Old Orchard Beach, Maine: Historic Sights, Scenic Trails & Seaside Dining
Plan an unforgettable beach day at Old Orchard Beach, where sun-drenched shores meet lively arcade rides, fresh lobster feasts, and relaxing boardwalk strolls. This iconic destination boasts sandy shorelines, breathtaking ocean views from its historic pier, and family-friendly thrills at Palace Playland. For those seeking tranquility, nearby trails and golf courses offer a perfect escape into nature.
Key Takeaway
- Experience diverse fun: sunbathing, arcade games, fresh seafood, and boardwalk walks.
- Enjoy iconic attractions like the pier, sandy beaches, and Palace Playland amusement park.
- Find quieter moments with nearby nature trails and mini golf options.
- Customize your visit using sections on activities, family fun, dining, and lodging.
This comprehensive guide details how to maximize your day, from enjoying the beach and amusement park to exploring local history, finding nature trails, and choosing the best places to stay and eat. Utilize dedicated sections on activities, family fun, dining, and lodging to craft a personalized itinerary that perfectly aligns with your interests.
Top Places to Stay in Old Orchard Beach, ME
| Hotel | Reviews |
|---|---|
| The Beachwood 29 W Grand Ave, Old Orchard Beach, 04064-2633, United States of America | 383 |
| Moontide Motel, Apartments, and Cabins 10 Traynor St, Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 124 |
| The Rebekah Inn 4 Cleaves St, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 117 |
| Elmwood Motor Court 183 Saco Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 357 |
| The Edgewater 57 West Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 934 |
| 3 BD COTTAGE APT ONLY MINUTES TO BEACH 94 Saco Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 36 |
| Updated 2BD Only Minutes From The Beach Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 40 |
| Fully Renovated Rustic Barn Minutes From The Beach 15 Fern Park Avenue Unit 3, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 50 |
| Just Updated - Near The Beach - Pet Friendly - 3BD Atlantic Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 108 |
| Friendship Oceanfront Suites 167 E Grand Ave, Old Orchard Beach, 04064-3009, United States of America | 669 |
| Sandpiper Beachfront Motel 2 Cleaves Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 482 |
| Brand New Luxury 3BD Sleeps 8 Woods Lane, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 23 |
| Sea Drift Motel 126 East Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 168 |
| Atlantic Ocean Suites 6 Brown Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 62 |
| Executive Motel 38 East Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 316 |
| Echo Motel 8 Traynor Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 102 |
| The Hoxie House Old Orchard Beach, 4064, United States of America | 27 |
| Atlantis Motel 95 East Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 156 |
| Old Orchard Beach Cozy Cottage Pine Lane, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 10 |
| Sea Cliff House Motel 2 Sea Cliff Ave, Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 682 |
| Abellona Inn & Suites 1 York Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 451 |
| Green Dolphin Motel 62 East Grand Ave, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 420 |
| The Skylark Beach Inn 2 Brown Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 158 |
| Boisvert Villas Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 22 |
| Patras Grand Beach Motel 185 East Grand Ave, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 6 |
| The Cozy Cottage Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 13 |
| The York 2 York Street, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 7 |
| By the Sea Old Orchard Beach, 4064, United States of America | 7 |
| Old Orchard Beach Apartment - Quick Walk to Beach! Old Orchard Beach, 04064-2903, United States of America | 4 |
| Old Orchard Beach Home w/ Shady Patio+Yard Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 2 |
| Kebek 3 Motel 53 West Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 145 |
| The Gull Oceanfront Motel & Cottages 89 West Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 95 |
| Reno'd - Pet Friendly Near Beach Atlantic Avenue 2, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 4 |
| Bougie Beach Bungalow Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 2 |
| The Captain's Ship Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 3 |
| Beach Fantasy Apartment Suites 26 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 57 |
| Alouette Beach Resort Economy Rooms 91 East Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 57 |
| Beachfront Old Orchard Beach Condo with Balcony Old Orchard Beach, 04064-2600, United States of America | 4 |
| Sands Townhouses 64 West Grand Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 52 |
| Beach Home Old Orchard Beach, 4064, United States of America | 1 |
| Apt Walking Distance to OOB Pier and Saco Bay! Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 1 |
| The Owl's Nest Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 1 |
| Wild Dunes Retreat Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 2 |
| Sandy Shores Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 6 |
| Amazing Views in Old Orchard Washington Avenue, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 1 |
| Old Ocean Beach Apt by Pier and Palace Playland Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 2 |
| Old Orchard Beach Home with Patio, Walk to Beach Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 9 |
| Marcotte Motor Court 32 Jameson Hill Road, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 760 |
| COZY 2 BEDROOM ONLY MINUTES FROM THE BEACH 17 Hillside Avenue B, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064, United States of America | 5 |
| Large Maine Home - 5 Min Walk to Old Orchard Beach Old Orchard Beach, 04064, United States of America | 1 |
Spend a Day at Old Orchard Beach
Swim, hunt for shells, and watch the sunset on Saco Bay. Bring sunscreen, a beach chair or blanket, and a small bag for shells or trash.
