The Surf Window

Popham Beach

Maine, USA

Beach breakIntermediate

At the mouth of the Kennebec River in midcoast Maine, Popham Beach State Park has one of New England's most beautiful surf settings, where Atlantic swells, river currents, and dramatic island scenery combine in an extraordinary coastal landscape.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalE (90°)
WindowNNE–SSE (30°–150°)
Size–E 1–2m at 10–14s

Wind

W

Light to NW under 15 knots

Tide

Mid tide

LowMidHigh

Season

Sep–Nov

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Beach break

Bottom

Sand and rock

Shape

Beach peaks with strong rip-influenced shape

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
  • •Why: River mouth currents and Atlantic swells require solid swimming and surfing ability

Hazards

  • •Very strong Kennebec River currents at the river mouth
  • •Rocky sections throughout the beach
  • •Very cold water, Maine's coldest coast year-round

Local Tips

  • •The state park charges a day-use fee, arrive early to get parking
  • •Fort Popham Civil War fort at the river mouth is fascinating to explore
  • •The sandbars shift dramatically with the seasons, conditions vary greatly

Location

Map showing the location of Popham Beach in Maine, USA

43.7520, -69.7845