Your Kennebunkport Day Trip at a Glance
Dreaming of a quintessential New England coastal escape? Just a short drive from Portland, the charming town of Kennebunkport awaits. If you’re wondering, “Is Kennebunkport worth visiting for a day?” the answer is a resounding yes! Its compact, walkable center, stunning beaches, and world-class dining make it the perfect 2025 day trip. This guide has everything you need to plan your adventure, from getting there and what to do, to a perfect one-day itinerary.
| Quick Facts | Details for Your 2025 Trip |
|---|---|
| Distance from Portland | ~30 miles |
| Driving Time | 45-60 minutes |
| Estimated Day Cost | $75 – $200 per person |
| Best Time to Visit | June – October for warm weather and open attractions |
How to Get from Portland to Kennebunkport
Getting to Kennebunkport is part of the adventure. While there are a few options, one stands out for its flexibility and convenience, especially for a packed day trip.
By Car (The Best Option)
Driving is undoubtedly the most convenient way to explore Kennebunkport, giving you the freedom to set your own schedule. You have two main routes:
- I-95 South: The fastest route, getting you there in about 45 minutes. Perfect if you’re eager to start exploring.
- US Route 1 South: The scenic route. This classic coastal highway winds through several small towns and offers a more leisurely, picturesque drive that takes closer to an hour.
A crucial note on parking: In the peak summer season, parking in Kennebunkport can be challenging. You’ll find metered street parking in Dock Square (around $2-$3/hour) and several paid lots ranging from $20-$40 for the day. Insider Tip: Look for the satellite parking lots and use the free “In-Town Trolley” that runs in the summer. Park once and let the trolley do the work!
By Public Transport & Rideshare
While possible, this option is less ideal for a day trip due to the extra steps. You can take the Amtrak Downeaster from Portland to Wells (an $8-$15 ticket), but you’ll then need a 15-minute taxi or rideshare to Kennebunkport, which costs an additional $20-$30 each way. A direct Uber or Lyft from Portland will cost approximately $50-$70 one way, making it a pricier choice.
| Mode | Travel Time (One Way) | Est. Cost (Round Trip) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car | 45-60 min | $10 (Gas) + Parking | High |
| Train + Taxi | 1.5+ hours | $50 – $80 | Medium |
| Rideshare | 45-60 min | $100 – $140 | High (but expensive) |
Top 5 Things to Do in Kennebunkport on a Day Trip
Kennebunkport packs a lot of charm into a small area. Here are the must-do activities to make the most of your day.
- Explore Dock Square: This is the vibrant heart of Kennebunkport. Spend an hour or two wandering through the maze of streets lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. The views of the boats on the Kennebunk River are the perfect backdrop for your coastal adventure.
- Soak Up the Sun at Gooch’s Beach: As the town’s largest and most popular sandy beach, Gooch’s is perfect for a stroll, sunbathing, or watching the waves roll in. Be aware that a non-resident parking pass is required (~$30/day), so your best bet is to park in town and enjoy the scenic 15-minute walk.
- Glimpse Walker’s Point: Drive along the stunning Ocean Avenue to catch a view of the historic Bush family summer home. There is a designated roadside overlook that provides the perfect vantage point for photos. Please be respectful of the private property and do not attempt to trespass.
- Take a Scenic Boat Tour: See Kennebunkport from the water! Choose a classic lobster boat tour (~$45-$60) to learn about Maine’s most famous crustacean, or embark on a thrilling whale watching excursion (~$60-$80) for a chance to see magnificent marine life. Book these in advance during peak season!
- Relax at Goose Rocks Beach: Located a short drive from the town center, Goose Rocks Beach offers a quieter, more serene alternative to Gooch’s. Its soft white sand and calm waters protected by an offshore barrier reef make it a local favorite for a peaceful afternoon.