Swim and Sunbathe Along the Seven-Mile Beach
Set up near the pier or walk farther down the sand for a quieter spot. Lifeguards patrol popular areas in summer, so pick a flagged zone for safer swimming. Water is best for splashing and wading; stay where you feel comfortable.
Rent umbrellas and chairs from vendors near downtown to stay shaded. Pack water and snacks, or grab a lobster roll from a beachfront stand. Rinse off at public showers before heading back to shops or Palace Playland.
Beachcombing and Seashell Collecting
Walk the shoreline after low tide for the best finds. Search near the water and around tidal pools for shells and sea glass. Move slowly and scan the sand in short sections to spot little treasures.
Bring a small bucket and a soft brush to clean shells. Collect only small amounts and leave live creatures. If you explore toward Camp Ellis or the jetty, wear shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks and shells.
Enjoy Spectacular Sunsets
Find a spot facing west over Saco Bay about 20–30 minutes before sunset. The pier makes a great foreground for photos, or pick a quiet stretch of beach for fewer people. Bring a light jacket because coastal breezes cool down fast after dark.
Boardwalk shops stay open late, so grab ice cream or coffee as the sky changes colors. If you’re with a group, spread a blanket and relax; the sky often lights up in pink and orange that reflect on the water.
Experience the Iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier
The pier stretches over Saco Bay and offers food, shopping, and live music above the water. Taste classic pier fries, browse shops, and catch evening performances without leaving the boardwalk.
Dining and Fresh Seafood at the Pier
Order lobster rolls, clam chowder, and pier fries from counters right on the pier. Many spots cook seafood fresh to order; ask if the lobster is Maine-caught that day.
For a quick snack, try the pier french fries—hand-cut and served with vinegar or ketchup. Several stands serve seafood platters and fried clams you can eat while watching boats in Saco Bay.
Seating ranges from picnic benches to small dining rooms with ocean views. Bring cash just in case; some vendors prefer it. Sunset visits offer great light and cooler temperatures.
Shopping for Unique Souvenirs
Find shops selling beachwear, postcards, and locally made gifts along the pier. Look for handcrafted jewelry, nautical décor, and T‑shirts with Old Orchard Beach or Saco Bay scenes.
Pick up a windbreaker or sun hat for the beach. For gifts, choose a jar of Maine jam or a small art print from a local maker. Many shops accept cards and cash.
Walk slowly and peek into each stall; some vendors rotate stock seasonally, so you may find different items on repeat visits.
Live Entertainment and Nightlife
The pier hosts street performers and live bands in the evening. During summer, you can hear rock, folk, or cover bands on stages near the pier’s entrance or on Palace Playland grounds.
Bars and venues along the boardwalk offer casual nightlife. Many spots have outdoor seating so you can enjoy the sounds over Saco Bay.
Check local event listings or ask at a shop for that night’s schedule; popular shows fill up, and earlier arrival guarantees a good spot.
Have Fun at Palace Playland Amusement Park
Ride coasters, play arcade games, and eat classic carnival food steps from the sand. The park sits right on Old Orchard Beach and mixes kid-friendly rides with big thrills.
Thrilling Rides and Family Attractions
Find more than two dozen rides packed into a compact, beachside park. Ride the Ferris wheel for ocean views, try the carousel, or test your nerves on the park’s coasters. Height limits and safety signs are posted at each attraction, so check those before you line up.
Rides are organized into kiddie, family, and thrill categories. This helps you plan if you have small children or teens wanting bigger rides. Lines get long on summer evenings, so arrive early or visit on a weekday to save time.
