Kennebunk
,Kennebunk is a charming coastal town located in southern Maine, United States. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant community. Visitors can explore quaint shops, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and take scenic walks along the picturesque coastline.
Kennebunk offers a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor activities, and small-town charm for residents and tourists alike.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Kennebunk Coastal Exploration
morning
:Start your day with a visit to Gooch's Beach. Enjoy the sunrise and perhaps take a morning stroll along the shoreline.
afternoon
:Head to the Kennebunkport Historical Society to learn about local history. Afterward, explore the charming shops and boutiques downtown.
evening
:Dine at a waterfront restaurant featuring fresh seafood. Relax and take in the sunset views over the harbor.
Adventure Awaits in Kennebunk
morning
:Rent a bike and explore the scenic Eastern Trail. The morning is perfect for enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes.
afternoon
:Stop for lunch at a local café and sample their homemade pastries. Continue your bike ride through the picturesque countryside.
evening
:Wind down at a brewery for some craft beers. Enjoy live music or trivia night to meet locals.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Charming small-town atmosphere
- Rich history and cultural attractions
- Outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and water sports
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Good selection of dining options and local shops
Bad
- Seasonal tourism can lead to crowded summers
- Cost of living may be higher compared to other areas in Maine
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Harsh winters with significant snowfall
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Some amenities may be sparse compared to larger cities
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beaches
Enjoy the sun and surf at beautiful beaches like Gooch's Beach and Mother’s Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Kennebunkport Riverwalk
Take a scenic stroll along the Kennebunkport River, featuring picturesque views and access to shops and restaurants.
Cape Porpoise
Explore Cape Porpoise for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relaxing by the shore while enjoying fresh seafood at local eateries.
Biking Trails
Ride along the scenic trails of the area, including the Eastern Trail, which runs from Kittery to South Portland.
Wildlife Watching
Experience wildlife viewing with opportunities to see seals, birds, and other native animals, especially around the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge.
Kennebunkport Historical Society
Visit the historical society and take guided outdoor tours to learn about the rich history of Kennebunk and its surrounding areas.
Scenic Boat Tours
Take a guided boat tour to explore the coastline and spot lighthouses, secluded beaches, and marine wildlife.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Kennebunk with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Goose Rocks Beach
A stunning sandy beach known for its picturesque sunsets, gentle waves, and expansive views of the ocean, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Cape Porpoise Harbor
A charming harbor with boats and scenic views of the coastline, ideal for capturing the essence of New England's maritime culture.
Kennebunkport's Dock Square
The heart of the town, offering vibrant shops, restaurants, and the iconic Cape Arundel Inn nearby, perfect for street photography.
The Wedding Cake House
An architectural gem in Kennebunk, known for its unique design resembling a wedding cake, providing a lovely backdrop for photos.
Ocean Avenue
A scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastal homes, ideal for capturing stunning seascapes.
Maine Art Hill
A vibrant art gallery located on a hill that provides a sweeping view of the Kennebunk River and the surrounding area, perfect for artistic photography.
The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
A beautiful natural area with trails and observation points that offer fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography as well as serene landscapes.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lobster Roll
A quintessential Maine dish, the lobster roll features fresh lobster meat mixed with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings, served in a buttered and grilled split-top bun. Recommended places to try: The Clam Shack, The Nonantum Resort.
Must-Try!
Clam Chowder
Kennebunk's clam chowder, a creamy soup with tender clams, potatoes, onions, and a touch of smoky bacon, is a local favorite. Recommended places to try: Federal Jack's Restaurant & Brew Pub, Alisson's Restaurant.
Blueberry Pie
This classic Maine dessert showcases plump, sweet-tart local blueberries encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Recommended places to try: Mabel's Lobster Claw, Cape Porpoise Kitchen.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kennebunk Farmers' Market
Visitors can explore fresh, locally grown produce, artisanal goods, homemade baked treats, and ready-to-eat foods at the Kennebunk Farmers' Market. Open on Saturdays, it's a great place to sample local flavors and meet the community.
Local Food Truck Festival
During the summer months, Kennebunk hosts a vibrant food truck festival, featuring a diverse array of cuisines, from gourmet grilled cheese to seafood specialties. The festival offers a fantastic opportunity to savor an assortment of street food delicacies.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Personal Space
In Kennebunk, as in many parts of New England, maintaining a comfortable personal space is important. Be mindful of standing at an appropriate distance during conversations.
Politeness and Courtesy
Maine residents often value politeness. Simple gestures like saying 'please' and 'thank you', as well as greeting people with a smile, go a long way in showing respect.
