Jasper Beach is full of thousands of smooth stones without any pointy edges or sharp sides. Although it is not true jasper, the beautiful rocks sure look like it!
Located near Machiasport, Maine, the locals love the fact that they have Jasper Beach as one of their favorite "secrets" in the area. Tourists are now starting to catch on to this glorious sight, but it's still a unique place that people visit.
This unique beach is quite remote but worth the drive! It is located on Port Road (Route 92), just west of Machias Bay. We packed a lunch and made an afternoon of it.
There have been many questions about where the name "Jasper Beach" came about. It's due to the colors of the rock. All along the shore, there are rocks of various shades of red and brown. Because of this, the name Jasper was given to the beach. (Jasper is a form of silica that is rich in iron which is also red)
Mixed in with the rocks, you'll find volcanic rock as well, which is a very dark red color.
Be sure to sit and listen to the waves and water crash into the rocks. Since the water rises and falls, it causes the rocks to clink together all day long, making a low rumbling and rustling sound that many find quite relaxing.
For Ethan, who loves everything about rocks, Jasper Beach was a dream come true with one exception. You are NOT allowed to take rocks home! That didn't stop Ethan from having a blast looking through all the rocks. Both kids had a great time.
Jasper Beach Maine FAQ
Since this is considered a pocket beach, there are a few different types of waterways that flow into it. You'll find saltwater lagoons, freshwater lagoons, and also salt marshes.
Although it happens, rocks should not be removed from the area. It's OK to pick up rocks and look at them and hold them, but they need to remain on the beach when you leave. Leave the beautiful stones for others to see and enjoy.
It's free to go to this beach! This is a great reason to stop and enjoy the sights and scenery as it doesn't cost you a dime.
Roque Bluffs State Park, Machias State Park, and Fort O'Brien State Historic Site are all within a few miles of Jasper Beach. Be sure to stop by Helen's for a slice of blueberry pie!
This is a public beach and if you can stand the cold Atlantic Ocean, you can swim!
Yes, dogs are allowed at Jasper Beach.
What is one of the biggest tips to remember when visiting beaches?
Since there are many varied beaches, it can feel like there are many different rules and regulations to try to remember and keep straight. The universal rule that will never change on any beach in Maine is that you need to leave it better than you found it.
Since you're at the beach to enjoy the beauty, make sure to pick up any trash or waste and try and be helpful by picking up anything that others have left behind.
Every view from the shores of Jasper Beach is beautiful and full of rocky fun! Take your camera and snap some great pictures during your visit.
Keep in mind that the shoreline of this beach is entirely made of rocks. This isn't a beach to come and soak up the sun and lay out in, but rather a place to sit and enjoy the beauty and the smoothness of the rocks and the amazing sound of the waves on the rocks!
As you're walking on the beach, be sure to pay attention to your steps as well because the rocks will shift and move beneath you. You'll also notice that the stones tend to vary in size, with many smaller rocks being near the water and some of the larger rocks sitting up top on the shore.
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