Jasper Beach derives its name from the distinctive red stones that cover its shoreline, though these polished volcanic rocks are actually rhyolite rather than true jasper. Located on Route 92 in Howard Cove beneath the abandoned Distant Early Warning Station radar facility on Howard Mountain, this Machiasport town park has become one of Maine's most famous geological attractions featuring billions of brightly polished stones of granite, red rhyolite, and quartzite.
The beach creates an extraordinary melodious sound as waves wash over the tumbling stones, earning it the nickname of singing stones beach. Visitors can observe the ongoing geological processes as waves progressively break down material eroded from local bluffs in the Eastport or Leighton volcanic formations, though rock removal is prohibited to prevent accelerated erosion. The shoreline demonstrates sea level rise impacts, with buried shrubs and trees visible where the beach has migrated landward into Howard Cove.
Dining options in nearby Machias include Helen's Restaurant for classic Down East fare and homemade pies served for over 75 years, The Anchor for fried seafood baskets and sandwiches steps from the river, and The Blue Bird Ranch Family Restaurant for home-style cooking featuring homemade cinnamon-blueberry bread and the hearty Fisherman's Breakfast.
