Sand beaches are a rare geological feature in downeast Maine, making this mile-long spit off Lubec even more unusual. It parallels the shore between West Quoddy State Park and the town of Lubec and can be seen from both settings. An extensive salt marsh lies along its landward side with a unique raised peatland known as Carrying Place Cove Bog.
The extensive mudflats surrounding the site provide feeding and roosting habitat for a wide variety of shorebirds and an important stopover for migratory birds. Species such as Northern Harriers, merlins, and Short-eared Owls rely on the sand bar year-round, and Semipalmated Sandpipers, semipalmated Plovers, and Black-bellied Plovers are among the thousands of shorebirds that use the mud flats as a staging area in late summer.
As part of a Land for Maine’s Future project, the State took ownership of this 12-acre sand bar, turning over long-term management responsibilities to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife.
Closest Town
Lubec
Activities
Bird & other wildlife watching and nesting seabirds
Region
Downeast Maine – Hancock & Washington
Acres
12
Directions from nearest town
DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer Map 27, B-4. Please note: Due to parking and access issues with adjoining landowners, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife is asking that the public not visit the South Lubec Sand Bar at this time. The State hopes to reopen access to this property in the future.
