Natural swimming hole
Ferry Beach State Park
Ocean cove · Maine
About this swimming hole
A state park in Saco offering sweeping views of miles of white sand beach between the Saco River and Pine Point, a destination for generations for sunbathing and swimming. Behind the beach, nature trails wind through a stand of tupelo trees rarely found this far north. The park has a picnic area, changing rooms and a nature center with guided programs, and is a calmer alternative to nearby Old Orchard Beach.
Good to know
| Water type | Ocean cove |
|---|---|
| Best season | June-September |
| Fees | State park day-use fee (collected year-round) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | 9am-sunset daily, Memorial Day to September 30 in season |
| Parking | Park lot at 95 Bayview Road off Route 9, between Old Orchard Beach and Camp Ellis |
| Amenities | picnic area, changing rooms, restrooms, lifeguards |
| County | York County |
| Nearest town | Saco |
| Safety notes | Lifeguards on duty mid-June to mid-August only; know rip current safety — swim parallel to shore to escape a rip; floating devices, face masks and snorkels are prohibited at the surf beach |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Ferry Beach State Park?
Yes — Ferry Beach State Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in Maine. Heads-up: Lifeguards on duty mid-June to mid-August only; know rip current safety — swim parallel to shore to escape a rip; floating devices, face masks and snorkels are prohibited at the surf beach. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Ferry Beach State Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at Ferry Beach State Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Ferry Beach State Park?
Reported fee info: State park day-use fee (collected year-round). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Ferry Beach State Park?
The best season is typically June-September.