One of the best known beaches in the Northeast is Old Orchard Beach. Located on the southern coast of Maine, about 15 miles south of Portland, Old Orchard Beach has been a year-round destination for ocean-side fun for 170 years. But no worries – that doesn’t make it old-fashioned!

Old Orchard Beach is located on Saco Bay, a glistening bay of deep blue water with generally low surf, making it ideal for sunbathing and swimming, although not a surfer destination. The seven miles of soft sand offer plenty of space even on crowded days, and there are beachfront stores and restaurants along much of its length. The 500 foot Old Orchard Pier has stores, restaurants and games, as well as offering a variety of entertainment events year-round.

If it’s possible to get tired of the beach, put on a good pair of walking shoes , load up a nice-sized tote bag like the “Enjoy” from Diesel , with pockets for everything you might need, and head to the Route 1 corridor. You’ll find shopping, two water parks, an amusement park, plenty of restaurants, and just a little further, the Maine Mall with over 140 shops.

You can also head to the southern end of Saco Bay. At Camp Ellis, the Saco River enters the bay, and you can rent a sailboat, or go whale-watching or fishing. There’s a breakwater there that will give you a long walk in the fresh salt air. When you go, remember it can get cold up there, so bring a jacket like this “ Cabin Fever “ Bomber with a hood. Its plaid flannel outer layer with cute toggles will fit right in “down east” and the faux fur lining of the body and hood will keep you warm enough.

Old Orchard Beach isn’t just for summer. Fall and spring offer plenty of summer-like days, and the turning leaves in the fall are priceless, especially with off-season rates! The ocean is beautiful in the winter, too, and there are sleigh rides and Nordic skiing to keep you busy.