Kennebunk Beaches 2026: Complete Guide to Goose Rocks & More
Guide to Kennebunk and Kennebunkport beaches including Goose Rocks Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother's Beach. Parking permits, beach access, and what to expect.
The Kennebunks offer some of southern Maine’s finest beach experiences, from the expansive sand flats of Goose Rocks to the family-friendly shores of Mother’s Beach. Unlike the bustling tourist scene at Ogunquit or Old Orchard, the Kennebunk beaches maintain a quieter, residential atmosphere that rewards those willing to navigate the parking permit system.
The Beaches Overview
Goose Rocks Beach
Goose Rocks Beach is the crown jewel of the Kennebunks - a three-mile stretch of wide, flat sand that ranks among Maine’s best. A barrier reef offshore keeps the waves gentle, creating calm swimming conditions that appeal to families with children.
What makes it special:
- 3 miles of uninterrupted sand
- Wide beach at low tide (hundreds of yards)
- Calm water protected by offshore reef
- Less crowded than southern Maine beaches
- Beautiful views of the Goose Rocks islands
The trade-offs:
- Parking requires a permit ($35/day in summer)
- Limited facilities (no restrooms at the beach)
- Residential area with restricted parking
Best for: Families, long beach walks, swimming, sandcastles
Mother’s Beach (Kennebunk Beach)
Mother’s Beach sits near the Kennebunk Inn district, offering convenient beach access with more facilities than Goose Rocks. The sheltered cove creates exceptionally calm water, making it ideal for young children.
What makes it special:
- Very calm water in protected cove
- Lifeguards on duty (summer)
- Restrooms and changing facilities available
- Close to shops and restaurants
- Playground nearby
Best for: Young children, families wanting facilities, visitors without permits
Middle Beach
Located between Mother’s Beach and Colony Beach, Middle Beach is a small sandy stretch popular with locals. It requires a walk from parking areas but rewards with a quieter atmosphere.
Best for: Those seeking less crowded conditions
Colony Beach
Named for the historic Colony Hotel that overlooks it, Colony Beach offers dramatic views and a more upscale atmosphere. The rocky shoreline adds character but limits swimming areas.
Best for: Photography, watching sunsets, hotel guests
Parking: The Essential Guide
Parking is the key challenge at Kennebunk beaches. Unlike state beaches with large lots, the Kennebunk beaches rely on limited street parking and a permit system.
Permit Requirements
Goose Rocks Beach:
- Permits required for all beach parking
- Day permits: $35 (available at beach entrance kiosk)
- Weekly permits: Available for longer stays
- Strict enforcement from late May through early September
Mother’s Beach:
- Metered parking available (limited spaces)
- Permit parking on nearby streets
- Day permits: $25-30
- Overflow parking at town lots with shuttle
Getting Permits
Purchase locations:
- Kennebunk Police Station (main office)
- Beach entrance kiosks (limited hours)
- Online pre-purchase (check town website)
Pro tips:
- Arrive early (before 9 AM on summer weekends)
- Weekdays are dramatically easier than weekends
- September offers warm water with no permit hassles
- Consider biking from town accommodations
Parking Alternatives
For Goose Rocks:
- Bike from Kennebunkport center (about 3 miles)
- Stay at accommodations with beach passes
- Visit in shoulder season (permit-free)
For Mother’s Beach:
- Use town trolley in summer
- Park downtown and walk (15-20 minutes)
- Metered spots turn over throughout the day
Beach Rules and Etiquette
Dogs
- Prohibited on all beaches May 15 - September 15
- Off-leash permitted October through April
- Always clean up after your pet
General Rules
- No alcohol
- No glass containers
- No fires or grilling
- No tents or canopies (umbrellas OK)
- Remove all belongings when leaving
Tides Matter
Kennebunk beaches are dramatically affected by tides. At high tide, some beaches narrow significantly. At low tide, Goose Rocks exposes vast sandbars perfect for walking and tide pooling.
Best strategy:
- Check tide charts before visiting
- Arrive 2 hours before low tide for maximum beach space
- Low tide is best for beach walking and sandcastle building
- High tide is fine for swimming (less walking required)
Facilities by Beach
| Beach | Restrooms | Lifeguards | Food Nearby | Parking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goose Rocks | No | No | No | Permit required |
| Mother’s Beach | Yes | Yes (summer) | Short walk | Metered + permit |
| Middle Beach | No | No | Short walk | Limited street |
| Colony Beach | Hotel only | No | Hotel restaurant | Limited |
Best Times to Visit
Peak Season (July-August)
- Warmest water (62-65°F)
- Most crowded
- Highest parking demand
- All services available
Shoulder Season (June, September)
- Still swimmable water
- Easier parking
- Less crowded
- September is locals’ favorite
Off-Season (October-April)
- No permits needed
- Dogs allowed off-leash
- Beach walking and storm watching
- Cold for swimming
What to Bring
Beach day essentials:
- Cash or card for permits/parking
- Umbrella (no tents allowed)
- Cooler with snacks and drinks
- Water (limited facilities at Goose Rocks)
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Beach towels and chairs
- Layers (Maine weather changes)
For families:
- Sand toys
- Water shoes (some rocky areas)
- Snacks for kids
- Change of clothes
Nearby Attractions
After the beach, explore what makes the Kennebunks special:
- Kennebunkport Dock Square: Shops, galleries, ice cream
- Ocean Avenue drive: See Bush family compound and Walker’s Point
- The Clam Shack: Famous lobster rolls at the bridge
- Marginal Way (Ogunquit): Coastal walk 20 minutes south
- Cape Porpoise: Picturesque working harbor nearby
Accommodations with Beach Access
Several properties offer beach passes or proximity:
- Properties on Goose Rocks Road often include beach passes
- The Colony Hotel overlooks Colony Beach
- Kennebunk Beach rentals may include permits
- Ask about beach passes when booking
Final Tips
- Book permits or accommodations early for July 4th and August weeks
- Check tides before planning your day
- Arrive before 9 AM on summer weekends
- Bring everything you need - Goose Rocks has no facilities
- Consider biking if staying in town
- September is magical - warm water, no crowds, no permit hassles
The Kennebunk beaches reward a bit of planning with some of Maine’s finest coastal experiences. The extra effort of navigating permits is worth it for the quieter, more authentic beach experience you’ll find here compared to more tourist-oriented beaches.