Long Sands Beach Tours

Long Sands Beach featuring general coastal views and a coastal town as well as a family
Long Sands Beach which includes general coastal views, a sandy beach and a coastal town
Long Sands Beach which includes kayaking or canoeing and general coastal views as well as an individual male
Long Sands Beach featuring general coastal views and surfing as well as an individual male
Long Sands Beach which includes kayaking or canoeing, general coastal views and waves
Stroll in the sun and play in the waves along this gorgeous stretch of white sand and great surf in York.

Find much to appreciate along the pretty swath of sand at York’s popular Long Sands Beach. For 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers), you can surf, sun, stroll and enjoy the scenic sights, including the Nubble Lighthouse and Boon Island.

From the height of summer straight through the chilliest winter days, Long Sands Beach attracts swimmers, surfers and dog-walkers. Enjoy the gorgeous backdrop, no matter what time of year you visit. Cape Neddick and the Nubble Lighthouse are in full view, as well as New Hampshire’s Isles of Shoals. On Boon Island you’ll see Maine’s tallest lighthouse.

Thousands of sun-seekers travel to this Atlantic Ocean beach on sunny summer days. Get here early in the day for a prime spot on the sand. Surf equipment and lessons are available at shops along the beach. Stop at a convenience store for picnic makings. Rent umbrellas and floats for relaxing days. Surfing is allowed in a designated spot from mid-June to the first Monday in September and allowed anywhere on Long Sands Beach the rest of the year. Rent surfboards and wetsuits and arrange surfing lessons at the local surf shop.

For a quieter atmosphere, consider nearby York Harbor Beach, also called Mothers’ Beach. It doesn’t have much parking, but is accessible via the local trolley. Short Sands Beach is another small option, tucked amid the cliffs of Ellis Park. There’s even a classic arcade at Short Sands, the Fun-o-Rama, right on the beach.

When you’ve had enough beach time, explore the surrounding villages of York Harbor, York Beach, York Village and Cape Neddick. Each community offers numerous shops and restaurants to enjoy.

Find Long Sands Beach about a 30-minute drive south of Kennebunkport or 20-minute drive north of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Lifeguards are on duty throughout the summer. There is metered parking along the highway. A trolley links Long Sands Beach to the other beaches near York. Get a spot on the beach early on Labor Day to enjoy the annual bonfire marking the end of summer.

Plan a trip to see Long Sands Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Boston Lodge and Suites

Boston Lodge and Suites

4 out of 5
Dorchester
Price was $824, price is now $327 per person
$327
per person
Dec 6 - Dec 9
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Boston (BOS)
8.4/10 Very Good! (186 reviews)
The Charles Hotel

The Charles Hotel

4 out of 5
West Cambridge
Save 100% on your flight
Price was $1,244, price is now $737 per person
$737
per person
Dec 10 - Dec 15
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Boston (BOS)
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,005 reviews)
Excellent restaurant options within walking distance

Reviewed on Oct 5, 2025

Hyatt Place Boston/Medford

Hyatt Place Boston/Medford

3 out of 5
Save 100% on your flight
Price was $720, price is now $452 per person
$452
per person
Dec 7 - Dec 13
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Atlanta (ATL) to Boston (BOS)
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,449 reviews)
The water was off when we checked in at midnight. The room was dusty and the bathroom walls had water damage the wallpaper was bubbled with water!

Reviewed on Oct 4, 2025

Reviews of Long Sands Beach

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
161
5 - Excellent 62%
4 - Good
90
4 - Good 35%
3 - Okay
6
3 - Okay 2%
2 - Disappointing
1
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
1
1 - Terrible 0%

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Can get crowded. Metered parking.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler

Of all the beaches we've seen in the Maine, this is by far the worst one. The beach is over crowded and the sand is gray-ish... There was a constant fog not to mention that the water was colder in that area for a weird reason.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Check the tide charts. There will be no exposed sand at high tide!

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

No parking available at 11 am

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Enjoy the beach but if you can, put your towels and other gear as close to the rocks as possible. You'll thank me. The tide comes WAY up, nearly to the rocks at high tide. After our group of 13 had to move our stuff 8 times, the locals nearby let us know this fact. Have fun!

Popular places to visit

Short Sands Beach

Short Sands Beach

Sample a wide array of seaside entertainment and favorite foods at this timeless sandy resort beach with boardwalk and picturesque views.

Short Sands Beach
Although I don't think there are records kept, its been said this is the most photographed lighthouse in the world.

Nubble Lighthouse

You can find out about the history of York Beach with a stop at Nubble Lighthouse. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

Nubble Lighthouse
Old Gaol

Old Gaol

Imagine life in of the country’s oldest prisons at this national historic landmark, where favorite sites include an old stone dungeon and jail cells.

Old Gaol
Emerson Wilcox House

Emerson Wilcox House Museum

Step back in time and tour historic buildings from the 1700s and 1800s, including this rambling yellow house occupied over the years by several New England families.

Emerson Wilcox House Museum
Jefferds Tavern

Jefferds Tavern

Part of the Museums of Old York, this historic gathering spot serves as the organization’s program center and venue for public events throughout the year.

Jefferds Tavern
Old School House

Old School House

See what classroom life was like at this 18th-century school, one of the earliest surviving structures of its kind in New England.

Old School House

Best Lodging Options Near Long Sands Beach

Anchorage Inn and Resort

Anchorage Inn and Resort

3 out of 5
265 Long Beach Avenue, York Beach, ME
Anchorage Inn and Resort
Sea Latch Inn

Sea Latch Inn

2 out of 5
277 Long Beach Avenue, Rte. 1A, York Beach, ME
Sea Latch Inn
The Nevada

The Nevada

3 out of 5
141 Long Beach Ave, York Beach, ME
The Nevada
The Lighthouse Inn & Suites

The Lighthouse Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
20 Nubble Road, York Beach, ME
The Lighthouse Inn & Suites
Stones Throw

Stones Throw

3 out of 5
123 Long Beach Ave, York Beach, ME
Stones Throw
York Beach Ocean View 2-Bedroom Cottage at the Heart of Long Sands Beach

York Beach Ocean View 2-Bedroom Cottage at the Heart of Long Sands Beach

York
York Beach Ocean View 2-Bedroom Cottage at the Heart of Long Sands Beach
BLUE WAVE : Unique and cozy Beach House at Long Sand Beach in York!

BLUE WAVE : Unique and cozy Beach House at Long Sand Beach in York!

York
BLUE WAVE : Unique and cozy Beach House at Long Sand Beach in York!
10 Steps To Long Sands Beach/Sleeps 12/5 bedrooms/3 full baths

10 Steps To Long Sands Beach/Sleeps 12/5 bedrooms/3 full baths

York
10 Steps To Long Sands Beach/Sleeps 12/5 bedrooms/3 full baths
Beachfront | Pet Friendly | Sleeps 15 | BBQ!

Beachfront | Pet Friendly | Sleeps 15 | BBQ!

York
Beachfront | Pet Friendly | Sleeps 15 | BBQ!
See all 1,825 properties in Long Sands Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Long Sands Beach

At Long Sands Beach in York Beach, Maine, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including surfing and paddle boarding, while soaking in stunning ocean views. Build sandcastles or relax in a beach chair as you watch surfers ride the waves. Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets that add a magical touch to your beach experience, making it a perfect destination for fun and relaxation.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is Kittery Premium Outlets, 6 miles from Long Sands Beach, featuring a variety of stores and entertainment. Knight's Quilt Shop, 5 miles away, offers unique quilting supplies. If you're up for a drive, Blacksmiths Mall is also 6 miles away with more shopping opportunities.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at York Golf and Tennis Club, just 3 miles from Long Sands Beach, where you can soak up the outdoor atmosphere. Alternatively, the Cape Neddick Country Club, 5 miles away, and The Ledges Golf Club, 7 miles away, both offer scenic courses for golf enthusiasts.

Adventure

Experience the stunning Marginal Way hiking trail, located 6 miles from Long Sands Beach, offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. For family fun, head to Water Country, a waterpark 12 miles away, packed with entertainment. Don't miss the Cliff Walk, a scenic trail access only 2 miles away, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Long Sands Beach offers a blend of culture and romance. Enjoy a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse or the Seacoast Repertory Theatre. For a cozy movie night, check out the Leavitt Fine Arts Theatre, both providing entertainment just a short drive away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Long Sands Beach

Long Sands Beach in York Beach, Maine, offers a fantastic blend of sun and culture. Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous stretch of sand while exploring nearby historic houses and history museums. Perfect for families and culture seekers alike, activities around the beach include relaxing on the beautiful shore and discovering the rich history of York Beach. Make the most of your trip by soaking in both the stunning scenery and local heritage.

  • Ogunquit Beach: Located 6 miles from Long Sands Beach, Ogunquit Beach offers stunning sandy shores and vibrant beach vibes. It's a perfect spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Nubble Lighthouse: Just 1 mile away, Nubble Lighthouse is a charming historic landmark that embodies local culture. It provides breathtaking views and an excellent opportunity for photography, especially during sunset.
  • Perkins Cove: Situated 5 miles from Long Sands Beach, Perkins Cove is a delightful park that promotes outdoor family activities. With its eco-friendly atmosphere, you can enjoy walking trails, picturesque views, and quaint shops.

Best time to go to Long Sands Beach

The best time to visit Long Sands Beach can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Long Sands Beach falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Long Sands Beach falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January27.0°F (-2.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February28.0°F (-2.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August69.6°F (20.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September63.0°F (17.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
December33.3°F (0.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Long Sands Beach

To save money on your trip to Long Sands Beach, plan your visit between January and March, when prices are lower compared to the summer months. Consider booking your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Joining Expedia’s One Key membership can provide you with exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Look for off-season rates and last-minute deals to maximize your budget while enjoying free beach activities.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Long Sands Beach are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Long Sands Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Long Sands Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Long Sands Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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