Moody Beach
A classic southern Maine beach known for its wide sandy shores, offering a serene escape with potential for dramatic coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Moody Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A classic southern Maine beach known for its wide sandy shores, offering a serene escape with potential for dramatic coastal views.
"One of the best beaches in southern Maine! We've been coming here for decades."
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for hourly parking fees. Check signs carefully for rates and time limits.
🐶 Dog Rules
Seasonal dog restrictions can be confusing. Always verify current rules before bringing pets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandy Shores
Moody Beach
Miles of soft sand perfect for sunbathing, long walks, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Ocean Views
Moody Beach
Experience the vastness of the Atlantic, with potential for dramatic skies and crashing waves.
Proximity to Footbridge Beach
Adjacent to Moody Beach
Easily accessible, offering a slightly different vibe and potentially fewer crowds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Seasonal Dog Policies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for hourly parking fees. Check signs carefully for rates and time limits.
🐶 Dog Rules
Seasonal dog restrictions can be confusing. Always verify current rules before bringing pets.
🚶♀️ Beach Access
Walk towards Footbridge Beach for a potentially different experience.
🐚 Shell Collecting
Be mindful of local regulations regarding collecting shells.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Be prepared for hourly parking fees. Check signs carefully for rates and time limits.
🐶 Dog Rules
Seasonal dog restrictions can be confusing. Always verify current rules before bringing pets.
🚶♀️ Beach Access
Walk towards Footbridge Beach for a potentially different experience.
🐚 Shell Collecting
Be mindful of local regulations regarding collecting shells.
☁️ Embrace Moody Skies
Even on cloudy days, the beach offers a serene and beautiful atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Moody Beach for its beautiful, expansive sandy shores and pleasant water conditions, making it a long-time favorite for many. However, some reviewers express frustration with the hourly parking fees and the confusing, sometimes poorly enforced, seasonal dog policies, which can detract from the overall experience.
"Well it was nice to see the ocean, but ... I felt like we were under surveillance if I picked up a shell or something. The beach should belong to everyone."
Kenneth Sayers
"Easy to park, clean restrooms, super nice beach. Great location, and the sand and water were perfect. Loved it..."
T B
"One of the best beaches in southern Maine! We've been coming here for decades.
Last winter's storms did beat the shoreline, but the beach was the flattest it's been in years."
Kindred Wind
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moody Beach is located in Wells, Maine. It's accessible by car via Route 1. Parking is available nearby, though it can be metered and busy during peak season.
While direct public transport to the beach itself might be limited, you can explore local shuttle services or regional bus routes that serve the Wells area. Check local transit schedules for options.
Arriving early on weekdays or during the off-season is your best bet for finding parking. Be prepared for hourly fees and potential congestion on weekends and holidays.
Yes, Moody Beach is close to other popular southern Maine spots like Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and scenic coastal experiences.
Cycling is a great option if you're staying nearby. There are often bike racks available, but confirm availability and security before your ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the beach itself is typically free. However, parking nearby usually involves hourly or daily fees.
Parking fees vary and are often charged hourly. It's advisable to check the posted rates at the parking lot upon arrival, as they can change seasonally.
Discounts are not commonly advertised for parking. Your best strategy is to visit during off-peak hours or days to potentially find more affordable options or less crowded lots.
Beaches are generally accessible from dawn to dusk. However, parking facilities may have specific operating hours, so it's wise to confirm these if you plan to stay late.
Advance parking reservations are typically not available. Parking is usually on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, clean restrooms and outdoor foot showers are available at the parking lot area, which is convenient after a day at the beach.
Moody Beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, beachcombing, and enjoying the ocean views. It's a classic beach experience.
The sandy shores are great for kids to play on. However, be mindful of the water conditions and always supervise children closely.
Dogs are prohibited during the peak season. Outside of this, rules can be confusing, with some signs allowing dogs, sometimes off-leash. It's best to check local ordinances.
While shell collecting is a popular activity, be aware of any local regulations. Some areas may have restrictions to protect the natural environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the beach.
Moody Beach is perfect for landscape photography, capturing coastal scenes, and lifestyle shots, especially during 'moody' weather.
The expansive shoreline itself is the main attraction. Look for interesting wave patterns, cloud formations, or the interplay of light on the sand.
Drone usage is often restricted in public areas and near beaches. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and ocean. A polarizing filter can help manage glare and enhance sky colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Parking and Fees
Some visitors have expressed frustration with the parking situation, especially when combined with other beach regulations. Being prepared for these costs and understanding the system beforehand can significantly improve your experience and prevent unexpected expenses. Consider it part of the cost of enjoying this popular stretch of coastline.
Understanding Seasonal Dog Policies
Travelers have suggested that clearer signage, especially at parking areas, and consistent enforcement of leash laws (when dogs are permitted) would greatly improve the situation. Some have even proposed dedicated dog-friendly beach areas. If you plan to visit with a dog, it's essential to verify the current dog policy with local authorities or the town of Wells before your trip to avoid any misunderstandings or disappointment.
Embracing the 'Moody' Atmosphere
These 'moody' beach days offer a different perspective, often with fewer crowds, allowing for more solitary walks and a deeper connection with nature. Photographers, in particular, can find dramatic and captivating scenes during these times. So, don't let a cloudy forecast deter you; Moody Beach can offer a serene and beautiful escape regardless of the weather.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit