Gooch's Beach Kennebunk
Gooch's Beach offers a beautiful sandy shoreline for surfing, swimming, and scenic walks, complemented by a charming promenade.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Gooch's Beach Kennebunk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gooch's Beach offers a beautiful sandy shoreline for surfing, swimming, and scenic walks, complemented by a charming promenade.
"It’s a great place to unwind and experience Maine's stunning coastline — we loved it and would definitely come back!"
🏄 Surf's Up with NE Wind
Gooch's Beach is great for surfing with a NE wind . Check forecasts for the best waves!
🚶♀️ Long Walks & Shells
Enjoy miles of soft sand for relaxing walks and collecting treasures. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sandy Shoreline Strolls
Gooch's Beach
Miles of soft sand perfect for leisurely walks, shell collecting, and enjoying ocean breezes.
Surfing Hotspot
Gooch's Beach
A popular spot for surfers, especially when the NE wind kicks up the waves .
Scenic Promenade Views
Adjoining Promenade
Enjoy picturesque views of the charming houses and the coastline from the promenade.
Rocky Ledge Focal Point
Gooch's Beach
A striking rock ledge adds a dramatic element to the beach, perfect for photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Surf's Up (Sometimes!)
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Surfing Maine?
🏄 Surf's Up with NE Wind
Gooch's Beach is great for surfing with a NE wind. Check forecasts for the best waves!
🚶♀️ Long Walks & Shells
Enjoy miles of soft sand for relaxing walks and collecting treasures. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
Beach Passes
hey guys, what’s the best beach (or beach-like area) near portland for tidepooling and finding critters?
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited, especially in summer. Arrive early or consider off-peak times.
🚽 Restroom Check
Port-a-potties are available, but public restrooms are scarce. Plan ahead for longer stays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏄 Surf's Up with NE Wind
Gooch's Beach is great for surfing with a NE wind. Check forecasts for the best waves!
🚶♀️ Long Walks & Shells
Enjoy miles of soft sand for relaxing walks and collecting treasures. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is limited, especially in summer. Arrive early or consider off-peak times.
🚽 Restroom Check
Port-a-potties are available, but public restrooms are scarce. Plan ahead for longer stays.
📸 Charming Coastal Views
Admire the picturesque houses along the shore and the striking rock ledge for great photo ops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Gooch's Beach is praised for its beautiful, clean sand and peaceful atmosphere, especially outside peak season. Visitors enjoy the long walks, scenic views of charming houses, and the unique rock ledge. While parking can be limited and public restrooms are scarce, the overall experience is highly positive, with many eager to return.
"We really enjoyed our visit to Gooch’s Beach! Even though Kennebunkport was quite busy, the beach itself felt open and peaceful enough to enjoy a nice walk and take in the scenery. The long stretch of sand and rocky coastline make it a perfect spot for strolling, taking photos, or just relaxing by the ocean.
The views are beautiful, especially the charming houses along the shore. Parking can be a bit limited in peak season, but it’s worth it once you’re there.
It’s a great place to unwind and experience Maine’s stunning coastline — we loved it and would definitely come back!"
Peter Schimpl
"Gooch’s Beach is a beautiful and peaceful spot, especially in October when it’s far less crowded. The ocean views are stunning, the sand is soft, and the large rock ledge creates a striking focal point that really sets this beach apart. It’s the kind of place where you can take a long, relaxing walk, listen to the waves roll in, and just breathe in that fresh Maine coastal air.
The only reason this isn’t a full five-star review is the lack of public restrooms. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to spend any amount of time here. That said, it’s still a lovely place to visit. This stretch of coastline has long been a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike, with roots tracing back to Kennebunk’s early days as a bustling shipbuilding town. The beach perfectly captures that classic New England charm — quiet, scenic, and timeless."
Amber Mullis
"Beautiful and clean beach. We're from out west and our first time visiting. The weather was perfect and the waves were becoming a little wicked from the hurricane further down near the Carolinas. Fun place to collect some shells and enjoy the scenery. We'll definitely be back!"
Lisa Pearson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gooch's Beach is located in Kennebunk, Maine. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. If you're coming from out of town, GPS navigation will guide you directly to the beach area.
