The Quieter Side of Crescent Beach
Kettle Cove State Park sits just south of Crescent Beach on the Cape Elizabeth coastline, about 20 minutes from downtown Portland. Where Crescent Beach draws the crowds with its wide sandy sweep, Kettle Cove attracts visitors who prefer rocky shoreline, tide pools, and a little more solitude. The cove itself is small and sheltered, with a pebble beach tucked between two rocky headlands. The views from those headlands, looking south along the coast and out toward Richmond Island, are some of the best within easy reach of the city.
The two parks are connected by a 2.8-mile loop trail that passes through coastal forest, along rocky bluffs, and through grassy clearings with ocean views. You can park at either end and walk between them, which is one of the best short coastal walks in the greater Portland area.
The Cove
Kettle Cove’s beach is a small crescent of sand and pebble at the bottom of a protected inlet. The water is calmer here than at the exposed beaches up the coast, which makes it a reasonable spot for wading and exploring with young children. At low tide, the rocky edges of the cove expose tide pools filled with crabs, periwinkles, sea stars, and barnacles.
Visit at low tide for the best tide pool exploring. The rocks on the south side of the cove have the richest pools. Bring water shoes, as the rocks are covered in barnacles and algae. A small bucket and magnifying glass will keep kids entertained for hours.
The water temperature is typical of the southern Maine coast: upper 50s in summer, occasionally touching the low 60s in August. Most visitors wade rather than swim, though on the hottest days of July and August, people do take the plunge.
The Rocky Points
The real draw at Kettle Cove is the rocky coastline that flanks the cove on both sides. The ledges on the south side provide excellent perches for watching the ocean, and on rough days the waves crash against the rocks with enough force to send spray into the air. The north side connects to the trail system that leads to Crescent Beach.
Photographers and painters frequent the rocky points, especially at sunrise and sunset. The views south toward Richmond Island and east toward Scarborough are expansive.
The Trail
The loop trail connecting Kettle Cove and Crescent Beach is 2.8 miles with minimal elevation gain (about 65 feet total). The path passes through spruce and birch forest, along exposed coastal bluffs, and through a grassy meadow with benches. The footing is mostly packed dirt and rock, with some boardwalk sections over wet areas.
Walk the trail in the morning for the best light on the rocks and the fewest people. Start at Kettle Cove, walk north to Crescent Beach along the coast, then return by the inland path through the woods. The full loop takes about an hour at a relaxed pace.
The trail is easy and suitable for all ages, though the rocky bluff sections are uneven and not wheelchair accessible. Strollers will struggle on the rougher sections.
Practical Details
Kettle Cove State Park is open year-round from 9 AM to sunset. Entrance fees are $3 for Maine residents and $4 for non-residents. Seniors 65 and older pay $1. Children under 5 are free. A Maine State Park annual pass covers admission.
The parking lot is small and fills quickly on summer weekends. There are portable restrooms near the parking area. No food vendors, so bring your own provisions.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1 through September 30. From October through March, dogs are welcome on leash. The off-season is a great time to visit with a dog: empty beaches, dramatic winter surf, and quiet trails.
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 77 South through South Portland and Cape Elizabeth. Follow signs for Crescent Beach State Park and continue past the Crescent Beach entrance to Kettle Cove Road. The drive is about 20 minutes. From Bangor, take I-95 South to I-295 to Route 77. About 2 hours 40 minutes.
Parking is along Kettle Cove Road in a small lot near the beach access. Additional parking is available at Crescent Beach State Park if the Kettle Cove lot is full, with the trail connecting the two.
When to Go
Spring
Cool and windy. Wildflowers along the trail in May. Good for walking and beachcombing. Water too cold for wading.
Summer
Warmest water and best tide pool conditions. Parking fills early on weekends. Morning visits are quieter.
Fall
Fewer crowds, beautiful light for photography. Water still in the upper 50s in September. Trail walking is excellent.
Winter
Dramatic waves on the rocks. Dogs allowed. Trails can be icy. Dress for wind chill off the ocean.
Kettle Cove Essentials
- Water shoes (rocky shore and tide pools)
- Sunscreen and windbreaker
- Towel
- Cash for entrance fee
- Binoculars (seabirds and Richmond Island)
- Small bucket for tide pool exploring
- Snacks and water (no food vendors)
- Camera
FAQ
Is Kettle Cove the same as Crescent Beach?
No. They are adjacent but separate parks on the Cape Elizabeth coast. Crescent Beach has a wide sandy beach. Kettle Cove is a smaller, rockier cove just to the south. A 2.8-mile trail connects them.
Are dogs allowed at Kettle Cove?
Dogs are not allowed from April 1 through September 30. From October through March, dogs are welcome on leash.
How much does Kettle Cove cost?
Entrance is $3 for Maine residents, $4 for non-residents, $1 for seniors 65 and older. Children under 5 are free. A Maine State Park annual pass covers admission.
Can you swim at Kettle Cove?
You can wade and swim, though the water is cold (upper 50s in summer). The cove is sheltered and calmer than open ocean beaches, but most visitors explore tide pools and rocks rather than swim.
Is Kettle Cove near Portland?
Yes. Kettle Cove is in Cape Elizabeth, about 20 minutes south of downtown Portland via Route 77.
