Discover Kennebunkport, Maine
A Coastal Retreat Rich in Charm and Elegance
Kennebunkport, Maine, offers visitors a perfect blend of coastal beauty, luxury, and history. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this charming town has something for everyone. Here’s Dev’s suggestions of some of the must-visit places in Kennebunkport:
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel
Discover the ultimate coastal retreat at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, a gem located in the heart of Kennebunkport, Maine. Nestled along the serene banks of the Kennebunk River, this charming hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and classic New England charm.
With 25 thoughtfully designed guest rooms, The Boathouse provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it ideal for a weekend getaway or an extended stay. Each room offers homelike accommodations, ensuring that guests feel right at ease from the moment they arrive.
One of the hotel’s standout features is its premier location in downtown Kennebunkport. Just steps away from the lively shops, galleries, and restaurants, you’ll be immersed in the local culture and scenic beauty of this iconic fishing town. On-site parking adds convenience, while complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi make your stay even more enjoyable.
For dining, the on-site waterfront restaurant provides spectacular river views paired with fresh, locally sourced cuisine. Whether enjoying a meal inside or out on the seasonal rooftop deck, you’ll be treated to a truly memorable dining experience.
Adventure awaits right outside your door with kayak rentals, beach cruisers, and beach towels available for a day of exploration. Paddle along the meandering river or cruise the scenic coastline at your leisure.
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel captures the spirit of Kennebunkport and is the perfect place to relax, recharge, and fall in love with the beauty of coastal Maine.
White Barn Inn
The White Barn Inn is synonymous with luxury in Kennebunkport. This iconic Relais & Châteaux property offers a sophisticated retreat with an emphasis on fine dining and impeccable service. The Inn’s restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored barn, provides an unforgettable dining experience with a menu that celebrates local and seasonal ingredients. Whether you're staying at the Inn or just enjoying a meal, the White Barn Inn offers an ambiance of elegance and relaxation. And since she was just there, Devon insist we tell you that the White Barn Inn is Dog Friendly!
The Dining Experience at the White Barn Inn
Dining at the White Barn Inn is an experience that combines exceptional cuisine with a setting steeped in history and elegance. Housed in a meticulously restored 19th-century barn, the restaurant's ambiance is both rustic and refined, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.
The restaurant is renowned for its prix fixe menu, which showcases the finest local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Each dish is artfully crafted, reflecting the chef’s dedication to culinary excellence. The menu often includes an array of seafood options, locally sourced meats, and farm-fresh produce, all prepared with innovative techniques that highlight the natural flavors of each ingredient.
The White Barn Inn also offers an extensive wine list, carefully curated to complement the menu. The knowledgeable sommeliers are on hand to guide you through the selections, ensuring that your dining experience is perfectly paired.
In addition to the exceptional food, the service at the White Barn Inn is impeccable. The staff is attentive and professional, ensuring that every detail of your meal is attended to with care. The combination of exquisite food, outstanding service, and a stunning setting makes dining at the White Barn Inn a truly extraordinary experience.
For those seeking a unique and luxurious dining experience in Kennebunkport, the White Barn Inn is an unparalleled choice, offering a perfect blend of New England charm and world-class cuisine.
Just ask Devon, she was just there!
Bush Estate
Kennebunkport is also home to the Bush Estate, the summer residence of former President George H.W. Bush and his family. While the estate itself is private, visitors can catch a glimpse of the property from Ocean Avenue, where you can also enjoy sweeping views of the ocean. The Bush family’s connection to Kennebunkport adds a layer of historical significance to the area, and many visitors enjoy taking a drive along the scenic road to see the estate and the surrounding beauty.
There is a lovely cliff walk from town to the estate.
PresidentsUSA.net
Hurricane Restaurant
For a taste of local flavor, Hurricane Restaurant is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Dock Square, this beloved eatery offers a menu filled with fresh seafood, creative dishes, and classic New England fare. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and waterfront views make it a perfect spot for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re craving lobster, scallops, or a perfectly cooked steak, Hurricane Restaurant delivers on all fronts.
