Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine. It’s known for its beaches, cute shops and friendly people. It’s a quintessential coastal Maine town. Whether you’re spending a day or a weekend in Kennebunkport here are some things that you should check out. [Disclaimer: as with any travel right now be sure to check local Covid guidelines.Here is the link for Maine. Stay healthy friends!]
Do A Little Shopping
Daytrip Society
I LOVE this store. It has great gifts, made in Maine products and quirky finds that you didn’t know you needed. From shoes and bags to books and writing supplies, if it’s in this store you can trust that it was picked with love and incredibly made. Also check out Daytrip Jr, which is filled with fun, quality made children’s items.
Apres Sea
One of the cutest little shops in KPT! It’s full of products by local artisans. They also carry some cute clothes, jewelry, hats and anything you may need to make your beach house cozy. This shop is new, so give it some love!
Dannah
I love to shop for other people when I’m in KPT. This is another perfect store for doing just that. You’ll find beautiful dishes, handmade candles, unique jewelry and stuffed animals.
Dock Square
This is the heart of Kennebunkport. The town center is filled with unique boutique shops, eateries, and other coastal town finds. Many of the places I mention in this post are in this area.
Do a Little Exploring
Cape Porpoise
Maine’s coast has over 60 lighthouses for you to explore and photograph. I have a thing for lighthouses so I always like to check them out if they are nearby. You can head over to Cape Porpoise and see the Goat Island Lighthouse, watch the fishing crews catch your dinner, enjoy the peaceful journey of sailboats and observe the steady stream of wildlife.
Goose Rocks Beach
Not far from Cape Porpoise is Goose Rocks Beach. It’s a gorgeous, sandy beach with over 3 miles of natural, virtually untouched coastline. You can hike down the beach or kayak over to local islands. Goose Rocks Beach is also an ideal location to go treasure hunting; there are tons of seashells on the beach.
Parson’s Walk
Parson’s Way is a 2 mile trail that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, nature trips, and bird watching and is accessible year-round. The views are beautiful from this walk and you will definitely want to snap some pics along the way.
The Wedding Cake House
This historic home is actually in Kennebunk, not Kennbunkport and it’s worth a drive by and a pose for instagram. This yellow house with white “frosting” trim is formally known as the George W. Bourne House. The “Wedding Cake” name was applied to the house due to its wedding cake-like appearance. It is located at 104 Summer Street.
Do A Little Eating
Rococo Ice Cream
The flavors at Rococo are really quite unique.If you’re a hot beverage lover like me you will love a scoop of Earl Grey Rose Hip Jam and Pistachio (yes that’s all one flavor), Chai Cardamon or Cuban Coffee. This woman owned and operated parlor also has flavors like Maine Whoopie Pie, Rhubarb Sage, Molasses Gingersnap and Hokey Pokey…because that’s what it’s all about. Make sure you treat yourself a scoop and take it for a walk around town. If you’re able take a pint of two to go as well.
Mornings in Paris
This is always a must stop for me when I’m in the area. They closed their location in Portland and I miss drinking my foamy salt & silk lattes in the Old Port but it gives me an excuse to venture south for some shopping. Mornings in Paris offers flakey croissants, perfect iced coffee and take away picnic boxes. The picnic boxes are great for your day at the beach!
Old Vines Wine Bar
After your day of shopping or an after beach nap, Old Vines is the perfect place for a delicious meal. The menu is tapas style so it’s made for sharing. I love that because this is a place where you’ll want to try everything. The Ladybird cocktail is also top notch.
Eat Some Local Seafood
You’re in a coastal town in Maine, you have to eat some sort of seafood! Or at least some french fries and a grilled cheese at a local seafood restaurant. Alisson’s Restaurant & Pub or The Clam Shack are great casual choices. Nothing fancy, just good ol’ pub food from establishments that have been in bussiness for over 40 years. New England Clam Chowder is always a great choice or some fish and chips. You could also treat yourself to that crustacean that Maine is famous for, you will find it on most menus and the price isn’t terrible.
If you’re planning a trip to Maine, make sure to add Kennebunkport to your list! And don’t be afraid to visit in the wintertime. Maine winters can be cold and snowy but it’s worth braving the elements to experience Prelude in Kennebunkport. It takes place the first two weeks in December each year and is down right magical. Get more info here .
Maine’s coast is full of gems like Kennebunkport, stay tuned for more coastal recommendations!
