Willard Beach: A Coastal Gem in South Portland
Discover the serene beauty of Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine, where sandy shores meet stunning ocean views for the perfect coastal getaway.
Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine, is a picturesque destination where visitors can unwind on sandy shores while enjoying stunning ocean views. The beach offers a tranquil escape, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls. Its family-friendly atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for tourists looking to experience the natural beauty of Maine's coastline. Don’t miss the chance to explore local eateries and picturesque parks nearby, enhancing your beach experience.
A brief summary to Willard Beach
- South Portland, Maine, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the beach with fewer crowds and catch a beautiful sunrise.
- Bring your own beach gear, including towels and umbrellas, as amenities may be limited.
- Check local tide schedules to plan your visit for optimal beach space and activities.
- Explore nearby parks for additional picnic spots and nature trails.
- Don’t miss trying the local seafood at nearby restaurants after a day at the beach.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Willard Beach from downtown Portland, head south on Congress Street (Route 77) for about 2 miles. As you approach South Portland, continue straight onto Broadway. After about a mile, turn right onto Ocean Street. Follow Ocean Street until you reach Willard Beach, which will be on your left. There is street parking available, but be sure to check for any parking restrictions.
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Public Transportation
To get to Willard Beach via public transportation, take the METRO bus #1 from downtown Portland. Board the bus at the nearest stop to your location (look for the METRO signs). Stay on the bus for about 20 minutes and get off at the stop near Willard Square. From there, walk east on Willard Street, and you'll reach the beach within a few minutes. Make sure to check the bus schedule for return times.
Discover more about Willard Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Scammell
1.4 km
Discover Fort Scammell, a historic fortress in Portland, Maine, offering breathtaking ocean views and a deep dive into America's military past.
Soldier and Sailor Monument
1.5 km
Explore the Soldier and Sailor Monument in Portland, Maine, a historic landmark honoring military bravery amidst stunning natural beauty.
Portland Schooner Co.
2.1 km
Experience Portland's stunning coastline with Portland Schooner Co.'s authentic wooden schooner tours. Sail into adventure and discover Maine's maritime beauty.
Historic Map Works, LLC
2.2 km
Discover the rich history of Maine through an extensive collection of antique maps at Historic Map Works, a unique treasure for history enthusiasts.
Maine Day Ventures/formerly Maine Foodie Tours
2.3 km
Explore Portland, Maine's culinary treasures with Maine Day Ventures, offering immersive food tours and local tastings in the beautiful Waterfront District.
The Real Portland Tour
2.3 km
Experience Portland like a local with The Real Portland Tour, offering guided adventures through iconic landmarks and hidden gems in Maine's charming coastal city.
Abandoned Fort Williams Bunker
2.3 km
Uncover the history and stunning coastal views at Fort Williams Bunker, a hidden gem in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
Goddard Mansion
2.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of Goddard Mansion, a captivating landmark in scenic Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
A piece of the Berlin Wall
2.3 km
Explore a significant piece of history at the Berlin Wall exhibit in Portland, offering deep insights into resilience and the quest for freedom.
Eastern Promenade Trail
2.3 km
Explore the scenic Eastern Promenade Trail in Portland, Maine, where stunning coastal views meet rich historical heritage in a perfect outdoor adventure.
United States Custom House
2.3 km
Explore the United States Custom House, a historic landmark in Portland, Maine, showcasing stunning architecture and rich maritime heritage.
Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
2.3 km
Experience the best of Portland, Maine, with unforgettable land and sea tours featuring stunning views, rich history, and engaging storytelling.
Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours
2.4 km
Explore Portland in style with the exhilarating fire engine tours – a unique way to uncover the city's rich history and stunning waterfront.
SeaPortland
2.4 km
Explore Maine's stunning coastline with SeaPortland, your gateway to unforgettable maritime experiences and local culture.
Casco Bay Bridge
2.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Casco Bay Bridge, an iconic Maine landmark connecting the mainland to picturesque islands.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spring Point Shoreway
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Spring Point Shoreway in South Portland, Maine, a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Fort Preble
0.5 km
Discover the historical significance of Fort Preble in South Portland, Maine, with stunning views and enriching stories of America's military past.
