Mother’s Beach in Kennebunk is the perfect place to experience the magnetism and wonder of Maine’s long coastline. Instead of the rocky shores of the north, find a long stretch of smooth sand and clear Atlantic Ocean waters. Join other tourists and residents enjoying this beach on a magnificent coast.

With portable bathrooms, easy access and roadside parking beside the sandy area, Mother’s Beach is a great spot for a family beach day. It has a playground, making it ideal for families.

Walk the sidewalk by the seawall that follows the beach for 750 feet (230 meters). The beach has lifeguards in summer.

Turn away from the beach to view summer homes and cottages with traditional shingle-style architecture. Shingles are gold when freshly installed and weather to gray in the conditions of salt air, wind and sun.

Before you leave the center of Kennebunk for a beach day, purchase a parking permit from the town office or chamber of commerce or pick one up at the beach kiosk. Arrive early at the sandy beach as the roadside parking fills rapidly.

For some beach variety, travel farther east along the road or on foot to Middle Beach and Gooch’s Beach. The three beaches stretch for about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers), with a sidewalk running the distance.

Gooch’s Beach is the largest and most popular of the Kennebunk beaches. Between Gooch’s and Mother’s is black-pebbled Middle Beach. It’s about 1,300 feet (400 meters) long and does not have restrooms, but it’s also less crowded.

Surf the waves at the beaches on suitable days. Bring your own umbrella, food and drink, as concessions aren’t available. Let your dog join you before and after business hours during the peak season or all day during other months. Take a sunrise stroll, morning jog or evening promenade to enjoy the sea air and scenery.

Find the Kennebunk beaches along Beach Avenue about 4 miles (7 kilometers) from the center of town.

Bring the whole family to Mother’s Beach for great day in the sand and surf that you might not have expected in Maine.