Ex-presidents, retirees, and those in the know flock to this Maine coastal haven for its beaches, blowholes, lobster, and wildlife reserves.
You’ll know you’ve reached Kennebunkport when its quintessential New England landscape comes into view. Pretty lighthouses and fishing trawlers decorate a rocky coastline while brightly painted wooden buildings house cute boutiques and cafés. Seafood shacks provide exceptional culinary experiences and hiking trails offer glimpses of the cherished countryside. Spend a day or two here and you’ll soon understand why so many affluent seniors have progressed from summer vacationers to year-round residents.
If you aren’t sure where to start, a simple bike ride, drive, or walk along Ocean Avenue will inspire. Here, stylish mansions peer over the top of manicured hedgerows and look out over the deep-blue ocean. History enthusiast? Visit the century-old St. Ann’s Church and the Seashore Trolley Museum. Nature lover? Stop to watch seawater being blasted out of natural caves. Political pundit? Head to Ocean Avenue to take a selfie in front of Walker’s Point, the compound of George and Barbara Bush.
When in the mood for dining and retail fun, make the downtown districts of Dock Square and Lower Village your ports of call. The unique artwork and quirky souvenirs take inspiration from the seaside location while the restaurants serve up locally harvested clams and lobster. If you want proof of the provenance, ask one of the fishermen for an educational harbor tour; they’ll be happy to welcome you aboard their boats.
What you do in Kennebunkport may depend on the season. If you’re here in summer then hang out at Arundel Beach and Goose Rocks Beach, or go whale watching. Visit in fall and you’ll get to see the magnificent colors of the New England foliage. Combat the winter chill by sipping on a mug of hot apple cider in front of a roaring fire.