Discover Wells, ME: The Unofficial Scenic Stop on Route 1 You Can’t Miss!
Just steps from U.S. Route 1, the Wells Beach Jetty is one of those simple coastal stops that delivers big views with very little effort. A long stretch of granite rocks reaches out into the Atlantic, creating the perfect place to watch waves roll in, crash, and scatter into white spray.
It’s not a formal attraction, and that’s exactly why people love it. This is Maine at its most raw and real: salt air, shifting tides, and the steady rhythm of the ocean.
Why It’s Worth the Stop
The jetty is a favorite for photographers, fishermen, and anyone who wants a front-row seat to the Atlantic. On calm days, the water laps gently against the rocks. When the wind picks up, waves slam into the jetty, sending spray into the air and turning the scene dramatic in seconds.
It’s also one of the easiest coastal stops along Route 1, perfect for a quick break, a few photos, or just a moment to breathe in the ocean air.
Know Before You Go
- Location: Atlantic Ave area, Wells, ME — less than 1 mile from U.S. Route 1
- Hours: Open daily, year-round
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Limited nearby public and roadside parking
- Accessibility: Uneven rocks; use caution when walking on the jetty
- Pro Tip: Visit at high tide for the most dramatic wave action, or at sunset for softer light and fewer people
Nearby on Route 1
- Wells Harbor Park – quiet harbor views and picnic spots
- Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge – peaceful marsh trails
- Ogunquit Beach Footbridge – a scenic coastal walk
Amy Jeanroy Mar 29, 2026 Wells ME Beaches Nature Places to Visit

