8 Kid-Friendly Activities Around Southport Island
If you’re the kind of family that prefers tidepooling over rollercoasters, screen-free afternoons over overstimulating arcades, and “quiet” as a vacation goal — not a warning sign — you’re going to love Southport. It’s not flashy, but it’s incredibly family-friendly in that old-school, no-rush, wear-them-out-by-dinner kind of way.
Here are a few of our favorite kid-approved spots and activities in and around the island.
1. Hendricks Head Beach
Calm water, space to roam, and tons of interesting rocks and shells to discover. At low tide, there are tidepools to explore, and there’s usually enough room to spread out without bumping elbows with other families.
Pro tip: Bring a bucket, a net, and no schedule.
2. Southport Memorial Library
This little library is a gem. The children’s corner is cozy and well-stocked, and the staff are lovely. If you’re lucky, you might catch a story time or one of the pop-up events they host in the summer. And if not, it’s still worth the five-minute trip.
3. Southport General Store + The Barn
Grab a snack or lunch to-go and let the kids pick out a treat from the cooler. There’s outdoor seating, and if your kids like poking around shops, The Barn next door has enough treasures to feel like an adventure.
4. Hendricks Hill Museum
Tucked just inland from the beach is a tiny museum filled with artifacts, stories, and the real showstopper: one of Dorothy’s ruby red slippers, donated by Margaret Hamilton (who played the Wicked Witch of the West and owned a summer home nearby for 25 years). It’s small, quirky, and the perfect stop for kids who love stories — or witches.
Bonus trivia: Hamilton’s home was on a spit of land locals now call Witch Island. Look for the red house straight out from the town dock, across the harbor.
5. Ice Cream at Downeast Ice Cream Factory (Boothbay Harbor)
A regional classic with dozens of flavors with something for everyone, huge scoops, and the kind of classic parlor experience that just screams summer. Kids love the iconic ice cream mural painted on the outside wall, and with a flavor list longer than your arm, good luck picking just one. (Sometimes it’s more fun if you don’t!)
Meg (Camelot’s 3rd generation) during the 2024 season
6. Boat Watching at the Town Dock
Let your kids count lobster boats, seagulls, or waves — whatever keeps them engaged while you enjoy the view. There’s something calming about being near the water that works for all ages.
August 1995 (also Meg). We know a thing or two about town dock hangs.
7. The Southport Yacht Club Craft Fair
If you’re lucky enough to be here when it’s running (typically August), this event is more family-friendly than you’d expect. There are local vendors, junior sailing displays, and snacks nearby. It’s casual, low-pressure, and walkable.
8. Puzzles on the Porch or Tag on the Lawn at Camelot
We may be biased, but honestly? Some of the best kid-friendly moments happen right at the cottage. Rocking chairs, puzzles, board games, crayons, pinecones, and enough space to play outside without feeling on display.
It’s not a playground, but it’s safe, quiet, and just rustic enough to make kids feel like they’re “off on an adventure.”
Southport isn’t the place for a jam-packed itinerary—and that’s why it works so well for families. There’s space to roam, time to breathe, and a slower pace that lets kids just be kids.
Planning your own low-key family week? Check availability here, or browse the blog for more ideas and local favorites.