Kennebunkport

A Maine Escape: Lobster Rolls, Lighthouses & Laidback Weekends

Sep 08, 2025

Last summer Garret and I were lucky to spend a weekend in Kennebunkport for a wedding. The last time I had been to Maine was back in 8th grade, so I was really looking forward to this return trip. It was everything I imagined and more - boats bobbing in the harbor, hydrangeas spilling over white picket fences, and seafood shacks on every corner. Kennebunkport has a quieter, quintessentially New England vibe that makes you instantly slow down. The weekend was filled with salty air, blueberry everything, and postcard perfect scenery that left me wondering why I don’t plan more trips to Maine.

How to Get There

Fly - We originally planned to fly in and out of Portland, but United had other plans. After our departure flight was cancelled, we pivoted our flight to Boston and rented a car for the ~2 hour drive up to Kennebunkport. On the way home our Boston flight was also cancelled (classic), so we ended up flying out of Portland instead, which is luckily a quick 40 minute drive from town.
Drive - If you’re up for a road trip, the drive from the NJ/NYC area takes about 6–7 hours. Definitely build in a stop or two along the way - it’s the perfect excuse for a roadside lobster roll or an ice cream break.

Where to stay

Nonantum Resort – We loved this historic waterfront hotel and would highly recommend! Our room in the Portside Lodge overlooked the Kennebunk River, marina, and lighthouse, which doesn’t get better than that. The property is family friendly, with an outdoor pool plus bike, kayak, and paddleboard rentals, and is the perfect venue for a wedding too! When we arrived, we found a watercolor print of the exact lobster boats outside our window left in our room - a thoughtful touch that we ended up framing and now have hanging in our apartment. The hotel is a quick 5 minute shuttle or a 10-15 minute walk into town. Breakfast here is also no joke and the spread changed daily - think homemade brown sugar waffles, maple sausages, blueberry scones, and apple cider donuts. On our last morning I even packed a breakfast box to go for the ride to the airport because it was that good. Spooky fun fact: legend has it the hotel is haunted but honestly, aren’t the best old hotels a little haunted?
White Barn Inn – If you’re looking for a luxury escape, the White Barn Inn is the move. Part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, it’s set just outside of downtown, giving you more privacy and space while still being close to everything. This hotel is rustic New England charm meets modern luxury: spacious rooms and suites, a world class spa, and an outdoor pool. Their restaurant is a destination in itself - fine dining inside a restored barn, complete with candlelight and the kind of elevated, seasonal menu you’d plan a trip around. It’s perfect for a romantic weekend or a special celebration when you want to lean into all things cozy and indulgent.

What to Do

Beach – Kennebunkport has no shortage of stunning beaches. Goose Rocks Beach and Gooch’s Beach are both beautiful spots to relax, take in the ocean, or go for a swim.
Shopping – Downtown Kennebunkport is full of charming boutiques and local shops. Some of my favorites:
- Seacraft Vintage – An antique store with two locations. Follow them on Instagram - you’ll want everything!
- Minka – Beautifully curated home goods, art, jewelry, and more.
- Scalawags – The cutest pet boutique, perfect for picking up a souvenir for your pup back home.

Parking downtown is limited, so take advantage of your hotel’s shuttle or explore the town by walking or biking when possible.

Walk / Hike – Take a walk along Ocean Avenue to see the iconic Walker’s Point and the Bush family compound. For more nature, explore the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, where trails wind along coastal salt marshes and offer a peaceful escape with gorgeous views.
Boat – The best way to see the coastline is from the water. You can hop on a lobster boat with Rugosa Lobster Tours or do a sailing trip on the Schooner Eleanor or the Pineapple Ketch - both are gorgeous, especially at sunset. The Nonantum Resort can help arrange boat tours for guests.
Cape Porpoise – A quaint village in Kennebunkport with a small harbor, art galleries, and some of the best clam chowder around. Fun fact: Taylor Swift filmed her music video “Mine” here.
Local Breweries & Distilleries – Stop by Kennebunkport Brewing Co. or Batson River Brewing & Distilling for a flight of seasonal beers and spirits tastings.

Where to Eat & Drink

The Clam Shack – This spot is not to be missed! We had lunch here and loved it so much we came back the next day. There’s usually a line, but it’s worth the wait and there’s cute merch to browse while you wait. Lobster rolls for seafood fans (Garret claimed this was the best one he’s had to date), chicken fingers for the land lovers, and their blueberry hand pies and frozen blueberry margaritas are beyond. (Beli rating: 8.8)
Alisson’s Restaurant – Casual, no frills spot in the heart of town serving classic New England comfort food like lobster bisque, juicy burgers, and local craft beers. (Beli rating: 6.9)
The Boathouse Restaurant – Gorgeous waterfront dining with a unique twist - fresh Maine seafood with Asian inspired flavors, like lobster fried rice and wonton crab tacos. For turf option, try the steak frites with nori fries. (Beli rating: 7.6)
Batson River Brewing – A small, local brewery with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Great spot to grab a flight or pint after a day of exploring. I want to come back in the winter for the Fish Shacks, which is a private dining experience in individual cottages with full service and heat. (Beli rating: 7.0)
Spirit of Massachusetts Restaurant – This dry-docked 125-foot schooner is perched outside the Pilot House restaurant. Great views and great cocktails here - get the Captain Dan’s Paloma or the Blueberry Breeze. They also have creative small plates and raw bar for a sunset aperitif before dinner. (Beli rating: 8.0)
Ryan’s Corner Irish Pub – Fun dive bar with dollar bills hanging from the ceiling. A great spot to start or end your night. (Beli rating: 8.0)
Wandby Landing – We came here for the wedding welcome party and it was such a cozy spot. Their menu focuses on locally sourced seafood mixed with Italian classics and the wood fire pizza was a standout. It’s the perfect place to linger with friends over good food and we would definitely come back for dinner next trip.
Earth at Hidden Pond – Farm-to-table restaurant with seasonal dishes, curated wines and cocktails in an intimate setting. We didn’t get a chance to visit this time, but it’s high on my list for next!