Kennebunkport is one of the cutest, most picture-perfect oceanside towns in Maine. Eclectic shops and plenty of fresh seafood restaurants fill the quaint streets—the Clam Shack has some of the best-fried clam bellies in the state, and you have to try Rococo’s artisan ice cream. Whiskey-influenced flavors in a pretzel cone are where it’s at. You won’t find towering hotels or a ton of chain establishments, just authentic lodging with a cozy cottage ambiance.
The Nonantum Resort
The Nonantum Resort backs up against a sliver of water, where boats trail in and out. Ask for a room facing the inlet, and be sure to spend at least one sunset gazing from your private balcony. Little touches like the precious fairy garden out front make the resort even more special. An extensive breakfast buffet with fruit, eggs, hot cereal, baked treats and New England staple, baked beans, is an added perk to choosing the traditionally charming Nonantum.
The Colony Hotel
Come for the unbelievable pool which melds with the ocean horizon, and stay for hospitality and old world charm. Breakfast is amazing, and complete, with potatoes, eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit and fluffy pancakes filled with plump Maine blueberries.
Kennebunkport Inn
Traditional, yet with those northern beach cottage vibes, Kennebunkport Inn is airy and inviting. Centrally located, many of the best things about the town are just a short walk away. Vegetable frittatas, quiche and warm croissants round out a pleasant continental breakfast in a cute dining area. Seafood selections at the onsite restaurant are fresh and honestly prepared, rivaling choices in town.
The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel & Restaurant
It doesn’t get more “waterfront” than this—The Boathouse and it’s popular restaurant nearly extend into the water while sitting on a rocky slice of land. Floor to ceiling windows in the rooms allow guests to soak up the surroundings of passing boats and pristine water. The hotel does an impeccable job of paying attention to detail, right down to the welcome cocktails and farewell goodie bags with waters and iconic Maine whoopie pies.
The Tides Beach Club
Right across the street from the beach, The Tides has a more oceanfront, toes in the sand kind of atmosphere, while still holding true to New England style. Umbrellas and chairs are provided for long days in the sun—order a hot, buttery lobster roll, which you have to try at least once while in the state, and an addicting watermelon cosmo right from your chair. All of the cocktails are amazing, including the blackberry mojito.
Cape Arundel Inn and Resort
Choose between the vintage manor or ocean views at the main home when booking a stay at Arundel. Breakfast is tailored with offerings like eggs Benedict, blueberry pancakes and fresh fruit—guests get to select from a variety of featured entrees of the day. From the inn, you can peer toward the Bush residence, where the former president and his wife often vacation, and bikes are available at no charge, so guests can zip to downtown or around the property.
Maine Stay Inn and Cottages
There’s a lot to be said about the immaculate, lovely decorated classic rooms which are overflowing with warmth and charm. Breakfast is genuinely creative with the incorporation of greens, herbs and other pleasantly unexpected ingredients—every day features something refreshingly different. Those who opt to stay in a cottage suite have the luxury of their gourmet breakfast being delivered right to the door. Attention to dietary needs is another welcomed detail, as gluten-free and vegan options are both offered.
White Barn Inn & Spa
Two restored 1800s barns serve as the heart of this luxurious in, complete with an award-winning restaurant and lavish spa. Along with the culinary mastery at White Barn, the sandwiches and scones served during teatime are a simple yet delicious depiction of what to expect. Lunch is also served around the naturalistic swimming pool with deep blue water and surrounding stone accents, quite possibly qualifying it as the most gorgeous pool around.
Hidden Pond
Hidden Pond has a nearly complete five star ranking on TripAdvisor, a rarity among even the finest hotels. A compilation of cottages and bungalows are interwoven through the privately wooded escape, with each one offering its own personality and home touches like fireplaces. An onsite garden fuels the food and drink menu, with everything holding closely to the “farm to fork” mentality. However, the showstopper is the treetop spa with three treatment areas, that are literally nestled high in the branches. Only available to guests, it’s a must during your Kennebunkport stay.
