The Beach Built for Families
Mother’s Beach sits in a sheltered cove along Beach Avenue in Kennebunk, tucked between Gooch’s Beach and the rocky shoreline that leads toward Kennebunk River. It is small, compact, and specifically suited to families with young children. The water is calm, the waves are gentle, and the beach slopes gradually into shallow water where toddlers can splash without parents worrying about undertow.
The beach earned its name honestly. Generations of mothers have brought children here because the conditions are forgiving. A lifeguard is on duty from July through Labor Day, a playground sits adjacent to the beach, and a sidewalk runs along the Kennebunk Beach Road connecting Mother’s Beach to Gooch’s Beach and Middle Beach. You can walk the entire stretch of Kennebunk’s coastline without getting in a car.
Kennebunk Beach is about 35 minutes south of Portland, in the heart of the Kennebunks, one of Maine’s most popular coastal destinations. The town of Kennebunk and neighboring Kennebunkport offer restaurants, galleries, and shops. But Mother’s Beach itself is residential and low-key. It is a neighborhood beach with a loyal following.
The Beach
Mother’s Beach is narrow and short compared to the broad sandy stretches in Wells or Old Orchard Beach. That small size is part of its appeal: the lifeguard can see the entire beach, parents can watch their children easily, and nobody gets lost in a crowd.
The sand is fine and soft. The water entry is gradual, with no sudden drop-offs. The waves are typically small, broken by the cove’s natural protection. Water temperatures reach the low to mid-60s by August, which is standard for southern Maine. Most children wade and splash rather than sustained swimming.
The playground next to the beach has swings, slides, and climbing structures. It is open to the public and provides an alternative when kids tire of the water.
Walk south along the sidewalk to Gooch’s Beach for a longer, wider sandy beach with better waves for older kids and adults. The walk takes about 10 minutes and gives you access to two very different beach experiences in one visit.
Parking and Access
Parking is the main challenge at Mother’s Beach. On-street parking along Beach Avenue requires a parking permit. Non-resident daily permits cost $25, weekly permits $100, and seasonal permits $200. Permits are available at kiosks, via the ParkMobile app, or at Kennebunk Town Hall.
The lot fills quickly on hot summer days. Arrive early, or consider taking the Intown Trolley from Kennebunk or Kennebunkport, which stops near the beach.
The trolley is the stress-free option. It runs a loop through Kennebunk and Kennebunkport with a stop near the beach. Parking anxiety disappears when you do not need a parking spot. Check the trolley schedule for summer hours and routes.
Walking the Kennebunk Beaches
A paved sidewalk runs along Beach Avenue, connecting Mother’s Beach to Gooch’s Beach and Middle Beach. This is one of the best coastal walks in southern Maine, with ocean views the entire way. The walk from Mother’s Beach to the south end of Gooch’s Beach is about 1.5 miles round trip.
Middle Beach, between Mother’s and Gooch’s, is a small rocky beach with tide pools. It is fun for exploring at low tide.
When to Go
Spring
Cool and quiet. Good for walking the sidewalk. Water too cold for swimming.
Summer
Lifeguard on duty. Warmest water. Playground open. Parking permit required.
Fall
Water still swimmable in September. Fewer families. Beautiful coastal light.
Winter
Empty and scenic. Cold but good for walks along the sidewalk. Free parking.
Practical Notes
Cell service is good throughout Kennebunk Beach and the surrounding area.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach during summer swim season (typically June through September). Check town regulations for exact dates.
Restrooms (porta-potties) are available at the beach from July through Labor Day.
All on-street parking near Kennebunk beaches requires a permit from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. Non-resident daily permits are $25. Buy at kiosks, the ParkMobile app, or Kennebunk Town Hall. Enforcement is consistent.
Mother's Beach Essentials
- Parking permit (or trolley fare)
- Sunscreen and hat
- Towels and swimsuit
- Sand toys for children
- Snacks and water
- Change of clothes for kids
- Blanket or beach chairs
- Camera
Getting There
From Portland, take I-95 South to Exit 25 (Kennebunk), then Route 35 South to Route 9 East (Western Avenue), then left on Beach Avenue. The drive is about 35 minutes. From downtown Kennebunk, it is about a 5-minute drive to the beach.
FAQ
Why is it called Mother's Beach?
The calm, shallow water and small, easy-to-supervise beach make it ideal for mothers with young children. The name has been used locally for generations.
Is there a lifeguard at Mother's Beach?
Yes, from July through Labor Day. The small beach is fully visible from the lifeguard station.
How much is parking at Kennebunk Beach?
Non-resident daily permits are $25. Weekly permits are $100, seasonal $200. Available at kiosks, via ParkMobile app, or at Town Hall. Enforcement is active.
Can you walk from Mother's Beach to Gooch's Beach?
Yes. A paved sidewalk along Beach Avenue connects all three Kennebunk beaches (Mother's, Middle, and Gooch's). The walk to Gooch's Beach takes about 10 minutes.
Is the water calm at Mother's Beach?
Yes. The sheltered cove protects the beach from significant wave action. The water is shallow and calm, making it one of the safest swimming beaches in southern Maine for young children.
