Kennebunkport, ME | Insiders Guide

Contributor Steph Stellwagen gives the scoop on all of her favorite summer getaway places to seek, shop and savor in the town of Kennebunkport, Maine

My Insider’s Guide to Kennebunkport, Maine

 

MAINE TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE (as of 6.11.20)

Currently only visitors from Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont can visit Maine without any Covid-19 restrictions. Effective of 7/1, Visitors from outside of those three states can travel to Maine if they either 1) Self Quarantine for 14 days upon arrival  OR 2) have a Negative Covid-19 Test taken 72 -hours prior to arriving in the state.

Hotels will be asked to have visitors from those states sign a Certificate of Compliance upon checking and may be asked to present this negative test result.

Pertaining to Kennebunkport: (I will continue to provide updates here as they become available)

  • Kennebunkport restaurants are open for outdoor dining and curbside pick-up
  • Retail shops in Kennebunkport are open with restrictions of 5 people at a time or by appointment in some cases ; all shops require masks and use of hand sanitizing upon entering
  • Currently, Goose Rocks Beach is opened to Kennebunkport Season Pass Holders only.  There is limited parking available at Goose Rocks Beach this year.
  • Kennebunk Beach still appears to require a beach pass as of 6/15 but I have not yet heard is those restrictions at GRB will apply to the Kennebunk Beaches.
  • Parsons Beach is closed.
 

There is no doubt you are seeing and hearing more and more of this quaint coastal New England everywhere these days.  With good reason, Kennebunkport, Maine has become a world class destination offering all the coastal charm and amenities one would want from a coastal New England summer destination.  Its laid-back, sophisticated coastal vibe caught our hearts on our first trip and we have been in love ever since.

I often get asked the question “When is the best time to visit Kennebunkport?” Each season in Kennebunkport brings with it a special feeling which makes it hard for me to say which one is my favorite.  Summer in the Port is just splendid.  A summer visit will not be short of American flags, homemade artisan ice cream, local parades, lobster rolls and beach days. Memorial Day Weekend kicks off with a hometown parade.  June is a favorite month to visit as it is still pretty quiet (you will learn I like going places the best in the off season).  A 4thof July in Kennebunkport is what the American dream is made of.  Flags can be seen hanging from almost every house and the firework displays are nothing short of amazing.  It is quintessential New England!  July and August are crowded as most New England beach towns are.  Having vacationed then married in Kennebunkport in August I can not say enough for a Kennebunkport August visit.  The weather is exquisite and everything is deliciously in season.  The days are warm and nights are just cool enough.  August is a winner!

 

 

Fall is probably my absolute favorite time to go! The Maine autumns are something else.   The crowds have dispersed, the temperatures are a delight and the ocean is still swimmable. The foliage is earlier on than in most of the southern New England spots and the picturesque town just smiles. If you ever have the opportunity to visit for Halloween, it is so much fun. The town dresses up and the streets are filled with tricks and treats for all.

“Maine is a joy in the summer, but the soul of Maine is more apparent in the winter.” – Paul Theroux.  Winter in Maine is pure magic!  If you are a winter person, you must make the trip in the winter.  A trip to Kennebunkport during the towns Christmas Festival, Christmas Prelude is a bucket list item.  Usually held the first two weeks of December this old-fashioned Christmas celebration is something out of a Norman Rockwell piece.  The town also takes pride in their February ” Paint the Town Red” Celebration around Valentines Day.  For the skiers, Kennebunkport is a two hour drive from the Sunday River Ski Mountain and a three hour drive from Sugarloaf Mountain.

WHERE TO REST YOUR HEAD

Hidden Pond

*Summer 2020 Hidden Pond will be open as a summer luxury home rental option, requiring a minimum of 7-days.

