Kennebunkport is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway up to Vacationland, though there’s enough to do to last you an entire week (or more). Be sure to check out Federal Jack’s for a pint (or three) and charter a sunset sail on the Pineapple Ketch to discover why this town in southern Maine has remained an evergreen favourite for seasonal residents and day-trippers alike. Though most popular in the summertime, it’s gorgeous to visit year-round — especially now, as the leaves are turning. Roughly two hours north of Boston, and five hours north of New York City, this resort town on the Atlantic Coast is worth the trip.
Eat
(Photo provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
Nunan’s Lobster Hut, 9 Mills Rd., Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise: Nunan’s is a favourite local spot: the row-house style building has a lobster net on the ceiling. The hut has long, bench-style seating and serves lobsters any way you want: steamed, in a stew, on a roll, or in a salad. Two miles from Dock Square, the restaurant is definitely recommended for a visit. Word to the wise: the hut is cash-only and serves beer and wine.
Mornings in Paris, 21 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043: The best spot for breakfast in Kennebunkport — opt for the chocolate croissants.
The Landing Store, 157 Summer Street, Kennebunk, ME 04043: The Landing Store is a locally-owned country store that has been around for over 100 years. The chowder and convenience store is a great spot for some chowder and a beer.
The Clam Shack, 2 Western Avenue, Kennebunk, ME 04043: The Clam Shack is a must-visit tourist spot in Kennebunkport — check out the traditional fried clams.
Mabel’s Lobster Claw, 124 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, Maine 04046: Open April through October, stop by Mabel’s for an old-fashioned feast of Maine seafood standbys. Try the traditional baked stuffed lobster (with bread filling) or the sea scallops. There’s also an ice cream spot right next door for dessert.
Old Salt’s Pantry, 5 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, Maine 04046: This local spot is exactly what it sounds like—located right in the heart of the port, stop by for a lobster roll or some chowder. Try to go on a sunny day, as indoor seating is limited.
White Barn Inn, 37 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043: This is simply the fanciest place in Kennebunkport, and perfect for a date night. Open year-round, especially recommended in the fall or winter, when you can dine by the fire.
Earth at Hidden Pond, 354 Goose Rocks Road, Kennebunkport, Maine 04046: Another high-end option for dinner in KPT. Secret tip: request to have a private dinner in the Potting Shed.
Drink
(Photo provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
Federal Jack’s, 8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, Maine 04043: Federal Jack’s (also known as Fed’s) is practically a required visit when travelling to Kennebunkport. Drop in during the weekends for live music and dancing: a DJ plays every Friday and Saturday night. There is also a Tuesday Trivia contest held weekly, and, if you feel like coming back again, become a member of the Mug Club: $3 beer, a free tee-shirt, and your own numbered mug to be reserved behind the bar just for you. What more could you want?
The Pilot House, State Route 9, Kennebunk, Maine 04043: The ideal local bar in KPT. The Pilot House is perfect for those looking for 50-cent jello shots and $2 Miller Lites—and who isn’t looking for that? A big U-shaped bar takes up the majority of the space, so pull up a stool and mingle with some locals.
The Colony Hotel, 140 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, Maine 04046: If you’re looking for a bar with a view, look no further than the Colony Hotel. Go there at sunset for cocktails by the pool or in the hotel’s Marina Room. If you’re in town on Friday night, head over for the Mariner’s Buffet (also known as heaven: $40 all-you-can-eat lobster and steak).
Explore
(Photo provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
Goose Rocks Beach, Kings Highway, Kennebunkport, ME, 04046: The beach is a must-visit (during any season), and we recommend Goose Rocks Beach for its three miles of wide sandy shoreline. Park along Kings Highway and follow one of the many paths through the dunes down to the shore. Head over to the Tides Beach Club for a cocktail once you get there.
The Tides Beach Club, 254 Kings Highway, Kennebunkport, ME 04046: Go there for lunch or a cocktail and hang out on the beach, or make a night of it and stay for dinner. It’s about fifteen minutes outside the town of KPT, and also features a hotel—a great option for a place to stay.
The Pineapple Ketch, 95 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, Maine: Head over to the Nonantum Resort to set out on the water aboard The Pineapple Ketch. Book in advance for a two-hour sail (we personally recommend the sunset cruise). You can park in the resort lot. If you book enough guests, you can also make it a private charter. Another option? Check out the Schooner Eleanor for a chance to get out on the water.
Kennebunk Land Trust, 6 Brown St #2, Kennebunk, Maine 04043: The Kennebunk Land Trust is a five-mile preserve that crosses Route 9. You can run along the old railroad track, or go hiking or biking down any of the trails.
Spiller Farm, 85 Spiller Farm Ln, Wells, Maine 04090: Head out to Spiller Farm to pick strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries (depending on the season). It’s a little out of the way, so check out their website, which is updated daily to show what is in season.
Picnic Rock, 8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, Maine 04043: This twenty-foot rock is located just off Old Port Road in Kennebunkport. Picnic Rock is perfect for jumping into the ocean (though we recommend going at high tide). Bring beer, speakers, and a football (or Frisbe Australia).
Stay
(Photo provided by Katherine Parker-Magyar)
Beach House Inn, 211 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043: The Beach House Inn is a great spot right on Middle Beach. Relax in a rocking chair next to the fire pit on the large wraparound porch and enjoy a cocktail at the end of your day.
Breakwater Inn & Spa, 127 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046: If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, the Breakwater Inn & Spa is perfect—definitely book a massage and make the most of your stay.
The Cottages at Cabot Cove, 7 S Main St, Kennebunkport, Maine 04046: Wish for some privacy away from the bustling tourist scene? Book your own cottage at Cabot Cove and pretend that you have your own second home for the weekend.
The Grand Hotel, 1 Chase Hill Rd, Kennebunk, Maine 04043: If you’re looking for comfort and convenience, the Grand Hotel is your spot. Located right in town next to H.B. Provisions (and down the street from Federal Jack’s), the colonial decor is cosy and the location can’t be beat.