A Perfect One-Day Kennebunkport Itinerary from Portland
Feeling overwhelmed? Follow this simple schedule for a perfectly paced day of exploration in 2025.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Drive from Portland | Take the scenic Route 1 if you have extra time and aren’t in a rush. |
| 10:00 AM | Park & Explore Dock Square | Arrive before the crowds to find parking easily. Stroll, browse the shops, and grab a coffee. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch at The Clam Shack | Experience one of Maine’s most iconic lobster rolls. Be prepared for a line in the summer—it’s worth it! |
| 2:00 PM | Beach Time / Scenic Drive | Walk to Gooch’s Beach for an hour on the sand, or take the stunning drive along Ocean Avenue past St. Ann’s Church and Walker’s Point. |
| 4:00 PM | Afternoon Treat | You’ve earned it! Grab a scoop of inventive, gourmet ice cream at Rococo. |
| 5:30 PM | Pre-Dinner Views | Optional: Take a short drive to nearby Cape Porpoise for quintessential fishing village photos and a quieter vibe. |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner or Drive Back | Enjoy a casual pub dinner at Alisson’s or begin the easy drive back to Portland, filled with coastal memories. |
Where to Eat: Best Kennebunkport Restaurants for a Day Trip
From dockside shacks to elegant dining rooms, Kennebunkport’s food scene is a highlight. Here are a few can’t-miss spots.
Iconic & Casual ($-$$)
- The Clam Shack: An absolute must-visit for its legendary lobster rolls and fried clams, served from a tiny shack right on the bridge.
- Alisson’s Restaurant: A Dock Square institution for over 50 years, offering classic American pub fare in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Sweet Treats ($)
- Rococo Artisan Ice Cream: Forget plain vanilla. Come here for unique, small-batch, gourmet flavors like Goat Cheese Blackberry Chambord and Sweet Avocado Cayenne.
Upscale & Waterfront ($$$$)
- The Boathouse Waterfront Restaurant: For a special occasion or a truly memorable meal, The Boathouse offers elegant dining with stunning river views and a modern, seafood-forward menu.
- Mabel’s Lobster Claw: A traditional favorite known for being frequented by the Bush family. Expect classic, perfectly executed Maine seafood dishes.
Insider Tips for a Flawless 2025 Day Trip
Make your trip smooth and stress-free with these local pointers.
- Arrive Early: This is the most important tip! Arriving before 10 AM, especially on a summer weekend, is the key to finding a decent parking spot.
- Book Tours in Advance: Popular boat tours and whale watches sell out quickly. Book online a few days before your trip to secure your spot.
- Visit on a Weekday: If your schedule allows, a trip on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday will offer a much more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
– Use the Trolley: Don’t underestimate the free seasonal trolley. It connects various parking lots to Dock Square and the beaches, saving you a huge headache.
– Wear Comfortable Shoes: Kennebunkport is best explored on foot. You’ll be doing plenty of walking between the shops, docks, and beaches.
What to Pack
A little preparation goes a long way for a coastal day trip. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Layered clothing (the coastal breeze can be cool, even on a sunny day)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- A camera or smartphone for all the photo ops
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Your day trip can be as budget-friendly or as lavish as you like. Here’s a general idea of what to expect in 2025.
| Expense Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas/Parking) | $25 | $40 |
| Food & Drink | $40 | $80 |
| Activities | $10 (Museum) | $60 (Boat Tour) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$75 | ~$180 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Kennebunkport worth visiting for a day?
Yes, absolutely! Kennebunkport is one of the best day trips from Portland. Its compact size means you can easily explore the main attractions like Dock Square, the beaches, and Ocean Avenue on foot in a single, memorable day.
How many days do you need in Kennebunkport, Maine?
A single full day is perfect for seeing the highlights. However, if you want a more relaxed vacation with multiple beach days, boat excursions, and time to explore neighboring towns like Cape Porpoise, 2-3 days is an ideal amount of time.
What are good day trips from Portland, Maine?
Besides Kennebunkport, other fantastic day trips include Freeport for outlet shopping at L.L. Bean, Ogunquit for its beautiful Marginal Way coastal walk, and Cape Elizabeth to see the iconic Portland Head Light lighthouse.
What to see between Kennebunkport and Portland?
If you take the scenic Route 1, you can stop at Old Orchard Beach for its classic pier and amusement park or explore the historic mill towns of Biddeford and Saco, which boast an up-and-coming food scene with excellent breweries and restaurants.
TLDR: Your Quick Guide to Kennebunkport
In a hurry? Here’s the snapshot for your 2025 day trip:
- Getting There: Drive. It’s the easiest and most flexible option.
- Parking: Arrive before 10 AM or use the free summer trolley from satellite lots.
- Must-Do: Walk around Dock Square, get a lobster roll from The Clam Shack, and see Walker’s Point from Ocean Ave.
- Best Time: A weekday in summer or early fall for the best experience.
- Don’t Forget: Comfortable shoes and sunscreen!
