Imagine a quintessential New England coastal town.

Beautiful rocky beaches and blue waters. Sailboats and sunsets. Lobsters and anchors everywhere you turn. Cute shops and ice cream galore.

The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com

Welcome to Kennebunkport, Maine.

This seaside town is as charming as can be. There’s no place quite like it.

Kennebunkport is my happy place. It’s where you can go and forget the world and just be. Peace and calm – nothing but the sound of waves.

The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com

I’m headed there at the end of December and couldn’t be more more excited. The town will be empty – a stark contrast to the packed summer streets. Snow will hopefully cover the Christmas tree in the center of town. Only a few restaurants will be open. But I almost love Kennebunkport more this time of year – it’s like time has stopped and the whole place is mine.

The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com
The Quaint Charm of Kennebunkport, Maine | carolinelkraus.com

Kennebunkport is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway any time of year, though the summer is when everything comes to life. You can go whale watching, biking, swimming, sailing, antique hunting, or just sit and watch the world go by.

My favorite thing to do is to take a stroll on the beach just after 5 PM when all the dogs come out to play. Kennebunkport is fairly dog friendly and has the cutest dog store called Scalawags in the center of town that dog lovers shouldn't miss. As much as I love the town, I think my toy poodle, Teddy, may love it even more! Goose Rocks Beach is his favorite place in the world.

Cute B&Bs and vacation rentals are scattered throughout town and all along the beaches.

There are restaurants for budget travelers and luxury travelers alike. From the fried fish at the Clam Shack to an upscale sunset dinner at the Cape Arundel Inn, Kennebunkport has all you need for an unforgettable weekend escape. If you decide to stay longer and exhaust the small town’s culinary scene, it’s only a short drive to the bustling city of Portland or neighboring coastal towns like Ogunquit. 

We always drive into Maine from New Hampshire and pass the state welcome signs stating, “Maine: The Way Life Should Be”, and “Maine: Worth a Visit, Worth a Lifetime”. One visit to Kennebunkport and you’ll be nodding in agreement!

-Caroline