Short Sands Beach Named One of the Top 10 Best Beaches for Families in 2014

Local Short Sands business owners, Chamber of Commerce staff and Town Manager celebrate the inclusion of Short Sands in Family Vacation Critic's list of top ten best beaches for families. Photo by Shane Corcoran of Shane's Maine Photography.

The Greater York Region Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the editors of Family Vacation Critic have named Short Sands Beach one of the top ten best beaches for families in the United States in 2014.

"We're excited to have Short Sands included on this list and happy to have assisted with it. York is a very family-friendly town," said Steph Oeser, Program Manager at the Chamber of Commerce. "Short Sands beach is particularly geared towards families with its proximity to the Wild Kingdom, downtown shops and restaurants, trolley stops and Ellis Park's playground and evening gazebo concerts."

Short Sands, York Beach is the only Maine beach included on the list. The Chamber of Commerce was approached by Family Vacation Critic a few weeks ago and informed that Short Sands was on the short-list for inclusion. A week or two after answering some questions about the beach and offering suggestions for family activities, the Chamber of Commerce was informed that Short Sands made the list.

According to Family Vacation Critic, "A beach is a beach is a beach... for some, that is. For families, it's a combination of calm, clean water and sand, patrolled by lifeguards and complemented by nearby eats and attractions, such as boardwalks and playgrounds. The ideal beach is also located within short walking distance of accommodations; in fact, a recent Family Vacation Critic survey reveals 50 percent of families prioritize nearby hotels, rental homes and the like. Restrooms and showers add to the appeal, as well."

Family Vacation Critic's list and press release can be found at http://www.familyvacationcritic.com/10-best-beaches-for-families-in-2014/art/

NBC News/TODAY Travel also picked up the story and ran a shorter version of the list on April 24, 2014: http://www.today.com/travel/5-best-beaches-families-1D79574405