Willard Beach
Willard Beach is a small sand and pebble beach tucked between Fisherman’s Point and the campus of Southern Maine Community College in a quiet neighborhood of South Portland. Just four acres in size, the beach hugs Simonton Cove and is enjoyed immensely by visitors and locals alike. Spread out in the sun and take in the views of Cushing Island and Ram Island Light in Casco Bay. Go for a refreshing swim, listen to the buoys clang offshore, and watch the ferries and lobster boats ply the waters of the bay. Tidal pools offer wildlife discovery opportunities for children and nature enthusiasts alike.
The Willard Beach bathhouse is open each summer providing restrooms, a snack bar, and outdoor showers. A free parking lot is available for 75 cars a short walk from the beach on Willow St. On-street parking is not permitted.
Access to the Spring Point Shoreway Trail on SMCC's campus is located at the north end of the beach. The trail leads a short distance to Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, in operation since 1897 at the entrance to Portland Harbor.
A stair case at the south end of the beach provides access to Fisherman's Point park where visitors can enjoy sites of Portland Head Light and open ocean on the horizon.
Park hours: Open daily, 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
WILLARD BEACH RULES AND REGULATIONS
Dogs are permitted May 1st - September 30th from 7 A.M - 9 A.M. & 7 P.M. - 9 P.M. ONLY. From 7 P.M to 8 P.M dogs must be on leash. Dogs are permitted on the beach from October 1st - April 30th from 6 A.M. - 9 P.M. however, they are required to be ON LEASH from 10 A.M. -3 P.M.
Dog toys are not allowed on Willard Beach from May 1st - September 30th. From October 1st - April 30th, dog toys are allowed to be used between Beach Street and Fort Prebble.
Long leashes are not allowed to be used on Willard Beach from May 1st - September 30th. From October 1st - April 30th,long leashes may be used.
Dogs are not allowed to chase wildlife on Willard Beach.
Dog owners are required to have a leash in hand at all times. Off-leash dogs must be kept within 100 feet and under voice control (returning to the owner or keeper after one signaling or calling).
Pet waste must be bagged and properly disposed of in a trash receptacle or carried out of the park.
Entry into sand dune vegetation by dogs and/or people is unlawful and strictly prohibited.
Glass containers are not permitted on the beach.
Consumption of alcohol and tobacco is prohibited.
Visitors must comply with all city staff instructions.
For more information on South Portland's Animals and Fowl ordinance, please click here.
