Winters are long here in the Pine Tree State, and once the frost thaws and the sun comes out, it can only mean one thing: time to cool down and enjoy the water. There are lots of options, ranging from incredible beaches to rivers and lakes. But, my favorites are always the best waterparks in Maine! At the first sign of sunshine, you'll certainly find us Mainers ready to rock and roll at one of the state's many amazing waterparks. From lazy rivers to epic water slides, amusement park attractions to cool wave pools, you'll find it all -- and more -- at these epic waterparks in Maine.

1. Palace Playland, Old Orchard Beach

While not entirely a water park, Palace Playland is a Maine institution. Located in Old Orchard Beach, the park covers four acres right next to the beach. In fact, it's the only park in New England located right on the beach. Rides, including the Galaxi Coaster and Cascade Falls, officially open on Memorial Day Weekend. Without a doubt, this is something Mainers look forward to all year. Classic rides, beautiful beach scenery, and an epic waterpark? What more could you ever want?

2. Seacoast Adventure, Windham

You may know Seacoast Adventure as a place to enjoy dry rides and winter tubing, but they also offer some of the coolest ways to get through the summer! In addition to a Great Apes Adventure Park and a variety of other dry activities, little ones will enjoy "Shipwreck Cove." With options like Palace Playland, this spot is sometimes overlooked. But, it's worth adding to your list because it's certainly fun for the whole family.

3. Aquaboggan Water Park, Saco

A nostalgic favorite in the Pine Tree State, Aquaboggan has been entertaining Maine families young and old for over 35 years. Grab a tube and zip across the Stealth 5 if you're adventurous or stay closer to ground in the Giant Wave Pool. Either way, everyone in the family will find something to enjoy. We like this Maine waterpark because it's a bit simpler to enjoy compared to some of the other larger options.

4. Funtown Splashtown USA, Saco

Funtown Spashtown has been a Southern Maine institution (in one form or another) since 1967, and over 50 years later, it's still the coolest waterpark in the state! The park gives visitors the best of both worlds. Funtown Ridepark offers dry family-friendly rides, kiddie rides, and thrill rides. These include the awesome Excalibur Wooden Rollercoaster and the Sock It To 'Em Bumper Cars. Splashtown Water Park is a must-visit for hot, summer days. From family-friendly areas like Pirates Paradise AquaPlay to the thrilling Poseiden's Plunge, everyone will find something to do here. If you're looking for good, old-fashioned family fun in Maine, this is it!

5. Wild Acadia Fun Park, Trenton (Bar Harbor Area)

In addition to water slides, Wild Acadia Camping Resort boasts an aerial adventure park, go-karts, mini-golf, a climbing wall, and more. The park is the only water slide destination in this area of Maine. It's a great option when in the Acadia National Park area if the family is looking for something structured and contained, but still fun and exciting. Looking for more fun in Acadia? Check out these family-friendly hikes and hit the trails!

Have you been to any of the parks on this list? What are your favorite waterparks in Maine to visit when temps heat up? If you've visited these, share your tips and tricks for making a visit the best it can be. And, you can always share your thoughts with us on the Only in Maine Facebook page!

Another great way to cool down is by visiting our 3,500+ miles of incredible coastline. You'll find them from southern Maine to Downeast, but some of the best offers the ability to camp right on the beach!