The Kennebunk center point is around 1 mile west of Landing School of Boatbuilding and 3 miles west of Shoot the Moon.
High tourist season in Kennebunk coincides with the region's mild weather, from late May through early September. Warm temperatures and clear skies make for the best beach days, blueberry picking excursions, hikes, and explorations of the local historic sites. You'll also find that the biggest local events are scheduled during the peak season, from May Day celebrations to Independence Day fireworks at the beach.
Summer highs rarely exceed the upper 70s, with perfect temperatures for fun in the sun. Winters can become quite cold, dipping into the mid-30s regularly from December to February. The rainiest months of the year are May and June, so plan to spend inclement weather days shopping, dining, and touring some of the historic captains' homes.
The Kennebunk Artisans Marketplace at the Waterhouse Center on Main Street also runs on Saturdays from late May through early October from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here, you can browse an impressive array of curated artisan wares, including locally made candles, woodwork, paintings, and jewelry to fresh bread, chocolate, produce, meats, cheeses, herbs, spices, and more.
After the crowds leave town, the celebrations continue through fall and winter, with a harvest festival in mid-October and several tree lighting ceremonies held in December. Whether you come in the summer for days on the water or visit on business later in the year, there's always something of interest happening in Kennebunk.
Port Inn Kennebunk, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member, is the place for hotel discounts of all kinds, whether you're a AAA member, senior, or military and government worker. This hotel offers very competitive rates and it's centrally located near Mother's Beach, the Brick Store Museum, and other area attractions. Save even more during your stay by taking advantage of the in-room coffee and tea makers, the complimentary continental breakfast, and the laundry facilities.
Just minutes from the Kennebunk Free Library, Brick Store Museum, Ogunquit Beach, and Goose Rocks Beach, the affordable and well-appointed Hampton Inn Kennebunk Kennebunkport arguably offers the best value amenities in the area. Each guest room comes equipped with a fridge and microwave for your convenience, so you can stow and prepare lunch goodies and snacks for beach picnics, as well as 42-inch LCD televisions with premium channels and free wireless internet access that will keep the whole family entertained.
Visit the indoor pool and fitness center on rainy or cool days to get some exercise in while the free daily housekeeping tidies up for you. If you need dry cleaning and laundry service, the Hampton Inn can also take care of that for you. Plus, there's no need to worry about paying for breakfast. The daily breakfast buffet comes free of charge, included in your hotel rate.
If you're looking for a romantic getaway at a great value, book one of the 17 individually decorated guest rooms at the Maine Stay Inn and Cottages in Kennebunkport, just 15 minutes from Goose Rocks Beach.
There's no shortage of beaches to choose from in Kennebunk, including secluded Parson's Beach, Middle Beach, Rocky Beach, Gooch's Beach, and Long Beach. Kennebunk Beach is also known by residents as Boothby Beach, Mothers Beach, or even Dipsy Beach. Though the signage and conflicting names can be confusing, finding your way to this beach is well worth the trouble because the calm waters of Kennebunk Beach make it the perfect spot for swimming and the preferred swim spot for families with children. Lifeguards are on duty at Mother's Beach and Gooch's Beach from mid-June through mid-September.
You don't have to jump in the water or sprawl on the shore to enjoy the beaches. Walkers and joggers love getting fresh air and exercise on the sidewalks that stretch from Beach Avenue at Gooch's Beach past Lord's Point. Drive to the beach and park there with a visitor pass displayed in the windshield, or pick up the affordable, local Shoreline Explorer shuttle service from June 22 through Sept. 2.
Whichever mode of transport you choose to get to the beach, make sure to secure your beach passes in advance. You can bring your dog with you for a beach visit provided that the dog leaves by 9 a.m. or that you are visiting after 5 p.m. Of course, you must clean up after your dog or you could expect a hefty fine. The town also offers a beach wheelchair for rental.
Those traveling to Kennebunk by boat also need to secure a mooring license. Be sure to apply early, as the permits are issued first come, first served by the harbor master. If you're carrying a boat in (a kayak or canoe, for example), then head to Intervale Road River Park, Rogers Pond, Seagrass Lane Boat Launch, or Rogers Pond. Take the guesswork out and charter a scenic tour or fishing tour at Dock Square Bridge.
If you're staying at a local hotel, check with their staff first before purchasing costly visitor beach passes for the day, week, or season. The hotel may also be able to provide their own visitor pass to you at no cost.
Below are reviews of the city of Kennebunk, ME from an actual visitor's perspective.
Very nice restaurant right across the street from hotel.
The restaurants and access to the water!
The city of Kennebunk was small and charming with very friendly, helpful people. Quite different from what we are use to in California.
Not too much interaction with the people but the lady at the Citgo convenience store was particularly pleasant and helpful during the week we stayed there.