Take A Picture-Perfect Beach Vacation At This East Coast Destination

Old Orchard Beach, Maine is one of the prime beach vacation spots on the East Coast. This picture-perfect resort town boasts stunning natural features and is a classic Maine destination popular with couples, families and people of all ages. Whether you're looking for exciting nightlife or good old-fashioned family fun, you'll be able to find it at Old Orchard Beach. In fact, this has been the case for more than a century, making it a fantastic destination for history buffs to add to their bucket list.

Back in 1657, a European settler claimed the land as his home where he planted an apple orchard. The beautiful region, with the old orchard still there resting high above the beach along Saco Bay, began to attract attention from tourists beginning in the early 19th century. East Coast residents quickly got wind that the pristine waters and soft, sandy shores provided the perfect place to relax and unwind. Soon enough, this coastal getaway grew into the bustling resort town it is today. You can still catch a glimpse of this history at 100-plus-year-old establishments like The Ocean House Hotel & Motel or the Palace Playland theme park.

Along Saco Bay between Pine Point and Camp Elliot sits Old Orchard Beach. Stretching across 7 miles, the scenic coastline offers visitors plenty of opportunity to participate in their favorite beach day activities. Put out your foldable chairs, umbrellas, and blankets, and spend your day enjoying picnics, building sand castles, and body-surfing. If you're yearning to get out on the water, Old Orchard Beach is also a fabulous place for paddle boarding. Rent a paddleboard in town and set off paddling to explore the Bay.

If you want to see the beach like never before, get an aerial view while parasailing. Make a reservation at Old Orchard Beach Parasail and let their professional team send you soaring over the coast of Maine. Another popular ocean adventure in Old Orchard Beach is the lobster boat tour. Get a look at what a day in the life is like for Maine's fishermen with a top-rated experience like that of the Rugosa Lobster Boat Tour.

Old Orchard Beach is a haven for those seeking both relaxation and excitement. The town's entertainment scene features live music performances, art galleries, and outdoor festivals celebrating the community's rich heritage. Legendary crooner Frank Sinatra is said to have even taken a few gigs in Old Orchard Beach during his time. While the beach is a tranquil escape during the day, this quaint little town definitely knows how to party. The pier offers a vibrant nightlife, not to mention, a community firework show every single Thursday from June through August.

For more daytime entertainment, visit the historic Palace Playland. This Old Orchard Beach attraction is a family-friendly theme park you don't want to miss. From thrilling rides to classic carnival games, Palace Playland offers endless fun for visitors of all ages. When it's time to eat in Old Orchard Beach, you'll be well taken care of. Head to the local favorite sandwich shop, Red Door Market and Deli for a delicious made-to-order sandwich or wrap. Or, munch on a basket of crinkle fries from the iconic Pier French Fries, a staple of the Old Orchard Beach experience since 1932. Lastly, you can't leave without trying a fresh Maine Lobster Roll from the beachfront restaurant, Joseph's by the Sea.