Crescent Beach State Park opened in 1966 and offers bathing in the surf or in the sun at one of Maine's finest beaches. There are picnic tables and grills, a children's playground, a snack bar, and a bathhouse with cold-water showers. Kettle Cove State Park, located adjacent to Crescent Beach State Park, offers beautiful coastal views and a walking trail around the cove.

Sandy oceanfront beaches, saltwater coves, wooded areas, and rock ledges provide seashore recreation for beachgoers, fishing and watersports enthusiasts, and nature observers. Crescent Beach State Park is a classic saltwater beach park with American beachgrass-studded sand dunes, ocean breezes, herring gulls, picnic areas and views of fishing boats and an offshore island.

The park's signature feature and namesake is a mile-long, crescent-shaped beach ideal for strolling and sunbathing, where relatively warm waters and light surf make swimming and boating a pleasure. A few feet from the crowded summer sands are trails for walking and nature watching.

In the off-season when the park is closed to vehicles, walkers are welcome to enjoy the tranquility of the beaches and trails. In the winter, visitors can hike or cross-country ski on paths under a canopy of snow-covered evergreen boughs.

Crescent Beach State Park

Two Lights State Park is a popular point of destination for Maine residents and the many visitors who enjoy the state's legendary rocky coast. Opened in 1961, the park encompasses 41-acres of rocky headlands. Standing high above the rocky coast and rolling surf, visitors have sweeping views of Casco Bay and the open Atlantic.

The park's name originated from the twin lighthouses located nearby, outside the park at the end of Two Lights Road. Built in 1828, these were the first twin lighthouses on the coast of Maine. Although not open to the public, the eastern light is an active, automated light station, visible 17 miles at sea. The western light ceased operation in 1924 and is now a private home. One of these towers was the subject of Edward Hopper's famous painting "Lighthouse at Two Lights."

Picnic tables situated on the hills facing the ocean afford visitors spectacular views of the ocean while enjoying an afternoon barbecue or clambake. Strollers and hikers can enjoy the refreshing sea breezes along shoreline trails and watch ships sailing into and out of Portland Harbor. Remember, ocean breezes can cool off a summer afternoon, so bring warm clothing to ensure an enjoyable visit. When walking along the rocks by the ocean, stand at least 20 feet back from the surf and keep a close eye on children who are in your care.

Open all year; 9:00 a.m. to sunset daily unless otherwise posted at the gate. Fee Charged.

State Parks Tagged With: Cape Elizabeth