With over 3,478 miles of coastline (that’s more than even California!), it’s almost impossible to choose the perfect beach. Some are rocky, making for a beautifully scenic day outside. Others feature long stretches of sand perfect to laying around or making sandcastles. While we might find it impossible to choose our favorite, US News recently did! This Kennebunkport beach is high on their list. Does it make yours?

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Was there ever a more beautiful beach area than in Kennebunkport? If you agree, you likely already know about the beauty of Gooch’s Beach.

kennebunk_larryMaine / TripAdvisor

Of the three main beaches here in Kennebunkport (Mother’s and Middle are the others ) Gooch’s is considered to be the most popular.

Erik O. / TripAdvisor

The beach is just over a half-mile, making it one of the longest in the state.

MIZER / TripAdvisor

It’s found between the mouth of the Kennebunk River and the rocky area known as Oaks Neck.

Amy Welch / Googkle

It’s not uncommon to find this beach packed between Labor Day and Memorial Day, so you’ll want to show up early to get a prime spot on the sand.

MIZER / TripAdvisor

But if you’re a surfer you’ll find plenty of other folks who share your passion in the early morning or early evening. The heavier-than-typical waves that come rolling to shore here make this is one of the best beaches in the state for surfing.

kennebunk_larryMaine / TripAdvisor

But, we prefer to simply come here for the relaxation. A great beach for kids, you’ll also likely find lots of families here.

Stefan B / TripAdvisor

And if you love fishing, plan on bringing your gear to the jetty in the Kennebunk River to try for some bass.

LW8415 / TripAdvisor If you’re a lover of Maine in the summer, Gooch’s Beach is a must-visit!

And dog lovers rejoice! Furry friends can enjoy the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. between Labor Day and Memorial Day. But the rest of the year they can visit anytime!

Gooch’s Beach is a popular destination in the summer, so parking might be hard unless you plan to arrive before 10:30 a.m. Remember that if you’re not a resident you’ll need to obtain a parking permit (even for just one day) at one of the parking kiosks on Beach Avenue. One day is $25 and parking can be found primarily in Beach Avenue around Oaks Neck to where Middle Beach ends.

kennebunk_larryMaine / TripAdvisor

Erik O. / TripAdvisor

MIZER / TripAdvisor

Amy Welch / Googkle

Stefan B / TripAdvisor

LW8415 / TripAdvisor

If you’re a lover of Maine in the summer, Gooch’s Beach is a must-visit!

And dog lovers rejoice! Furry friends can enjoy the beach before 9 a.m. and after 5 p.m. between Labor Day and Memorial Day. But the rest of the year they can visit anytime!

If beach-going is a hobby, there’s plenty to do here in Vacationland! Here’s the hidden beaches road trip that will show you Maine like never before.

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Address: Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, USA