Old Orchard Beach: Maine's Summer Playground

Old Orchard Beach is unlike anywhere else in Maine. While most of the state’s coastline trades on rugged scenery and quiet contemplation, OOB is loud, vibrant, and unapologetically fun. The seven miles of wide, sandy beach backed by an amusement park, boardwalk bars, and neon-lit nightclubs feel more like the Jersey Shore than Down East Maine.

That’s exactly the point. For over 150 years, Old Orchard has been Maine’s summer playground—a place where French-Canadian families, Boston day-trippers, and anyone looking for beach-town fun come to escape the everyday. It’s not for everyone, but for those who embrace the carnival atmosphere, OOB delivers a beach vacation unlike anything else in New England.

The Beach

Seven Miles of Sand

Old Orchard’s beach is the main attraction—seven miles of wide, flat sand stretching from Pine Point in Scarborough to Camp Ellis in Saco. It’s the longest continuous sandy beach in Maine and one of the longest in New England.

What makes it special:

Wide enough that you can always find space (though close to the pier gets crowded)
Gradual slope into the water, great for wading and playing
Relatively warm water by Maine standards (mid-60s°F in summer)
Fine sand that’s easy to walk on

The character: This is a social beach. You’ll see volleyball games, frisbee tosses, kids building sandcastles, and sunbathers packed in near the pier. It’s not a place for quiet solitude—it’s a place for people-watching and summer fun.

Beach Sections

Near the Pier: The most crowded section. Walking distance to all the action—restaurants, bars, Palace Playland. Great for the full OOB experience.

North toward Pine Point: Progressively quieter as you walk away from the pier. More family-oriented, fewer party crowds.

South toward Camp Ellis: Also quieter. The jetty at Camp Ellis offers different scenery and fishing opportunities.

Water Conditions

Temperature: Warmer than beaches further north. Usually 60-68°F in July and August—cool but swimmable.

Waves: Generally gentle. Good for body surfing and boogie boarding on bigger days, but rarely dangerous.

Rip currents: Can occur, especially near the pier and jetties. Swim near lifeguards and pay attention to warnings.

Lifeguards: On duty during summer season at the main beach near the pier.

The Pier

The Old Orchard Beach Pier is the physical and symbolic heart of OOB. Extending nearly 500 feet into the Atlantic, it’s been rebuilt multiple times after storm damage and fires—most recently after a devastating 2016 fire destroyed several businesses.

History

The original pier was built in 1898, making it one of New England’s oldest ocean piers. It’s been battered by hurricanes, nor’easters, and fires throughout its history, but the town keeps rebuilding it. The pier is Old Orchard’s identity.

What’s On the Pier

Restaurants and bars: Multiple spots serving fried seafood, pizza, drinks, and classic beach fare. Outdoor seating with ocean views.

Shops: Souvenir stores, beach gear, t-shirts, and novelty items.

Games and arcades: Classic boardwalk entertainment.

Live entertainment: Bands play at the end of the pier on summer evenings. The atmosphere is festive—think vacation party, not concert hall.

The View

Walk to the end of the pier for one of the best views on the Maine coast. Looking back at the beach, you see the full sweep of OOB—the amusement park, the crowds on the sand, the waterfront hotels. Looking out, it’s open Atlantic. On clear days, you can see the Isles of Shoals.

Palace Playland

New England’s last surviving beachfront amusement park sits right at the pier entrance. Palace Playland has been operating since 1902, and stepping inside feels like stepping back to a simpler era of summer fun.

The Rides

Galaxi Coaster: The classic wooden roller coaster, one of the few remaining on a beach in America. Not the tallest or fastest, but absolutely charming.

The Ferris Wheel: Iconic views of the beach and ocean. Best at sunset.

Carousel: A beautifully restored classic. Great for young kids.

Thrill rides: Various spinning, dropping, and whipping rides for those who want more excitement.

Kiddie rides: Plenty of options for small children.

The Atmosphere

Palace Playland isn’t Six Flags—it’s a compact, nostalgic amusement park with the sounds of the ocean as backdrop. The combination of rides, arcade games, and beach setting creates a unique atmosphere.

Practical Info

Admission: Free to walk around. Rides require tickets or wristbands.

Hours: Generally open afternoons and evenings during summer. Check website for specific hours.

Best for: Families with kids, couples wanting nostalgic fun, anyone who appreciates classic Americana.

Nightlife and Entertainment

OOB transforms after dark. The pier and downtown area become a party scene, particularly on weekends.

Bars and Clubs

The pier and adjacent blocks have multiple bars and clubs, ranging from casual beach bars to louder nightclubs. The scene is young, energetic, and unpolished—don’t expect craft cocktails.

What to expect: Loud music, drinks in plastic cups, summer crowds, a vacation vibe. It’s not sophisticated, but it’s fun if you’re in the right mood.

Thursday Night Fireworks

Every Thursday night during summer, fireworks launch from the beach next to the pier. It’s one of OOB’s signature traditions—find a spot on the sand, wait for dark, and watch the show. Crowds are big, so arrive early for prime viewing spots.

