Kennebunk Travel Guide

Kennebunk is a resort and beach town in Maine boasting gorgeous views and plenty of things to do. From rocky beaches to wildlife refuges, Kennebunk is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast. The town was founded in the early 1600s and was originally devoted to trading and shipping. If you visit the harbor nowadays, you can still see how important shipping was to the town's formation.

Visit downtown to walk down memory lane and explore the beautiful architecture and the centuries-old buildings. Kennebunk also features the state’s oldest banks which date back to the middle 1800s. Alternatively, visit the two-hundred-year-old Lafeyette Elm which has its own town seal and survived many diseases. The town tends to be decorated all year round for the holidays, so if you want to feel festivel, Kennebunk is the place to go!

Things to Do in Kennebunk

Due to its great location, Kennebunk has gorgeous scenery and nature all around.

Visit the interesting marshlands around the town for bird-watching and nature exploring. Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent place to go if you're interested in animals and conservation. Many animals and birds live in the refuge center so you can plan a trip here to learn more about the creatures and the local area. The refuge is located on a salt marshal, so prepare yourself for breathtaking views and unique wildlife -- also known for being one of the best places to see migratory birds.

Elsewhere, Wells Beach, Biddeford Pool and Goose Rock Beach are the most visited beaches with white sand and rocky shorelines. The Seashore Trolley Museum is a fun activity for the whole family, where visitors can see different vehicles from across history.

For the most unique building make sure to visit the ‘Wedding Cake House’ which looks exactly like decorated wedding cake -- perfect for foodies and photographers alike! Additionally, if you have time, make sure to visit Cape Porpoise, only a few miles away from Kennebunk, it's a very pretty tiny coastal town.

Best Places to Stay in Kennebunk

The best areas to stay are in the harbour area and the city center. The harbor is beautiful and waking up to the ocean breeze and the sounds of the docks is priceless. Alternatively, the downtown area is great for having cafes and restaurants right around the corner. There is a large selection of vacation rental properties across the city, from downtown rental condos with lots of rooms and bathrooms for large groups, to fully equipped beach house vacation rentals for families.

Best Time to Visit Kennebunk

The best time to visit Kennebunk is August, especially if you plan to spend most of your time outdoors. Summer is also pleasant, with an average temperature of 75 degrees, however, after October the temperature significantly drops, even as low as 30. June sees the most rainfall, so it's wise to avoid this month is traveling with children.