If you’re craving salt air, scenic water views, and a peaceful swim, Belfast, Maine has just the mix you need. The town offers a few local beaches, many pebbly and serene, plus several sandy and nature-filled spots within driving range. Whether you want convenience, classic shoreline, or seclusion, here are six beaches in and around Belfast perfect for enjoying the water.
Key Takeaways
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Belfast, Maine offers several beach options both in town and within driving distance, though many town beaches are pebbly rather than classic sandy stretches.
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Belfast City Park is convenient for staying in town: good for a quiet swim, though minimal amenities and no lifeguards.
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For more traditional beach experiences, Sandy Point offers sandy shoreline and natural beauty; Laite Memorial Beach adds picnic areas and popularity with locals.
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Fort Point State Park combines scenic settings with calm waters, about 14 miles from Belfast.
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Wadsworth Cove Beach is a hidden gem farther away, pebbly, quiet, with strong nature vibes — great if you don’t mind a drive.
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Be aware: many of these beaches lack lifeguards and amenities, so plan accordingly (bring water, shade, safety gear, etc.).
1. Belfast City Park
The first place you can check out when it comes to beaches in Belfast is actually the local city park. It is a good place for recreational activities and this includes swimming.
It has a small shoreline that’s perfect for slow days. As Belfast, Maine is a small town you should not expect crowds here even if the weather is super hot.
Of course, this beach is very simple. There are no lifeguards on duty so swimming is only allowed at your own risk.
Oh and there’s even a swimming pool. So it’s definitely the place to be during the summer.
It’s a small but cute beach. We definitely recommend it as the best option if you don’t want to get out of town.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/pd1ie6WXRim3WQdn9
2. Belfast Public Beach
If you don’t want to go swimming in Belfast City Park then you got another option inside the town. It’s towards the North of Belfast where there are some public beach accesses.
The one we picked is easy to find. You just have to park on the far side of the Wentworth Event Center parking lot and that’s where the public access trail starts.
Here you can walk all the way down to the beach. Usually, this public access point is very quiet and there aren’t a lot of people on the shore.
Of course, once again, don’t expect lifeguards or amenities.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/AYQRm2kN8VKBQSFJ7
3. Fort Point State Park
Now we are getting out of town. Our first stop among the beaches near Belfast, Maine is at Fort Point State Park.
More specifically you need to look for the area south of the lighthouse. This area has a very calm and pretty nice beach.
It’s a state park so the scenery is a given. You can walk around the beach, and rest a little bit. Getting into the water is your own responsibility though.
The distance from Belfast, ME is only 14 miles, which is around 24 minutes of driving.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/o3qWL6bpB641TRX46
4. Sandy Point Beach
Now, our next pick is actually the first more classic beach on the list. Sandy Point, staying true to its name, is a big sandy beach.
It’s located to the north of Belfast and it’s a very rural and natural beach. You still don’t get lifeguards or amenities but instead, you get wildlife and beautiful scenery.
It is one of the best beaches if you don’t want to drive far and want something sandy.
Driving here will take around 20 minutes and the distance is around 14 miles.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/iqFAhBFvy2bppqs48
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5. Laite Memorial Beach
This beach offers stunning views and a great place to swim. It is compact, but the rocky surface provides a great place to relax. The nearby park has picnic tables and grills, making it the perfect place to enjoy a day out.
It’s south of Belfast but it’s still easy to get here and this is a classic beach. Even better, it’s not abandoned like Sandy Point.
Although there is no lifeguard here either it’s a very popular beach among the Maine locals. People come from all over the surrounding towns as this beach is probably one of the best in the area.
It’s a 28-minute drive from Belfast, ME.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/MUZiWT2AWzjkpX2EA
6. Wadsworth Cove Beach
Our final pick is Wadsworth Cove Beach which is pretty far from Belfast, ME, however, it’s one of our favorite beaches in the area.
We definitely consider this beach a local hidden gem. Not known by a lot of people it’s very quiet even on hot summer days.
The beach is pebbly so, unfortunately, no building sandcastles. In turn, you get amazing views and beautiful nature right next to the beach.
It’s one of the best hidden beaches in these parts of Maine if you want to relax and take in the beautiful views.
The distance from Belfast, ME is around 34 miles which translates to 45 minutes of driving.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/dTfT3e2uBYuecZE69
Conclusion
Belfast, Maine proves that you don’t need a famous coastline to find relaxing, beautiful beach escapes. From the simplicity of Belfast City Park to the rustic charm of Wadsworth Cove, there are beach options for every mood and pace. Be ready for minimal amenities and bring your own gear, shade, and comfort. With proper planning, you’ll discover swimming spots that are refreshing, scenic, and wonderfully peaceful.
About the Author
William Chase, travel writer and founder of GotYourPassport.com. William seeks out both well-known and hidden beach spots, offering practical tips so travelers can enjoy swimming, scenery, and relaxation without surprises.
FAQs
Q: Can you swim safely at Belfast City Park?
Yes, but with caution. The shoreline is calm, but there are no lifeguards, so swimming is at your own risk.
Q: Which beach near Belfast, Maine has the best sand?
Sandy Point Beach is your best bet for sand and more classic beach vibes near Belfast.
Q: Are these beaches crowded in summer?
Not generally. Even in summer, many are quiet — especially the less-favorites like Wadsworth Cove. But on hot days, especially weekend afternoons, more popular spots like Laite Memorial Beach may get busier.
Q: Do any beaches near Belfast have amenities like picnic tables or grills?
Yes — Laite Memorial Beach has nearby picnic tables and grills, making it more comfortable for spending a whole day.
Q: How far do you have to drive for the beaches outside the town?
Some are quite close — about 10-15 miles (20-30 min) — like Fort Point State Park or Sandy Point. Others, like Wadsworth Cove Beach, are farther (~34 miles, ~45 min drive).