Hidden Pond Resort
Dev’s recent vacation to this lovely New England spot included: Hidden Pond, Hidden Pond is a luxury resort located in Kennebunkport, Maine, offering a serene and immersive experience in nature. The resort features charming cottages and bungalows nestled among 60 acres of birch and balsam trees, providing guests with a sense of seclusion and tranquility. Hidden Pond is well-known for its upscale accommodations, top-notch service, and a range of amenities that cater to both relaxation and adventure. They also have both a family area pool and cottages And an adult only pool and cottages!
Dining
The resort’s on-site restaurant, Earth, is a major highlight. Earth emphasizes farm-to-fork dining, using ingredients sourced from the resort’s organic gardens and local farms. The menu is seasonally inspired, offering guests a fresh and flavorful dining experience in a rustic yet elegant setting.
Activities
Guests at Hidden Pond can enjoy various activities, including yoga classes, nature walks, spa treatments at the Tree Spa (where treatment rooms are perched in the treetops), and access to the beach. The resort also offers bikes for exploring the area, as well as guided kayaking and fishing trips.
Dev liked the art studio for water coloring, and walking through the flower and veggie garden picking fresh flowers for her room! Hidden Pond is truly like no other!
Batson River Distillery
Batson River Distillery is located in downtown Kennebunkport, Maine, and is celebrated for its craft spirits and brewery offerings. This distillery and brewery offers a unique experience, blending the charm of coastal Maine with high-quality spirits and beers.
Craft Spirits
Batson River produces a range of spirits, including gin, vodka, and bourbon, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The distillery’s tasting room allows guests to sample these spirits in a cozy and stylish environment.
Brews and Cocktails
In addition to spirits, Batson River is known for its craft beers. The venue offers a selection of house-brewed beers alongside a creative cocktail menu that features their spirits. The ambiance is casual yet refined, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors.
Experience
The distillery often hosts events, including live music and themed nights, making it a lively destination in Kennebunkport.
The Tides Beach Club
Tides Beach Club, also in Kennebunkport, Maine, offers a quintessential coastal experience. This boutique hotel is situated on Goose Rocks Beach and provides guests with stunning ocean views and easy beach access. Dev says Tide’s Inn is your “access to beach with fun restaurant.”
Accommodations
The rooms at Tides Beach Club are designed with a beachy, yet luxurious feel, offering a perfect blend of comfort and style. The hotel’s decor is inspired by its coastal surroundings, with light, airy spaces that enhance the seaside experience.
Dining
The hotel’s restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and New England-inspired cuisine. Guests can enjoy a meal on the wraparound porch with views of the ocean, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing and scenic dining experience.
Insta: @douglasmerriam
Location
The proximity to Goose Rocks Beach allows guests to enjoy long walks, swimming, and sunbathing. The hotel also offers activities like paddleboarding and kayaking for those looking to explore the waters.
Together, these destinations offer a luxurious and authentic Maine experience, blending nature, craft beverages, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax at a secluded resort, sample locally made spirits, or enjoy oceanfront dining, Kennebunkport has something to offer.
The Kennebunkport Resort Collection
Dotted along Maine's scenic coast, the Kennebunkport Resort Collection presents a premier selection of boutique destinations that authentically tell the story of quintessential New England. From quaint inns and luxurious resorts, each destination sets the tone for reconnection—with family, friends, or your other half. This is where memories are made... They include:
Hidden Pond (featured)
Boat House (featured)
Cape Arundel
Cottages at Cabot Cove
Kennebunkport Inn
Tides Beach Club (featured)
Kennebunkport, with its mix of luxury, history, and natural beauty, is a destination that should be on every traveler's list. From the elegance of the White Barn Inn to the dramatic cliffs at Cliff House, the historic Bush Estate, and the culinary delights of Hurricane Restaurant, this coastal town offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway (like Dev and Scott) or a family vacation, Kennebunkport provides the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the best of Maine.
And we had to mention, Christmas Prelude. This extraordinary festival of EVERYTHING CHRISTMAS takes place the first two weeks of December throughout the Kennebunkport area. Be sure to plan ahead as it always sells out and brings big crowds on the weekends. But if you love Christmas Time, Prelude in Kennebunk is a must! They feature carolers in the street, a massive tree lighting, candlelight events, a hat parade, and so much more. The Kennebunkport Inn (actually the town itself) is decorated straight out of a Christmas movie! Santa even arrives by boat!