Maines Largest Beachside Arcade
The arcade has over 200 games and ticket-redemption machines. Play skee-ball, modern video games, and skill-ticket games under one roof. The arcade is steps from the boardwalk, so you can take a break from the sun.
Buy game cards or tokens at the counter and track tickets for prizes. The space is family-friendly and air-conditioned, which is a nice break on hot days. You’ll also find classic photo booths and a few vintage machines with the newest electronic games.
Classic Carnival Treats
Enjoy fair food from booths along the midway and vendors on the boardwalk. Expect fried dough, cotton candy, corn dogs, and saltwater taffy. Many spots also serve fresh seafood and ice cream to enjoy on the beach.
Food lines move quickly, but popular items sell out on busy nights. Bring cash and cards; most vendors accept both. Eating between rides makes the day feel like a classic New England summer at Old Orchard Beach.
Explore Nature and Outdoor Activities
Find sand, salt marsh, tidal creeks, and forested trails within a few miles of town. These spots are great for hiking, birding, biking, fishing, and family picnics.
Ferry Beach State Park Hiking and Picnicking
Ferry Beach State Park offers wide sandy dunes, a pine forest, and easy beach access. Walk the marked trail from the parking area to the shore; the path winds through pitch pines and rises to small dunes with ocean views. Bring a blanket and set up near the water or under the trees for shade.
The park has restrooms and picnic tables near the lot. Dogs are allowed on the beach in certain seasons—check posted rules. For short hikes, follow the interior loop trails that border tidal marshes and connect to local neighborhood paths.
Biking the Eastern Trail
The Eastern Trail runs nearly 28 miles from Old Orchard Beach toward Portland and passes through varied landscapes. Start at Saco Avenue and ride south or north depending on your plans. The paved sections are smooth for hybrid or road bikes; some parts open to singletrack for mountain bikes.
Plan a point-to-point ride or use local shuttle options to return. Stops along the way include parks, cafes, and scenic overlooks. Carry water, a repair kit, and a map—cell service can be spotty in marshy areas near the Saco River and Scarborough Marsh.
Wildlife at Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center
Scarborough Marsh is Maine’s largest salt marsh and a top spot for birding and tidal-wetland ecology. Visit the Audubon Center to learn about migratory birds, clams, and the marsh’s role as a fish nursery. Guided walks and signs explain how tides shape the habitat.
Bring binoculars to see species like great blue herons, ospreys, and saltmarsh sparrows. Kayak the tidal creeks for close-up views of fiddler crabs and eelgrass beds. Stay on designated paths and respect nesting areas, especially in spring and early summer.
Visit Scarborough Beach State Park
Scarborough Beach State Park features a broad, sandy beach with dunes and offshore sandbars that create safe swimming areas at low tide. The park has lifeguards in season, restrooms, and a large picnic area for family outings. Parking fills quickly on warm days, so arrive early.
Walk the shoreline toward the Scarborough River mouth or use access points to explore nearby trails. The beach’s western edge gives views across the Saco River inlet toward Saco and Old Orchard Beach. Watch tide charts if you plan to wade or walk sandbars; tides change quickly.
Family Fun Beyond the Boardwalk
Find hands-on fun a short walk or drive from the main strip. These spots offer indoor glow mini golf, water slides, and a full amusement and water park so your group can pick quiet fun or big thrills.
Jungle Adventure 3D Mini Golf
Jungle Adventure 3D Mini Golf is indoors and uses glow-in-the-dark art and 3D glasses to make each hole pop. The course has molded props, painted murals, and light effects that keep kids excited.
Pay per round and add arcade time afterward. It’s a good rainy-day option because you stay dry while still having fun. Bring small bills for tickets and prizes if kids want to redeem arcade wins.
The course is family-sized, so kids as young as five can play with help, while teens enjoy the 3D visuals.
Aquaboggan Water Park Adventures
Aquaboggan Water Park is a short drive from Old Orchard Beach and centers on water slides and a wave pool for families. Find body slides, family raft rides, and gentler areas for little ones to splash safely.
Pack sunscreen, a towel, and water shoes. Lockers and food stands are on site, so you can pack light. Arriving early or later in the afternoon helps you hit popular slides with shorter waits.
Lifeguards staff main pools and slides during season. If you have small children, use the shallow play areas and check ride rules for height limits before joining a queue.
Funtown Splashtown USA
Funtown Splashtown USA combines an amusement park and water park on one property, offering roller coasters, go-karts, and dozens of slides. Split a day between dry rides like the wooden roller coaster and water attractions such as wave pools and speed slides.
Buy a combo wristband for unlimited park access. Food vendors and shaded picnic areas make it easy to regroup during the day. Note ride height and safety rules at the entrance to avoid surprises.
The park draws big summer crowds, so check hours and consider weekday visits to reduce wait times. Family restrooms and changing areas are available for convenience.
Tee Off and Relax: Golf in Old Orchard Beach
Play a full championship course or grab a putter for family fun. Expect well-kept greens, nearby dining, and options for every skill level.
Dunegrass Golf Club Experience
Dunegrass Golf Club covers over 300 acres of wooded dunes with an 18-hole, par 72 course stretching about 6,644 yards. You’ll find four sets of tees, letting you choose a challenging or more relaxed round.
The course features streams, hills, and rock outcrops, adding visual variety and strategic options. Greens stay well maintained, and the clubhouse includes Grill65 for food and drinks after your round.
Dunegrass offers short-game areas and simulators for off-season practice. Book tee times ahead for summer weekends to avoid crowds.
Mini Golf Courses for All Ages
Old Orchard Beach has several mini golf spots close to the boardwalk and attractions. Courses include classic windmill layouts and themed adventure holes for both kids and adults.
Wait times are usually shortest in the mornings and evenings, with longer lines on summer afternoons. Prices stay low, and many courses offer combo tickets with other boardwalk games or rides.
Mini golf is a quick, affordable stop between beach time and dinner. Bring cash or a card—most busy spots accept both—and look for deals if you plan multiple activities.
Immerse Yourself in Local History and Culture
Explore town stories, old photos, and artifacts that show how Old Orchard Beach and nearby Saco and Biddeford grew from fishing and rail tourism into today’s lively summer spot.
Harmon Museum and Old Orchard Beach Historical Society
The Harmon Museum displays local artifacts, vintage photos, and seasonal exhibits tracing the town’s change from a 19th-century resort to a modern beach town. The Historical Society runs the museum and shares research on families, businesses, and the pier’s history.
Browse displays of postcards, clothing, and tools for a glimpse of daily life over the decades. Staff and volunteers can help you find archival materials or maps if you want to research a specific house, family, or event.
Check hours before you go; the museum is small and seasonal, ideal for a focused 30–60 minute visit. Find the address and local contacts on the museum and town website to confirm tours or special programs.
Discover the Saco Museum
Drive a short distance to Saco to visit the Saco Museum, which holds regional collections including Biddeford and Old Orchard Beach history. Exhibits cover shipbuilding, textile mills, and the river’s role in local industry.
The museum displays artifacts from the Saco River valley, historic photos, and rotating exhibits that highlight community stories and immigrant families. Interactive displays and labeled collections help you connect Saco, Biddeford, and Old Orchard Beach.
Plan about an hour to see the main exhibits and special displays. Museum staff can suggest nearby historic sites in Saco and Biddeford if you want to extend your tour.
Where to Stay: Hotels and Accommodations
Choose from oceanfront motels near the sand, family-run inns with pools and play areas, or historic properties close to the pier and downtown. Pick a spot based on how close you want to be to the beach, Palace Playland, or Old Orchard Street shops and restaurants.
Beachfront Hotels and Resorts
For ocean views, stay at a beachfront hotel on East or West Grand Avenue. Many rooms face the Atlantic and let you walk to the pier in minutes. Look for places with direct beach access, heated pools, and kitchenettes if you want longer stays or to cook meals.
Staying on the beachfront puts you near water sports rentals and pier nightlife. Check addresses on East or West Grand Ave to make sure you’re within walking distance of Palace Playland and the main shops.
Family-Friendly Places to Stay
Families often choose motels or small resorts with pools, playgrounds, and BBQ areas. These usually sit a short walk from the beach and offer suites or adjoining rooms for kids and parents. Extras often include free Wi‑Fi, daily maid service, and complimentary morning coffee.