Live Music

Bands play on the pier and at various beachfront venues throughout summer. Mostly cover bands and party music—the soundtrack of a beach town.

Getting There

By Train (Best Option)

The Amtrak Downeaster stops in Old Orchard Beach, making it one of the most accessible beaches in Maine for car-free visitors.

From Boston: About 2 hours from North Station. The train drops you just blocks from the beach.

From Portland: About 30 minutes.

Why it’s great: No traffic, no parking hassles. Walk off the train, walk onto the sand.

Seasonal service: The OOB station is only served during summer season (typically late May through early September). Check Amtrak’s schedule.

By Car

From Portland: About 15 miles south via I-95 and Route 1. Easy access.

From Boston: About 90 miles north via I-95. Can be brutal traffic on summer weekends.

The problem: Parking. OOB is notorious for difficult parking in summer.

Parking

Street parking: Metered and time-limited. Hard to find near the pier.

Lots: Multiple paid lots around town. Expect to pay $20-30+ for a full day near the beach.

Tips:

Arrive early (before 10 AM) for the best parking options
Consider parking further from the pier and walking
Take the train if possible

By Trolley

The Shuttlebus trolley connects OOB to surrounding areas, including Saco and other beach communities. Useful for beach-hopping without a car.

Where to Stay

Beachfront Hotels and Motels

Numerous hotels and motels line the beach, ranging from budget to mid-range. Most are older properties—don’t expect luxury resorts.

What you get: Location, location, location. Wake up and walk to the sand.

Book early: Summer weekends fill up well in advance.

Vacation Rentals

Houses and condos available for weekly rentals. Better for families or groups. Check VRBO and local rental agencies.

Campgrounds

Several campgrounds in the area, including some close to the beach. Good budget option for families.

Dining

On the Pier and Nearby

Classic beach fare dominates: fried clams, lobster rolls, pizza, ice cream. Don’t expect culinary innovation—expect vacation food.

Pier Point: Restaurant and bar with ocean views.

Beach-side stands: Quick service fried seafood, hot dogs, fries.

In Town

More varied dining options away from the immediate beach area, including sit-down restaurants with fuller menus.

Nearby (Worth the Drive)

Saco and Biddeford: Just inland, these towns have expanding restaurant scenes with better dining options than you’ll find on the strip.

Who Is OOB For?

Perfect for:

Families with kids who want beach plus amusement park
Groups looking for beach-town party atmosphere
Visitors from Quebec (huge French-Canadian following)
Anyone seeking nostalgic, classic American beach vacation
Day-trippers from Boston or Portland on the train

Maybe not ideal for:

Those seeking quiet, natural beauty
Visitors wanting upscale beach resort experience
People who prefer rugged, “real Maine” coast
Anyone sensitive to crowds and noise

Beach Rules and Tips

Dog Policy

Dogs are generally not allowed on the beach during peak hours in summer (typically 9 AM to 5 PM). Early morning and evening walks may be permitted—check current rules.

Alcohol

No alcohol allowed on the beach. Save it for the bars and restaurants.

What to Bring

Sunscreen (no shade on the beach)
Cash (some beach vendors are cash-only)
Towels and chairs (rentals available but pricey)
Patience (it’s crowded, embrace it)

Best Times to Visit

For swimming: July and August offer the warmest water.

For fewer crowds: Early June or September. Still pleasant but much less crowded.

For full experience: July weekends—when OOB is at its most OOB.

Beyond the Beach

Nearby Beaches

Pine Point Beach (Scarborough): Just north of OOB. Much quieter, more family-oriented.

Ferry Beach State Park: South of OOB in Saco. Nature trails, calmer atmosphere.

Scarborough Beach State Park: Beautiful beach with parking and facilities. Less carnival atmosphere.

Day Trips

Portland (15 miles north): Maine’s food and culture capital. Easily combined with an OOB beach day.

Kennebunkport (15 miles south): Upscale contrast to OOB. Nice for a change of pace.

Funtown Splashtown USA (Saco): Larger amusement and water park nearby.

Seasonal Events

Canada Day (July 1): OOB has a large French-Canadian following. Expect celebrations.

Fourth of July: Major crowds, major party atmosphere.

Thursday Fireworks: Weekly throughout summer.

Beachfest: End-of-summer celebration.

Practical Information

Season: The full OOB experience runs Memorial Day through Labor Day. Shoulder seasons (May and September) are quieter with some businesses closed.

Weather: Similar to Portland. Cooler than inland. Bring layers for evening.

Cell service: Good coverage throughout.

ATMs: Available but fees can be high. Bring cash.

Old Orchard Beach isn’t trying to be anything other than what it is: a classic American beach town where generations have come to play in the sand, ride the Ferris wheel, eat fried dough, and make summer memories. It’s loud, crowded, and kitschy—and for the millions who return year after year, that’s exactly why they love it.