East End Beach

Imagine a cozy stretch of sand and pebbles nestled right at the foot of the Eastern Promenade hill. East End Beach is a unique public natural corner that warmly welcomes residents and visitors of South Portland in the USA. It is considered one of the few accessible swimming areas within the city limits, offering stunning panoramic views of Casco Bay.

The beach's main feature is its picturesque setting: from here, you can see numerous islands and sailing yachts bobbing on the waves. The combination of the rocky shore, grassy slopes, and sea breeze creates ideal conditions for those seeking tranquility without traveling far from city amenities.

For the comfort of visitors, all the necessary infrastructure is provided. Nearby are convenient parking areas, benches for resting, and picnic tables, making East End Beach an excellent choice for a family getaway or an evening walk in the fresh air.

To check up-to-date information on the status of the coastal area or visiting rules, you can use the official communication channels.

On the coast, everyone will find something to their liking: from lazy sunbathing to active water sports. One of the main features is the boat ramp, making it a popular spot for kayaking and sailing enthusiasts setting off to explore the bay's islands.

Nature lovers can bring their binoculars—it is not uncommon to spot seals on the coastal rocks, coming out of the water to bask in the sun. If the water seems a bit too chilly for a long swim, you can always enjoy a picnic on the spacious grassy slope, watching the boats moving in the marina.

For those who prefer to stay active, the famous Eastern Promenade Trail runs along the shore. It is perfect for running, cycling, or just taking a long walk with ocean views, allowing you to combine beach relaxation with some light physical exercise.

Getting to this coastal area is easy, as it is conveniently located within walking distance of the Old Port district. The scenic Eastern Promenade Trail leads directly to the sandy-pebble shore, making the walk to the beach a pleasant addition to your trip.

For those who prefer driving, parking is available near the beach, and the access roads are very convenient. You can also take a local taxi from the city center; the trip takes just a few minutes.

If you plan to use public transport, buses run regularly toward the eastern part of the city. Outdoor enthusiasts often choose bicycles, taking advantage of the well-developed network of bike paths that connect the city's main districts with the waterfront.

The history of this place is inextricably linked with the summer traditions of the locals. As far back as 1921, life was bustling in the Fish Point area of East End Beach: popular public swimming facilities and bathhouses were located here, gathering hundreds of vacationers looking to refresh themselves in the cool waters of the bay.

In the mid-20th century, the location's popularity only grew. Archival photos from 1953 capture the beach as a lively and favorite spot for family leisure on the hottest days. Since then, the atmosphere of friendliness and simplicity has remained a constant feature of this coast.

Interestingly, in the 1960s, a public swimming pool was built next to the natural beach. However, in the 1980s, city authorities decided to fill it in to expand the parking area for visitors. This allowed the beach itself to be preserved as the main natural recreation site, making it more accessible to motorists.

For a quick look at the coast and a short walk by the water, 1–2 hours will be quite enough. This is plenty of time to enjoy the sea air and take several panoramic photos of the bay.

However, if you plan to have a picnic on the grass, walk the entire Eastern Promenade trail, or just sunbathe, you should set aside at least half a day for your visit. The relaxed atmosphere of the place encourages a leisurely rest without the rush.

You can visit the coast throughout the day. East End Beach is open to the public daily according to the following schedule:

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• Monday — Sunday: from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
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This schedule allows you to either catch a picturesque sunrise or enjoy the evening twilight by the water.

Exploring the surroundings after relaxing by the water can greatly enrich your travel experience. The area around the waterfront is full of historical sites and architectural monuments that provide a better understanding of the region's heritage.

Below are some of the most interesting places located in the immediate vicinity of the beach: