
Biddeford Pool
Biddeford Pool offers rugged coastal beauty, fascinating tide pools, and delicious seafood. Explore scenic trails and enjoy the ocean's embrace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Discover marine life

Biddeford Pool
Best Time
Discover marine life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Biddeford Pool offers rugged coastal beauty, fascinating tide pools, and delicious seafood. Explore scenic trails and enjoy the ocean's embrace.
"Discover the natural charm of Biddeford Pool, a coastal gem with stunning views and marine wonders."

👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocky shores and trails require good footwear. Avoid flip-flops for safe exploration!
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Essential for tide pooling! Plan your visit around low tide for the best discoveries.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

East Point Audubon Sanctuary
Southern tip of Biddeford Pool
Explore scenic walking trails with stunning ocean views and abundant birdlife. A must-visit for nature lovers.

Tidal Pool Exploration
Various rocky shorelines
Discover a vibrant underwater world at low tide, teeming with small marine creatures. A natural wonder for all ages.

Goldthwaites Lobster
Waterfront
Savor classic New England lobster rolls and seafood with picturesque ocean views. A local favorite for a reason.

Abenakee Golf Club
Near Biddeford Pool
Experience a beautiful, lesser-known golf course with coastal charm. A hidden gem for golf enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Tide Pools
Parking Can Be Tricky
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocky shores and trails require good footwear. Avoid flip-flops for safe exploration!
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Essential for tide pooling! Plan your visit around low tide for the best discoveries.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends, or be prepared to walk a bit.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal scenery and wildlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Rocky shores and trails require good footwear. Avoid flip-flops for safe exploration!
⏰ Check Tide Charts
Essential for tide pooling! Plan your visit around low tide for the best discoveries.
🚗 Parking is Limited
Arrive early, especially on weekends, or be prepared to walk a bit.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal scenery and wildlife.
🦞 Taste Local Seafood
Don't miss out on fresh lobster rolls and other seafood delights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Biddeford Pool, particularly the scenic trails at East Point Audubon Sanctuary and the fascinating tide pools. The fresh seafood, especially lobster rolls at Goldthwaites, is a consistent highlight. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Biddeford Pool is located in Biddeford, Maine. It's accessible by car via Route 1. If coming from Portland, take I-95 South to Exit 36, then follow Route 1 South. From Boston, take I-95 North to Exit 25, then follow Route 1 North. Parking can be limited, especially at popular spots like East Point Audubon Sanctuary, so arriving early is recommended.
Biddeford Pool is a tidal pool and a coastal area known for its rocky shores and scenic beauty, rather than a traditional sandy beach. While there are areas to access the water, it's more about exploring the coastline and tide pools.
Exploring Biddeford Pool is best done on foot. Walking trails at East Point Audubon Sanctuary offer great views, and exploring the rocky coastline during low tide is a must. Kayaking is also a fantastic way to see the area from the water.
Public transportation options directly to Biddeford Pool are limited. The most convenient way to visit is by car. If relying on public transport, you might need to combine bus services to Biddeford with a taxi or rideshare to reach the pool itself.
Biddeford Pool is approximately 20-25 miles south of Portland, Maine. The drive typically takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there are no admission fees to access Biddeford Pool itself or its public shorelines. However, some specific areas like the East Point Audubon Sanctuary may have parking fees or suggested donation requests to support their conservation efforts.
The East Point Audubon Sanctuary is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during different seasons.
While Biddeford Pool itself doesn't have a beach in the traditional sense, nearby public access points or beaches might have seasonal parking fees. It's best to check local signage or municipal websites for specific information on any associated costs.
While official guided tours might be limited, local outfitters like Southern Maine Kayaks offer guided kayaking tours that explore the waters around Biddeford Pool, providing a unique perspective of the coastline and islands.
Parking is often free but very limited at popular spots like East Point Audubon Sanctuary. During peak times, you might need to arrive very early or consider parking further away and walking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The top activities include exploring the East Point Audubon Sanctuary trails, discovering marine life in the tide pools during low tide, enjoying fresh seafood at Goldthwaites, and playing a round at Abenakee Golf Club. Kayaking offers a unique perspective of the coastline.
Biddeford Pool is a haven for birdwatchers, especially at the Audubon Sanctuary. You can also spot various marine creatures in the tide pools, such as crabs, starfish, and small fish. Seals are sometimes seen offshore.
