Things to Do in Kennebunkport ME in the Summer

The seaside village of Kennebunkport is one of Maine’s most beloved vacation spots. About an hour and a half north of Boston in southern Maine, Kennebunkport is known for its charming boutique shopping, fresh coastal eats, and stunning New England beaches. Though Kennebunkport is most traveled in the summer, its off-season is just as spectacular. But if you need a little help planning your summer vacation to this coastal city, Nook Outdoors has you covered. In this blog, we’ll offer some travel inspo for some things to do in Kennebunkport ME, as well as a lovely place to stay nearby.

Goose Rocks Beach

If you’re visiting Kennebunkport in the summer, spending a day on the beach is a must. Maine beaches are known for their rocky coastlines, abundance of sea glass, and charming beach houses that flock to the shoreline. Yet, one beach in Kennebunkport is well-loved by locals and tourists alike. Goose Rocks Beach is a public beach that flows three miles down the shoreline. The beach is famous for its soft white sand, gentle surf, and the Goose Rocks barrier reef that protects it from the rough Atlantic waves.

Grab a blanket and pack a picnic lunch for a relaxing day beneath the warm New England sun, or rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the reef from above. Moreover, the area surrounding Goose Rocks Beach is full of local shops and delicious seafood, one of which is The Tides Beach Club. This beachside restaurant features beautiful coast views alongside fresh Maine seafood and refreshing libations. What better way to end a day on the beach? (Pssst! If you find this beach is too busy, Gooch’s Beach near the Kennebunk River is a spectacular backup beach and is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.)

Walker’s Point Estate (President Bush Compound)

Settled along the magnificent Ocean Ave is the Bush family compound, one of the most popular things to do in Kennebunkport ME. Known as the summer home of the 41st president of the United States, George H. W. Bush, Walker’s Point has been in the Bush family for over a century and is where the president spent most of his childhood. This estate, known as the Summer White House, was first purchased by Bush’s great-grandfather, David Davis Walker, and his son in the 19th century. After being passed through the family, Bush eventually purchased the estate, and it remains in the family today.

This magnificent property juts out into the Atlantic Ocean and boasts a large, New-England-style main house, guesthouse, boathouse, and spacious lawns, among other grand features. Though the property is closed to the public (and guarded by Secret Service officers), there are plenty of spots to park along Ocean Avenue for a vantage point with a great view of the compound, as well as the rocky, dramatic coastline.

Cape Porpoise Pier

A notable part of the Kennebunkport Historical Society, the Cape Porpoise Pier on Bickford’s Island is another great place to visit in Kennebunkport, Maine, for fresh, authentic Maine seafood, though it’s a bit more humble than fine dining. This fishing village is hidden a few miles from the famous Dock Square and bustles with busy fishermen, active lobster traps, seaside cottages, and plenty of that old-fashioned harbor feel. A real working fishing wharf, you’ll want to make the day trip for tantalizing lobster dishes and other seaside favorites. Popular restaurants in Cape Porpoise include Cape Porpoise Chowder House, Musette, and Casa Seventy-Seven, among others.

Goat Island Lighthouse

Also in Cape Porpoise Harbor is the iconic Goat Island Lighthouse. Since 1833, this lighthouse has been a beacon for boats in the busy fishing village. Having undergone its fair share of restorations in the past century and beyond, this lighthouse exudes Maine charm and is accessible by boat and kayak during the summer. However, this relatively small lighthouse, only about twenty-five feet tall, can also be spotted from the Cape Porpoise Pier. Many travelers book boat tours past this site, which often also passes by the Bush Compound. This is undoubtedly one of the more scenic, relaxing things to do in Kennebunkport ME in the summer.

Explore the Kennebunk River

If you’re looking for more things to do in Kennebunkport ME, on the water, consider taking a trip down the Kennebunk River. This gently flowing river is 17.6 miles long and runs southeast through York County along the border of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, eventually draining into the Atlantic Ocean. If a day on the boat, admiring the New England architecture along the banks, sounds like bliss, be sure to stop by. Enjoy numerous opportunities for whale-watching, sightseeing, and deep-sea fishing. You can also book a lobster boat tour along the river or traverse the less boat-heavy areas by kayak. Some say that the river is most pleasant in the early morning, as the local wildlife is more active and the weather is brisk and serene.

