A Coastal Paradise: Willard Beach in South Portland
Discover the beauty of Willard Beach in South Portland, Maine, where sandy shores meet stunning ocean views and a vibrant community.
Willard Beach is a scenic haven located in South Portland, Maine, known for its stunning ocean views, sandy shores, and vibrant community atmosphere. Ideal for relaxation or family fun, this beach offers a perfect escape for tourists looking to unwind amidst nature’s beauty.
A brief summary to Willard Beach
- South Portland, Maine, US
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a prime spot on the beach, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal while taking in the beautiful ocean views.
- Don't forget to bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is limited shade on the beach.
- Check local event listings for community activities happening on the beach during your visit.
- Explore the nearby cafes for local seafood dishes to complete your beach day.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Saco, start at the Saco Transportation Center located at 5 Main Street, Saco, ME. From there, head southwest on Main Street towards the intersection with Beach Street. Turn left onto Beach Street and continue walking until you reach the beach area. As you approach the end of Beach Street, you will see signs directing you towards Willard Beach. It is about a 30-40 minute walk, and you will enjoy the scenic views along the way.
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Biking
For a quicker option, you can rent a bike from one of the local rental shops in Saco. Start at the Saco Transportation Center and head southwest on Main Street. Turn left onto Beach Street. Biking will take around 15-20 minutes, and you can enjoy the coastal breeze as you make your way to Willard Beach.
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Public Transportation
You can take a public bus from Saco to South Portland. Board the bus at the Saco Transportation Center and be sure to check the schedule for the South Portland route. Once you arrive in South Portland, disembark at the nearest stop to Willard Beach. From the bus stop, head south on the local streets, following the signs towards Willard Beach, which is a short walk away.
Discover more about Willard Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Scammell
1.4 km
Explore the historic Fort Scammell in Portland, Maine, a stunning fortress offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich military history.
Soldier and Sailor Monument
1.5 km
Explore the Soldier and Sailor Monument in Portland, Maine, a historical landmark honoring military heroes amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Portland Schooner Co.
2.1 km
Experience Portland's stunning coastline with Portland Schooner Co. – unforgettable boat tours and breathtaking views await you.
Historic Map Works, LLC
2.2 km
Explore the captivating world of cartography at Historic Map Works in South Portland, Maine, where historical maps come to life.
Maine Day Ventures/formerly Maine Foodie Tours
2.3 km
Explore Portland, Maine's culinary scene with Maine Day Ventures, offering immersive food tours that celebrate local flavors and vibrant culture.
The Real Portland Tour
2.3 km
Experience Portland's rich history, stunning landmarks, and vibrant culture with The Real Portland Tour, your ultimate sightseeing adventure in Maine.
Abandoned Fort Williams Bunker
2.3 km
Discover the historic Abandoned Fort Williams Bunker in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, a captivating blend of military history and stunning coastal views.
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 the Berlin Wall memorial in Portland, ME: a powerful historical landmark reflecting on division and reunion amidst stunning waterfront views.
Eastern Promenade Trail
2.3 km
Explore the breathtaking Eastern Promenade Trail in Portland, Maine, a picturesque pathway with stunning views, rich history, and outdoor recreation.
United States Custom House
2.3 km
Discover the historic United States Custom House in Portland, Maine, a stunning architectural gem steeped in maritime history.
Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
2.3 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of Portland, Maine, with unforgettable land and sea tours from Portland Discovery.
Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours
2.4 km
Explore Portland's vibrant history on a vintage fire truck with Portland Fire Engine Co. Tours, an unforgettable adventure for all ages!
SeaPortland
2.4 km
Explore Maine's stunning coastline and vibrant maritime culture with SeaPortland, your premier tour operator in Portland, Maine.
Casco Bay Bridge
2.4 km
Discover the stunning views and natural beauty at the iconic Casco Bay Bridge, a true gem of Maine's coastline.
Unmissable attractions to see
Spring Point Shoreway
0.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere of Spring Point Shoreway, a perfect park for relaxation and exploration in South Portland, Maine.
Fort Preble
0.5 km
Explore the historical significance and scenic beauty of Fort Preble, a captivating fortress and park in South Portland, Maine.
Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
0.9 km
Discover the historic Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse in South Portland, Maine - a stunning landmark offering breathtaking ocean views and rich maritime history.
Cushing's Point Museum
1.0 km
Explore the captivating history of South Portland at Cushing's Point Museum, a charming destination filled with local artifacts and stories.
South Portland Historical Society
1.0 km
Discover the captivating history of South Portland at the Historical Society, where the past comes to life amidst scenic beauty.
Liberty Ship Memorial
1.1 km
Explore the Liberty Ship Memorial in South Portland, Maine, a tribute to World War II heroes with stunning views and historical insights.
Bug Light Park
1.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and rich history of Bug Light Park in South Portland, Maine, a perfect getaway 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
Explore Fort Gorges, a historic coastal fortress in Portland, Maine, offering breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history in a serene setting.
DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop
2.1 km
Discover the charm of Portland at DiMillo's Old Port Marina & Gift Shop, where maritime beauty meets unique shopping experiences.
Mill Creek Park
2.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of Mill Creek Park in South Portland, Maine – an urban oasis perfect for relaxation, picnics, and outdoor fun.
Portland Waterfront Historic District
2.2 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of the Portland Waterfront Historic District, a must-visit destination for every tourist in Maine.
Casco Bay Lines
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Casco Bay Islands with Casco Bay Lines - an essential Portland experience for nature lovers and adventurers.
Whales Mural Wall
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Whales Mural Wall in Portland, Maine, a vibrant celebration of marine life and an artistic gem along the scenic waterfront.
Custom House Wharf
2.2 km
Discover Custom House Wharf in Portland, Maine - a picturesque waterfront destination for dining, shopping, and unforgettable maritime experiences.
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.
