Whether you’re chasing shade or on the hunt for the perfect splash zone, these kid-friendly cool-off spots are probably what you are looking for when summer in Maine really heats up! Best for toddlers and preschoolers – but always enjoy at your own risk. Most locations are unsupervised, so parental discretion is key, and in our opinion this is especially true when you are participating in activities around water.
Splash Pads
Portland’s Free Splash Pads
Open daily (generally 10am–7pm) in summer, Portland’s splash pads are simple, free, and great for younger kids. The link above will provide more details on the following Portland, Maine splash pads:
- Deering Oaks Park Ravine
- Stone Street Playground Splash Pad
- Peppermint Park Splash Pad
- Payson Park Splash Pad
Tip: These pads may be unfenced and are unsupervised. Be sure to pack snacks, water bottles, towels, sunblock and a change of clothes.
Saco’s Brand-New Splash Pad
Now open in 2025, this splash pad in Saco is already a hit with local families & it’s free! Open daily during daylight hours. More Information.
Splash Pads Coming Soon:
Robie Park Splash Pad – Gorham
Get pumped up – because a new splash pad is coming to Gorham! Robie Park will include a new water feature/splashpad that will be part of phase 1 construction. Phase 1 is proposed to be completed by Labor Day, 2025. See updates on the Gorham website.
Kiwanis Community Splash Pad – Portland
As part of the construction project for the new outdoor Kiwanis Community Pool, there will also be a new splash pad constructed! This project is planned to be completed by Summer 2026.
Water Parks & Pools
These paid options offer some price breaks for littles or based on time of the day or pool only plans:
Aquaboggan Water Park – Saco
Great for little & big splashers, alike! Options include:
- Toddler Ticket (under 38″): $6
- Pool-Only Pass: $25
- Toddler Season Pass (Under 38″): $35
- Season Pass (38″+): $95
Some notable features include a shaded wading pool, toddler splash zone, kid-friendly water slides and picnic areas.
Funtown Splashtown USA – Saco
Want just a short visit? The Afternoon Special (after 3 PM) is ideal:
- Waterpark-only wristband: $15 (valid after 3pm)
Crowds are lighter, and the shorter time commitment makes it easier with littles.
👉 funtownsplashtownusa.com/rates
Shipwreck Cove at Seacoast Adventure Park – Windham
This can be a pretty affor
- General (40″ or taller): $15
- Junior (children under 40″ tall, limited slides): $8
- Infants (0-12 months): Free
- Spectator (no slides): $10
👉 seacoastadventure.com/shipwreck-cove/
Beaches & State Parks
These are the local options we find especially appealing for families with littles:
Outlet Beach – Sabbathday Lake (New Gloucester)
A quiet freshwater beach with calm water and sandy shores.
- Admission: $6 adults (14+) / $4 kids (3-13) (under 2 free)
- On-site snack shack, picnic tables, and a gentle shoreline
- Rentals available: Life jackets, tubes, pedal boats, kayaks, canoe and paddle boards.
Ideal for kids & adults – and calm days by the lake.
Range Pond State Park – Poland
A family favorite with shallow entry, roped swim area, and soft sand.
- Day Pass: $6/adult Maine Residents, $1/ages 5–11, under 5 free
- Changing rooms, picnic tables, and a playground. Lifeguards, if available, on duty mid-June to mid-August.
👉 maine.gov/dacf/parks/rangepond
Ferry Beach – Scarborough
Easy beach access from moderately-sized paid parking lot.
- Ocean beach, changing rooms, small picnic area
- Parking fees apply; no lifeguard on duty
Sebago Lake State Park – Casco
A classic day trip with tons of family-friendly features:
- Sandy beach, lifeguarded swim areas, snack bar, and playground
- Day Use Fee: $6/adults, $1/ages 5–11, under 5 free
Early mornings are best for easy parking and low crowds.
Tips Before You Go
- Check official websites for current hours and closures
- Pack towels, extra clothes, snacks/water, and sun protection
- Many options often fill up fast on weekends – go early!
Looking for More?
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