About This Beach
Quick Facts
• Location: Kennebunk, Maine
• Address: Kennebunk, ME 04043
• Beach Type: Public Atlantic Ocean beach
• Sand Type: Wide sandy shoreline
• Water Conditions: Cold Atlantic surf with moderate waves
• Best For: Families, surfing, beach walking
• Best Time to Visit: June–September
• Beach Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Pet Policy: Dogs allowed with seasonal restrictions
• Beach Cleanliness: Very well maintained
• Average Rating: ⭐ 4.8
• Pricing: Seasonal parking permit required for non-residents
• Parking: Municipal parking lots along Beach Ave
• Accessibility: Good (boardwalk access points)
• Crowd Level: Moderate
Overview
Gooch’s Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Kennebunk and stretches for nearly 1.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. The wide sandy shoreline and consistent surf make it a favorite destination for both swimmers and surfers.
The beach sits along Beach Avenue and offers beautiful views of the open Atlantic coastline. Because of its wide sand and easy access, Gooch’s Beach attracts families, beach walkers, and visitors exploring southern Maine’s coast.
Low tide reveals large sandy flats that are ideal for walking and exploring.
Amenities & Access
Gooch’s Beach provides several convenient public access points along Beach Avenue.
Visitors will find municipal parking areas, restrooms, and boardwalk entrances leading to the sand. The beach is easy to reach from nearby Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.
Nearby neighborhoods and coastal roads make the area scenic and accessible.
Safety & Conditions
The beach faces the open Atlantic Ocean and often experiences moderate surf conditions.
The waves make the beach popular with surfers and bodyboarders. Visitors should always watch for rip currents and follow local safety advisories when swimming.
Ocean temperatures remain cool even in summer.
Things to Do
Visitors commonly enjoy a variety of beach activities.
• Swimming in Atlantic waters
• Surfing and bodyboarding
• Beach walking along the long shoreline
• Sunbathing and relaxing by the ocean
• Watching sunrise over the Atlantic
Nearby Attractions
Several attractions are located nearby.
Mother’s Beach (Kennebunk)
A family-friendly beach with calmer waters.
Dock Square (Kennebunkport)
A charming coastal village with shops and restaurants.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
A protected coastal habitat with scenic walking trails.
Goose Rocks Beach
A long sandy beach known for calmer waters.
Where to Stay
Visitors can find many accommodations nearby.
Kennebunk and Kennebunkport Inns
Historic inns and boutique hotels.
Southern Maine Resorts
Oceanfront resorts and beach hotels.
Vacation Rentals
Seaside cottages and beach homes.
Tips & Rules
• Arrive early during summer weekends
• Check parking permit requirements
• Bring layers due to ocean breezes
• Follow posted beach regulations
Bottom Line
Gooch’s Beach offers a wide sandy shoreline, consistent surf, and beautiful Atlantic scenery, making it one of the best beaches in Kennebunk.
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