Local's Guide
The Kennebunks
WHAT TO DO IN
The Kennebunks
Kennebunk is a seasonal town that gets really busy in the summer, with tourists and wealthy seasonal residents from around the world. This leads to a beautiful mix of classic New England village and the global village we all live in. You can do all the classic Maine things: getting a great lobster roll, going to the beach, hiking, and so on, but you can also try world-class restaurants like the Hurricane or Wishbone. Plus there are tons of precious boutiques and specialty shops to peruse and you can enjoy the rich preservation of local history in the architecture and beautiful design of the downtown.
Historic Glamour on
Maine’s Southern Coast
The Kennebunks (Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and, according to some locals, Arundel) are a pretty famous vacation destination for the American upper crust. The Bush family of presidential fame has a compound in the Kennebunks, and many locals fondly recall interacting with George Bush Sr. as he and Barbara would venture into town from Walker’s Point. Even before Walker’s point was established, and certainly, in the years since, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport have been well known for their incredible seasonal residents.
Boutiques, Restaurants, & Beaches
in the Kennebunks
Main Street in Kennebunk is loaded with cute little shops and boutiques that cater to all sorts of interests and hobbies. From funky and interesting art galleries like Abacus, to great skincare products from Cottage Breeze, and even interesting apparel options from Beach Grass. If you’re looking for a gift or souvenir, take a look at Dannah Gifts, or one of the other great gift shops downtown.
Restaurants
There are all sorts of great eateries in the Kennebunks. If you’re looking for something classic New England fare, the Tavern at the Kennebunk Inn, Duffy’s Tavern & the famous Ocean Roll food truck with classic lobster rolls parked right on route 1 all summer long. If you want to explore something more gourmet, there are incredible, world-class restaurants from Bandaloops, to The Hurricane Restaurant, and the renowned Chez Rosa.
Beaches
There are several beaches in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel that offer the same glorious summer experience you might remember from your childhood, or hear about from your grandparents. Plus with options like rentals from spots like the Aquaholics Surf Shop, you can multiply your fun with the gear you’ve always wanted to try out.
Hiking
There are a few good trails in the Kennebunks, and several of them are pieces of the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge. Another great system of trails is provided by the Kennebunk Land and Trust with great hiking trails such as the wonder brook preserve which offer great views and exercise all over Kennebunk! Between the various organizations with trails, you can hike all day. This is a great way to enjoy hiking with some delightful salt air blowing in off the ocean. It’s also often cooler nearer the coast than it is at our inland location in Springvale during the summer.
Testimonials
What Our Guests Say
Elizabeth Saucier
Truly an amazing experience! A little slice of Heaven. Enjoy moments of serenity and relaxation with perfect accommodations.
Michelle Olson-Rogers
What an amazingly perfect experience we had at the Hobbit Home, Fern Hollow! True Lord of the Ring fans here, it was everything we dreamed of and more. The furnishings and kitchen were top of the line and the attention to detail, amazing. You can tell they put a lot of thought into this property! Highly recommend for a family of 4 or two couples looking to getaway. Loved it!