Hidden Pond is located just a short ten minute drive from town, tucked away on 60 acres of tall Maine birch and balsam. It is only a short mile from the salty sands of the Atlantic.  You definitely can have the best of both worlds here- that woodsy summer adult camp experience and yet hop a beach cruiser and pedal down to the beach.  The rustic luxe bungalows invite you in and you will not want to leave.  Each bungalow comes with an outdoor shower, kitchenette and an oversized stone fireplace, screened in patio with a relaxed chaise where one can take in the aromas of the Maine woods mixed with sea air.  There are also 2-bedroom cottages with full kitchens which are ideal for families.   Earth at Hidden Pond is their on-site restaurant and is one of the most famed restaurants in the area. Hidden Pond is my heaven on earth. See full post on Hidden Pond here.

*Seasonal (May – October) 

Cottages at Cabot Cove

This place is a gem!  When we first stayed at Cabot Cove I couldn’t wait to go back. These adorable petite cottages are full of coastal charm.   If you want to be closer to town but not exactly in the hustle and bustle, these are for you!  The cottages are privately located on a tidal cove within walking distance to town, which is delightful.  Each cottage comes equipped with a small kitchenette and finely decorated beach chic living space.  With great perks, like kayaks available for use and games of Corn Hole at night, there is no shortage of activity.   In the mornings, step out of your cottage and go for a run on the wooded scenic road leading to Ocean Avenue.  As a guest, you also have access to the pool and bar at their sister property, Lodge at Cabot Cove (which is a short walk down the road and is very-kid friendly).  Cabot Cove is perfect for couples.

*Seasonal 

Tides Beach Club

*Will be opening 7/1/20 for the season

Right down the road from Hidden Pond is their chic sister hotel, Tides Beach Club.  The hotel is located in the sleepy Goode Rocks Beach neighborhood outside the hustle and bustle of town and is only a short six miles to town. This beach front property is no stranger to Instagram feeds.  The iconic big front porch with its yellow and white rocking chairs are so inviting for a cocktail or two, whether coming off the beach or before dinner. The oversized antique yellow house has twenty-one newly renovated coastal guest rooms and two oceanfront suites, all furnished by Jonathan Adler. The lobby lounge is my dream living room, filled with coastal, airy and brilliant blues.  Take a break from the beach for a casual lunch at their super chic restaurant with a variety of menu items to choose from.

*Seasonal (May – October) 

Sandy Pines Campground 

Glamp or camp!  Experience the great outdoors of Maine at this unique campground located just a mile from Goose Rocks Beach.  Situated in a beautiful Maine beach forest, this experience is fun for families, friends or a couples weekend.  There are accommodations to suit everyone’s ‘outdoor sleeping’ comfort level.  Stay in one of the highly stylish safari glamping tents or opt for one of their cute huts.  Each of the safari tents is designed and decorated by some of Maines top interior designers.  Bring or rent an RV or do it the old fashion way, pitch your own tent!  Sandy Pines is an experience not to miss this summer in Maine.  The general store offers some of Maine’s finest craft beer, Maine wood and S’mores for your fire pits.  The pool is super fun for kids and adults alike.

The ” Serenity Pool ” at Hidden Pond 

A darling petite cottage – Cottages at Cabot Cove 

Oceanfront chic at The Tides Beach Club Inn

One of the glamping tents at Sandy Pines Campground 

OTHER HOTELS I MAY SUGGEST

*Please note, these are only hotels that I have experienced and recommend.  There are many other great options in town.

Kennebunkport Inn

This New England classic Inn is a great option if you are looking to travel to Kennebunkport during any season.  We enjoyed many winter nights tucked in by the fire after enjoying a cozy dinner at their restaurant, the Burleigh.  The stylish hotel is recently renovated in classic New England fashion and offers nice amenities.  Its Dock Square location is popular for those seeking to be right in the heart of the town. In the warm months, enjoy dining and drinks alfresco as you people watch on their stylish little patio.  It’s ideal if you are planning a visit for Kennebunkport Christmas Prelude.  The Christmas tree lighting and festivities are right out your window.  Perfect for getting in the holiday spirt!

