Today I'd like to talk about the thing we're all focused on right now, finding places to cool off...that preferably do not involve the ocean. Not sure about your kids, but mine won't put one toe in the salt water after recent news and there is no way of convincing them that they are more likely to become the next Tony Hawk then get attacked by a shark. As I like to swim downstream, not up, we've been exploring lakes this week and here is a great one.
Outlet Beach at Sabbathday Lake
Located at 106 Outlet Road, this small, privately owned beach is worth the admission fees ($3 child, $5 adult, under 2 free). It includes plenty of shade, picnic tables, tube rentals, a float to jump off of and homemade ice cream at the Fresca & The Honeybee snack shack. They only take cash, no cards accepted here. There are limited parking spots, but plenty of street parking. The beach was a bit crowded yesterday, but people seemed good about wearing masks and we found ourselves plenty of space to set up our chairs. Open 9-5 daily. The drive is only about 30 minutes from Portland, so it's an easy trip!
If you're looking for a full day of adventure, tack on Crabtree's Blueberries to your trip...if you're swimming during blueberry season.
Crabtree's Blueberries, located at 703 Bridgeton Road in Sebago is one of the sweetest little farms I have been to. Pick your own highbush blueberries then browse through "Crabtee's Collection of Old Books", a book shed emphasizing nature, history, children's books and out-of-print books.
Just ten minutes down the road from Crabtree's is parking for a dip in Sebago Lake at Nason's Beach, located at 771 Sebago Road. If this lot is full, continue on to Sebago Lake State Park, where you will find more parking.
If you want to add a hike to your Sebago adventure, Douglas Mountain is also close by. It includes 2.8 miles of moderate trail networks leading to a stone observation tower with views of the lakes region. Most of the trails are less than 1 mile to the top. For more details and directions, link here. Enjoy!