Things To Do
in Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach is a charming seaside town located in southern Maine. It is known for its seven-mile-long sandy beach, lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement parks. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and strolling along the iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier.
The town has a lively atmosphere during the summer months, attracting tourists and locals alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Spend the morning lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun.
Grab lunch at a beachside shack and then explore the nearby Pier with its quaint shops. Enjoy some time at the arcade or indulge in ice cream.
As the sun sets, enjoy a stroll along the beach. Have dinner at a seafood restaurant and savor the local flavors.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic coastal trails. The morning air is refreshing and perfect for a ride.
Return the bikes and have a picnic at one of the local parks. After lunch, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding on the ocean.
Relax back at the beach to watch the sunset. Grab a casual dinner at a beachfront grill.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful sandy beaches that attract visitors during the summer months
- A vibrant boardwalk with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options
- Family-friendly atmosphere with various activities for all ages
- Accessible location near Portland, making it a convenient getaway
- Rich history and charming small-town feel
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season, leading to limited parking and beach space
- Higher prices for accommodations and food during summer months
- Limited year-round activities and amenities due to seasonal nature of tourism
- Weather can be unpredictable, particularly in the off-season
- Potentially noisy during peak times due to events and nightlife
Best Activities in Old Orchard Beach
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and playing beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Old Orchard Beach.
Try your luck at catching local fish from the famous Old Orchard Beach Pier.
Engage in exciting water sports such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking in the Atlantic Ocean.
Explore the scenic Eastern Trail, which is perfect for biking and walking, offering beautiful views of nature.
Visit local parks like Pirate's Cove and enjoy a relaxing picnic with family and friends.
Have fun at one of the many mini-golf courses in the area, perfect for families and friends.
Join in on community beach bonfires during the summer evenings for a cozy atmosphere and socializing.
Catch some waves and take surfing lessons at popular beach spots suitable for all skill levels.
Places to Visit in Old Orchard Beach
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic wooden pier that offers stunning views of the coastline and is a perfect spot for sunset photography.
The sandy beach provides endless opportunities for beautiful ocean views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
A scenic walkway that gives breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area, ideal for panoramic photos.
A charming, historic carousel that makes for a whimsical photography spot, especially with its colorful horses lit up at night.
A nearby nature reserve offering unique views of wetlands and wildlife, perfect for nature photography.
A rocky outcrop that provides a great vantage point for capturing waves crashing against the rocks and views of boats in the water.
A bustling boardwalk with plenty of attractions, perfect for capturing the lively atmosphere and scenic ocean backdrop.
Food in Old Orchard Beach
Old Orchard Beach Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Maine dish, featuring succulent lobster meat piled into a buttered and grilled roll. Head to Pier Fries for a fantastic version of this local specialty!
Must-Try!
Creamy and rich, Old Orchard Beach's clam chowder is a must-try. Sample a bowl at Joseph's by the Sea for a superb oceanfront dining experience.
Maine is famous for its wild blueberries, and a slice of blueberry pie from the Maine Diner is a delightful way to savor this local fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open on select days, this vibrant market offers an array of fresh local produce, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat treats such as gourmet sandwiches and homemade baked goods.
Stroll along the iconic Old Orchard Beach Pier to discover an assortment of classic beach foods, from cotton candy and fried dough to hot dogs and ice cream cones.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Old Orchard Beach, it's important to adhere to beach etiquette, which includes respecting personal space, keeping noise levels down, and cleaning up after yourself. This ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
Be aware of and follow local laws and regulations such as parking rules, firework restrictions, and leashed pet policies. Displaying awareness and respect for these rules demonstrates good citizenship and consideration for the local community.
Take the time to learn about and appreciate the local culture. This could involve trying local cuisine, participating in community events, or engaging with local artisans. Showing genuine interest in the culture can foster positive interactions with residents.
Safety
Tipping in Old Orchard Beach
Ensure a smooth experience
In Old Orchard Beach, tipping practices generally align with those seen throughout the United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and hotel staff. A typical tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. In some establishments, particularly in tourist-heavy areas, gratuity may already be included in the bill.
Payment practices in Old Orchard Beach include various options to accommodate both locals and tourists. Many businesses accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Additionally, some places may accept mobile payment methods. It's common for restaurants and shops to have clear signage indicating accepted payment methods. Visitors are advised to check in advance, especially in more remote areas where cash may be preferred.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit as the weather starts to warm up. Expect mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Summer (June to August) is peak season at Old Orchard Beach. Expect warm temperatures, lively beach scenes, and a bustling atmosphere. This is the best time for beach activities, amusement parks, and festivals but be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.
Fall (September to November) offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. It's a quiet time to visit with less crowded beaches. You can enjoy scenic walks, local harvest festivals, and also find great off-season deals.
Winter (December to February) sees colder temperatures with the beach mostly empty. Expect to find serene landscapes and opportunities for winter sports nearby. This is not the typical beach season, but it's perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Old Orchard Beach at Night
Hiking in Old Orchard Beach
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that runs along the beautiful coastline of Old Orchard Beach, offering stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding area.
A nature preserve located nearby, featuring boardwalks through unique peatland habitats and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation.
A protected marsh area with trails that offer great views of wildlife and numerous opportunities for hiking and exploring the coastal ecosystem.
Located a bit farther away, this park offers many trails along the coastal cliffs with beautiful views of the ocean and the historic Portland Head Light.
A beautiful coastal park with trails that provide breathtaking ocean views and picnic areas, ideal for a relaxing hike.
Aiports
How to reach Old Orchard Beach by plane.
The closest major airport to Old Orchard Beach, located approximately 16 miles away in Portland, Maine.
Located about 50 miles southwest of Old Orchard Beach, this airport serves the southern New Hampshire area.
Located approximately 110 miles south of Old Orchard Beach, this is the largest airport in New England, serving Boston and surrounding areas.
Situated roughly 135 miles southwest of Old Orchard Beach, this airport serves Hartford and Springfield.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Old Orchard Beach, reflecting a higher percentage of the population.
A growing demographic group, representing a significant portion of the community.
A smaller but important demographic within the local population.
A minority group that contributes to the cultural diversity of the area.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, contributing to the diversity.
A small demographic group represented in the community.
Includes various racial and ethnic identities not categorized above.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Old Orchard Beach, often played on the sandy shores with local tournaments.
Given its coastal location, surfing is a favored activity among residents and tourists alike.
Played at local parks, basketball is a widely enjoyed team sport in the community.
Youth and adult leagues are common, promoting soccer as a popular recreational activity.
The beaches and piers provide excellent opportunities for fishing, making it a beloved pastime.
The scenic ocean views and boardwalks make Old Orchard Beach a great place for running and jogging.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Old Orchard Beach.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many establishments in Old Orchard Beach offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with creative plant-based twists on classic seafood fare. The Landmark and JJ's Eatery are great choices for these options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating menus at several locations. The Bait Shed and Joseph's by the Sea are known for their attention to gluten-free offerings.