Dock Square

Finally, if you’re going to visit beautiful Kennebunkport, you must spend an afternoon at Dock Square. You’ll find lovely patio cafes, art galleries, boutique shops, and steaming lobster rolls, with the Clam Shack being a must-visit restaurant in the area. The Dock Square Coffee House, another local breakfast favorite, is known for its fresh baked goods and gourmet coffees. So, grab a drink and meander around the town, past trolleys, for an authentic Kennebunkport experience full of seaside air, quaint shops, and delicious eateries.

Where to Stay Near Things to Do in Kennebunkport ME

Now, where to stay near these pretty cool things to do in Kennebunkport ME? Well, there’s a quaint boutique hotel that exudes New England charm and puts you in the center of this vibrant coastal city: AWOL Kennebunkport. Continue reading for details.

AWOL Kennebunkport

“Be in the middle of it all. Feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere.” Sound like heaven? AWOL Kennebunkport is an enchanting, secluded boutique hotel. This hotel is nestled among the flourishing Maine landscape of blueberry bushes and pine groves and a short walk from Dock Square. So, you can indulge in isolation while socializing and experiencing authentic Maine culture. Whether you seek the perfect weekend getaway or a fabulous time working remotely, AWOL Kennebunkport has all you need for a sweet coastal retreat.

Moreover, this secluded escape features simple amenities. Enjoy a complimentary artisanal toast bar each morning. Here, combine savory and sweet bread and pastries with fresh toppings like honey, granola, hummus, jams, and more. You’ll also find bikes and beach chairs, personalized concierge services, and, of course, wi-fi. Please note that all suites here accommodate two guests max, making for a lovely anniversary vacation or romantic trip. Take a look at cozy yet luxurious “untucked” accommodations below.

Cabin Accommodations

• Cabin Studio: This dog-friendly cabin sleeps two with a plush king-size bed. It features a dry bar, gas fireplace, built-in lounge seating, and a large walk-in shower. It also offers a private patio in the seclusion of the grove.
• Deluxe Cabin Studio: This renovated cabin sleeps two with a platform king-size bed. Enjoy a dry bar, gas fireplace, built-in lounge seating, and a large walk-in shower. There’s also a private patio hidden among the pine trees.
• Deluxe Cabin Studio w/ Soaking Tub: This is the second largest cabin. It is known for its 51-inch round Japanese soaking tub and additional walk-in shower. This beautiful cabin offers a platform king-size bed and features a dry bar, gas fireplace, and built-in lounge seating.
• Premium Cabin Suite: This is the largest cabin accommodation, featuring a private bedroom with a king-size bed. Indulge in a front porch, quaint living area, dining table, gas fireplace, Japanese soaking tub, and walk-in shower.

Suite Accommodations

• Walker Suite: Named after the original owner of the home this suite is a premier accommodation in the main house. Relax in your private king-size bedroom, adorned with a gas fireplace. Pass through the French doors into the living area. Here, you’ll find plenty of natural light and a soaking tub surrounded by flourishing house plants. Enjoy also a walk-in shower.
• Cupola Suite: This is the only suite on the third floor of the main house and features lovely views of the outside. Climb the private staircase to this level and enter your living area, featuring a dining table, sofa, and TV. The separate bedroom offers a king-size bed and a walk-in shower.
• King Fireplace Suite: This suite is on the second floor of the main house. It features a quaint sitting room, a corner fireplace, and views of the pristine yard. The separate bedroom offers a king-size bed and bathroom with a walk-in shower.
• King Fireplace Suite w/ Soaking Tub: This suite is also on the second floor. It features all the same amenities as the King Fireplace Suite, with the addition of a Japanese soaking tub.
• King Porch Suite: This suite is nestled on the first floor of the main house. It welcomes plenty of natural light and boasts French doors leading to a large private deck on the side of the house. Another exterior door leads to private seating area in the grass. Of course, you’ll find a king-size bed, gas fireplace, and bathroom.
• King Suite: This final suite is located on the second floor and is a more petite option. Enjoy a modest seating area, king-size bed, and walk-in shower.

Soak Up New England Charm with AWOL

If you’re ready to explore this famed coastal city, make AWOL Kennebunkport your home base! With this quaint boutique haven, you can enjoy sweet seclusion while being just minutes away from a walkable seaside village. So, what are you waiting for?

Experience Things to Do in Kennebunkport ME with Nook Outdoors

Ready to get a taste of classic New England? Experience these top things to do in Kennebunkport ME, for yourself with Nook Outdoors. At Nook, we put adventure amid the beauty of nature at the forefront of our vacations. We take you to quaint corners of the country, where the world seems to turn slower and the sun shines brighter. So, escape to the great outdoors with Nook’s collection of boutique hotels, glamping escapes, and cozy cabins.