Located in scenic southern Maine, Old Orchard Beach boasts sought-after sunsets, 18th-century lighthouses, and an old-timey carnival vibe that’s made it a popular vacation spot since the late-1800s. With seven miles of grass-fringed shoreline at your disposal, this is the place to put your sandcastle-building skills to the test, take a dip in the gentle surf, or spend an afternoon getting dizzy at Palace Playground, a thrilling amusement park with traditional New England charm.

Not far from the roller-coaster roars and smell of fried dough you’ll discover pockets of pristine nature that invite a different kind of exploration. The nearby Saco River, with its salt marshes and birder-friendly hiking trails, is ideal for a quiet day of kayaking or canoeing, especially in autumn when the birch and maple trees show off their brilliant fall colors. But by dusk, everyone finds their way back to the Old Orchard Beach Boardwalk or the old wooden pier, which juts 500 feet into the Atlantic, for lobster rolls, live music, and the perfect summer sunset.

The balmy summer months bring local families and annual visitors from neighboring states to Old Orchard Beach to enjoy the laid-back beach lifestyle and rolling waves. If you prefer having the shoreline to yourself, consider visiting in September through May. This is a great time to enjoy the serene beauty of the area. As in other parts of New England, the autumn months bring colorful foliage, with peak conditions in mid-to-late October. Winter is ideal for snowbirds looking to bundle up with a hot cup of coffee and enjoy the refreshing sea air. While many of the town’s attractions are closed during winter, the cold weather brings magnificent snow-covered terrain. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and enjoy a picturesque winter hike or visit a nearby ski resort for some faster-paced fun.

Old Orchard Beach Pier

The history of this traditional wooden pier dates back to 1898, and really very little has changed. Gone are the casinos that once drew visitors from Portland and Boston, but the excitement here still remains. Perched 20-feet over the tide, the pier is home to ice cream parlors, fried-fish restaurants, live music and comedy, and it’s still the best place to be during fireworks displays.

Lighthouse tours

Maine is home to more than 60 lighthouses, spread out along the entire coast. With some dating as far back as 1791, there's no shortage of history to be explored. Portland Headlight and Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse are within a short driving distance of Old Orchard Beach, offering a captivating look back at the state’s storied past.

Casco Bay Islands

Hop on one of the ferries in Portland, Maine, just 20 minutes away from Old Orchard Beach, and take to the waves for the day. Spend an afternoon wandering the scenic islands, dotted with colorful homes and charming inns. Peaks Island is known for its bucolic charm, quaint stores, and picturesque beach.