Short Sands, Sandy beach in York County, Maine.
Short Sands is a sandy beach roughly 260 yards (240 meters) long in York, bordered by rock outcrops at each end and backed by a wooden boardwalk. The wide sandy area provides ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and walking.
The beach became a destination in the late 1800s when railroad expansion brought vacationers to Maine's coast. This growth transformed the area into a summer retreat for visitors seeking seaside recreation.
Local families spend summer days swimming and picnicking on the sand, making it a gathering place throughout the warm season. The wooden boardwalk nearby becomes a social hub where people walk, chat, and watch the ocean.
Restrooms, showers, and changing facilities are available at the beach, with parking lots just a short walk away. Water conditions change with the seasons, so check the weather before visiting in colder months.
Winter storms bring powerful waves that crash against the rocky outcrops, creating natural displays of water and spray. Elevated viewing platforms along the beach offer safe spots to watch this seasonal phenomenon.
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