When summer arrives, the search for the perfect beach getaway begins. Maine beaches offer an ideal destination for your family vacation, combining stunning coastal scenery with plenty of fun activities. From the soft sands of Ogunquit to the expansive shorelines of Popham Beach State Park, you’ll find a diverse array of options to suit your preferences.
As you plan your trip to Southern Maine, you’ll discover a wealth of family-friendly beaches to explore. Whether you’re looking to swim in calm waters, build sandcastles, or simply soak up the sun, these coastal gems have something for everyone. With convenient parking and nearby amenities, you can easily spend a day or more enjoying the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of Maine’s picturesque shoreline.
Ogunquit Beach
Location
You’ll find Ogunquit Beach along the southern coast of Maine, just a short drive from the New Hampshire border. This 3.5-mile stretch of sandy coastline is one of the most popular beaches in the state, attracting tourists from far and wide. The beach is easily accessible from the charming town of Ogunquit, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions to enhance your visit.
Ogunquit Beach Amenities
Ogunquit Beach provides a range of amenities to ensure your family’s comfort and convenience:
- Public parking lots near the beach
- Restrooms and outdoor showers
- Lifeguards on duty during summer months
- Concession stands and beachside restaurants
- A beachfront promenade with shops and ice cream stands
For those staying nearby, many lodging options are within walking distance of the shore. If you prefer not to walk, the town’s trolley service runs frequently, making it easy to get to and from the beach.
Ogunquit Beach Family Activities
Your family will find plenty to do at Ogunquit Beach:
- Swimming in the gentle waves
- Sunbathing on the soft, white sand
- Building sandcastles
- Flying kites
- Beachcombing for interesting shells and sea glass
- Exploring the nearby Marginal Way, a scenic coastal walking path
For families with younger children, the Footbridge Beach at the north end of town offers a quieter experience. The tidal estuary here is ideal for little ones, with typically shallow and warmer water than the open ocean. It’s perfect for kids who might be intimidated by colder temperatures or bigger waves.
Popham Beach State Park
Features
Located at the mouth of the Kennebec River, Popham Beach State Park offers a stunning coastal experience. You’ll find a long, wide sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The park’s beautiful scenery extends beyond the shore, with nearby rocky cliffs and tide pools teeming with marine life for you to explore.
One unique feature is Fox Island, which you can walk to at low tide. However, be sure to pay attention to the quick-rising tides to avoid getting stranded. For water enthusiasts, the park offers excellent opportunities for surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and sea kayaking. Experienced surfers particularly enjoy winter surfing here.
Popham Beach State Park Facilities
To enhance your visit, Popham Beach State Park provides a range of amenities:
- Large parking lot for convenient access
- Restrooms and bathhouses
- Fresh-water solar rinse-off showers
- Snack bar for refreshments
- Picnic areas (Note: As of May 15, 2024, the East Picnic Area is unavailable due to winter storms)
- Hiking trails to explore surrounding natural areas
- Lifeguards on duty from mid-June to mid-August
Popham Beach State Park Family Experience
Popham Beach State Park is an ideal destination for families. The park’s calm waters and gentle waves create a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play and explore. With plenty of space on the beach, your family can spread out and enjoy various activities together.
For added fun, try these family-friendly activities:
- Build sandcastles on the wide, sandy beach
- Explore tide pools and discover marine life
- Go beachcombing for interesting shells and sea treasures
- Enjoy a family picnic in the designated areas
- Take a family hike on the surrounding trails
Remember, pets are not allowed on the beach between April 1 and September 30, but are welcome from October 1 through March 31 if leashed. The park’s busiest season is during summer, so plan accordingly for your family beach day.
Wells Beach
Characteristics
Located on the southern coast of Maine, Wells Beach is a popular summer destination known for its wide, sandy shoreline and gentle surf. Stretching approximately 7 miles long, this beach offers ample space for you to spread out and enjoy the sun and sand. The beautiful scenery and expansive coastline make it an ideal spot for your family vacation.
Wells Beach Amenities
To enhance your beach experience, Wells Beach provides a range of convenient amenities:
- Public restrooms and outdoor showers
- Seasonal snack bar
- Several beach access points
- Ample parking available
- Variety of beach-related shops and restaurants nearby
For easy access, you’ll find multiple public parking areas along the 7-mile stretch, including Drakes Island Beach, East Shore Beach, and Wells Beach itself.
