
York Beach Maine
Charming coastal town with iconic Nubble Lighthouse, sandy beaches, and classic New England vibes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the beach before crowds

York Beach Maine
Best Time
Enjoy the beach before crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charming coastal town with iconic Nubble Lighthouse, sandy beaches, and classic New England vibes.
"York Beach, Maine, is where my heart feels the fullest—and the heaviest."

🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby. Look for public lots and street parking options.
🍬 Taffy Time!
Don't miss the saltwater taffy at Goldenrod's, made fresh daily. A true York Beach treat!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nubble Lighthouse
Cape Neddick Point
Iconic lighthouse offering stunning ocean views and a picturesque photo opportunity.

Short Sands Beach
Center of York Beach
A lively beach with arcades, shops, and restaurants, perfect for family fun.

Long Sands Beach
Stretches for miles
A vast, sandy expanse ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks.

Goldenrod's Candy Store
York Street
Famous for its saltwater taffy made fresh in-store – a sweet taste of tradition.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
Book Your Stay in Advance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby. Look for public lots and street parking options.
🍬 Taffy Time!
Don't miss the saltwater taffy at Goldenrod's, made fresh daily. A true York Beach treat!
🚶♀️ Beach Strolls
Long Sands Beach is perfect for a leisurely walk, especially at low tide.
📸 Lighthouse Views
Capture stunning photos of Nubble Lighthouse, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky. Arrive early or consider walking if staying nearby. Look for public lots and street parking options.
🍬 Taffy Time!
Don't miss the saltwater taffy at Goldenrod's, made fresh daily. A true York Beach treat!
🚶♀️ Beach Strolls
Long Sands Beach is perfect for a leisurely walk, especially at low tide.
📸 Lighthouse Views
Capture stunning photos of Nubble Lighthouse, especially at sunrise or sunset.
🌊 Check Tides
Tides can significantly impact beach space. Always check them before heading out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
York Beach Maine is a beloved coastal destination, praised for its beautiful beaches, iconic Nubble Lighthouse, and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the classic New England charm, the variety of dining options, and the convenience of beachfront accommodations. Some find parking challenging during peak times and the area can get very crowded in summer.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
York Beach Maine is easily accessible by car, located just off I-95. It's a popular day trip destination from Boston and other New England cities. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach 'york beach maine'.
Yes, there are several parking lots and street parking available, particularly near Short Sands and Long Sands beaches. However, parking can fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is advised. Consider 'places to rent in york beach maine' if you plan on staying longer and want easier access.
York Beach is quite walkable, especially between Short Sands and Long Sands. For longer distances or to explore nearby areas like Cape Neddick, a car is recommended. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services.
Yes, York Beach Maine is very close to the New Hampshire border, making it a convenient destination for residents of southern New Hampshire looking for a beach getaway.
While not extensive, some seasonal shuttle services may operate during the summer months. It's best to check local tourism information closer to your visit for current availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the beaches themselves is generally free. However, parking in designated lots or on some streets may require a fee, especially during the summer season.
Most attractions, like shops and arcades at Short Sands, operate seasonally and have extended hours during the summer. Nubble Lighthouse is viewable from the outside year-round. Check individual business websites for specific hours.
Nubble Lighthouse is a picturesque landmark, and viewing it from the surrounding park area is free. There is no fee to enter the grounds or admire the lighthouse from the shore.
Absolutely! Booking 'york beach maine hotels' or 'places to stay in york beach maine' well in advance is highly recommended, especially for summer. Popular spots like 'anchorage inn york beach maine' and 'union bluff hotel york beach maine' get booked up quickly.
To find 'york beach maine hotels on the beach', it's best to use online travel agencies and filter by beachfront properties. Websites specializing in 'york beach maine places to stay' or 'lodging york beach maine' can also be very helpful.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The two primary beaches are Short Sands Beach, known for its lively atmosphere and amenities, and Long Sands Beach, a longer, more expansive stretch perfect for relaxation and long walks.
Short Sands Beach offers a variety of activities including swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the sand. The area is also lined with arcades, souvenir shops, and eateries, making it a hub of activity.
Long Sands Beach is ideal for swimming, surfing (conditions permitting), and enjoying long walks along the shore. It's generally more laid-back than Short Sands.
Yes, York Beach Maine is very family-friendly. Short Sands Beach, with its arcades and gentle waves, is particularly popular with children. Many 'york beach maine hotels' cater to families.
Beyond the beaches, you can visit the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, explore the shops and restaurants along the main drag, or enjoy local events like the York Harvestfest.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You must try the saltwater taffy from Goldenrod's! Seafood is also a staple, with many restaurants offering fresh catches. Look for lobster rolls and fried clams.
Yes, York Beach Maine has numerous seafood restaurants offering fresh, local catches. From casual clam shacks to more upscale dining, you'll find plenty of options.
You'll find a range of dining, from casual pizza places and ice cream shops to sit-down restaurants serving seafood and American fare. Many are located near the beaches.
Yes, many restaurants in York Beach cater to families, offering kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere. Short Sands Beach area has many such options.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server.
📸 📸 Photography
Nubble Lighthouse is a prime photo spot. The beaches themselves, especially at sunrise and sunset, offer beautiful coastal scenery. Look for charming storefronts and ocean vistas.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most dramatic and flattering light for coastal photography. Midday can be harsh.
The park surrounding Nubble Lighthouse offers excellent viewpoints. You can also find great angles from the water or nearby coastal paths.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and lighthouse. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing skies and water.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with the town of York for any restrictions on flying drones, especially near beaches and the lighthouse, to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in a rental property for more space and a kitchen, which can be a lifesaver with kids. Pack plenty of sunscreen, beach toys, and snacks. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to create lasting family memories.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for free activities like exploring the beaches, walking to Nubble Lighthouse, and enjoying the scenic coastal views. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) can also lead to lower accommodation prices.
💖 Couples Getaway
Visit Nubble Lighthouse for a picturesque backdrop and explore the quaint shops. The relaxed pace of York Beach makes it ideal for couples looking to unwind and reconnect amidst the beauty of the Maine coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Beaches: Short Sands vs. Long Sands
In contrast, Long Sands Beach offers a more expansive experience. Stretching for over a mile, it's ideal for those seeking long walks, sunbathing, and more active pursuits like swimming and surfing. The beach is generally less crowded than Short Sands, providing a more relaxed environment. Whether you prefer a bustling beach scene or a tranquil escape, York Beach has a sandy shore to suit your preference.
When planning your visit, remember to check the tides, as they can significantly impact the amount of usable beach space, especially at Short Sands. Both beaches are easily accessible and offer a quintessential New England coastal experience.
Iconic Nubble Lighthouse
Visitors can walk along the scenic path to get close to the lighthouse, though the island itself is not accessible to the public. The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a magical glow on the structure and the sea. Even on a cloudy day, the dramatic interplay of waves crashing against the rocks adds to the allure.
The Nubble Lighthouse is a symbol of York Beach and a must-see for anyone visiting the area. It offers a moment of serene beauty amidst the lively beach town atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and quiet contemplation.
Accommodations: Finding Your Perfect Stay
Beyond hotels, 'places to stay in york beach maine' also include a variety of 'motels york beach maine', 'lodging york beach maine', and 'accommodations in york beach maine'. Many of these offer a more budget-friendly experience while still providing comfortable stays. For longer visits or group trips, exploring 'places to rent in york beach maine' through platforms like VRBO or Airbnb can be a great option, offering more space and amenities.
Booking in advance is crucial, especially for peak season. Whether you're looking for 'york beach hotels long sands' or 'york beach hotels short sands', securing your accommodation early ensures you get the best selection and rates for your 'york beach maine places to stay'.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit