Maine’s First Saltwater Beach Park
Reid State Park holds a distinction that no other park in Maine can claim: it was the first state-owned saltwater beach. In 1946, Georgetown resident and businessman Walter E. Reid donated the land to the state, and a few years later the 770-acre park opened to the public. What he gave Maine was something genuinely rare on this coast: long, wide stretches of real sand beach backed by sand dunes, all set on a rocky peninsula with sweeping views of the open Atlantic.
The park sits at the southern tip of Georgetown Island, about 13 miles south of Route 1 in Woolwich. The drive down Route 127 through Georgetown is a winding trip past saltwater farms, coves, and old Cape Cod-style houses. By the time you reach the park gates, the land has narrowed to a point where ocean is visible on both sides.
Two Beaches
Reid State Park has two distinct sandy beaches separated by a rocky headland called Griffith Head.
Mile Beach stretches east from Griffith Head, a long ribbon of sand facing the open ocean. The surf here can be substantial, and Mile Beach is considered one of the best surfing spots in midcoast Maine. The waves break on a sandy bottom, making it accessible for intermediate surfers. On calm days, the swimming is excellent, though the water stays cold.
Half Mile Beach sits to the west of Griffith Head, in a more protected cove. The water here is calmer, and the beach is slightly smaller but just as sandy. Between the two beaches, you can choose your experience: open ocean and surf on the east side, sheltered cove and gentler water on the west.
The Lagoon, a tidal inlet behind Half Mile Beach, offers water that is 10 to 15 degrees warmer than the ocean. On incoming tides, seawater floods the lagoon and warms in the shallow basin. It is the closest thing to comfortable swimming water you will find on the midcoast. Families with small children often prefer the lagoon to the ocean beaches.
Griffith Head
The rocky headland between the two beaches rises high enough to provide panoramic views of the park, the ocean, and the islands offshore. From the top of Griffith Head, you can see three lighthouses: Seguin Island Light to the east, The Cuckolds to the south, and Hendricks Head to the west. A short trail leads to the viewpoint, and it is worth the climb even if you spend most of your time on the beach below.
The rocks around Griffith Head hold tide pools at low tide, with sea urchins, periwinkles, crabs, and anemones. The ledges are slippery, so wear shoes with grip if you plan to explore.
Sand Dunes
The sand dunes at Reid State Park are among the largest on the Maine coast and are a significant ecological feature. The dunes support specialized plant communities, including beach grass and beach heather, that hold the sand in place against storms and erosion. Stay on marked paths through the dunes. Walking on the dune vegetation damages the root systems that prevent the sand from blowing away.
The beaches are also essential nesting habitat for endangered least terns and piping plovers. Roped-off sections protect nesting areas from April through August. These are strictly enforced.
Mile Beach faces the open Atlantic and can develop significant surf and rip currents, especially during storms and strong tides. There are no lifeguards. Swim with caution, watch for incoming tides, and do not swim alone. The water temperature rarely exceeds the upper 50s even in August.
Practical Details
Reid State Park is open year-round, 9 AM to sunset. Admission is per person: $6 for Maine residents, $8 for non-residents. Children 5-11 pay $1, under 5 are free. Non-resident seniors pay $2.
The parking lots are large and well-maintained, with separate lots for Mile Beach and Half Mile Beach. On the hottest summer weekends, the Mile Beach lot can fill by late morning. Restrooms, changing areas, and picnic tables are available near both beaches.
Dogs are not allowed on the beaches from April 1 through September 30. From October through March, dogs are welcome on leash.
October at Reid State Park is spectacular. The summer crowds are gone, the light turns golden in the afternoon, and the surf on Mile Beach picks up with fall storms. The dune grasses turn amber and the rocky headlands are at their most photogenic. Dogs are allowed starting October 1.
When to Go
Spring
Cool and windy. Shorebird nesting begins. Beach is uncrowded. Water too cold for swimming.
Summer
Warmest water (upper 50s). Two beaches and the warm lagoon. Parking fills on hot weekends.
Fall
Fewer crowds, good surf on Mile Beach. Golden light on Griffith Head. Dogs allowed after October 1.
Winter
Dramatic storms and empty beaches. Park open but no services. Beautiful on clear days.
Reid State Park Essentials
- Cash for entrance fee
- Sunscreen and windbreaker
- Towels and swimsuit
- Water shoes (rocky sections and tide pools)
- Binoculars (three lighthouses visible from Griffith Head)
- Snacks and water (no food vendors in the park)
- Camera (the views from Griffith Head are exceptional)
Getting There
From Bath, take Route 1 east to Woolwich, then Route 127 south through Georgetown. Follow Route 127 for about 13 miles to Seguinland Road, which leads to the park entrance. The drive from Bath takes about 25 minutes. From Portland, expect about 75 minutes via I-295 and Route 1.
FAQ
What makes Reid State Park special?
Reid was Maine's first state-owned saltwater beach, donated in 1946. It has two sandy beaches (Mile Beach and Half Mile Beach), rare sand dunes, a warm tidal lagoon, and views of three lighthouses from Griffith Head.
Is the water warm enough for swimming?
The ocean water stays cold, rarely exceeding the upper 50s. However, the Lagoon, a tidal inlet behind Half Mile Beach, is 10 to 15 degrees warmer than the ocean and is the best option for comfortable swimming.
Can you surf at Reid State Park?
Yes. Mile Beach is one of the better surf spots on the midcoast. The waves break on a sandy bottom and can be substantial during swells. There are no rental shops at the park, so bring your own gear.
Are dogs allowed at Reid State Park?
Dogs are banned from the beaches April 1 through September 30. From October through March, dogs are welcome on leash. Off-season beach walks with dogs are excellent.
How much does it cost to visit Reid State Park?
Admission is $6 for Maine residents, $8 for non-residents, $1 for children 5-11, $2 for non-resident seniors, and free for children under 5 and Maine residents 65 and older.
