Cape Neddick Beach York Maine
A quaint beach with rocky outcrops, tidal pools, and a sandy expanse, popular for surfing and exploring marine life near the iconic Nubble Lighthouse.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Cape Neddick Beach York Maine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, beautiful light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quaint beach with rocky outcrops, tidal pools, and a sandy expanse, popular for surfing and exploring marine life near the iconic Nubble Lighthouse.
"Discover a miniature marine world in the tide pools or catch a wave at this charming coastal gem."
🚗 Parking Convenience
Opt for the $5 campground parking for easy access. Street parking can be limited.
🦀 Tide Pool Exploration
Visit at low tide to discover hermit crabs, snails, and tiny fish in the shallow inlets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nubble Lighthouse Views
Sohier Park
Iconic lighthouse offering stunning coastal vistas. A must-see for photographers and anyone seeking classic Maine scenery.
Tidal Pool Treasures
Beachfront at low tide
Discover a miniature marine world! Explore tide pools teeming with hermit crabs, snails, and small fish. Perfect for curious kids and nature lovers.
Kayaking the Cape Neddick River
Cape Neddick River inlet
Paddle through calm waters surrounded by unique natural scenery where trees grow from rocks. An adventurous way to experience the coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Convenience
Opt for the $5 campground parking for easy access. Street parking can be limited.
🦀 Tide Pool Exploration
Visit at low tide to discover hermit crabs, snails, and tiny fish in the shallow inlets.
📸 Lighthouse Photo Ops
Catch sunrise or sunset at Sohier Park for stunning Nubble Lighthouse views. 
🛶 River Kayaking Adventure
Kayak the Cape Neddick River at high tide for scenic views of trees growing from rocks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Convenience
Opt for the $5 campground parking for easy access. Street parking can be limited.
🦀 Tide Pool Exploration
Visit at low tide to discover hermit crabs, snails, and tiny fish in the shallow inlets.
📸 Lighthouse Photo Ops
Catch sunrise or sunset at Sohier Park for stunning Nubble Lighthouse views.
🛶 River Kayaking Adventure
Kayak the Cape Neddick River at high tide for scenic views of trees growing from rocks.
🍬 Sweet Treats Nearby
Don't miss Goldenrod's for saltwater taffy, made fresh in-store.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the secluded beauty of Cape Neddick Beach, highlighting its rich tidal pools perfect for discovery and the scenic views of the Nubble Lighthouse. While parking can require a small fee, the natural wonders and peaceful atmosphere make it a beloved spot for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
"Note that Google has the location of this beach wrong. It is actually right off the bridge by the campground. Pay $5 for parking at the campground.
Beautiful, secluded beach. Plenty of sand for kids to play in at low tide. Plenty of shallow water for wading. We found snails, shrimp, barnacles, muscles, and a crab in tide pools. In an inlet of water, we found tons of hermit crabs and a few tiny fish. Deeper in the inlet there were also regular crabs. We didn't go into the ocean water, but another family found a bunch of sand dollars. Lots of purple and blue muscle shells, white clam shells, and periwinkle snail shells to collect."
Michaela Patch
"Canoeing upriver during high tide has beautiful natural scenery where trees grow out of the rocks"
Joseph Melanson
"Absolutely love it here"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape Neddick Beach is located off the bridge near the campground. While some street parking is available, many visitors find it convenient to pay $5 for parking at the nearby campground for direct access to the beach.
Public transportation options directly to Cape Neddick Beach are limited. It's best to travel by car. Consider ride-sharing services if you are staying in a nearby town like York or Ogunquit.
The most straightforward access is via the paid parking at the campground, which is right by the beach. This avoids the hassle of searching for limited street parking.
Yes, Cape Neddick is part of York, Maine, which offers other beaches like Short Sands Beach and Long Sands Beach. Nearby towns like Ogunquit also offer charming harbor experiences.
You can drive to the vicinity of the beach, but dedicated parking is primarily at the campground or limited street spots. The campground parking is the most reliable option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Cape Neddick Beach itself. However, parking at the nearby campground costs $5, which is a common way to access the beach conveniently.
Cape Neddick Beach is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific rules regarding dog access may vary seasonally. Dogs are allowed on the beach until 8 AM before September 21st, and anytime after that.
No advance booking is required for Cape Neddick Beach. Access is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking, and the beach itself is open to the public.
The main restriction is related to dog access, which changes after September 21st. Otherwise, the beach is open to the public.
Parking at the adjacent campground is typically $5. This is the most recommended and convenient parking option for visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, exploring tidal pools teeming with marine life, collecting shells, and kayaking up the Cape Neddick River. Surfing is also popular here.
Absolutely! The shallow inlets are perfect for wading and exploring tide pools filled with small creatures. Kids love collecting shells and observing marine life.
Visitors often spot snails, shrimp, barnacles, mussels, hermit crabs, and small fish in the tide pools. You might also find sand dollars and various shells.
Yes, Cape Neddick Beach is known to be popular among surfers due to its wave conditions.
While specific facilities directly on the beach can be limited, the nearby campground often provides access to restrooms and other amenities for a small fee or as part of the parking charge.
📸 📸 Photography
Sohier Park offers iconic views of the Nubble Lighthouse, especially at sunrise and sunset. The rocky outcrops and tidal pools also provide unique photographic opportunities.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer beautiful lighting for capturing the Nubble Lighthouse and coastal scenery.
Yes, the Nubble Lighthouse is a prominent landmark and a popular subject for photography from Sohier Park.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and FAA guidelines before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
Landscape photography, sunrise/sunset shots, and wildlife photography (especially in tide pools) are very popular. Capturing the iconic Nubble Lighthouse is a must.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Collecting shells along the shore is another simple yet enjoyable activity. The nearby campground parking offers convenient access, and the beach provides a good mix of sand for playing and water for wading. Remember to check tide times for the best tidal pool exploration.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Sports Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the beach's connection to the Cape Neddick River also opens up opportunities for kayaking, particularly during high tide, offering a unique way to explore the coastal landscape.
📸 Photographers and Scenery Lovers
+2The rocky outcrops, the interplay of light on the water, and the unique sight of trees growing from rocks along the river provide diverse photographic opportunities. Don't miss the chance to capture the vibrant marine life in the tidal pools at low tide.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nubble Lighthouse
+2Visitors can walk around Sohier Park, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in the historic charm of the lighthouse. While you can't typically go inside the lighthouse itself, its exterior beauty and the surrounding landscape make it a captivating destination. The park is also a great place for whale watching during migration seasons.
Tidal Pool Discoveries and River Kayaking
For a different perspective, consider kayaking up the Cape Neddick River, especially during high tide. This offers a serene journey through beautiful natural scenery, where you can witness trees growing directly out of the rocky shores. It's a peaceful way to explore the coastline and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
Surfing and Beach Activities
Beyond surfing, the beach provides a pleasant sandy expanse for relaxation and play, especially at low tide when more sand is exposed. It's a versatile destination catering to those seeking active water sports or a quiet day by the sea.
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