Following is a list of beaches around the Mid Coast area that offer something for all ages:
POPHAM BEACH - (Phippsburg). Several miles of good sand, rolling dunes and scrub pine, with views of rocky islands, lighthouses and open sea. Part of the beach is a State Park with bathing and picnic facilities. Open April 15th to Nov. 30th. Popham Beach is reached by taking Route 209 south from Bath, about 12 miles.
REID STATE PARK - (Georgetown). Two rocky headlands with a mile or so of good sand beach between. In back of the dunes is a lagoon which often has warmer water for swimming. From the beach there are views of the open sea and some peninsulas and islands in the distance. The park has picnic and bathing facilities. Open 4/15-12/15. Reid State Park is reached by taking Route 127 south from Rt. 1 across the Kennebec River from Bath, about 14 mi.
PEMAQUID BEACH PARK (Bristol). Lovely swimming beach just up the bay from Pemaquid Point's dramatic surf and near the Colonial Pemaquid Restoration. Bathhouse.
WINSLOW MEMORIAL PARK (Freeport). A nice little seaside town park with man-made beach, picnic tables, playground and restrooms. No lifeguard, but located in a sheltered area with no surf. Muddy at low tide.
Since its founding in 1956, the Maine Chapter of the Nature Conservancy has protected more than 50,000 acres of Maine's finest natural lands. Most of the Chapter's 83 preserves are open to the public for careful day use. Nature study, picnicking and other appropriate activities are welcome. For more info, contact the Chapter office in Topsham, Maine (207) 729-5181. The Maine Chapter of the National Audubon Society and many local organizations also maintain preserves around the state.www.nature.org
You can also find places to enjoy the area's open spaces at the Healthy Maine Walks websitewww.healthymainewalks.org
LOWER KENNEBEC REGIONAL LAND TRUST (regional)
The Lower Kennebec Land Trust has provided our region with several glorious open spaces of preserved land. For details and sites, please see thier website,www.lkrlt.org
JOSEPHINE NEWMAN SANCTUARY(Georgetown)
119 acre preserve bounded on two sides by salt marsh is part of inter-tidal region of Midcoast Maine. More than two miles of trail are maintained by the Audubon Society for nature study and day hiking. The natural features of this preserve include mature forest, cattail marsh, old beaver pond, rocky coasts, and tidal mud flats.
MONTSWEAG PRESERVE (Woolwich)
Woods and ledgy shoreline bordering tidal creek that empties into Montsweag Bay and is frequented by migrating waterfowl. Loop trail through woods, past tidal marsh, and overlooking high shore. Approachable by land or by canoe along the estuary.
ROBERT P. TRISTRAM COFFIN WILDFLOWER SANCTUARY (Woolwich)
180 acre preserve owned by the New England Wildflower Society, containing more than 200 species of flowers, grasses, trees and shrubs. The sanctuary includes trails along Merrymeeting Bay. Located on Route 128, just north of Chops Point Road. Look for the sanctuary sign.
SWAN ISLAND (Richmond)
Steve Powell Refuge and Wildlife Management Area, accessible by state boat from Richmond. Historic island with early settlement in Kennebec River just above Merrymeeting Bay. Migrating waterfowl, bald eagle nest, deer. Camping and visitation areas tightly controlled to protect wildlife; walking in protected areas is prohibited. For boating and camping reservations call 289-1150. Camping arrangements must be made a week in advance.
MAST LANDING SANCTUARY (Freeport)
Self-guiding nature trails through fields, woods, salt marsh, and along streams with beavers in residence. Tenting and picnicking.
WOLF NECK WOODS STATE PARK (Freeport)
Self-guiding nature trails through picturesque woods fronting the Harraseeket River and Casco Bay. Picnic area and active osprey nest on small island just offshore.
