Exploring Kennebunkport, ME
Exploring Coastal Charm, Beaches & Lobster Rolls
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 4/9/2025
We began our trip by flying into Boston Logan International Airport, where we picked up a rental car from Hertz and hit the road for a scenic drive up to Kennebunkport, Maine, to visit some close friends. The town is located about 83 miles north of Boston, making it a comfortable and enjoyable drive—typically just under two hours, depending on traffic.
Rather than staying on Interstate 95 the entire way, we prefer a more leisurely and picturesque route. After reaching the Kittery area, we transition onto U.S. Route 1, which takes us through a charming series of coastal towns: York, Ogunquit, Wells, and finally into Kennebunkport. While this detour adds a bit of time compared to the interstate, it offers beautiful ocean views, classic New England architecture, and plenty of opportunities for spontaneous stops.
Once in Kennebunkport, you're surrounded by quintessential Maine charm. The town is home to some lovely beaches, including Gooch’s Beach and Colony Beach, both perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk along the shore. For nature lovers, the nearby marshlands and tidal rivers provide ideal spots for kayaking, birdwatching, or boat tours along the Kennebunk River.
Kennebunkport also offers a touch of history. The First Families Kennebunkport Museum offers insight into the town’s past and its connection to several U.S. presidents. A drive out to Walker’s Point, the Bush family’s summer compound, adds a meaningful stop, especially for those interested in presidential history. Whether you're coming to relax, reconnect with friends, or explore the Maine coast, Kennebunkport has a timeless appeal that’s both inviting and unforgettable.
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Interesting Facts about Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport, Maine, is a town rich in history and charm. Here are ten intriguing facts about this coastal gem:
- Early Settlement Established by European settlers in the 1620s, Kennebunkport is among the oldest towns in the United States.
- Name Evolution The town was originally incorporated as Cape Porpoise in 1653, renamed Arundel in 1701, and finally became Kennebunkport in 1821 to reflect its shipbuilding and trade economy.
- Shipbuilding Legacy In the 19th century, Kennebunkport thrived as a shipbuilding center, contributing significantly to the maritime industry with numerous vessels constructed along the Kennebunk River.
- Walker's Point Estate The Bush family’s summer retreat, Walker's Point, has hosted numerous world leaders, including Margaret Thatcher and Mikhail Gorbachev, during George H.W. Bush's presidency.
- Seashore Trolley Museum Founded in 1939, this museum is the world's first and largest museum of mass transit vehicles, showcasing a vast collection of trolleys and related artifacts.
- Christmas Prelude Since 1982, Kennebunkport has celebrated the Christmas Prelude, a festive event featuring tree lightings, fireworks, and street festivals, fostering a strong sense of community.
- Dock Square The heart of Kennebunkport, Dock Square, is bustling with unique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants, reflecting the town's vibrant culture.
- Cape Porpoise This authentic fishing village within Kennebunkport offers picturesque views of Goat Island Light and is home to several casual eateries and art galleries.
- Historic District The Kennebunkport Historic District encompasses a significant portion of the village center, featuring architecture from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, reflecting its shipbuilding past.
- Lobster Fishing Heritage Lobster fishing has been integral to the town's economy, with lobsters once so abundant they were considered food for peasants and servants.
More Kennebunkport Info
Kennebunkport Accommodations
Based on traveler reviews and ratings, here are five highly acclaimed accommodations in Kennebunkport, Maine. Note that each list item is linked to their home page;
- Kennebunkport Captains Collection: This collection of historic inns offers a blend of 19th-century charm
and modern luxury. Guests appreciate its central location, allowing easy exploration of the town's attractions.
Google Review Rating 4.8 based upon 421 reviews.
- AWOL Kennebunkport: Known for its stylish and contemporary design, AWOL provides a serene retreat within walking
distance of downtown. Visitors often highlight the comfortable accommodations and attentive service.
Google Review Rating 4.7 based upon 91 reviews.
- Nonantum Resort: A family-friendly resort offering picturesque waterfront views, Nonantum is praised for its warm
hospitality and diverse amenities, including activities for all ages.
Google Review Rating 4.6 based upon 738 reviews.
- The Inn at English Meadows: In a 19th-century Greek revival-style property, this chic B&B is an 8-minute walk from
Dock Square's antiques shops, galleries and restaurants. The Seashore Trolley Museum is 4 miles away.
Google Review Rating 4.9 based upon 134 reviews.
- Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club: This straightforward riverfront hotel is a 9-minute walk from the boutique shops, art galleries
and restaurants of Dock Square, and a 14-minute walk from the beach.
Google Review Rating 4.6 based upon 112 reviews.
Kennebunkport Places to Eat
Based on guest reviews and ratings, here are five highly acclaimed restaurants in Kennebunkport, Maine:
- Earth at Hidden Pond: This upscale restaurant offers a refined dining experience with artfully plated
dishes focusing on fresh seafood and unique desserts.
Google Review Rating 4.6 based upon 600 reviews.
- Chez Rosa: A French bistro known for its cozy atmosphere and classic dishes like fondue, French
onion soup, and steak frites, complemented by a curated wine selection.
Google Review Rating 4.8 based upon 298 reviews.
- Nunan's Lobster Hut: A family-owned establishment since 1953, Nunan's serves traditional Maine lobster
dinners and homemade blueberry pie in a classic, no-frills fishing hut atmosphere.
Google Review Rating 4.6 based upon 539 reviews.
- The Boathouse Restaurant: Located on the waterfront, this eatery presents a seafood-centric Asian fusion
menu, including lobster rolls and a noteworthy blueberry crisp, all in a scenic setting.
Google Review Rating 4.4 based upon 687 reviews.
- Alisson's Restaurant & Pub: A staple in the heart of Dock Square, Alisson's specializes in seafood dishes
like lobster rolls and fried clam dinners, offering a casual and welcoming setting.
Google Review Rating 4.5 based upon 2,700+ reviews.
Exploring Kennebunkport
Beautiful Homes on the Kennebunkport River
This is the home of some very good friends of ours, a gentleman who was the former CEO & Founder of a company that Celeste and I both had worked for. The house sits on the southern side of the Kennebunkport River Ocean inlet, so the views from there are amazing. Located less than 1/4 mile from Goochs Beach, this is a great location for a house.
Kennebunkport River Inlet
A view of the inlet from the north side of the river from our friend's house. This view is looking west towards the city of Kennebunkport, ME.
The area around the inlet of the Kennebunkport River in Maine is a picturesque and charming coastal setting, brimming with natural beauty and coastal New England charm. The inlet itself, which leads into the river, is lined with a mix of rocky shores, marshland, and scenic docks, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The waters here are calm and shallow, ideal for kayaking, boating, and birdwatching, with the gentle tide creating a rhythm that adds to the tranquil feel of the area.
Town of Kennebunkport
This is the river as it wanders into the town of Kennebunkport from the Atlantic, as you can imagine, seafood restaurants are everywhere here.
As the Kennebunkport River enters the town of Kennebunkport, the area transforms into a charming and scenic blend of coastal beauty and New England quaintness. The river flows gently through the heart of the town, its waters winding past historic homes, picturesque docks, and lush vegetation, creating an idyllic and peaceful atmosphere. The town itself is nestled on both sides of the river, with the waterfront providing a stunning backdrop for the bustling shops, galleries, and restaurants that line the streets.
A very walkable Village
Kennebunkport is highly walkable, offering a pleasant and accessible experience for visitors who want to explore the town on foot. The town's layout is compact, especially around the central area of Dock Square, which is the heart of the town and a hub for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. The streets are lined with charming historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes, making it easy to stroll from one point of interest to another.
Click here for a complete list of restaurants & shopping in Kennebunkport click here..
Click here for a YELP list of restaurants.
Where the Beach meets the Atlantic Ocean
Looking out at the Atlantic Ocean with the Kennebunkport River Inlet jetty in the center area. The river continues into the village of Kennebunkport.
The beach area at the Kennebunkport River inlet offers a serene and picturesque setting where the gentle flow of the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Located near the town center, this beach area is a tranquil retreat with views of both the river and the surrounding coastal landscape. The shore is typically sandy with some rocky outcrops, creating a natural and unspoiled atmosphere.
Colony Beach Area
Looking north from the Kennebunkport River Inlet jetty at Colony Beach, and the famous Colony Hotel is to the left just "outside" this picture.
Colony Beach itself is a relatively small, sandy shoreline that gently slopes into the calm waters, making it ideal for wading, swimming, and enjoying the gentle surf. The sand is soft and clean, and the beach is framed by beautiful coastal homes and lush vegetation, adding to its scenic beauty. The surrounding area is quieter than some of the larger, more tourist-heavy beaches, giving it a peaceful, local feel, while still being just a short walk or drive from the heart of Kennebunkport.
Colony Beach Hotel
The Colony Beach Hotel in Kennebunkport is a charming, picturesque boutique hotel offering a relaxed, coastal retreat just steps from the town’s scenic Colony Beach. Known for its classic New England style and welcoming atmosphere, the hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
The hotel was just across the inlet where we were walking, it is the within walking distance of Kennebunkport’s Dock Square, shopping, galleries, and a variety of activities. They also have their own private beach!
NOTE: Image is the property of the Colony Hotel Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport Street Scenes
These Kennebunkport street scenes showcase the quintessential charm of a New England coastal town. Strolling through the streets, visitors can admire a blend of historic homes with classic architecture, colorful boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes that line the roads. The streets are lined with vibrant flowers, well-maintained lawns, and picturesque trees, creating an inviting atmosphere. The town’s waterfront area, including the docks and riverfront, provides scenic views of boats and the serene Kennebunkport River. In the heart of the town, especially around Dock Square, the bustling streets come alive with visitors and locals enjoying the quaint shops, restaurants, and lively streetscape, all set against a backdrop of lush coastal greenery. The overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for leisurely exploration, whether you're window shopping, dining, or taking in the historic buildings and vibrant coastal life.
We were walking south on Route 9 when this picture was taken, that is the Clam Shack on the right looking at the Kennebunkport Marina in the distance.
Kennebunkport Entrance
This is the view from the southern entrance (along route 9), where cars cross over the old bridge into the village. The Atlantic Ocean is off to the right, and the inlet is just ahead. This bridge was constructed in 1933 and was replaced in 2017.
The southern route entrance to Kennebunkport offers a scenic drive that introduces visitors to the town’s coastal beauty and charm. As you approach, you'll pass through lush wooded areas and rolling hills, with occasional glimpses of the nearby coastline. The route winds through serene landscapes, with pockets of farmland and residential areas, giving way to stunning views as you get closer to the town.
Kennebunkport Harbor
The harbor was obviously packed this day! You can see a few of the water-side restaurants in the background. Yes, this is a tourist destination town and you will find all of those typical tourist kinds of things here.
Kennebunkport Harbor is a picturesque and lively waterfront area that serves as the heart of the town’s maritime charm. The harbor is dotted with docks and boats, ranging from small fishing vessels to luxury yachts, creating a quintessential New England coastal scene. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the harbor’s promenades, taking in views of the boats, the Kennebunkport River, and the surrounding natural beauty. The harbor area is home to charming restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering fresh seafood and local products, while providing a relaxed atmosphere for dining and shopping. With its peaceful waters, scenic surroundings, and access to nearby beaches, Kennebunkport Harbor captures the essence of coastal Maine and is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy.
NOTE: Image is the property of mislibrarain via Wikipedia.
Some Useful Links for Kennebunkport
- Just Traveling Thru Travel Planning Tips
- Kenebunkport History on the 'Mainean Encyclopedia' Site
- Things to do or see in Kennebunkport on the 'Visit Maine' Site
- Best Things To Do in Kennebunkport on the 'US News & Travel' Site
- Seashore Trolley Museum (3.5 miles from Kennebunkport)
- Google Search Results list for "accommodations in Kennebunkport"
- Our Image Gallery for Kennebunkport
- Wikipedia Article for Kennebunkport
- Google Image Gallery for Kennebunkport
- Kennebunkport Google Travel Guide
- Google Search Results list for "restaurants in Kennebunkport"
- 12 Things To Do In Maine’s Coastal Town on the 'Bucket List Journey' Site
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