*Open All Year 

The Captain Fairlfield Inn

*Will be opening for weekly rentals only for Maine residents as of 6/1 and for 14-night minimum starting 7/1 for out of state visitors

This pretty and distinguished boutique property which is one of the Lark Hotel Group is located within walking distance to all that the town has to offer.  Sitting amidst the old Sea Captain’s homes, this B&B style Inn is located right in the historic heart of Kennebunkport.  The Inn offers a communal kitchen where breakfast is served daily and wine is always kept in the refrigerator. The plush, colorful living room area welcomes you in with a book to take a seat by the fire.  We enjoyed our stay in the Vineyard Vines Suite decorated and inspired by this preppy New England brand.  The Inn is open all year round which makes this a great winter option for a get-a-way, especially when there is incoming snow.

*Open All Year 

Cape Arundel Inn

*Will be opening later this season, date TBD 

One of the only oceanfront luxury properties in Kennebunkport, this Inn is dreamy.  Located on iconic Ocean Avenue, right down the road from the Bush estate, the views from your room are incredible.  Fall asleep to the sounds of waves crashing amongst the rocky North Atlantic coast. The rooms are fresh with a modernly elegant design and all recently renovated.  Their on-site restaurant, Ocean, with walls of windows is an upscale southern French delight.  Enjoy this high-class dining experience but don’t forget to enjoy a cocktail on their porch beforehand or a nightcap by the fire in the living room.

*Seasonal – May – January.  This hotel is a great option for Christmas Prelude as well as it stays open just until after the New Year holiday

BE SURE TO EAT WELL AT

Earth at Hidden Pond

*Will be reopening on 7/1 with a brand new menu!! 

Walk into Earth at Hidden Pond and you will never want to leave.  The earthy, trendy ambience created by candlelight and wood leave you feeling as if you are about to dine in a designer tree house.  The dramatic floor to ceiling bar filled with spirits catches your eye as you walk in.  Set amidst gardens of fresh flowers and herbs, Earth at Hidden Pond is an experience you should not miss.  Enjoy local meats, fish and organic vegetables at this farm to fork restaurant.  Reservations are hard to come by in the summer months, so call ahead to reserve.

Favorite Alfresco Dining at Earth at Hidden Pond 

Walker’s Maine

(Located 30 minutes south of Kennebunkport in Cape Neddick, Maine) 

*Temporaily closed due to a recent fire in April.  I will keep you posted on their official re-opening date.

While not located in Kennenbunkport, Walker’s Maine is well worth the short 30 minute drive to picturesque Cape Neddick.   This restaurant is as good as it gets from a culinary standpoint.  Chef Justin Walker and wife Danielle (formerly of Earth at Hidden Pond) opened Walkers Maine in 2018.  Quality of ingredients, source and seasonality all play an important role in the ever changing seasonal menu.  The restaurant is open year round. Combined with a walk on the Marginal Way, a stroll through charming Perkins Cove and have yourself a great little evening.

The Boat House

This newly designed popular waterfront spot in the Boat House Hotel is located right in the center of Dock Square. The yellow and white striped canopy on the outdoor patio dining area set atop the Kennebunk River makes for a lovely afternoon sipping Rose and enjoying nibbles.  The new interiors are chic and summery!  The Boathouse serves lunch and dinner and daily cocktails that are very creative.  Be sure to get the fries with sriracha! Valet parking is available.

The Tides Beach Club

This beachy restaurant is located in the iconic big yellow Inn on Goose Rocks Beach.  Most notably known for the front porch with the yellow and white rockers, the restaurant serves casual American fare with many seafood options.  Spending the day at the beach?  Stop in for lunch, grab a burger or lobster roll and then head back to the beach for an afternoon of sun.  Sandy flip flops and tunics welcome!

Waterfront views and lively setting at the Boathouse 

The iconic yellow  & porch at Tides Beach Club 

Batson River Brewing & Distilling 

*Outdoor Seating will be open and you MUST check out that Wood Fired Pizza’s!!  The best Pizza in the Kennebunks! 

New to the Kennebunks in 2019, this is the hottest place in town  and with good reason. The distinguished distillery sits atop the hill right in the heart of town (on the Kennebunk side) across the bridge that connects Kennebunkport to Kennebunk.  The handsome and cozy decor invites you in to taste a craft beer or one of their fabulous craft cocktails.  Think sprawling outdoor patios on each level, fire pits, oversized leather couches and wooden canoes. The giant wall size Scrabble game and shuffleboard table are great for the whole family.  For us we love that Batson is kid friendly and this is a spot we can enjoy with Pippa.  Enjoy several options of delicious nibbles from the bar if you get hungry.  Do not leave without a souvenir.  We love to stock our home bar with the Clock Tower Craft Vodka and Matt loves their trucker hat.

 

Crafty Cocktails & so much more  – Batson River Distillery

 

Mussette

We love Mussette.  For brunch or dinner, this casual Cape Porpoise neighborhood restaurant is a charmer.  The restaurant is the cutest of cute establishments with its original wooden counter bar name “Wayfarer” still present. The staff is fabulous!  The local menu is prepared with healthy and natural ingredients.  We have been known to close this one down because it is just too cozy to leave.  The Old Bay french fries are a absolute must!!

The Bitter End

The vibe is alive at this super casual, fun and lively spot is located just a short drive out of town in Wells, Maine.  Often there will be live music playing.  There will be something for everyone on the menu.

Bandaloop 

This organic and locally sourced restaurant  is one of my favorites locally.  They just moved to a new location on Rt 1, just outside of town.  There are plenty of options for the plant based eater and you can not go wrong with anything on the menu here.

On The Edge at The Edgewater Inn

This is for the breakfast and brunch lovers.  This beautiful proper dining room, set aside in the Edgewater Inn is open to the public for breakfast and/or brunch. They remain open through Christmas Prelude and reopen in April.  Admire gorgeous art by local artists and sip your French Pressed coffee next to the river view.  It is almost too difficult to make a choice off the menu – everything is delicious!

Nunan’s Lobster Hut – This super local lobster hut sits in the quaint village of the Cape Porpoise area in Kennebunkport.  Enjoy cooked to order local Maine lobsters and other simple fare on old picnic tables inside a true lobster hut.  There is nothing I like more than following up a great day at the beach with an early dinner at Nunan’s.  It is cash only but they do have ATM on-site.  Kids get a kick out of the lobster traps outside and the old wooden floors. Pippa always looks down through the cracks of the old wood floors to look for lobsters.  They serve a nice selection of beer and wine.  There are larger picnic tables in the far back which are ideal for bigger parties.

Mable’s Lobster Claw

Traditional Maine seafood in the most charming of settings.  Since the 1950’s Mabel’s has been a favorite in town serving fresh caught fish, local lobsters and the best blueberry pie, all while sitting  in wooden booth style seating. Open April to October we frequently visit Mable’s during these months.  The walls are covered with photos of patrons including many of the Bush family, who make Mable’s a regular stop. This is a classic and I could easily eat at Mable’s once a week.  If you are not a fish person, do not worry, there are plenty of other options.  I really enjoy their red sauce pasta dishes as well!

Ocean at the Cape Arundel Inn

*Opening date, later this season TBD 

Inspired by formal cuisine from the South of France, this culinary delight mixes well with the freshest local seafood of Maine.  The formal dining room, with wall to wall windows has dramatic views of the North Atlantic blues from every table.  Arrive early to enjoy a cocktail on the front porch or plan for a night cap by the fire in their coastal designed living room. We often enjoy this during the Christmas Prelude.  Grab some friends, dress up and enjoy a ‘Santa Margarita’ on the couch in front of the tree and fireplace!

Allison’s

Located in the heart of town, this is a casual, bar/restaurant with a wide selection of menu options from lobster to pizza and burgers to sandwiches.  Craft Maine beer lovers take note.  They may have the best selection of craft Maine beer on tap. I personally splurge on their chicken wings when we visit. This is a family friendly restaurant right in the heart of Dock Square.

Old Vines 

A local and tourist favorite.  Located on Port Rd. this outdoor and indoor wine bar is the perfect spot for date night or with a group of friends.  The tapas style menu and flat bread pizzas make it a fun night out spot!

Chez Rosa

The restaurant just opened in June 2020 and we had the pleasure of dining on their outdoor patio.  Kennebunkport’s first French Bistro will definitely be one I will go back to visit.  The beautiful French wines, to local oysters to favorite French favorites combined with Maine flair is sure to be a hit this summer!

The Ramp

Located at the very end of Pier Road in Cape Porpoise on the lobster docks, this casual ‘sports bar like’ restaurant is a favorite for returning visitors as well as locals. Great for photos!  Expect a typical pub fare menu with a Maine seafood twist!

Pedros’ Mexican

Since I cannot live without Mexican food for too long, I had to include this one. If you are looking for a Mexican fix while in Kennebunkport, this restaurant serves up some delicious salsa, guacamole and margaritas.  Always makes for a fun night. Outdoor seating is available.

TASTY TREATS

Mornings In Paris– Paris comes to the Port. As you drive into town you can spot this French café on the corner with all the bistro seats and chairs.  A favorite to start any day, pick up a fresh cafe, macaroon or croissant. The corner cafe has just rolled out their new renovations and its cuter than ever.  Pippa declares every time we pass by ” That is my favorite place.”

Boulangerie – ”  A Proper Bakery” This beautiful big red barn is located in Kennebunk.  The aromas of the freshly brewed coffee and delightful pastries can be smelled the moment you open your car door and step inside.  Delicious pastries, teas and coffees make this a favorite in the Kennebunks.

Rococo Ice Cream –  is perhaps our most visited summer pleasure.  Artisan made, unique and delicous flavors of ice cream that will top off anyones summer night! You can not go wrong with any of the flavors but our favorite is the Goat Cheese Blackberry Chambord.

BEACHES TO KICK BACK AND RELAX

Goose Rocks Beach in Kennebunkport

*Goose Rocks beach currently has very limited parking and requiring a RESIDENT SEASON PARKING TICKET for the season.  If this changes I will keep you updated. 

Goose Rocks Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and is an absolute must when visiting Kennebunkport.

Goose Rocks Beach is a nearly three mile long stretch of wide, white silky sand.  The calm-like surf is thanks to a barrier reef that bears its name, replicates a lake more than the ocean.  Thanks to the calm waters, it has become a favorite for swimming and kayakers alike. Time your trip if you can with the low tide and head down to the tidal pools on the northern side of the beach. You will be able to channel your inner kid spirit in the lazy river-like currents.  Kids and adults alike bring their floats or just lay on their backs and drift, as the pull of the current takes you. This is always the highlight of my summer and I cannot wait until Pippa can do this with me! At low tide you can also access Timber Point Trail and Timber Island by land bridge alone.  Nature lovers will love exploring the 1.4 mile out and back trail with beautiful ocean views, wildlife education panels and an historic estate.

If you are not a sunbather but would like to still enjoy Goose Rocks Beach, nothing beats a sunrise walk there.  It is perhaps one of the most magical things you can do when visiting.  It is also a favorite spot for stand-up paddle boards and kayaks.  For more information on rentals & delivery: Coastal Maine Kayak  &  Aquaholics Surf Shop

Kennebunk Beach 

*Parking passes will be required as of 6/15.  Parking passes can be obtained at the Kennebunk Town Hall. At the time of writing this, it is unclear whether day parking passes will be permitted. 

If you have seen my photos from the summer at the beach with all the dogs running around, this is where those were taken.  Kennebunk Beach is also known as Goochs Beach.  All the dogs of town come, gather and run their little hearts out. In the summer months, dogs are still allowed off the leash until 8am and then again after 6pm.  Located closest to town, Kennebunk Beach is a mile from downtown Kennebunk and a little over a mile from Dock Square in Kennebunkport.

This beach is a favorite for surfers because of the soft, easy to learn waves.  Sidewalks line this beach so it is a favorite for runners or for those who just want to relax on a park bench and sip their morning coffee.

Down the road is the popular Mother’s Beach.  Kids love this little slice of heaven with the big royal blue playground, hence the name. At low tide, giant puddles form amongst the rocks and the littles like to jump, splash, make friends and be merry!

Parsons Beach –

Currently Closed (Summer 2020) – If this changes I will update accordingly. 

This beach is located off Rt. 9. When driving away from Kennebunkport towards Wells, you make a left hand turn onto Parsons Beach Road at the horse farm.I highly recommend visiting this smaller, private beach. The drive in is pastoral with horses and fields. In addition, you will find a trail leading to the quiet beach. I enjoy very early morning visits with my coffee and my camera.  It is a good place to just go and reflect on the beauty of life.

MY FAVORITE SHOPPING IN THE KENNEBUNKS!

Home / Design / Goods

Farm + Table Kennebunkport– a visit to this quintessential New England red barn is a must when visiting Kennebunkport.  You will find a wonderfully curated collection of local New England artisan goods including: table linens, local restored wood bowls from right down the road, homemade mixes and jams, candles, feed bags and a great selection of Farmhouse Pottery goods. Proprietors Bruce and Liz could not be any warmer and kinder.  Visiting with them is worth the visit every time.

Anthony Catalfano Homes– LOVVEE! This is located in Wells, Maine which is only 5 minutes from Kennebunkport. It is a distinguished and stylish home décor shop is filled with beautiful tableware, collections of Assouline books, Juliska glassware, linens and more!  This easily ranks as one of my top shops for timeless designs and accents anywhere.

Hulburt Designs– If you have ever stayed at any of the Kennebunkport Resort Collection hotels and admired their lovely interiors, it was quite possibly the work of Hurlburt Designs.  They are known for their luxe coastal interiors.  They also have two retail shops in town featuring some of their signature coastal home decor. The flagship store is conveniently located on Rt. 9 and cannot be missed as you leave town. They also have a smaller shop at the foot bridge which connects Kennebunkport to Kennebunk.

Antiques on Nine– Located on Rt. 9 as you enter Kennebunkport this shop offers everything from antique treasures to innovative pieces that will accent any home, anywhere.  Pick up a Dash & Albert rug, a coastal Maine painting or even a wooden buoy.  If anything, simply stop in to browse!  I sometimes post in our guestroom which is furnished with a large wooden American flag we purchased here!  There are so many unique novelties here you will never know what you will find!

Seacraft Vintage – this brand new coastal opening is full of all the coastal charm one can handle. Come see for yourself the curated coastal vintage curiosities and treasures at the new shop Morning Walk on Port Rd in Kennebunk.  Curators Jackie Greany and Paul Havel have brought a new must visit destination to the heart of the Kennebunks.

 

Love all of the New England artisan finds at Farm + Table 

I love all the antique and new furnishings at Antiques on Nine 

BOUTIQUES – GIFTS, CLOTHING & MORE

Spaces Kennebunkport– Must check out their beautiful new space located right over the bridge at 184 Port Road,    I LOVE Spaces!  Looking for a new coffee table book, gorgeous pillow, gorgeous tableware or a fun new summer dress?  I love their super selection of summer tunics and dresses.  They have you covered.  You can also shop this adorable store online too!

Day Trip Society – Please do not leave Kennebunkport without visiting this super fun, unique store.  Located right in the center of Dock Square and around the corner from their sister shop, Day Trip Junior.  Named after the owners love of travel and day-tripping you can find anything and everything necessary for a great trip!  The boutique carries a blend of local products as well as eco-friendly products.  We love picking up a Pendleton blanket for a trip to the mountains, or a chic Alaina Am Marie clutch or a new Patagonia winter wool hat.  They also carry our favorite Maine-made Braham Mount blankets.  So many goodies to choose from, I could spend hours in this store.

For our little people, be sure to visit next door Day Trip Society Junior.  This is hands down Pippa’s favorite store.  It is obvious this store makes her happy. Her time there is always priceless.  Be sure to bring some quarters so your little can ride the whale.  This sweet shop has a variety of organic cotton blends for the baby as well as a selection of books to bring home to your little’s book shelf. For those who have inquired about Rody Horse as seen in a lot of our pictures and stories, this is where we picked him up. It makes for a great gift. Many of the goodies here are made up of nature-loving material, eco-friendly toys and the softest organic cottons around.  They also have the most darling selection of Salt Water sandals and Native Kids shoes, which every kid must possess for a Maine summer.

Fleurant–  For the longest time I thought this was just a flower shop but it is so much more!  This just may be one of the best little finds located in the Lower Kennebunk Village across from Pedro’s. Whether you are looking for a fresh centerpiece or a gift for yourself it is worth a visit.  Some of my favorite items I have picked up here are a hobo handbag, beautiful liquid hand soaps, candles, potted succulents, beautiful cashmere scarves and even jewelry.

Pink Tangerine is located right over the footbridge in Lower Kennebunk.  If you are in need of a Lily Pulitzer fix, Pink Tangerine has you covered.  They have a fabulous selection of women’s and children’s preppy fashion paired with a variety of colored accessories.  Happen to forget your undies?! They also carry my favorite Cosabella panties. You never know when you may need a pair! Green Tangerine is the sister shop located right next door.  Here you will find more women’s clothing and a selection of men’s clothing including some New England favorites like Vineyard Vines.

J. McLaughlin, the classic and beautiful clothing retailer just landed in Wells, Maine.  Be sure to stop in and visit their beautiful new store located right next to Anthony Catalfano Home.

For the ART lover.

There are plentiful art shops scattered about town. Perhaps two of my favorite artists to check out.  Jill Matthews Paintings can be found at Maine Art Hill.  Jill’s paintings are just stunning.  Her ocean-scape paintings are just stunning and a perfect addition to any coastal home. She also paints simple country settings as well.    Deborah Randall Fine Art  is another great local artist to check out while visiting the Kennebunks.

 

FARM

Snug Farm– A must visit in any Season. If you arrive in town via Rt. 9 you will see the photogenic white barn on your left side.

The property includes greenhouses, a retail shop and a barn with live farm animals, even a peacock! Pick up your seasonal favorites from pumpkins to perennials. If you are a succulent lover, you must visit their succulent greenhouse.  What a beautiful variety! Inside create your own beautiful farm flower bouquet.  I love all of the gifts in the barn store.

We love to visit the farm with Pippa and watch her as she waddles around the back so she can say hi to the ponies and chickens.

FOOD SHOPPING LIKE A LOCAL!

Bradbury Market– This family run grocery store and deli is found right in the center of Cape Porpoise.  We love their meat market. The marinated over-sized chicken breasts and marinated steak tips in their special sauce are nothing short than amazing. We also make sure we pick up one of their fresh homemade breads and pastries. The deli has delicious homemade cold salads as well. Bradbury Market also has a nice wine selection and local crafts we loved like the Batson brand. There is also a old school wooden post office inside you will just fall in love with.

Langsford Lobster & Fish House– Located down the road from Bradbury Market on the docks of Cape Porpoise is Langsford Fish Market.  This cute little fish hut with buoys on the front is as fresh from the sea as you can get.  Locally caught fish by resident fisherman leaving from the wharf where it sits.  This is where Matt and I will ride our bikes to pick up the fresh catch of the day and/ or a bucket of steamers.   They have everything from lobster to steamers to our favorite local Maine Haddock.  It is the absolute best!  They also offer custom packaging of your travel order and they also ship nationally.

H.B. Provisions– The town general store located right in lower Village of Kennebunk.  The early morning hours welcome visitors for a coffee or breakfast where you can sit and chat amongst the locals on a wooden tabletop.  The general stores carries an assortment of goods including a nice selection of cheese, wine, essential groceries, Maine candies and treats, a deli and even Kennebunkport water color gift cards which are beautiful.

Snug Farm is a family affair.. 

The best selection of succulents – Snug Harbor Farm 

Langsford Fish – As Maine as it gets.. 

MY TOP THINGS TO DO WHILE VISITING KENNEBUNKPORT DURING THE SUMMER AND FALL

1. Take a Surf Lesson at Kennebunk Beach with Aquaholics – this beach is tremendous for learning how to surf due to the shallow waters and soft waves. The water is usually packed with others doing the same. Kids surf camps and classes available.  Stop in their cute shop for all things water and some of our favorite hats!  aquaholicsurf.com

2. See Kennebunkport by BIKE!  Rent some Beach Cruisers and Spin Around Town with Kennebunkport Bicycles.  The new location on Port Rd. in Kennebunk (just over the bridge and across from Pedro’s) is ideal for picking up your bike rental and heading down to the beach or around town.  There is a variety of bikes available for rent.  For the more active rider, pick up a mountain bike and head out to the stunning mountain bike trails at Smith Reserve.

3. Head out for a Lobster Boat Tour and a Whale Watch  – I can not recommend taking a Lobster Boat Tour with Rugosa Lobster Tours. The 80 minute personalized lobster tour mixes a bit of educational and sightseeing.  Captain Bob is fantastic!  Currently due to Covid-19, the tour is only taking a max of 10 guests at once and must be part of the same group. 

If you would like to whale watch, Lucky Chance Tours offers daily Whale Watch excursions.

4. Take an Indoor Workout Class!    Check out the spin classes at Maine Revolution is  NEW Spin Studio  and fitness center that is now open in Kennebunk.  Right now outdoor spin classes are taking place on the oversized balcony.

The Daily Sweat, located also on Portland Rd. in Kennebunk offers daily yoga and barre classes.

5. Take a Hike! One of the best parts of Kennebunkport is the access to all of the nature trails in every season. They are excellent for hiking, running, biking, cross country skiing and more.  The Smith Preserve Trail is our favorite.  The trails, thanks to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust are well marked and nicely packed.

Mt. Agamenticus, located about 20 minutes south of Kennebunkport is a great family hike.  There is a beginner 1 mile trail to the top from the main parking area which is perfect for a family outing.  Enjoy beautiful views of the seacoast from atop! Also a favorite mountain bike spot for the more advanced riders.

6.  Take a sunset sail on a two hour Sail aboard the Schooner Eleanor. Nothing is more relaxing than winding down the day on a sailboat taking in all. the scenic views of the Kennebunkport coastline.

7. Day Trip to Portland, Maine or Portsmouth, NH. Thirty miles to our north Portland is a town we cannot get enough of since it is full of great restaurants and things to do.  To the south, located 40 minutes away is another coastal town we love, Portsmouth, NH.

8.  The Views are always nicest by way of water! Rent a SUP or Kayak and head out for a day on Cape Porpoise or head out to Timber Island off Goose Rocks Beach.  Guided tours are also available from Coastal Maine Kayak & Bike or Aquaholics. 

9. Visit LL Bean in Freeport, Maine. North about 40 minutes from Kennebunkport this is great for a rainy day.

10. Enjoy a walk on Ocean Avenue. Head out from the Colony Hotel and walk all the way to the Bush Family Compound 2 which is two miles round trip.  This scenic walk is purely breathtaking.  Be sure to bring your camera!

11. Visit the Seashore Trolley Museum. The world’s oldest and largest mass transit vehicle museum. Take the family on a trolley ride through the Maine woods. https://trolleymuseum.org

12.  Book a Spa Appointment at the Tree House Spa at Hidden Pond.  Nothing says relaxing more than receiving a spa treatment in a wooded tree house.

13.  Head down to Ogunquit and take a walk on the iconic Marginal Way and stop and peak in the shops of Perkins Cove.

Captain Bob of Rugosa Lobster Tour

All aboard the Schooner Eleanor 

If you are like me, you may just want to go to relax, unwind and take in all of the beautiful sites.  I hope you have enjoyed my Guide to Kennebunkport.  Please be sure to check back from time to time as I will continue to update the guide with new Where-To’s, What-To’s and of course more photography of my very favorite place.

xo,

Stephanie

 

 

 

Stephanie is a Digital Content Creator, Photographer and Writer focused on Travel & Lifestyle

Stephanie’s sophisticated yet casual content has landed her in partnerships with a wide range of businesses from hotel groups, to popular magazines to retail brands.  As Founder of StephStell.com you will find a colorful, bright and happy destination for all things travel and lifestyle.  Stephanie brings to life her love of New England, travel, family, active living, the outdoors along with brands she believes in. Her love of photography, beautiful places and emerging brands are just some of the things that inspire her. Being a mother to her three- year old daughter, Pippa, and wife to Matt, also serve as a constant daily inspiration.