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
0.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, a must-visit landmark in South Portland, Maine.
Cushing's Point Museum
1.0 km
Explore the captivating history of South Portland at Cushing's Point Museum, where local stories and maritime heritage come alive.
South Portland Historical Society
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant history of South Portland at the Historical Society, where engaging exhibits and captivating stories await every visitor.
Liberty Ship Memorial
1.1 km
Discover the Liberty Ship Memorial in South Portland, a heartfelt tribute to WWII heroes amidst breathtaking waterfront views.
Bug Light Park
1.1 km
Explore the beauty and history of Bug Light Park in South Portland, Maine, a haven for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Bug Light
1.3 km
Explore Bug Light, a picturesque park in South Portland, Maine, featuring a historic lighthouse and stunning waterfront views, perfect for every traveler.
Fort Gorges
2.1 km
Discover the historic Fort Gorges in Portland, Maine—a stunning fortress with breathtaking views and rich American military history.
DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop
2.1 km
Explore the unique gifts and stunning views at DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop, a gem of Portland's vibrant waterfront.
Mill Creek Park
2.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Mill Creek Park, a tranquil urban oasis in South Portland, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor adventures.
Portland Waterfront Historic District
2.2 km
Discover the historic charm and scenic beauty of Portland's Waterfront District, a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and local flavors.
Casco Bay Lines
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty of Maine with Casco Bay Lines, your gateway to Portland's stunning islands and maritime adventures.
Whales Mural Wall
2.2 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant art of the Whales Mural Wall, a stunning tribute to marine life on the picturesque Maine State Pier in Portland.
Custom House Wharf
2.2 km
Explore the beautiful Custom House Wharf in Portland, Maine, where history, culture, and stunning waterfront views come together for an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
SeaWolves Cafe
0.2 km
Discover local flavors at SeaWolves Cafe in South Portland - where great food meets warm hospitality.
El Corazón Casita
0.5 km
Discover authentic Mexican flavors at El Corazón Casita in South Portland, ME – where every dish tells a story of tradition.
North 43 Bistro
0.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at North 43 Bistro in South Portland – where New American cuisine meets stunning waterfront views.
Elsmere BBQ & Wood Grill
1.1 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue with a New England twist at Elsmere BBQ & Wood Grill in South Portland.
Thai Taste
1.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand at Thai Taste in South Portland—your go-to destination for authentic Southeast Asian cuisine.
Davids 388 Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine and exceptional wines at Davids 388 Restaurant in Portland, Maine – perfect for any special occasion.
DiPietros Market
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at DiPietros Market in South Portland—where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Bistro Leluco
1.3 km
Discover the delightful flavors of Maine at Bistro Leluco, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in a cozy setting.
Saltwater Grille
1.4 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Saltwater Grille in South Portland, where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views.
Ruby Thailand Cuisine
1.8 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Ruby Thailand Cuisine—where every dish tells a flavorful story.
OTTO
1.9 km
Experience the unique flavors of OTTO Pizza in South Portland – where creativity meets quality in every slice.
Luke's Lobster Portland Pier
2.1 km
Experience authentic Maine seafood at Luke's Lobster Portland Pier with stunning harbor views and sustainable catches.
DiMillo's On the Water
2.1 km
Experience fresh seafood dining aboard a converted ferry in Portland's scenic waterfront district.
Taco Trio
2.2 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Taco Trio in South Portland - where every taco tells a delicious story!
Verbena Eat Right Now
2.2 km
Discover fresh flavors at Verbena Eat Right Now in South Portland—your go-to café for delicious sandwiches and local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stella's Seller Consignment Boutique
0.7 km
Explore Stella's Seller Consignment Boutique in South Portland for unique fashion finds and vintage treasures that elevate your shopping experience.
Lulu Ceramics
1.1 km
Explore Lulu Ceramics in South Portland for unique handcrafted pottery and special gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
Nestled
1.2 km
Explore Nestled in South Portland, Maine — a unique home goods store offering curated decor to enhance your living space with local charm.
