York Beach, Maine
Fourth of July on the Maine Coast
There is no better place to spend the Fourth of July than on the shores of York Beach. From the 4 on the 4th race at sunrise to fireworks lighting up the Atlantic, Anchorage Inn puts you right in the middle of it all. Steps from Long Sands Beach, with the Nubble Lighthouse on the horizon and a full holiday weekend ahead.
Your July 4th Home Base
Why Celebrate the Fourth in York Beach
York Beach has been a Fourth of July destination for generations. The holiday here is not just fireworks; it is a full weekend of coastal New England tradition, from early morning races on the sand to evening celebrations with the Atlantic as your backdrop.
- Watch fireworks over the ocean from Short Sands Beach, just minutes from the inn
- Join the 47th Annual 4 on the 4th, a beloved local 4-mile road race held every Fourth of July morning starting at 7:30 a.m
- Bring the whole family, including those who want a shorter route with the new 1 for Fun 1-mile walk/run on July 3rd
- Explore York Beach village, lined with shops, restaurants, and summertime energy
- Take the short drive to Sohier Park for one of the best views of the Nubble Lighthouse on the coast
How to Spend the Fourth in York Beach
4 on the 4th Road Race
7:30 AM
Start your Fourth of July with a 4-mile run through the heart of York Beach. Cool off in the outdoor pool after the race and get ready for a full day ahead.
Beach Day at Short Sands
Mid-Morning
Walk along the scenic viewpoints. Capture the lighthouse from different angles as the waves crash gently against the rocky coast.
Boardwalk and Arcade Fun
Afternoon
Grab some Goldenrod Taffy Kisses and head to Fun-O-Rama for classic arcade games, or bring the family to the playground.
Dinner at Sand Dollar Bar and Grille
Evening
Sit down at the Sand Dollar Bar and Grille for dinner, then finish with ice cream from Wicked Good, right below the outdoor deck.
Fourth of July Fireworks
9:30 PM
Head to the grass field by the gazebo for live music before fireworks light up Short Sands Beach.
Make a Weekend of It
Sunday Morning
Walk to Long Sands General Store for a bulkie and coffee. Rent a board or book a surf lesson at Liquid Dreams, then stop by Grain Surfboards for their famous all-wooden boards. After a rest at the inn, hike Mt. Agamenticus and check out the lookout tower and nature center. Stop by the Center for Wildlife on the way to schedule a tour or animal visit. End the day with a beach picnic and takeout on the rocks in front of Sun and Surf.
FAQ
Fireworks take place at Short Sands Beach at 9:30 pm on July 4th. Short Sands is just a few minutes from the inn by car or a short drive along the coast.
The race begins at 7:30 am on July 4th. Bib pickup is at York High School between 6:30 and 7:25 am. Registration closes July 1st, so be sure to sign up in advance.
Yes, parking is available on the property for registered guests throughout the Fourth of July weekend.
Yes, the outdoor pool is open and a great way to cool off after the race or a day at the beach.
We welcome well-behaved dogs in select pet-friendly rooms. A nightly pet fee applies. Please let us know at the time of booking so we can assign the right room.