Wells Beach Family-Friendly Activities
Wells Beach offers a plethora of activities to keep your family entertained:
- Swimming in the gentle surf
- Sunbathing on the soft sand
- Building sandcastles
- Exploring tidal pools and marshes
- Fishing from the shore or nearby jetties
- Taking long beach walks
For nature enthusiasts, you can visit the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve to learn about the local ecosystem. Art lovers might enjoy a trip to the nearby Ogunquit Museum of American Art.
The charming coastal villages and scenic harbors of the Kennebunkport area are also within reach, offering additional attractions to explore during your stay at Wells Beach.
Goose Rocks Beach, Kennebunkport
Goose Rocks Beach Location
You’ll find Goose Rocks Beach nestled in the charming town of Kennebunkport, Maine. This picturesque coastal gem stretches for approximately 3 miles, offering a stunning crescent-shaped shoreline that’s perfect for your family beach day. Known for its soft, sandy shores and gentle surf, Goose Rocks Beach provides a serene setting for both locals and tourists alike.
The beach gets its name from the Goose Rocks barrier reef, visible at extreme low tide. This natural formation not only adds to the scenic beauty but also acts as a buffer, protecting the beach from large waves and creating a calm environment for swimming and water activities.
Goose Rocks Beach Facilities
To enhance your beach experience, Goose Rocks Beach offers several amenities:
- Public restrooms
- Outdoor showers
- Seasonal snack bar
- Ample parking areas
Keep in mind that parking permits are required. You can purchase these at the Kennebunkport Police Department or the Goose Rocks General Store. It’s important to note that there are no lifeguards on duty, so exercise caution when enjoying the water.
Goose Rocks Beach Family Fun
Your family will find plenty of activities to enjoy at Goose Rocks Beach:
- Swimming in the gentle waves
- Sunbathing on the soft sand
- Building sandcastles
- Beachcombing along the shoreline
- Playing beach volleyball or frisbee
For more adventurous options, you can try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. Some nearby accommodations even offer L.L. Bean kayaks and paddleboards for guests to use.
Nature enthusiasts in your family will appreciate the nearby Goose Rocks Beach Conservation Area, which offers hiking trails and opportunities for birdwatching. For a unique experience, consider joining a guided moonwalk or stargazing session, which can be arranged through local concierge services.
Long Sands Beach, York
Long Sands Beach Features
Long Sands Beach in York, Maine, is a popular destination known for its expansive shoreline. You’ll find a nearly two-mile stretch of sandy beach perfect for your family’s summer vacation. The wide, sandy expanse offers ample space for various beach activities, from sunbathing to swimming. As you stroll along the shore, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal scenery, including views of the famous Nubble Lighthouse.
The beach’s gentle waves and gradual slope make it an ideal spot for swimming and wading. For the more adventurous, there are designated surfing areas marked by orange flags. You can also explore the nearby tide pools and rocky outcroppings along the coastline, adding an element of discovery to your beach day.
Long Sands Beach Amenities
To enhance your beach experience, Long Sands Beach offers a range of convenient amenities:
- Public restrooms and outdoor showers
- Seasonal snack bar for refreshments
- Ample parking options, including metered and private lots
- Handicap accessible parking available
- Lifeguards on duty during peak seasons
- Gear rentals for various beach activities
The beach is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, allowing you to enjoy the coastal beauty at any time. You’ll also find nearby shops and restaurants, perfect for grabbing a quick bite or picking up any beach essentials you might have forgotten.
Long Sands Beach Family Experience
Long Sands Beach is a family-friendly destination that caters to visitors of all ages. The safe and enjoyable environment makes it an excellent choice for your family outing. Here are some activities you can enjoy together:
- Building sandcastles on the wide, sandy beach
- Flying kites in the ocean breeze
- Taking long walks along the shoreline
- Swimming and splashing in the gentle waves
- Exploring tide pools for marine life
For added convenience, you’ll find playgrounds and picnic areas nearby, perfect for a family lunch break or some playtime away from the sand. Whether you’re planning a full day at the beach or just stopping by to capture a photo with the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, Long Sands Beach is a must-see destination during your visit to York, Maine.
PLAN A TRIP TO THE BEST FAMILY BEACHES IN MAINE
Maine’s family-friendly beaches offer a wealth of experiences to create lasting memories. From the soft sands of Ogunquit to the expansive shorelines of Popham Beach State Park, each destination has its own unique charm and amenities. These coastal gems provide a perfect backdrop for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring, catering to families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
As you plan your next beach getaway, consider the diverse options Maine has to offer. Whether you’re looking for calm waters, wide sandy stretches, or scenic coastal views, you’ll find a beach that suits your family’s preferences. With convenient facilities and plenty of activities to enjoy, Maine’s beaches are sure to make your family vacation a memorable one.