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Goose Rocks Beach: Kennebunkport's Coastal Gem

Escape to Kennebunkport's Goose Rocks Beach: a three-mile stretch of soft sand, gentle waves, and tranquil coastal beauty.

Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport, Maine, is a three-mile-long sandy haven known for its gentle waves and tranquil atmosphere. Protected by a barrier reef, it's perfect for families, sunbathers, and those seeking a peaceful coastal escape.

A brief summary to Goose Rocks Beach

  • Kennebunkport, Goose Rocks Beach, Maine, US

Local tips

  • Arrive early during peak season to secure a parking spot, as permits are required and spaces fill up quickly.
  • Purchase your parking permit at the Goose Rocks Beach General Store or at the kiosks located at Proctor and Kings Highway.
  • Be mindful of marked nesting areas for endangered shorebirds and keep a respectful distance.
  • Check the tide charts before you go to see the Goose Rocks barrier reef at low tide.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Dock Square in Kennebunkport, head northeast on Dock Square towards Main Street. Continue straight until you reach Ocean Avenue. Turn left onto Ocean Avenue and follow it for about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Goose Rocks Road and follow it until you reach the beach area on your left. This is a scenic walk with coastal views.

  • Public Transport

    Check with local shuttle services that operate in and around Kennebunkport. Head to the nearest shuttle stop in Dock Square and look for a shuttle that travels towards Goose Rocks Beach. The shuttle will drop you off near Goose Rocks Road, from where it's a short walk to the beach. Shuttle fares vary, but a short trip typically costs around $3-$5.

  • Driving

    From Kennebunkport, head east on Route 9 (Maine Street). Continue to follow Route 9 until you reach Kings Highway. Turn right onto Kings Highway and follow it to Goose Rocks Beach. Parking is allowed only in posted spaces on King's Highway, Dyke Road, and New Biddeford Road. Parking permits are required from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, between 8 AM and 5 PM. Daily permits cost $40, weekly permits cost $200, and seasonal permits cost $325. Permits can be purchased at kiosks located at Goose Rocks Beach General Store or at Proctor and Kings Highway.

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Discover more about Goose Rocks Beach

Goose Rocks Beach, located in the charming town of Kennebunkport, Maine, offers a serene and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This expansive three-mile stretch of soft, powdery sand is renowned for its gentle surf, making it an ideal destination for families with young children and anyone seeking a relaxing beach experience. The beach's name comes from the Goose Rocks barrier reef visible at low tide that lies offshore, which provides a natural buffer, sheltering the beach from larger waves. This creates a calm and inviting environment for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely strolls along the water's edge. The views from the beach are stunning, encompassing the vast Atlantic Ocean, nearby Timber Island, and Timber Point. Goose Rocks Beach has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century when it began to develop as a summer resort. In the past, the area was known as Beachwood. Today, while the beach is a popular destination, it maintains a peaceful atmosphere, with many families returning year after year to rent the classic seaside cottages that line the shore. Visitors should be aware that parking is regulated during the peak summer season, and permits are required. Also, it's important to respect the delicate dune grass and be mindful of nesting areas for endangered shorebirds like plovers and terns. Despite these considerations, Goose Rocks Beach remains a beloved destination for its natural beauty and tranquil charm.

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