Things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine
Kennebunkport, Maine is an outdoor oasis and The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel is in the heart of all the action. Overlooking the Kennebunk River, we’re just steps away from spectacular kayaking and standup paddleboarding as well as whale watch tours, fishing charters and sailing excursions.
Summer Feet Cycling Tours
For 20 years, our friends at Summer Feet Bicycle Tours have been offering cycling, walking, and multi-sport vacations in some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Biking along the coast of this gorgeous state is an adventure unlike any other. From the rugged coastline in spring and summer to the breathtaking display of brilliantly colored leaves each autumn, there’s plenty to love in Maine.
Forest Bathing
We’ve partnered with Jeanne Christie of Connect to Wilderness to offer local Forest Bathing, the perfect way to connect to nature! Forest Therapy is a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments. Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin yoku, which translates to “taking in the forest atmosphere” or “forest bathing.”
Boat Tours
A traditional gaff rigged schooner, The Schooner Eleanor was built in Kennebunkport by Captain Rich Woodman and launched in May 1999. Flying four sails, with a large teak cockpit and spacious cushioned seating on which to stretch out, a two-hour tour of Kennebunkport aboard the Eleanor – still helmed by Captain Rich – is reminiscent of yachting 1930s style.
43 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, Maine; 207-967-8809
Whale Watching
A whale watch is just a cruise without an expert on board to guide the experience. With his vast knowledge of New England’s whales and the waters in which they travel, Captain Gary will skillfully navigate Nick’s Chance to the summer feeding grounds of Finbacks, Humpbacks, Minkes, the rare Blue Whale, and the endangered Right Whale.
4 Western Avenue, Route 9 Lower Village, Kennebunk, Maine; 207-967-5507
Surfing
There’s nothing like the feeling of riding a wave in the mighty Atlantic, and surfers flock to Gooch’s Beach year-round. Aquaholics Surf shop — conveniently located in Kennebunk’s Lower Village — is your one-stop-shop for all your surfing needs. They offer lessons, rentals and will even deliver for a small fee.
166 Port Road, Kennebunk, ME; (207) 967-8650
Lobster Tour
Did you know that an adult lobster’s “crusher claw” can exert up to 100 pounds of pressure per square inch? Or that lobster traps are actually called pots? You’ll learn this and more when you climb aboard the Rugosa, a New England wooden lobster boat, for a memorable 1 – 1 1/2 hour tour of the Kennebunk River to watch the captain haul lobster traps.
Nonantum Resort, 95 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, Maine; 207-468-4095
Fishing Charters
Whether you’re angling for Stripers or Giant Bluefin Tuna, the folks at Striker fishing charter company are happy to customize your saltwater fishing adventure. And while they can’t guarantee you’ll reel in the catch of a lifetime, experienced captains will teach you the skills of game fishing and give waterside tour of Kennebunkport, Maine.
21 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, ME; 207-590-9093
Kayaking & SUP Tours
When you’re ready to spend a day on the water exploring the coast, Coastal Maine Kayak & Bike will outfit you with a kayak or stand-up paddleboard with options for half and whole day tour and rentals. Folks who would like to learn a bit about the waterways in which they are paddling will love their guided kayak tours.
8 Western Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043; 207-967-6065
Dock Square
Known as the center of downtown Kennebunkport, Maine, Dock Square is peppered with shops, eateries, and art galleries, making it a popular destination with visitors. Bordered on one side by the Kennebunk River — which separates it from Kennebunk’s Lower Village — this town hub will provide a day of distraction for foodies, shoppers and art enthusiasts alike.
Head across the footbridge, and you’ll be in the heart of Dock Square.
Kennebunk Beach
The arc of sandy and pebbly beaches that make up Kennebunk Beach consist of three very distinct beaches. Mother’s Beach features a playground, restrooms and an on-duty lifeguard. Middle Beach is known for its black pebbly covering. The largest of the three, Gooch’s Beach has lifeguards are on duty in high summer and portable toilets nearby.
Beach Avenue, Kennebunk, Maine; Parking permits are available from your concierge.
Goose Rocks Beach
A pristine stretch of soft white sand covering 3 miles, Goose Rocks Beach was named for the offshore barrier reef that shelters it. This heavenly spot beckons visitors to spread out beach blankets and chairs for a fun day spent soaking up the sun and splashing in the surf. Parking is along Kings Highway, from which numerous paths lead to the beach.
Kings Highway, Kennebunkport, Maine; Parking permits are required in season
Kennebunkport Marina
Kennebunkport Marina is a year round marina offering protected slips, full mechanical services, a ships store, engine sales, power boat and canoe rentals. Located a short 1/4 mile from the ocean our location provides a shelter from high winds and rough seas.
Paint the Town Red
Experience the magic of winter’s wonderland in Kennebunkport, Maine! Every February, join us in Maine’s most romantic town for a delightful season of food, culture, and togetherness. All month long, Kennebunkport will be celebrating the season of love with fun winter activities, unique class offerings, girls-day or date-night happenings, and festive hotel packages. Come and have the chance to show us how much you #lovekpt!
Christmas Prelude
Named the #2 Christmas town in America by HGTV, Kennebunkport truly goes above and beyond for its visitors, kicking off the holiday season on the first two weekends in December every year. With its charming hotels, restaurants, shops, and galleries festively decorated, Kennebunkport is transformed into a perfect Christmas Town. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree Lighting in Dock Square, Santa’s Arrival by Lobster Boat, a hat parade, craft fairs, and much more.