Kennebunkport, Maine, USA
When considering things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine, many folks would be hard put to come up with anything other than the Bush compound at Walker’s Point or Dock Square, the town’s iconic hub of shops, eateries, and galleries (all of which appear on this list, mind you).
But there is far more to do here than stroll Dock Square’s brick sidewalks alongside shopping bag-toting, well-heeled tourists.
So, be sure to set aside some time during your Kennebunkport getaway to tick some of these activities off your downtime to-do list. Note: Be sure to check websites for seasonal closures before making your plans.
Map of Kennebunkport Activities
Here’s a map of some of the fun things to do in Kennebunkport next time you visit.
Walk—or Drive—Ocean Avenue
This road heads out of Dock Square and follows the Kennebunk River to the Atlantic Ocean, where you’ll be treated to panoramic, breathtaking ocean views to your right, and enormous, drool-worthy waterfront homes to your left.
Many folks choose to drive this route, but I prefer to walk. If you’re up for a 4-mile round-trip, park in Dock Square (pro tip: There’s free, on-street parking on North Street, alongside the post office) and stroll along Ocean Avenue, keeping your phone handy for photos.
When you reach Walker’s Point—you’ll know it by the gaggles of out-of-state cars pulled over to snap pics of George H.W. Bush’s sprawling family getaway—it’s time to turn around. And on your way back…
…Stop in at St. Anne’s-by-the-Sea
Since its completion and consecration in 1892, this delightful stone church has been fulfilling its purpose as a summer chapel every year, perched on a rocky promontory at the edge of the Atlantic. Built using sea-rounded stones from the property’s coastline, St. Anne’s has undergone many repairs and restorations over the years, all remaining true to its original, handcrafted style and design.
The beautiful, oceanfront grounds are meticulously maintained and include a memorial rose garden, an outdoor chapel, and a columbarium.
Parking is limited, but if you’re walking, that’s not a concern; there is no fee to tour the grounds or chapel, although there may be limited access during services.
Tour the Galleries
Far too many to list here, the galleries on offer in Kennebunkport could keep you busy for days. Many artists have their own studios and storefronts, while others choose to display their wares at shops that specialize in local art and handmade gift items.
Either way, you’re bound to come upon the perfect gift or personal memento from Kennebunkport, whether it be a perfect rendering in oils of Dock Square’s iconic “three boats,” a majestic copper wind sculpture, or a playful ceramic school of colorful koi fish for your garden.
Dine ‘til You Drop
Whether you’re a Picky Patsy or a Gourmand Gabby, you won’t leave Kennebunkport with an empty stomach.
You’ll find all manner of dining experiences in a wide range of cuisine styles and price points here—and if it’s summertime, be prepared to wait for a long time if you don’t have a reservation (and many places don’t take them).
Craving seafood with a water view? Try Arundel Wharf.
Prefer a pub atmosphere? Head to Alisson’s.
Looking to level up your dining experience? Book a table at The Boathouse, The Burleigh, Chez Rosa, or Hurricane.
And for the ultimate special occasion dinner, put Earth at Hidden Pond on your restaurant bucket list.
Get out Your Gift List
If you have one, now’s the time to cross some things off of it. Dock Square is overflowing with places to get a bespoke gift for literally any occasion, and because everything is so close together, you can easily hit them all in a day, on foot.
You’ll find shops like Abacus and Compliments filled with local artists’ work and handmade gift items.
There are specialty shops for more targeted gift audiences, like Scalawag’s Pet Boutique, Mainely Drizzle Olive Oils, Home Ingredients, and Sea Bags.
If it’s jewelry or clothing you’re looking for, you’ll have plenty of options, but try Sea Glass Jewelry Studio and Dock Square Clothiers, respectively.
Catch Some Rays
You’ve got a couple of options when it comes to beaches in Kennebunkport. Colony Beach is a diminutive, stony beach tucked alongside the Kennebunk River breakwater, just across the street from the Colony Hotel.
Not many folks know about it and there is limited free parking, so it tends to be a much more peaceful beach experience.
For a more…well, beachy experience, head to Goose Rocks Beach. This 3-mile sandy public beach requires a parking permit in-season, which you can purchase at the kiosks or several other in-town locations.
Rent a Boat…
If you are at least 21 and are an experienced boater but don’t have a boat, head to Kennebunkport Marina and rent one.
Offering five different boat styles to rent by the day or week, you can add a whole new element of excitement to your coastal vacation.
All safety gear is provided—life jackets, paddles, etc.—and you can add on fishing gear and picnic lunch packages if so desired. And, if you aren’t savvy about the ways of motor boating, the Kennebunkport Marina also rents canoes and kayaks.
…or Let Someone Else do the Navigating
Sit back and relax while an expert seafarer takes charge. New England EcoAdventures will take you on a ride you won’t soon forget; a one-hour, wave-hopping, exhilarating ride in a rigid inflatable boat offering unforgettable views.
For a less heart-pounding, more educational trip, Rugosa Lobster Tours allows you to try your hand at lobstering—a true Maine experience on a traditional wooden lobster boat.
Or sail on the family-built, -owned, and -run Schooner Eleanor, where you can bring your own picnic and beverages, and the crew will be as tour-guide-y or as unobtrusive as you want them to be.
Cycle by the Sea
If you want to tour the area and get some exercise while you’re at it, why not rent a bike?
Not only is it a great way to get some fresh air while getting from one place to another, but you won’t have to worry about paying to park or trying to squeeze into a tight spot.
You can even ride on the beach if you want. Rentals are available by the hour, half-day, full-day, or week, and include helmets and locks.
Go Trekking
The Kennebunkport Conservation Trust has worked diligently over the years to protect over 2,800 acres from development; if you are looking for someplace to get away from it all, you won’t have to go far.
Offering over 27 miles of trails throughout a host of preserves, sites, gardens, and woods, KCT is committed to ensuring Kennebunkport will always have protected, undeveloped zones for all to enjoy.
There are opportunities for all manner of activities and interests in KCT’s holdings: Mountain biking, hiking, wildlife viewing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, picnicking, and camping are all on offer.
There is even a contemplative stone-lined labyrinth at the Emmons Preserve.
Tour the Town by Trolley…
For over three decades, the bell of the Intown Trolley has been a familiar sound in Kennebunkport.
Touted as the ideal way to tour “the Port,” these narrated trolley rides take you back through the town’s history as you enjoy the corresponding sights and sounds of its modern-day version.
Be sure to reserve your seats ahead of time; walk-ons cannot be guaranteed.
…or Tour the Town on Foot
Get a different experience entirely by exploring Kennebunkport’s shipbuilding history with a Maine Day Ventures guided walking tour.
This easy, 2-hour tour will take you out of Dock Square and meander through the beautiful neighborhoods overlooking the Kennebunk River, where the well-to-do shipbuilders and merchants lived.
Enjoy fascinating stories of days gone by in this educational “walk through time.”
Places to stay in Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport lodging options include bespoke B&Bs, upscale hotels, resorts, and more. Here are just a few:
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