What Is There to Do in Naples, Maine?

What Is There to Do in Naples, Maine?

Naples, Maine is a classic lakeside destination packed with everything you want out of a Maine summer. Whether you’re visiting for a week, a weekend, or the whole season, there’s no shortage of ways to get outside, unwind, and enjoy the water.

At the center of it all are Long Lake and Brandy Pond—two of the most popular boating spots in the state. Days here are all about cruising, anchoring up with friends, swimming off the boat, and squeezing in “just one more lap” on the tube before sunset. If you don’t have your own boat, there are rental options nearby, making it easy for anyone to get out and experience lake life.

Off the water, the Naples Causeway is where everything comes together. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening, with local shops, ice cream stands, and waterfront restaurants all within walking distance. Grab a cone, wander the boardwalk, and take in the view—especially at sunset, when the whole place lights up in that classic golden-hour glow.

Naples is also known for its live music, community events, and family-friendly atmosphere. Throughout the summer, you’ll find everything from casual outdoor concerts to busy weekends where the Causeway is buzzing with energy. It’s the kind of place where kids can run around, families can relax, and everyone feels like they’re part of the same lake-day rhythm.

If you’re looking to mix in a little adventure beyond the boat, there are nearby hiking trails, scenic drives, and quiet spots to explore when you want a break from the crowds. But honestly, most people come here for the water—and once you’re out there, it’s easy to see why.

Of course, no trip to Naples is complete without a stop at Sun Sports+. Whether you’re picking up a tube for the kids, grabbing a new pair of sunglasses, or just need some local advice on where to ride, we’re part of the Naples experience. We’ll help you get set up so you can spend less time figuring things out—and more time enjoying the lake.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

Aquaglide Ricochet Bouncers: Turn Your Lake Into a Floating Playground

If you’re looking to level up your lake setup this summer, Aquaglide Ricochet bouncers are about as fun as it gets. These inflatable water trampolines turn any shoreline or swim area into a full-on floating aquapark, and they’re a hit with both kids and adults.

At Sun Sports+, we carry the Aquaglide Ricochet bouncer in 12’ and 16’ sizes, giving you options depending on your space and how many people you want bouncing at once. You can keep it simple with just the bouncer and a loading platform (which makes climbing on way easier), or go all-in and build out a full aquapark with slides, attachments, and additional features.

One of the biggest questions we get is: How hard is it to install? The good news—it’s more straightforward than you might think.

Here’s a simplified breakdown:

  • Inflate the bouncer using a high-pressure pump (we’ll help you pick the right one)
  • Attach the anchor lines to the designated D-rings
  • Position the bouncer in your desired water depth (typically 8–12 feet is ideal)
  • Secure it using anchors (sandbags or mushroom anchors work great)
  • Connect your loading platform or additional features

That’s it—you’re ready to bounce.

The key to a great setup is making sure your anchoring is solid and your water depth is appropriate. Once it’s in, it becomes the centerpiece of your lake day. Kids will spend hours on it, and let’s be honest—adults will too.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your waterfront or adding something that guarantees nonstop fun, this is it.

The Portland Boat Show 2026

If you’re counting down the days until ice-out and long lake days, we’ve got something to get you officially stoked for summer. The Portland Boat Show is back at the Portland Sports Complex from February 26 – March 1, and it’s the perfect way to shake off winter and start dreaming about boat season.

This is one of our favorite events of the year—and not just because we get to hang out and talk lake life all weekend. The show is family friendly, conveniently located, and offers plenty of FREE parking, which makes it an easy yes for a day out. Whether you’re seriously shopping for a new boat or just looking for something fun to do with the kids during late winter, the Portland Boat Show delivers.

One of the best parts? You can actually climb inside the boats. Open compartments. Sit at the helm. Stretch out on the seats. Imagine yourself cruising Long Lake or anchoring up with friends. If you’re in the market to purchase a boat, this is an incredible opportunity to see a wide range of models all under one roof. You can compare layouts, ask questions, talk to dealers, and gather real information without having to drive all over the state. It’s early enough in the season that there’s plenty of inventory to choose from, and you can get ahead of the spring rush.

And even if you’re not boat shopping? It’s still just plain fun. There’s something about walking through rows of shiny new boats in February that flips the mental switch from winter mode to summer mode. It’s a reminder that dock days, sunset cruises, and tubing laps are closer than they feel.

Of course, we’ll be there—like always—with our Sun Sports+ booth set up and ready to go. You’ll find a curated selection of our favorite tubes, Coast Guard–approved life jackets, watersports equipment, Bogg Bags, and other lake-day essentials. It’s a great chance to see gear in person, ask questions, and start planning what you want behind your boat this summer.

We’ll also be running Boat Show Special Pricing, which means you can save a little money while you’re getting dialed for the season. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your tube, replacing old life jackets, or grabbing a few new accessories, this is a smart time to do it. Early season shopping = better selection and better deals.

More than anything, the Portland Boat Show is about getting excited again. It’s about walking the aisles with your kids and hearing them say, “Can we get this one?” It’s about picturing friends piled into a tube, sunscreen on your nose, and the sound of the engine pulling you into another perfect Maine summer day.

So mark your calendar for February 26 – March 1 at the Portland Sports Complex. Bring the family. Climb inside the boats. Ask all the questions. Start making your summer plans.

Come see the Wizard. We’ll be there.

Portland Boat Show 2026

If you’re counting down the days until ice-out and long lake days, we’ve got something to get you officially stoked for summer. The Portland Boat Show is back at the Portland Sports Complex from February 26 – March 1, and it’s the perfect way to shake off winter and start dreaming about boat season.

This is one of our favorite events of the year—and not just because we get to hang out and talk lake life all weekend. The show is family friendly, conveniently located, and offers plenty of FREE parking, which makes it an easy yes for a day out. Whether you’re seriously shopping for a new boat or just looking for something fun to do with the kids during late winter, the Portland Boat Show delivers.

One of the best parts? You can actually climb inside the boats. Open compartments. Sit at the helm. Stretch out on the seats. Imagine yourself cruising Long Lake or anchoring up with friends. If you’re in the market to purchase a boat, this is an incredible opportunity to see a wide range of models all under one roof. You can compare layouts, ask questions, talk to dealers, and gather real information without having to drive all over the state. It’s early enough in the season that there’s plenty of inventory to choose from, and you can get ahead of the spring rush.

And even if you’re not boat shopping? It’s still just plain fun. There’s something about walking through rows of shiny new boats in February that flips the mental switch from winter mode to summer mode. It’s a reminder that dock days, sunset cruises, and tubing laps are closer than they feel.

Of course, we’ll be there—like always—with our Sun Sports+ booth set up and ready to go. You’ll find a curated selection of our favorite tubes, Coast Guard–approved life jackets, watersports equipment, Bogg Bags, and other lake-day essentials. It’s a great chance to see gear in person, ask questions, and start planning what you want behind your boat this summer.

We’ll also be running Boat Show Special Pricing, which means you can save a little money while you’re getting dialed for the season. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your tube, replacing old life jackets, or grabbing a few new accessories, this is a smart time to do it. Early season shopping = better selection and better deals.

More than anything, the Portland Boat Show is about getting excited again. It’s about walking the aisles with your kids and hearing them say, “Can we get this one?” It’s about picturing friends piled into a tube, sunscreen on your nose, and the sound of the engine pulling you into another perfect Maine summer day.

So mark your calendar for February 26 – March 1 at the Portland Sports Complex. Bring the family. Climb inside the boats. Ask all the questions. Start making your summer plans.

Come see the Wizard. We’ll be there.

Wakeboard Rocker Lines: Why They Matter (and What to Choose)

If you’ve started looking into wakeboards, you’ve probably come across the term rocker line. It might sound technical, but it’s actually one of the most important factors in how a wakeboard performs on the water. Simply put, the rocker is the curve of the board from tip to tail—and that curve directly impacts how the board rides, feels, and reacts behind the boat.

There are two main types of rocker lines you’ll see: continuous rocker and three-stage rocker.

A continuous rocker has a smooth, consistent curve from end to end. This design helps the board glide more efficiently across the water, giving you faster speed and a more predictable ride. It’s great for riders who want a smooth, flowing feel and easier control when learning how to edge, carve, and cross the wake.

A three-stage rocker, on the other hand, has a more distinct, stepped curve. This creates a flatter spot in the middle of the board, which helps generate more vertical pop off the wake. In simple terms—it gives you that straight-up lift when you hit the wake, which is ideal for tricks and more aggressive riding. The tradeoff is that it can feel a bit slower and less forgiving, especially for beginners.

So which one should you choose?

If you’re just getting started, or teaching friends and family, a board that leans toward a continuous rocker (or a hybrid shape) is usually the best place to begin. It’s easier to control, more forgiving on starts, and helps build confidence quickly.

Boards like the Ronix Vault and Liquid Force Trip are perfect examples of beginner to intermediate wakeboards. They’re designed to be stable, predictable, and easy to ride—making them ideal for learning the basics while still leaving room to progress as your skills improve. These boards help take the frustration out of learning and replace it with more time actually riding.

Another important piece of the puzzle is proper sizing and setup. The right board length, bindings, and stance all play a role in how the board feels under your feet. That’s where we come in. At Sun Sports+, we’ll take the time to make sure you’re matched with the right gear for your size, skill level, and boat setup—so you can get the most out of every set.

At the end of the day, the right wakeboard should make learning feel easier and riding more fun—not more complicated.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

How to Fit a Life Jacket: Safety, Comfort, and the Right Choice

Life jackets are one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll ever buy for the water—and making sure they fit correctly matters just as much as owning one. Whether you’re boating, tubing, waterskiing, or wakeboarding, the right life jacket keeps you safe and comfortable all day long.

 

A properly fitted life jacket should be snug but not restrictive. When zipped and buckled, it shouldn’t ride up past your chin or ears when lifted by the shoulders. Always size by weight and chest size rather than age alone, especially for kids. In Maine, children under 10 years old are required to wear a life jacket while on a boat unless they’re inside a fully enclosed cabin—making fit and comfort even more important.

 

There are two main categories of life jackets you’ll see in our shop: Coast Guard–approved life jackets and competition vests. Coast Guard–approved jackets are designed for safety first and are legally required for boating. Competition vests, while popular for advanced riders due to flexibility and reduced bulk, are not Coast Guard approved and should only be used by experienced swimmers in controlled settings.

 

Material also makes a big difference. Nylon life jackets are more affordable and durable, making them a great choice for families or occasional use. Neoprene life jackets tend to be softer, more flexible, and more comfortable against the skin—perfect for longer days on the water or active riding.

 

Conclusion:

Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

Watersports Rentals: All the Fun, None of the Storage

Visiting Maine or short on space? Renting your watersports gear is one of the easiest ways to make the most of your time on the lake—without the commitment of buying and storing equipment year-round. At Sun Sports+, we make it simple to get out on the water with everything you need for a fun, stress-free day.

We offer rentals on waterskis, wakeboards, kneeboards, tubes, and more, giving you plenty of options whether you’re introducing someone to watersports for the first time or just looking to mix things up during your vacation. Not sure what to choose? That’s where we come in. Our team will help you pick the right equipment based on your experience level, your boat, and who’s riding—so everyone has a good time.

Rentals are especially popular for visitors staying on Long Lake, Brandy Pond, or Sebago Lake, where bringing your own gear isn’t always practical. Instead of packing bulky equipment or investing in something you’ll only use for a week or two, you can rent exactly what you need, when you need it. It’s also a great way to try before you buy—test out a wakeboard or see if your kids prefer tubing over skiing before committing to a purchase.

We keep our rental process straightforward and flexible. You can book online ahead of time to lock in your gear, or give us a call and we’ll get everything set up for you. When you arrive, your equipment will be ready to go—no hassle, no wasted time. Just grab your gear and head to the lake.

At the end of the day, it’s all about maximizing your time on the water. Renting takes the pressure off and keeps the focus where it should be: having fun with friends and family.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one. 🌊☀️

Why Shop at Sun Sports+?

Sun Sports+ isn’t just a store—it’s your friendly neighborhood surf shop. For over 30 years, we’ve been part of the Naples, Maine lake community, helping families, first-time boat owners, and seasoned riders make the most of their time on the water. When you walk through our doors, you’re not just shopping—you’re getting real advice from people who live and breathe lake life.

What really sets Sun Sports+ apart is our customer experience. We’re not here to just sell you something—we’re here to make sure you leave with the right gear. Whether you’re trying to figure out what size wakeboard you need, choosing between a tube for your kids or teens, or deciding if a kneeboard is a better fit for your boat, we take the time to walk you through it. No pressure, no guesswork—just honest recommendations based on how you actually use your boat and spend your days on the water.

Our team is made up of people who actively ride, test, and use the products we carry. That means when you ask a question, you’re getting real-world insight, not a generic answer. We know what works for beginners, what holds up over time, and what’s actually worth your money. That kind of knowledge makes a huge difference—especially if you’re new to watersports or shopping for a whole crew.

We also pride ourselves on offering a carefully curated selection of gear and lifestyle products. From towable tubes and life jackets to wakeboards, waterskis, paddleboards, and lake-day essentials, everything in our shop is chosen with purpose. On top of that, our lifestyle section brings in some of the best surf and lake brands out there—so whether you’re gearing up for a day on the boat or just hanging on the dock, you’ll find something that fits your style.

Another thing that makes Sun Sports+ different is how we support you before, during, and after your purchase. Need help getting started? We’ve got you. Want to try something before committing? Check out our rental program. Have questions once you’re out on the water? Give us a call—we’re always happy to help troubleshoot, offer tips, or point you in the right direction.

At the end of the day, shopping local matters. When you support Sun Sports+, you’re supporting a small business that’s been part of the Naples community for decades. You’re supporting a team that cares about your experience, your safety, and your summer.

And honestly—that’s what it’s all about. Better gear, better guidance, and better days on the water.

Conclusion:
Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

Need a Gift for a Watersports Lover? We’ve Got You.

Shopping for someone who lives for lake days? Sun Sports+ makes gift-giving easy. Polarized sunglasses are a must on the water, and we carry top brands like Ray-Ban, Smith, Oakley, and Maui Jim.

We also stock lifestyle clothing from Rip Curl, Volcom, Roxy, Quiksilver, RVCA, and more—perfect for dock days, boat rides, and post-sunset hangs. Not sure what to choose? A Sun Sports+ gift card always hits the mark.

Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.

Waterskis, Wakeboards, or Kneeboards: What’s Best for Beginners?

If you’re new to boating or watersports, choosing the right equipment can feel overwhelming. The good news? There’s no wrong place to start—just different learning curves.

Kneeboards are often the easiest option for true beginners. Riders start on their stomach in the water and gradually pull themselves up onto their knees. The low center of gravity makes balance easier, and many people are riding confidently within minutes.

Combo waterskis are the classic choice and what most people picture when they think of watersports. They’re versatile, familiar, and great for learning fundamentals. While they require a bit more technique to get up, they’re a tried-and-true option for families and first-time boat owners.

Wakeboarding is the “cool” factor of watersports—but it can be tougher to learn, especially if the driver or coach hasn’t done it before. That said, with patience and the right board, it’s incredibly rewarding.

Not sure which one is right for you? We rent all of this equipment. Try before you buy and find what you love.

Conclusion:

Have questions or need help choosing the right gear? Stop by Sun Sports+ in Naples, Maine, give us a call, or reach out through our website. Our friendly team is always happy to help you get ready for the water. Summer will be here before you know it—let’s make it a good one.