Embrace Local Customs
Participating in local events and being aware of regional traditions can foster respect and understanding. For example, engaging in community activities or supporting local businesses reflects appreciation for the local culture.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Kennebunk, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a common practice, especially in the hospitality and service industries. It is customary to tip servers in restaurants around 15-20% of the total bill before tax. For other services, such as bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, tips are also appreciated and typically range from 10-20% depending on the level of service received.
Payment
Payment methods in Kennebunk are versatile, accommodating both cash and credit/debit card transactions. Most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept major credit cards. Digital payment apps and contactless payment methods have also gained popularity. It’s advisable to confirm payment methods when making reservations or purchases, especially in smaller, local businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring (March to May) in Kennebunk is characterized by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is a great time to visit if you want to enjoy fewer crowds compared to summer. Expect temperatures to range from 40°F to 70°F, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting local gardens.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season in Kennebunk. The weather is warm, with temperatures averaging between 70°F and 85°F. This season offers plenty of outdoor events, beach activities, and festivals. It's the best time for swimming, boating, and exploring the coastline, but be prepared for larger crowds.
Fall
Fall (September to November) is a beautiful time to visit Kennebunk as the foliage changes color. Temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F. The crowds thin out after summer, making it a peaceful time to enjoy scenic drives, local farms, and harvest festivals. Fall is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and the vibrant autumn scenery.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Kennebunk can be cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing. However, if you enjoy winter sports, this is a great season for skiing and snowshoeing. The landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, and you can experience holiday events and cozy winter activities. Expect temperatures from 20°F to 40°F.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kenebunk Bridle Path
A scenic hiking trail that offers a peaceful walk through woodlands and along the Kennebunk River, perfect for all skill levels.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
This refuge features various trails that wind through stunning coastal marshlands, providing opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.
Eastern Trail
A multi-use trail that stretches from Kittery to South Portland, offering beautiful views and a variety of terrains for hiking and biking.
Goose Rocks Beach
While primarily a beach, there are walking trails nearby that provide a delightful way to explore the coastal scenery.
Cape Porpoise
A short hike leading to views of the ocean and the charming Cape Porpoise village, known for its stunning natural beauty.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Kennebunk by plane.
Portland International Jetport (PWM)
Located approximately 25 miles from Kennebunk, PWM is the primary airport serving the Greater Portland area and offers numerous domestic and limited international flights.
Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT)
Situated about 50 miles from Kennebunk, MHT serves the Manchester, NH area and provides a broader range of flights, including international destinations.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
Located around 70 miles from Kennebunk, BOS is the largest airport in New England, handling a vast number of domestic and international flights.
Bradley International Airport (BDL)
Approximately 90 miles from Kennebunk, BDL serves the Hartford/Springfield area and offers a variety of domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
The majority racial demographic in Kennebunk, comprising a large percentage of the population.
Hispanic or Latino
A growing demographic group that includes individuals of various races with Hispanic or Latino origins.
Black or African American
A smaller demographic group in Kennebunk, representing a minority of the population.
Asian
A demographic group that includes individuals from various Asian countries, comprising a minor percentage of the population.
Two or More Races
Individuals who identify with more than one racial group, reflecting increasing diversity.
Native American
A small demographic group consisting of individuals identified as Native American or Alaska Native.
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
A very small demographic group in Kennebunk.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is a widely played sport in Kennebunk, with various leagues and youth programs available for different age groups.
Lacrosse
Lacrosse has gained popularity in Kennebunk, especially among youth and high school students, with organized teams and competitions.
Basketball
Basketball is a popular sport in Kennebunk, with many local schools having strong programs and community leagues for all ages.
Running
Running is a favored activity in Kennebunk, with numerous running clubs, events, and beautiful scenic routes for runners.
Swimming
Swimming is a key sport in Kennebunk, supported by local pools and the proximity to beaches, making it popular among residents.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Kennebunk, with youth leagues and programs that encourage participation across various skill levels.
Tennis
Tennis is a popular recreational sport in Kennebunk, with public courts available for residents and local tournaments.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian Options
Many restaurants in Kennebunk offer creative and satisfying vegetarian dishes, such as roasted vegetable platters, quinoa salads, and veggie burgers, catering to those who prefer meat-free dining.
Vegan Options
Visitors with vegan preferences can delight in the availability of plant-based menu items at select eateries, ranging from creamy dairy-free pasta dishes to vibrant vegan sushi rolls.
Gluten-Free Options
Individuals seeking gluten-free dining experiences will find numerous accommodating establishments offering an array of gluten-free choices, including gluten-free pizzas, pasta, and decadent flourless desserts.