Sunday Town
1.2 km
Explore Sunday Town in South Portland, Maine - a unique home goods store filled with eclectic finds and charming treasures for every taste.
Bonny Read
2.2 km
Explore Bonny Read, South Portland's charming antique store, filled with unique treasures and vintage finds reflecting Maine's rich heritage.
Heirloom Consignment Maine
2.2 km
Discover unique treasures at Heirloom Consignment Maine, where vintage charm meets modern flair in South Portland.
Ports of Call
2.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Ports of Call in Portland, Maine's charming Old Port district, where memories come alive.
Danforth Pewter Portland
2.3 km
Explore the charm of handmade pewter gifts at Danforth Pewter in Portland, Maine - a must-visit gift shop for unique treasures.
The Blue Lobster
2.4 km
Experience the charm of Maine at The Blue Lobster, your go-to gift shop for unique souvenirs in Portland's picturesque Old Port.
Blanche & Mimi
2.4 km
Explore Blanche & Mimi in Portland, ME for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in a charming shopping atmosphere.
Shipwreck & Cargo
2.4 km
Explore Shipwreck & Cargo in Portland, ME for unique gifts, local crafts, and charming souvenirs that capture the essence of Maine.
Cool As A Moose
2.4 km
Explore Cool As A Moose, the perfect gift shop in Portland for unique Maine souvenirs, clothing, and fun accessories.
Siempre Mas
2.4 km
Discover unique clothing and handcrafted jewelry at Siempre Mas, Portland's charming boutique in the heart of Old Port, Maine.
CrateFull of Maine
2.4 km
Explore CrateFull of Maine, where local craftsmanship meets the charm of Portland in beautifully curated gift baskets and artisanal treats.
The Maine Souvenir Shop - Portland
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant selection of unique gifts and authentic Maine souvenirs at The Maine Souvenir Shop in Portland, a treasure for every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Spring Point Tavern
0.4 km
Discover the charm of Spring Point Tavern in South Portland, a cozy bar known for its local brews and hearty comfort food, perfect for tourists.
Evie’s Ferry Village Watering Hole
1.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and welcoming charm at Evie's Ferry Village Watering Hole, a must-visit bar in South Portland, Maine.
Andy's Old Port Pub
2.3 km
Discover the quintessential Portland experience at Andy's Old Port Pub, where delicious seafood meets live music and a lively atmosphere.
The King's Head
2.4 km
Discover the essence of British pub culture at The King's Head, Portland's vibrant spot for craft beers and hearty meals in a cozy setting.
Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub
2.4 km
Discover the essence of Portland's craft beer scene at Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub, where great food and brews come together in a lively atmosphere.
Portland Mash TUN
2.5 km
Discover the heart of Portland at Mash TUN - a lively beer hall offering craft brews and delicious bites in the vibrant Old Port district.
Lincolns
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lincolns in Portland, where craft cocktails and local brews meet a lively atmosphere and welcoming locals.
The Armory Lounge
2.5 km
Discover The Armory Lounge: Portland's premier destination for handcrafted cocktails and local cuisine in a stylish setting.
The North Point
2.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft cocktails at The North Point, a must-visit lounge in Portland's Old Port district.
The Independent Ice Co.
2.5 km
Discover the unique flavors of Portland at The Independent Ice Co., where craft cocktails meet delectable dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bonfire Country Bar Portland
2.5 km
Experience the heart of Americana at Bonfire Country Bar in Portland, Maine, where delicious Southern cuisine meets vibrant nightlife.
Room for Improvement
2.5 km
Discover Room for Improvement, Portland's premier cocktail bar, offering a unique blend of artisanal drinks and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Old Port.
Luna Rooftop Bar
2.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and vibrant nightlife at Luna Rooftop Bar in Portland, Maine, where crafted cocktails meet stunning waterfront vistas.
Maps
2.5 km
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Maps Bar in Portland, where every sip is a journey through captivating maps.
The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club
2.6 km
Experience the flavors of Scandinavia at The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club, where craft cocktails and unique dishes await in a cozy setting.