Yes, Biddeford Pool can be great for families. Kids often enjoy exploring the tide pools, looking for shells, and observing nature. The walking trails are generally easy to navigate, but supervision is needed near the water and rocky areas.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are essential due to the rocky terrain. Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly. Bring a windbreaker and sun protection, even on cooler days.
Restroom facilities are available at some key locations, such as the East Point Audubon Sanctuary and potentially near the Bathhouse area. It's advisable to check specific facilities at your intended destination within Biddeford Pool.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Goldthwaites Lobster is a highly recommended spot right in Biddeford Pool, known for its lobster rolls and waterfront seating. For more options, the nearby towns of Biddeford and Kennebunkport offer a wider variety of restaurants, from casual to fine dining.
Goldthwaites specializes in classic New England seafood, with their lobster rolls being a particular highlight. They also offer other seafood dishes, fried items, and often have specials.
Yes, Goldthwaites offers covered picnic table seating by the water, providing a lovely spot to enjoy your meal with ocean views. It's a great option for a casual dining experience.
You are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy at Biddeford Pool. There are scenic spots along the coastline where you can relax and have a meal. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants in Biddeford and Kennebunkport offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus online or call ahead to confirm availability at specific establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The East Point Audubon Sanctuary offers dramatic coastal landscapes, rocky shores, and ocean vistas perfect for photography. The views from the walking trails are particularly photogenic. Capturing the waves crashing against the rocks is also a popular subject.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for coastal photography. Golden hour light can beautifully illuminate the rocky shores and the ocean. Midday can be harsh, but still offers opportunities for capturing the vibrant blues of the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography, especially birds at the Audubon Sanctuary. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of waves.
While there isn't one single iconic landmark like a lighthouse directly in Biddeford Pool, the rugged coastline, the unique rock formations, and the expansive ocean views themselves are the main photographic subjects. The lighthouse at nearby Wood Island can also be a subject from certain vantage points.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's crucial to check local ordinances and any restrictions imposed by the Audubon Society if flying near their sanctuary. Always fly responsibly and respect privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options can be spread out. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for rocky terrain and supervise them closely near the water. The casual atmosphere at places like Goldthwaites makes it easy for families to enjoy a meal without fuss.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Bring binoculars for birding and a good camera to capture the dramatic landscapes. Be prepared for uneven terrain and changing weather conditions. Checking tide charts is crucial if you plan to explore the tide pools, which are a highlight for many nature lovers.
🏌️ Golf Aficionados
While it might be a more private or lesser-known course, it's worth investigating for a memorable round. The serene setting provides a tranquil escape for a day on the links, away from the typical crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Beauty: East Point Audubon Sanctuary
Key Features: Scenic walking trails, abundant birdlife, tide pool exploration opportunities, and breathtaking ocean vistas. It's a place where you can truly connect with the natural beauty of the Maine coast.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure parking, as spots are limited. The trails are generally easy to moderate, making them accessible for most visitors. Remember to bring binoculars for optimal bird viewing.
The Magic of Tide Pools
Best Time to Explore: The most rewarding tide pool exploration happens during low tide. Always check local tide charts before your visit to maximize your chances of seeing these creatures. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the experience.
What to Look For: Be gentle and observant. Look for movement in the water and under rocks. Remember to leave everything as you found it to protect the delicate environment. Sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential for navigating the slippery rocks.
A Taste of Coastal Maine: Dining at Goldthwaites
The Experience: Goldthwaites offers a casual, waterfront dining experience. They provide covered picnic table seating, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the ocean air. Beyond lobster rolls, they typically offer a variety of other seafood favorites, catering to diverse tastes.
Beyond the Lobster Roll: While the lobster roll is a star, don't hesitate to explore other menu items. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, embodying the charm of a seaside eatery. It's a great place to refuel after a day of exploring the Biddeford Pool coastline.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit