Ferry Beach State Park

Believe it or not, there was a time before highways brought travelers north of Boston. It was the beaches themselves that provided relatively safe transportation routes back then. And a ferry crossing at the Saco River served those beach trekkers well. Ferry Beach State Park was named for the old ferry that once shuttled travelers across the river.

Today, Ferry Beach State Park is a diverse natural area. Visitors can take a nature walk on a shaded trail, learn about sustainable ecosystems, or enjoy one of the many picnic areas or nature programs. But what are miles of beautiful white sand beaches for, especially a Maine beach, if not beachcombing?

Ferry Beach not only serves up fabulous ocean views, the state park is home to the rareTupelo (black gum) tree. The park’s natural landscape is comprised of hardwoods, a protected swamp, fragile sand dunes, and lots of beach. Ocean fun at Ferry Beach State Park includes swimming, digging for clams, surf fishing, and searching for shells on the spectacular shoreline. Summer officially starts on Memorial Day and runs through to the first of October. For winter beach lovers, Ferry Beach trails are open for cross-country skiing, too. The ferry no longer awaits, but year-round fun still does at this southeastern Maine beach playground.