Surf: Although it faces almost due south, a NE swell still manages to wrap around Cape Arundel, which is a bonus if the wind is also NE, making it dead offshore for Kennebunk. Needs at least 3ft (?m) to start breaking, but it’ll handle as big as it gets. Big, brown, heavy, smokin’ lefts and rights with critical drops, especially on a low incoming tide. Access: Residents only in summer Environment: The crowds can be as thick as the lips because it’s only a medium consistency spot. The strong rips combine with a mixture of residential, stormwater and estuary effluent. Residents-only parking in town in summer. Free parking in winter, which is when it’s most likely to break anyway. Surf: General: The best seasons for waves here are fall and winter, but waves can be had year-round at Gooch's. During a nor'easter, Gooch's orientation favors both S swell and N wind directions, making it one of the rare clean options in the area. Although the waves may be smaller than in nearby York, their quality is far superior. The waves are generally steep, fast, sometimes hollow, and can dish out a solid thumping. Tides: Incoming Size: Head high-few feet overhead Wind: NW to N Swell: SE Bottom: Sand Paddling: Pretty mellow in the summer but much worse in the winter when cold water and air necessitate full winter gear. Spot Rating: Can be fun with the right combination of swell, wind and tide. Access: Tough in Summer due to resident-only permits. Easy September through May. Parking can be found along Beach Avenue in parallel fashion all the way around Oaks Neck to the end of Middle Beach. Non-residents must purchase a permit at one of the parking kiosks along Beach Avenue. A day pass for a single vehicle costs $25.00. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Moderate to heavy in summer, light rest of year except on good days. Local Vibe: Mellow. Environment: Pretty good. Hazards: Freezing water temps in Winter. Season: September through March