Each summer, we plan our weekends to maximize our outdoor fun. Sometimes that means hikes in the mountains, other times it’s hitting a water park or simply relaxing at a public park. We love the beaches here in Maine, but they can sometimes be crowded, making the trip stressful and hectic. If you feel the same way, consider heading to one of the state’s beautiful lakes. Many have pristine sandy beaches and they all offer lots of fun!

1. Echo Lake, Mount Desert

The relatively shallow water at the southern end of Echo Lake helps keep things nice and warm for most of the summer. And, it makes for a great lake to enjoy with kids. Things here are nice and peaceful, so it's also great for folks who are looking to enjoy a simple day outside on the water.

2. Branch Lake, Ellsworth

This lakeside beach is a fun adventure as it requires a short walk through the woods to reach. Once you've arrived you'll find plenty of sand, but also some boulders in the water that are great for exploring. The water here gets nice and warm in by the middle of summer which makes swimming in the clear water even nicer.

3.Sebec Lake, Peaks-Kenny State Park, Dover-Foxcroft

This beauty located in Peaks-Kenny State Park, is fun for the whole family. The lake is 10-miles and offers a five hundred-foot sand beach which you can find at the South Cove. With a grassy lawn and picnic tables, it's easy to spend the day here. And especially lovely are the views of Borestone Mountain.

4. Lake George, Canaan

This lovely 320-acre park is a bit out of the way for folks further south, but it's certainly worth the journey. By mid-summer this lake is nice and warm, which is a nice respite from that frigid ocean water. You'll find plenty of sun in the afternoon, but if you prefer shade head to the trees that near the shore of the sandy beach.

5. Lily Bay State Park, Beaver Cove

This beautiful park offers access to Maine''s most famous lake. Moosehead Lake offers views, cool water and lots of fun. The beach at Beaver Cove is sandy and has plenty of room for spreading out.

6. Webb Lake, Mount Blue State Park, Weld

Head to Mount Blue State Park for one of our favorite lakes to enjoy throughout the year. You'll find the crescent-shaped sand beach on the lake’s southwestern shore. One of the more remote lakes on this list, the closest town is Rumford and it's nearly 20-miles away. There are plenty of places to picnic, so plan on making this a full day's trip.

7. Pennesseewassee Lake, Norway

Some folks refer to this lake as "Norway Lake," but you should be able to find your way there using either moniker. This is a beautiful lake to enjoy with kids as there's as super-fun playground hidden within the trees. For privacy, you'll love the swim areas that are nestled among tall pines along the shore path leading to the boat ramp.

What’s your favorite lakeside beach? Let us know in the comments! And for more refreshing fun take the hidden beaches road trip that will show you Maine like never before!