Posted in Maine May 09, 2017 by

One Of The Best Secret Beaches In The World Is Right Here In Maine

Maine’s coastline is certainly no secret, but there are some pretty amazing secrets that we’ve been hiding from the rest of the world for a while. Fortunately for tourists, one of them has been found out. It’s been found out AND added to the list of the best secret beaches in the world! MSN recently created a collection of their favorites and none other but Sand Beach in Acadia National Park was included! We couldn’t agree more, though we’re surprised to hear that some people consider it secret. Mainers have known about this spot for ages!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Perhaps the secret nature of Sand Beach is that it is small - only a little less than 300 yards long.
stillugly / Flickr
But it's big on beauty!
Ken Rowland / Flickr
You'll find it located between mountains and the craggy coast that Maine is famous for.
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One of the most unique aspects of this beach is the sand, made up of tiny shells crumbled by the incoming surf.
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Michael R / Flickr
You'll get some pretty commanding views of the area via The Great Head Trail, a wonderful hiking path next to the beach that will take you in a loop around a headland of the same name.
Lee Coursey / Flickr
Take this trail for a view of Sand Beach and the mountain in the background, Beehive.
Lee Coursey / Flickr
Our favorite way to enjoy Sand Beach is to spend the morning NOT at Sand Beach!
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Instead, head to Ocean Path at the end of the upper parking lot.
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This trail meanders around the coast for 3 miles (round-trip) and takes you to all the hot spots - Otter Point, Otter Cliff and the boisterous cave that makes up Thunder Hole.
Robin / Flickr
Once you've worked up a sweat, head straight back to Sand Beach for the res of the day!
Lee Coursey / Flickr
Truth be told, this might be the only time you'll be able to brave the chilly temps of this water. But, even if you don't get in the water, the calm waves make for a lovely place for families!
Accessing the beach if fairly easy...
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Take the Park Loop Road when you enter and follow it to the Sand Beach Parking Area. You can also park elsewhere and take the Island Explorer Shuttle Bus which stops every half hour during the season.

Hankering for more secret beaches in Maine? Click here to see some of our other favorites!