East Point Sanctuary
A serene coastal sanctuary in Biddeford, Maine, offering stunning ocean views, abundant birdlife, and an easy walking trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bird activity
East Point Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak bird activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal sanctuary in Biddeford, Maine, offering stunning ocean views, abundant birdlife, and an easy walking trail.
"A relaxing hike with nice views of the shoreline and the ocean, listening to birds singing."
🚗 Limited Parking
Park on the road shoulder near the entrance. Arrive early to snag a spot!
🥾 Easy, Flat Trails
Perfect for all fitness levels. The main trail is about 1.6 miles out-and-back.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Trail Views
Along the shoreline
Enjoy stunning ocean vistas and the sound of crashing waves on this scenic, mostly flat coastal path.
Birdwatching Haven
Throughout the sanctuary
A prime spot for bird enthusiasts, with diverse species often spotted among the wildflowers and coastal brush.
Biddeford Pool Beach Access
End of the trail
The trail conveniently leads to a rocky beach, perfect for a post-walk exploration or enjoying the sea breeze.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Birdsong
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking
Park on the road shoulder near the entrance. Arrive early to snag a spot!
🥾 Easy, Flat Trails
Perfect for all fitness levels. The main trail is about 1.6 miles out-and-back.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars.
🌊 Rocky Beach Access
The trail leads to a cool, rocky beach – great for exploring after your walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking
Park on the road shoulder near the entrance. Arrive early to snag a spot!
🥾 Easy, Flat Trails
Perfect for all fitness levels. The main trail is about 1.6 miles out-and-back.
🐦 Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars.
🌊 Rocky Beach Access
The trail leads to a cool, rocky beach – great for exploring after your walk.
💰 Donations Welcome
Entry is free, but consider donating to support the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise East Point Sanctuary for its beautiful coastal views, abundant birdlife, and easy, accessible walking trail. It's considered a peaceful and relaxing spot for nature lovers. Some wish for more dedicated parking and facilities, but the free entry and natural beauty are significant draws.
"We walked the trail at the East Point Audubon Sanctuary on a somewhat foggy morning. Despite the fog it was still a nice walk. The trail is an out and back so you can turn around anywhere that you want and head back to your car. The entire trail is only about 1.6 miles long and it’s all quite flat with no hills to speak of. The majority of the trail is along the coast so you get nice views of the shoreline and the ocean. While walking along you’ll see areas with wildflowers as well as a big variety of birds. We also happened to see a deer who was eating from some bushes. It’s a relaxing hike as you’re out in nature listening to a variety of birds singing and the water crashing along the shore. The walk is free but the Audubon is happy to accept donations. There’s a trail map at the trail head but it’s really only the one trail so it’s pretty impossible to get lost. There’s is a small area that you can park, which is on the side of the road about 20 yards before the sanctuary entrance and across the street from the entrance. The whole thing only takes about an hour or so and is worth it if you want a relaxing hike outside near the water"
Bradley Tatro
"We had a nice walk on this trail. Around 1.5 miles and the trail wasn't hard to follow. Clean and lots of areas to take pics. Awesome views but didn't see any wildlife here."
Kimberly Kersey
"Little sanctuary tucked away in an unexpected place. My only disappointment was the lack of dedicated parking. Otherwise, this was a lovely walk along the coast with lots of great birds and scenic views."
Tammi V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
East Point Sanctuary is located in Biddeford Pool, Maine. Parking is available on the shoulder of the road near the sanctuary entrance. Some visitors note it's on Copperfield Road.
Parking is minimal and typically on the side of the road, about 20 yards before the sanctuary entrance. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, cycling is a great way to access the sanctuary, especially if you're exploring the South Scarborough Loop.
Public transport options are limited in this area. Driving or cycling are the most common ways to reach the sanctuary.
From Biddeford, head towards Biddeford Pool. The sanctuary is a short drive from the main town area, offering scenic coastal access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to East Point Sanctuary is free. The Audubon Society gratefully accepts donations to support their conservation work.
The sanctuary is generally open from dawn to dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty throughout the day.
There is no entrance fee. It's a free public access area, though donations are encouraged.
Yes, the sanctuary is accessible year-round, offering different seasonal beauty, from spring wildflowers to autumn foliage.
Occasionally, events like art auctions featuring local artists inspired by the sanctuary are held. Check Maine Audubon for updates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main trail is an easy, flat, out-and-back path, approximately 1.6 miles long, offering coastal views and birdwatching opportunities.
There are no dedicated restrooms within the sanctuary itself. Plan accordingly before your visit.
You can expect to see a variety of birds, wildflowers, and potentially deer. The coastal environment attracts diverse species.
The trail is mostly flat and relatively easy, making it suitable for strollers. However, it is a natural path, so some unevenness may exist.
Yes, the trail leads to a rocky beach area, offering a chance to explore the shoreline.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastal trail offers dramatic ocean views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The rocky beach and diverse birdlife also provide excellent photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Sunrise over the ocean is a highlight, with many visitors capturing the magical light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery, while a telephoto lens is useful for bird photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected natural areas. It's best to check local regulations and Audubon guidelines before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place to introduce children to nature and birdwatching in a relaxed setting. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. The limited parking means it's best to visit during off-peak hours to ensure a smoother experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's a perfect spot for a mindful walk, meditation, or simply to sit and observe the natural beauty. The accessibility of the trail makes it easy to enjoy without strenuous effort, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1Even on less-than-perfect weather days, the moody atmosphere can create unique and compelling images. The rocky beach also adds interesting foreground elements to your compositions. Remember to be patient and respectful of the environment while you capture the beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birdwatcher's Paradise
The sanctuary's location along the coast means migratory birds frequently pass through, offering unique viewing opportunities during spring and fall. The presence of wildflowers also attracts pollinators, adding another layer of biodiversity to observe. The peaceful atmosphere, punctuated by birdsong and the rhythm of the waves, creates an immersive natural experience.
+1While specific species sightings can vary, common visitors include various shorebirds, songbirds, and potentially raptors. The Audubon Society often provides information on local birdlife, and local birding groups may have recent sighting reports available online.
Navigating the Coastal Trail
The majority of the walk is directly along the shoreline, offering constant visual and auditory engagement with the sea. You'll experience the invigorating sea breeze and the soothing sounds of waves crashing against the rocky coast. The trail is well-defined, and it's nearly impossible to get lost, as it's essentially one main path.
At the end of the trail, you'll find access to a rocky beach, which is a perfect spot to pause, enjoy the scenery, or even do some beachcombing. The entire walk can be completed in about an hour, making it an ideal activity for a relaxing morning or afternoon.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond sunrises, the dramatic coastal scenery provides endless opportunities for capturing stunning shots. The interplay of light and shadow on the rocky shore, the textures of the wildflowers, and the vast expanse of the ocean offer a rich palette for photographers. Even on foggy mornings, the atmosphere can be incredibly moody and photogenic.
For wildlife photographers, the sanctuary is a prime location for capturing bird photography. With a good telephoto lens, you can get close-up shots of the various species that inhabit the area. Remember to be patient and respectful of the wildlife's space while you capture your perfect shot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit