Exploring Kennebunkport, ME
Exploring Coastal Charm, Beaches & Lobster Rolls
by Celeste Lipford and Terry Lipford - last updated on 11/17/2024
We flew into Boston Logan International Airport, grabbed a rental car from Hertz and we
drove up to Kennebunkport, ME to visit some friends of ours.
Kennebunkport is 83 miles from Boston Logan International, not a long drive but it does take you through some interesting areas. We tend to stay on I-95 till we get to the Kittery area, where we move over to U.S. 1 and continue north through York, Ogonquit, Wells & then Kennebunkport. Slower than I-95, but more scenic and relaxed.
Kennebunkport is also home to beautiful beaches like Gooch's Beach and Colony Beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or scenic walks. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding marshlands and enjoy kayaking or boat tours along the Kennebunk River. Historical sites, such as the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the iconic Bush family compound at Walker’s Point, add a historical dimension any visit.
Click above Image to view larger Google Map
Beautiful Homes
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.
Beach meets 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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