On an Old Orchard Beach vacation the "Maine" attraction is the 7-mile beach itself. The beach is perfect for long walks, getting some sun and cooling off in the chilly Atlantic waters. And there is even more to do beyond the beach, making this a top vacation spot in Maine.
Dining on Maine lobsters and steamer clams ranks high on the list of things to do in Old Orchard Beach. For the young kids and grown-up kids there is the Pier on Old Orchard Beach with its arcades, shops and food stands. And getting away from the beach itself there is golf, kayaking, shopping and other attractions.
Although it has become a year-round destination, the best time to visit Old Orchard Beach is the summer. The water will be especially chilly in May and June, but it gets better as summer progresses.
Old Orchard Beach Summer Activities
Among the events you can enjoy in the summer time are concerts in the town square, fireworks on the beach each Thursday from late June through Labor Day, beer and music festivals on the Pier, and a sandcastle contest in July. Annual events worth seeing are Illumination Night, on which the Ocean Park neighborhood lights up their homes and hosts a concert and treats; and the annual Beach Olympics, which is three days of competition and music and benefits the Special Olympics. Many summer events happen on or near the Pier and include music and food.
Things To Do At Old Orchard Beach All Year
Even in the off-season the beach is the focus at Old Orchard Beach. You can still stroll the hard-packed sand, but you might need a sweater and some long pants. In the fall you can enjoy the changing foliage and horseback riding on the beach. During the spring, you might not go in the water, but the sun will feel warm enough to soothe you on the beach. Rates for lodging can be quite good during the off-season as well.
Old Orchard Beach in the off-season also makes a good base for exploring other nearby attractions. There is great outlet shopping in Kittery and Freeport is home to LL Bean. Portland has historic attractions as well as good restaurants, shops and cultural events. And you can always go for a drive along the coast and stop in at a local restaurant for fresh lobster – year-round.
Old Orchard Beach Dining
Old Orchard Beach is well-equipped to suit the diverse palates that may be on vacation with you. You will, of course, find your staples such as pizza and burgers. The highlight will be the fresh clams and lobster, which you can enjoy almost anywhere from a roadside clam shack (think fried clams and lobster rolls) to a finer restaurant where the clams will be steamed and the lobster served whole. There are also plenty of options for a hearty New England breakfast of pancakes (with Maine blueberries), eggs and coffee.
Old Orchard Beach Accommodations
When vacation in Old Orchard Beach Maine, you will have plenty of accommodation choices. Being one of the more popular beach destinations in Maine, there are motels, hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts. But there are alternatives to standard types of lodging. If you are traveling with your family, a large group or even just as a couple on a romantic getaway (think winter strolls on the beach, just the two of you and the ocean), you might consider renting a vacation home or cottage at Old Orchard Beach.
Offering all the amenities of home, and sometimes more, a vacation rental at Old Orchard Beach offers comfort and privacy that is uncommon at motels, hotels and inns. It's easier than ever to find Old Orchard Beach vacation rentals online so keep it in mind when you're planning your next vacation to Old Orchard Beach, Maine.
