Spring break is right around the corner. Families across New England are searching for the perfect April vacation destination, and Old Orchard Beach, Maine is one of the most kid-friendly coastal towns you’ll find. Odessa by the Sea vacation rentals make it easy to settle in and enjoy every moment. Whether your kids love the beach, games, or exploring new places, this is the April getaway your family has been waiting for. Perfectly situated at the heart of southern Maine’s most beloved destinations, Old Orchard Beach is the ideal home base for a week of family adventure.
Why Old Orchard Beach is the Perfect April Vacation Base
April is a hidden gem of a travel month. The crowds are thin, prices are lower than summer, and the fresh coastal air feels incredible after a long winter indoors. Seven miles of sandy beach stretch along the shore. As a result, kids have plenty of space to explore tide pools, build sandcastles, and splash at the water’s edge. As the season shifts, shops, restaurants, and attractions reopen their doors. For families looking to skip the chaos of peak summer, April vacation week is the sweet spot. Best of all, Old Orchard Beach sits within easy driving distance of so many great destinations, so you will never run out of things to do.
The Beach is Just the Beginning
The wide open sands of Old Orchard Beach are endlessly entertaining for kids of all ages. Bring a kite, rent bikes along the boardwalk, or let the little ones dig to their hearts content. Just a short stroll away, the famous Old Orchard Beach Pier is a wonderful spot to wander with ice cream in hand. For a full list of family-friendly things to do right in town, check out the Old Orchard Beach Activities Guide.
Kid-Friendly Things to Do In and Around Old Orchard Beach
One of the biggest advantages of basing your April vacation in Old Orchard Beach is how much is within reach. From classic boardwalk fun to city museums and scenic harbors, your family will never run short of options. Better yet, most of these destinations are less than 30 minutes away.
Portland: A City Full of Family Fun
Just 20 minutes up the road, Portland is one of Maine’s most exciting cities. It also happens to be a fantastic day trip destination for families. The Portland Children’s Museum and Theater offers hands-on exhibits that keep young kids engaged for hours. A short drive away, the Portland Head Light is a great spot for a picnic with a view. Stroll the Old Port district for waterfront dining, quirky shops, and people watching. Additionally, Portland serves as the departure point for whale watching and deep sea fishing trips. These are among the most memorable experiences you can give your kids on a Maine vacation.
Freeport: Shopping, Nature, and L.L. Bean
About 30 minutes north of Old Orchard Beach, Freeport is home to the flagship L.L. Bean store. Open 24 hours a day, it is a rite of passage for any Maine visitor. Inside, kids love the indoor trout pond and the outdoor gear displays. Beyond the shopping, Freeport also offers access to beautiful hiking trails and nature preserves. These are perfect for a family morning outdoors before heading back to the beach.
Kennebunkport: Charming Village Exploring
A 30-minute drive south brings you to Kennebunkport, one of New England’s most charming coastal villages. Families enjoy strolling Dock Square and grabbing lobster rolls at a waterfront restaurant. From there, take a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue to spot grand estates and rocky shoreline. In spring, the town is quiet and relaxed, making it a lovely half-day escape from the beach.
Ogunquit: Beaches, the Marginal Way, and More
Ogunquit is one of Maine’s most beloved beach towns. It sits just 25 minutes south of Old Orchard Beach, making it an easy day trip. Consistently rated among the best beaches in the country, Ogunquit Beach offers calm, shallow waters that are ideal for young children. Nearby, the Marginal Way is a scenic mile-long coastal footpath the whole family can enjoy together. Finally, Perkins Cove is a charming harbor area with great seafood restaurants and boat tours throughout the day.
Dining the Whole Family Will Love
Southern Maine is loaded with family-friendly dining options. From classic Maine lobster shacks to pizza, tacos, and ice cream, there is always something everyone can agree on. Whether you are eating in Old Orchard Beach or exploring a neighboring town, great food is never far away. To start planning your meals ahead of time, browse the Old Orchard Beach Food Guide.
A Property for Every Size Family
No matter how big or small your group is, Odessa by the Sea has a property that fits. Smaller families can cozy up in one of the Odessa Cottages, nestled in a quiet pine grove just a 30-second walk from the beach. Alternatively, book one of the newly refurbished Condos with a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and outdoor grill. Mid-size groups love the Odessa Victorian, a stunning 1876 home in Ocean Park that sleeps 16. It features a sunroom full of board games, a wrap-around porch, and a private yard. For larger families or multi-family trips, the Odena Beach House sleeps 24. It comes loaded with kayaks, bikes, a basement game room, and a 10-person hot tub just 50 yards from the beach. Whatever your group looks like, there is a perfect spot waiting for you.
Start Planning Your April Vacation Today
Southern Maine in April is something special. Families who make the trip discover just how much this region has to offer beyond the summer crowds. With Old Orchard Beach as your home base, the whole coast is yours to explore. So go ahead and book your stay today at Odessa by the Sea, and give your family the kind of spring break they will be talking about all year long. To map out your perfect itinerary, visit the Old Orchard Beach Vacation Planner and start planning today.