Maine Coast Life's guide to Portland water sports
Written by Madison Ellingsworth
On hot summer days like these, all of us are desperate to cool off. The best way? Water! There are so many ways to get on, into, and submerged in Portland's local waterways. Some of them may sound all-too-familiar, but you might be surprised to hear about the fun and diverse water sports that Portland has to offer.
Paddling
Kayaking and paddle boarding are perfect ways to stay half-in, half-out of the water. On Peaks Island, kayaking experiences can be booked with Maine Island Kayak and Peaks Island Kayak. Half-day courses range from $80 to $225, as aspiring paddlers have the choice between demo or instructional classes, morning or sunset paddles, and single or tandem crafts. These outings explore the outlying islands of Casco Bay, including Jewell Island, Admiral Peary's hideout, and more. Just a ferry ride away, kayaking off Peaks makes for a great day trip.
On the mainland, kayaking and paddle boarding experiences can be booked with Portland Paddle. Aspiring paddlers can pick between rentals, lessons, or tours, depending on their comfort level. Tours visit Fort Gorges, the Portland waterfront, and the inner islands, showing tourists and locals alike the inner beauty of Casco Bay from the comfort of their kayak or board. Kayak adventures start at $80, and paddle board adventures at $50. Launching straight off East End Beach, this is an easy half-day of fun in the sun!
Sailing
Only a half mile from East End Beach is Sail Maine. This beloved local sailing organization has been operating for 30 years, and is known throughout Portland for its fun summer programming and high school racing team. However, Sail Maine also provides an abundance of sailing opportunities for adults. Both new and experienced sailors looking for a group or private lesson, certification, or rental, have come to the right place. Rentals are only available for skippers (a $100 certification), but group lessons run all summer long, starting at $175 a person. Sailing on Casco Bay is high-energy, exciting, and a great way to get out on the water.
Swimming
For those looking to dip their toes into Portland's swimming holes, there are a wealth of options. East End Beach is a must, with an incredible view of the bay and a soft, sandy shore. East End's convenient proximity to the Old Port, half-dozen food trucks, and public restrooms make this beach the place to be on hot summer days.
If swimmers are trying to find shaded freshwater spots, there is the Presumpscot River, which winds through Cumberland County and has several easy entry points. It can be accessed in North Deering, off Route 100 at the border of Falmouth, and in Riverton Trolley Park. This river, with its quick current and meandering curves, is an excellent place to float in an inflatable. Just don't forget to check your map and get off before the falls!
As far as natural swimming goes, there is also the Fore River Sanctuary. Swimmers can wade into the water from the grassy shores of the marsh, and enjoy the refreshing cool of the brackish Fore. This is not a widely used swimming spot; it is tidal and can only be accessed during high tide. However, it is picturesque, and a perfect place to see egrets, herons, and even horseshoe crabs.
For swimmers who prefer a controlled environment, there are at least four options. The Reiche Pool, located in the West End, has shifting hours from week to week. A day pass can cost as little as $4, depending on age and state residency. This pool has several swim lanes, an open swim area, and changing rooms with lockers.
The new Rising Eddy Community Pool, which opened for the first time in July 2026, is open every day of the week. Seasons passes (starting at $50) and day passes (starting at $4) are required. A highly anticipated new pool, Rising Eddy has several swim lanes, a large open swim area, and even a waterslide.
The Portland YMCA Pool is open every day but Sunday, and requires a monthly membership (starting at $70 per month) or a day pass. A membership also includes use of the YMCA wellness center, workout equipment, and exercise classes. It includes three guest passes, so bring a few swimmers with you when you go.
The Riverton Pool is currently closed for renovations, but is scheduled to reopen in the summer of 2027.
Scuba diving
Though it is not well-known — even to locals — Portland is also home to a scuba diving school. Johnson's Sporting Goods has been serving Maine divers since 1968, and offers PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certification in their on-site pool, specified private classes, and scuba travel adventures. PADI certifications are four-day group affairs, costing about $800. These provide students with the learning, pool training, and open-water experience they need in order to dive around the globe. Private classes start at around $1,300, and some of the many options they include are open water, rescue, night, and dry suit diving.
For the experienced diver, Johnson's will be leading a scuba adventure in the Philippines in September 2026. This 10-day experience includes 36 boat dives, a massage, and a fire dance party, all in the company of instructor Carrie Johnson. Plans start at $3,899.
*
When we think of summer months, our minds often go to swimmers at the beach, sailboats in the marinas, and paddlers on the bay. Why not take the next step, and get out on the water ourselves? Take a dip at East End or Rising Eddy, ride the ferry to Peaks and take a kayak tour, book a PADI certification and dive into the depths of Casco Bay! There is always more to explore in Portland.
Let us know if you have taken a water-sports class in Portland, or if you're a regular at these swimming holes. It is wonderful to connect over our shared love of water.