If you’re driving, look for places with on-site parking and easy access to attractions like Palace Playland and Veterans Memorial Park. Camping resorts and rental cottages offer more space and on-site activities.
Boutique and Historic Options
For local charm, try small inns and historic guesthouses near Old Orchard Street and the pier. These often feature unique rooms, antiques, and personalized service. Breakfast may be included, and staff can recommend dining and events.
Boutique stays put you within walking distance of downtown restaurants and nightlife. If you prefer atmosphere over big-hotel amenities, look for inns listed under downtown or Old Orchard Street addresses for the most walkable options.
Savor Local Flavors and Dining Experiences
Enjoy fresh seafood, classic beach treats, and a few standout sit-down spots within walking distance. You’ll find lobster rolls, chowder, fried seafood, and the famous boardwalk fry stand.
Seafood Restaurants and Lobster Rolls
Old Orchard Beach specializes in seafood. Look for restaurants with fresh-caught lobster, steamers, and daily fish specials. Order a lobster roll warm with butter or chilled with mayo—both are popular.
Many places serve clam chowder; ask if it’s New England style (cream) or a lighter broth. For raw bar options, visit earlier in the day when the selection is best.
Pick a spot with outdoor seating or deck views for a meal by the surf.
Pier French Fries and Local Favorites
Pier French Fries is a local icon for boardwalk eats. Grab hot, crispy fries topped with salt and vinegar or plain, plus sides like fried dough and hot dogs.
These stands move quickly, so expect fast cash or card lines at busy times. The fries pair well with a summer soda or fresh lemonade.
Other favorites include family diners serving breakfast all day, bakeries with coffee and pastries, and small cafes for sandwiches and smoothies. These spots make beach days simple and tasty.
The Brunswick and Notable Eateries
The Brunswick and other popular restaurants offer formal dining while keeping a beach-casual feel. The Brunswick serves seafood and American fare, good for families and groups.
Try Joseph’s By the Sea for oceanfront views, casual pubs with craft beer, or seafood markets that double as cafes. Many restaurants expand outdoor seating in summer, so check hours and seasonal menus.
Reserve ahead for special nights, as popular waterfront tables fill quickly on weekends and holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers about the pier, rides, beaches, food, events, and ways to save. These short responses guide you to places, prices, and tips for your visit.
What attractions are a must-visit in Old Orchard Beach?
Visit the Old Orchard Beach Pier for oceanside dining, souvenir shops, and views of Saco Bay. Walk the seven-mile sandy beach on either side of the pier for quieter spots.
Palace Playland offers beachfront rides and arcade games. The Harmon Museum features local history and old photos of the pier and town.
Are there any family-friendly activities in Old Orchard Beach?
Yes. Palace Playland has kiddie rides, family rides, and an arcade. The long sandy beach is perfect for sandcastles, swimming, and beach games.
Try mini golf at Jungle Adventure 3D for indoor fun when it’s rainy. The Libby Memorial Library hosts storytimes and family events during the season.
Can you recommend some outdoor adventures in Old Orchard Beach?
Bike or walk a segment of the Eastern Trail for coastal views and varied paths. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore nearby inlets and the Saco River mouth.
For wildlife watching, visit Scarborough Marsh or nearby Audubon sites for birding. Take a short drive to Biddeford Pool or Fortunes Rocks for different beach scenery.
Where are the best places to eat in Old Orchard Beach?
Try Pier French Fries for classic fries and snacks near the pier. Joseph’s by the Sea offers upscale dining with ocean views and patio seating.
Mainely Lobster Cafe serves lobster rolls and other fresh seafood. For an oceanfront patio and live music, check out The Brunswick (The Wick).
What are the top events or festivals to attend in Old Orchard Beach?
Look for summer concerts and events on the pier and beachfront from June through August. Town festivals, boardwalk events, and markets often happen on holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Check local event calendars for specific dates, as schedules and acts change each season.
How can I enjoy Old Orchard Beach on a budget?
Use the free or low-cost public beach access along the seven miles of sand for sun and swimming. Pack a picnic or buy takeout from a lobster shack instead of eating at expensive waterfront restaurants.
Ride the seasonal trolley to avoid parking fees and walk the pier for free. Look for weekday or off-season deals on lodging and attractions to save money.