes when the lot is full, and you must wait for cars to leave before entering. Weekday visits avoid this entirely.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1 through September 30. From October through March, leashed dogs are permitted. The off-season is lovely for walks: empty beach, winter light, and often a seal or two hauled out on the rocks at the headlands.
| Crescent Beach | Scarborough Beach | Kettle Cove | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distance from Portland | 8 miles (15 min) | 10 miles (15 min) | Adjacent to Crescent Beach |
| Beach Type | Sheltered sandy cove | Open sandy beach | Small rocky cove |
| Waves | Calm, sheltered | Moderate to large (surfing) | Calm |
| Best For | Families, young kids | Surfing, body surfing | Walking, tide pools |
| Fee | $6-$8 per person | $10 per person | Free (no gate) |
When to Go
Spring
Cool but pleasant for walking. Beach is empty. Nature trail coming alive with birds.
Summer
Warmest water (low 60s). Lifeguards on duty. Parking fills early on weekends. Arrive before 10 AM.
Fall
Water warmest in September. Fewer crowds after Labor Day. Gorgeous light on the sand. Dogs allowed October 1.
Winter
Empty beach, sometimes seals on the rocks. Nature trail open. Cold but beautiful. Dogs allowed.
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 77 South (also called Ocean Avenue in South Portland, becoming Spurwink Road and then Bowery Beach Road). The park entrance is on the right after about 15 minutes. Look for the state park sign.
From the Maine Turnpike, take Exit 44 (South Portland) and follow Route 77 South. The park is well-signed.
Crescent Beach Family Day Packing
- Sunscreen
- Towels and swimsuits
- Water shoes (rocks at the cove edges)
- Snacks and drinks (no food vendors)
- Sand toys for kids
- Picnic blanket or chairs
- Cash for entrance fee
- Shoes for the nature trail
- Bucket for tide pool exploring
FAQ
Is Crescent Beach good for kids?
Yes. The sheltered cove keeps waves small, the bottom is sandy and gradual, and at low tide the shallow water is warm enough for toddlers to play. It is the most family-friendly beach near Portland.
How much does Crescent Beach cost?
Day use is $8 per person for non-residents, $6 for Maine residents. Children under 5 and Maine residents 65+ are free. Children 5-11 pay $1.
Are dogs allowed at Crescent Beach?
No dogs from April 1 through September 30. Leashed dogs are welcome from October through March. The off-season is a popular time for dog walks on the beach.
How far is Crescent Beach from Portland?
Eight miles, about 15 minutes by car via Route 77 South. It is one of the two closest sandy beaches to Portland (along with Scarborough Beach).
What else is near Crescent Beach?
Kettle Cove is a short walk on the nature trail. Two Lights State Park and the Lobster Shack at Two Lights are a 5-minute drive south on Route 77. Fort Williams Park and Portland Head Light are about 10 minutes north.