When visiting Kennebunk in southern Maine, surrender to the allure of stretches of smooth sand beckoning just beyond the road with a stop at Gooch’s Beach. Discover the pleasure of this magnificent coast for swimming, sailing, picnicking and watersports or simply enjoy its ocean views and breezes.
Gooch’s Beach has easy access, with roadside parking and portable bathrooms during the summer. Walk the sidewalk along the seawall following the crescent of sand. Lifeguards patrol the beach in the summer.
Admire beautiful summer homes, cottages and quaint hotels with coastal landscaping on the opposite side of the road.
Arrive early at the beach, as parking availability reduces rapidly throughout the day. Before your visit, purchase a parking permit from the Kennebunk town office, chamber of commerce or beachside kiosks. If this beach seems too congested, travel a little farther west along the road or on foot to two other beaches. With Mother’s Beach and Middle Beach included, the sidewalk along Kennebunk’s beaches spans a distance of about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers).
Gooch’s Beach is the largest and most popular of the Kennebunk beaches, but Mother’s Beach also has 750 feet (230 meters) of sandy shoreline tucked among the rocks at Lords Point with lifeguard supervision, a playground and restrooms. Stop between these two beaches at the black-pebbled Middle Beach, which does not have restrooms.
Surf at the beaches when the wind and waves provide good conditions. Dogs are allowed before and after business hours during peak season and any time in other times of the year.
Bring your own umbrella, chairs, food and drink for a day at the beach, as concessions aren’t available. Sail to this part of the coast on a schooner.
Find the beaches in Kennebunk along Beach Avenue, a few miles from the inland center of Kennebunk. Any of the three, Gooch’s Beach, Middle Beach or Mother’s Beach, will help provide that Down East experience you are looking for in Maine.
