Overview
Kennebunk Beach is a south-facing sand-bottom beachbreak with lefts and rights. When it comes together, the waves can be steep, fast, sometimes hollow, and powerful, with critical drops.
It’s a good spot with the right mix of swell, wind, and tide, and the wave quality can be better than nearby options even when it’s smaller.
When It Works
The best seasons are autumn and winter, especially September through March, though waves can happen year-round at Gooch’s.
The optimal swell direction is southeast, and swell can also work from northeast to southeast. It is usable from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft. Northeast swell can wrap around Cape Arundel, which helps on the right setup.
Wind and Tide
The offshore wind direction is northeast. Northwest to north winds can also suit the spot, and during a nor’easter the setup can stay clean for the area.
A rising tide is better, especially around low incoming tide.
Local Tips
This is better suited to intermediate and expert surfers. Shortboards, funboards, longboards, and fish can all work here.
Crowds are moderate overall, but can be heavier in summer and on good days. The lineup is generally mellow, though it can feel somewhat reserved.
Strong rips are a real factor, and winter brings freezing water temperatures. Paddling is pretty mellow in summer but much harder in winter with full cold-water gear.
Access
Access is tough in summer because of resident-only permits and resident-only parking in town. From September through May it’s much easier.
Parking can be found along Beach Avenue around Oaks Neck to Middle Beach. Non-residents need to buy a permit from a Beach Avenue kiosk, with a day pass costing $25 for one vehicle. There is a car park with free parking in winter, and lifeguards are listed among the facilities.
