Kennebunkport is the most refined town on the southern Maine coast — a place where working harbor heritage meets upscale New England charm in a way that feels earned rather than manufactured. The town has been attracting wealthy summer visitors since the 19th century, and that long tradition of hospitality shows in the quality of the restaurants, inns, and shops that line Dock Square and the surrounding streets.
Explore Dock Square
Dock Square is the heart of Kennebunkport — a compact, walkable village center where the Kennebunk River meets the main shopping and dining district. Walk the streets radiating out from Dock Square — Ocean Avenue, North Street, and the side streets toward the river all have interesting buildings, galleries, and shops. The drawbridge over the Kennebunk River near Dock Square opens regularly to let boats pass — a small ritual that reminds visitors this is still a working waterfront town.
Drive Ocean Avenue to Walker’s Point
Ocean Avenue runs south from Dock Square along the rocky coast to Walker’s Point — the rocky promontory where the Bush family estate sits at the edge of the Atlantic. The estate is clearly visible from the road and from the ocean. The rocky coastline along Ocean Avenue is dramatic regardless of the presidential association. Stop at the pullout near Walker’s Point for the best view, then continue around the loop back to town via the Colony Hotel.
Visit the Beaches
Goose Rocks Beach — The finest beach in the Kennebunkport area, a long stretch of sand backed by dunes about 3 miles from Dock Square. A parking permit is required for non-residents. Colony Beach — A smaller beach directly in front of the Colony Hotel, accessible to the public. Kennebunk Beach — Three connected beaches along Beach Avenue offering a range of swimming conditions.
Take a Whale Watching or Lobster Tour
Several boat tour operators work out of the Kennebunkport waterfront. Whale watching tours head offshore to productive Gulf of Maine feeding grounds where finback, minke, and humpback whales are regularly seen in summer. Lobster hauling tours take small groups out with working lobstermen to watch the process of hauling and baiting traps. Book in advance — peak season fills quickly.
Kayak the Kennebunk River
The Kennebunk River flowing through Kennebunkport is excellent for kayaking — a sheltered tidal river with interesting wildlife, historic waterfront architecture, and connections to tidal marshes behind the barrier beach system. Several outfitters near Dock Square offer rentals and guided tours. Great blue herons, ospreys, and shorebirds are regular sights. Accessible for all experience levels.
Eat a Lobster Roll
Nunan’s Lobster Hut in Cape Porpoise (3 miles from Dock Square) is the area’s most storied lobster restaurant — a cash-only, no-frills shack serving whole lobsters and lobster rolls since 1953. The Clam Shack at the bridge in Kennebunk is famous for its lobster roll, named among the best in Maine by multiple publications. Mabel’s Lobster Claw on Ocean Avenue is another long-standing Kennebunkport institution.
Fine Dining at the White Barn Inn
The White Barn Inn restaurant is one of the finest dining destinations in Maine — a beautifully restored 19th-century barn housing a nationally recognized restaurant focusing on Maine ingredients prepared with classical French technique. The setting — candlelit tables beneath original timber frame and exposed rafters — is extraordinary. Reservations essential and should be made well in advance.
Visit Cape Porpoise
Cape Porpoise, about 3 miles northeast of Dock Square, is the working fishing village that Kennebunkport’s more polished center is not. The small harbor is packed with lobster boats, the dock has a working lobster pound, and the atmosphere is authentic Maine fishing community. Walk the pier, watch the lobster boats, pick up fresh lobster at the dock, and have lunch at Nunan’s.
Getting to Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is approximately 85 miles north of Boston via I-95 (exit 25 to Route 9 east) and about 30 miles south of Portland. Parking in Dock Square can be challenging in peak season — arrive early or use the public lots on the periphery and walk in.
Where to Stay
The White Barn Inn is the premier luxury property. The Captain Lord Mansion is a beautifully restored Federal-style inn in the village center. Hidden Pond is a resort set in the woods with exceptional dining at its Earth restaurant. Browse our Kennebunkport lodging guide for the full list.
Plan Your Trip
Ready to visit Kennebunkport? Browse Kennebunkport lodging and start planning. For more southern Maine, see our complete guide to Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine and our Kennebunkport vs Ogunquit comparison. For more Maine coastal destinations, see our Camden vs Bar Harbor comparison.
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📌 Starting in Portland before heading to Kennebunkport? Read our complete guide to Things to Do in Portland Maine — just 30 miles north.