Public transportation options to Gooch's Beach may be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for Kennebunk if you are relying on public transport. Driving is the most common method for visitors.
Parking at Gooch's Beach can be challenging during peak season. Arriving early in the morning or visiting during weekdays can increase your chances of finding a spot. Some reviews mention limited parking availability.
Parking fees can vary depending on the season and specific lot. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most current parking rates and regulations.
Yes, Gooch's Beach is often described as dog-friendly, with many visitors bringing their pets. Always check local ordinances for specific leash laws and seasonal restrictions for dogs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Gooch's Beach itself does not typically have an entrance fee. Access to the beach is generally free for the public.
Beaches are generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no strict operating hours for public beach access, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment.
There's no need to book anything in advance for general beach access. If you're interested in nearby accommodations like 'Gooch's Cottages' or 'Gooch's Cabins', those would require separate bookings.
General beach rules apply, such as no glass containers and respecting the environment. Always check local regulations for any specific restrictions on items like bonfires or alcohol.
To avoid crowds, visiting during the shoulder seasons like October or during weekdays is recommended. Early mornings are also generally less crowded than afternoons.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, surfing (especially with a NE wind ), sunbathing, long walks on the sandy shoreline, shell collecting, and photography. The adjoining promenade offers scenic views.
There are port-a-potties available on one end of the beach. However, public restrooms are scarce, so it's advisable to plan accordingly for longer visits.
Yes, Gooch's Beach is suitable for families. The sandy shore is great for playing, and the calmer waters can be good for younger children, though always supervise closely.
The sand at Gooch's Beach is described as soft and pleasant for walking and relaxing.
Yes, there are several stair access points and a ramp for ease of access for those with mobility issues, making it more accessible for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic houses along the shore, the striking rock ledge, surfers catching waves, and the expansive sandy shoreline, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. Overcast days can also provide soft, diffused light for capturing the coastal mood.
The prominent rock ledge is a unique focal point for photos. The charming coastal homes lining the promenade also offer picturesque backdrops.
Drone usage regulations can vary by location. It's essential to check with local authorities or the town of Kennebunk for any restrictions on drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing surfers. A polarizing filter can enhance sky and water colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that public restrooms are limited, with only port-a-potties available.
🏄 Surfers
Be prepared for variable wave conditions and always check the surf report before heading out. The sandy bottom can make for a more forgiving experience, which is great for practicing. Remember to be courteous to other surfers and always prioritize safety in the water. The beach is also known to be dog-friendly, so you might see some furry friends enjoying the shore too.
🚶♀️ Beach Walkers & Photographers
Visiting during the shoulder seasons, like October, or during weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds, enhancing the tranquility of your walk and photography sessions. The 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset are particularly magical for capturing the beauty of the Maine coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing at Gooch's Beach
When planning your surf trip, it's crucial to check surf reports and weather forecasts beforehand. The quality and size of the waves can vary significantly based on wind speed, direction, and swell. Many visitors find it to be a great place to try surfing for the first time or to practice their skills in a less crowded environment compared to more famous surf breaks. The sandy bottom also contributes to a more forgiving experience for those learning to surf.
Beyond surfing, the beach's natural beauty enhances the overall experience. The long stretch of sandy shoreline provides ample space to paddle out and enjoy the ocean. Even if the waves aren't ideal for surfing, the beach remains a beautiful spot for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery. Remember to be mindful of other beachgoers and surfers to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for everyone.
Exploring the Kennebunk Coastline
The beach itself is characterized by its long, sandy expanse and a notable rocky ledge that adds a dramatic visual element. This ledge is a popular spot for photography and offers a different perspective of the coastline. Visitors often enjoy walking along the shore, collecting shells, and simply breathing in the fresh Maine coastal air. The combination of sand, rocks, and the vast ocean creates a diverse and engaging natural environment.
Historically, this stretch of coastline has been a cherished gathering place for locals and visitors alike, reflecting Kennebunk's heritage. The timeless New England charm is palpable, offering a sense of peace and tranquility. Whether you're looking for active pursuits like surfing or a more relaxed experience of scenic walks and ocean views, Gooch's Beach and its surroundings deliver a quintessential coastal Maine experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit