One of the most recognizable things in Maine is the stunning coast. It’s rough and rocky in areas, with stretches of sandy beaches mixed in as well. It’s also got some of the most dramatic tidal changes in the US, making for some impressive changes to the coastal landscape two times every day. It’s these tidal variations that create tide pools. Left behind when the water moves back out to the ocean, critters, and creatures are often found here in these little Maine tide pools. Exploring them makes for a fun few hours for both children and adults. To explore these for yourself check out this list that tells you where to find the best tide pools in Maine.

1. Schoodic Peninsula, Winter Harbor
Schoodic Peninsula, Winter Harbor, ME 04693, USA
Colleen C / TripAdvisor
The Schoodic Peninsula is just east of Acadia, in Winter Harbor. You'll have great views of the island that you can't have when you're ON the island and there are also some incredible places to find tide pools. There are two main places -- West Pool and East Pool. West Pool is the first you'll come to when driving around the loop. The pool here will reveal crabs, starfish, and even sea urchins. East Pool is located at Blueberry Hill and has a shallow pool where you can find sand dollars.
2. Ogunquit Beach, Ogunquit
Ogunquit Beach, Ogunquit, ME 03907, USA
Scott / Flickr
Ogunquit Beach is a great way to come with kids. These Maine tide pools here are gentle and easy to find. Visit the Ogunquit Riverbed as well.
3. Potts Point Preserve, Harpswell
Potts Point, Harpswell, ME 04079, USA
Paul VanDerWerf / Flickr
You'll just about miss this island in Casco Bay that almost completely disappears at high tide. But at low tide, you'll find fun Maine tide pools, beautiful little sand beaches, tiny marshes, and wildflowers. The views of the boats that travel between Merriconeag Sound and Potts Harbor are also worth the trip. Here you'll also find clams.

Take a look at this video by @harpswellheritagelandtrust6629:

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4. Ocean Point Walk, Boothbay
Ocean Point Walk, Point Rd, East Boothbay, ME 04544, USA
DavidBenz / TripAdvisor
The Ocean Point Preserve area was once a summery colony, and today it's home to one of the loveliest inns in Maine. The walking path is maintained by the Ocean Point Association. This is one of the best tidal pools in Maine to be at super low tide when the pools fill with starfish and crabs.

Take a look at this video by @josesaerialvistas8472:
5. Pemaquid Point, Pemaquid
Pemaquid Point, Bristol, ME 04554, USA
AAHolt / TripAdvisor
The Pemaquid Lighthouse is one of the most-photographed lighthouses in Maine, but there's a reason to visit beyond just the light. Time your visit for low tide and you're likely to find tidal pools in Maine with pink coralline algae and lots of other minuscule sea life.
6. The Rachel Carson Salt Pond Preserve, Bristol
Rachael Carson Salt Pond Preserve, Bristol, ME 04541, USA
Kathy C / TripAdvisor
This is the place where naturalist Rachel Carson gathered specimens for the research to write her book, "Edge of the Sea." The tidepool area here is only about a quarter acre, but it's great for easy exploration. It's also a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of discovering the coast.

Take a look at this video by @mattdroneson:
7. Giant's Stairs, Harpswell
Giant's Stairs Trail, Harpswell, ME 04003, USA
TJForrest / TripAdvisor
This coastal area looks out over eastern Casco Bay. There's a short, easy trail that follows the edge making for fairly easy access to some beautiful Maine tide pools. Be careful here as waves can be a bit daunting. Best to make sure you've got lots of time on either end of the trip to avoid running into high tide.

Have you visited any of the best tide pools in Maine? After you’ve explored the coast, head inland to enjoy Maine’s lakes and rivers. One of the most fun ways to do that is this all-day float trip in Maine!

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Maine Tide Pools

Tori Jane | June 14, 2022

Where can I find the best tide pools in Maine?  

A “tide pool” is defined as an isolated “pocket” of seawater, often refreshed by waves, and typically filled with critters like starfish, sea urchins, sand dollars, and sometimes even small fish. The best tide pools in Maine can be found at the following places:

  • The pool at Potts Point is located in Casco Bay and when the tide is high it’s almost not even visible, but when the tide is out, it’s a wonderful little pool teeming with life that’s fun to watch. Look for clams, because they’re often plentiful.
  • You’ll find excellent tide pools right up alongside numerous coastlines in Maine, so keep your eyes peeled and explore! 

 

Are there any Maine tidal pools one can swim in?  

Honestly, not really. By definition, tide pools are divots or coves etched into the rocky shoreline, and the rocks tend to be sharp and slippery. Tide pools tend to be shallow and full of critters, so they’re really not the best places for taking a swim. Not to worry, though, because there are plenty of wonderful swimming holes in Maine waiting for you to take a dip! Do you know of any great places to go swimming in Maine?  

What are some of the most beautiful Maine beaches to visit?  

Some of the most beautiful beaches of Maine are the following:

  • Kennebunkport Beach looks and feels like something out of a painting.
  • Wells Beach has a remarkably unique geography and makes for wonderful photos.
  • Acadia National Park is filled with breathtaking Maine beaches, and we encourage visits to every last one – you know. Just to be sure you get to see it all.  

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