A Guide to Ferry Beach State Park: Tranquil Walking Trails and Beautiful Sandy Beach in Saco Maine

Maine state parkSouthern maineWalking trailsSwimmingDay use areaBeachPicnic areaRestroomsAccessible by carDog friendly
Written By Katherine Mills

Name: Ferry Beach State Park

Location: 95 Bayview Road, Saco, ME 04072

Dog-friendly: Yes, on leash

Activities: beach, swimming, walking trails, nature center, fishing

Hours: 9:00a.m.-sunset

Season: Memorial Day-September 30th

Campground: No

Fees: Yes

Ferry Beach State Park is a popular summer beach destination in Southern Maine for those looking for a relaxing, clean beach experience. The park offers walking trails, a picnic area, a nature center with guided programs, and a beautiful sandy beach that offers sweeping views of Pine Point and Old Orchard Beach.

In this blog post, I will be sharing everything you need to know before visiting Ferry Beach State Park—including what to pack for your visit, directions, park activities, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips for visiting the park.

History

Initially a popular destination for summer vacationers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ferry Beach was frequented by families seeking leisure along the beautiful coastline. In the 1960s, concerns over environmental preservation and the impact of commercial development led to an active campaign to protect the beach and surrounding areas. This culminated in the establishment of Ferry Beach State Park in 1967, which aimed to preserve the natural landscape and provide recreational opportunities for the public.

Preparation

  • Check the weather forecast to ensure safe conditions

  • Pack all the basic necessities, such as water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit

  • If planning on enjoying the beach, be sure to also pack beach essentials—a swimsuit, towel, beach chair, and sunscreen

  • Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for the season and activities

Directions + Parking

To get to Ferry Beach from I-95, take Exit 45 for US-1 South toward Scarborough. Then, merge onto US-1 South and continue for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Ferry Beach Road. Follow Ferry Beach Road until you arrive at the entrance of Ferry Beach State Park.

The park has plenty of parking, but if you want a spot closer to the trail that goes to the beach, arrive before 10:00a.m.

Park Rules

  • Although dogs are allowed in the park, they are not permitted on the beach from April 1st-September 30th

  • Charcoal fires are allowed in the provided grills

  • Carry out all trash you create during your visit

  • Please stay on marked trails and refrain from picking flowers or any other vegetation

  • Do not feed any animals you find in the park. This includes seagulls.

  • Stay off the dunes, as they are extremely fragile and vulnerable

Activities

Beach

Ferry Beach State Park has a beautiful, white sandy beach that can be accessed via the Beach Trail, which is under 0.1 miles long. Many of this trail is boardwalk, making it accessible to all. There are changing rooms and toilets conveniently located directly next to the parking lot. The park also has a beach wheelchair available for use.

Walking Trails

Most of the trails are flat and therefore family and wheelchair friendly. There are maps and several trail signs that make navigating the trails relatively straightforward.

Tupelo Trail (0.36 miles)

An easy trail that provides views of Long Pond and beautiful swamp land explored via boardwalk.

Red Oak Trail (0.30 miles)

Named for the prevalent red oak trees, this trail brings visitors to my favorite spot in the park—a bench overlooking Long Pond.

White Oak Trail (0.30 miles)

A shaded, tranquil trail that can be used to connect the Red Oak Trail back to the parking lot.

Nature Center

The Nature Center at Ferry Beach State Park offers guided nature programs for kids or anyone hoping to learn more about the ecosystems and wildlife present in the park.

Picnic Area

There is a picnic area as well as a picnic shelter in the park, perfect for groups visiting the park or cooling off after spending a morning in the sun. They are located at the beginning of the White Oak Trail.

Insider Tips

Leave no Trace

When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.

Interested in more Maine State Park information and tips? You can find them all here.

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With love,

My Maine

Katherine Mills
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