Coastal getaways are a popular choice for many travelers and for good reason. From their proximity to beautiful beaches to fresh, local seafood, these scenic small towns are teeming with things to do, eat, and see.
Whether you want a sunny, west coast escape or a nautical east coast break, the options are seemingly endless.
When we asked travel advisors their top choice for a coastal getaway, they all said the same thing: Kennebunkport, Maine. As someone who’s spent time in the charming, picturesque town, I can understand the appeal.
Located along Maine’s southern coastline where the Kennebunk River meets the Atlantic Ocean, the seaside town is about 30 miles north of Portland, Maine and around 1.5 and 2 hours from Boston Logan International Airport, making it a popular pick for those seeking a scenic New England trip.
With a population of less than 4,000 people, it’s considered a hidden gem that’s worthy of exploration.
“Kennebunkport delivers that quintessential New England coastal experience, but without feeling overly manufactured,” says Eric Hrubant, Founder & President, CIRE Travel, an affiliate of Global Travel Collection. “It’s polished, but still authentic. You have working harbors, historic homes, and a level of service that quietly rivals much larger luxury destinations.”
Audley Travel specialist Connor Chess agrees, “The best part about Kennebunkport is that it’s off the beaten path compared to a lot of other coastal New England destinations. Cape Cod and Bar Harbor are where the masses flock, but Kennebunkport, while well visited in the summer and fall, doesn’t feel overrun.”
Related: The Fall Getaway That’s Perfect for Your Personality Type
Best Time to Visit
While visiting during any of the four seasons is always a good idea, I visited Kennebunkport at the end of summer, and the weather was picture-perfect. Bright blue skies were complemented by comfortable temps maxing out around 80 degrees.
“It’s a multi-season destination with opportunities to experience the best of Maine—the food, the lobstering culture, the coastal walks and scenery,” says Chess. “My favorite month in Maine is September. Along the coast the summer crowds and the mosquitos have filtered out by Labor Day, and you’re left with empty beaches, warm sunny days and cool evenings. If you’re pairing the visit to Kennebunkport with leaf peeping further north, late September early October is the sweet spot.”
Fora Advisor Danielle Fisher shares the same sentiment that early fall is an ideal time to visit.
“The best time to visit Kennebunkport may be September,” she says. “The water’s still warm, the crowds have thinned, restaurant tables are easier to get, and rates come down a bit. You get all the charm without fighting for a reservation or parking spot.”
Related: Best Things to Do in Freeport, Maine, This Fall
Where to Stay
When I visited a few years ago, I stayed at Nonamtum Resort with my two children. I’d highly recommend it for families traveling with kids. There are a ton of onsite kid-friendly activities, and the rooms are spacious and boast a nautical touch.
“I typically recommend the Boathouse Waterfront Hotel,” says Chess. “It’s perfectly located right on the water and next to Dock Square, where all the action happens.”
According to Fora Advisor Erica Christie, accommodation choices should align with each traveler’s unique vacation style. “For a family looking for summer camp vibes, I adore the cottages and bungalows at Hidden Pond, which manages to be both luxurious and relaxed at the same time,” she says. “For a girls trip or couple trip, White Barn Inn, Auberge Collection offers a more romantic and elegant option closer to town.”
Related: Ogunquit, Maine: The Best Affordable Beach Town in America
Where to Eat and Drink
Kennebunkport has a variety of eateries serving everything from buttery lobster rolls to succulent steaks.
Chess adds, “There are great restaurants and shops, and all that you could seek in a small-town environment, but with a touch of class and comfort.”
“Nunan’s Lobster Hut is classic, no-frills, and worth it every time,” says Hrubant. Want a more elevated meal? Hrubant suggests the White Barn Inn restaurant, which serves seasonal fare like crab salad and classic dishes like seared salmon. “It is one of the most refined dining experiences in New England,” he says.
Christie recommends saving room for dessert. “Do not miss the creative ice cream flavors at Rococo Ice Cream, like Maine whoopie pie and goat cheese & blackberry Chambord swirl.”
Related: These Charming Harbor Towns Between Boston and Portland, Maine Promise Visitors Tasty Lobster, Art, and Coastal Views
Things to Do
When I stayed at Nonamtum Resort, they organized a lobster boat outing with Rugosa Lobster Tours for me and my family. It’s great for kids to get an up-close-and-personal look at the clawed crustaceans while learning about their anatomy and more. Cruising along the coast also offers adults an enlightening and delightful way to spend an afternoon.
Hrubant agrees that getting on the water is a must.
“A sunset sail out of the harbor is an unmissable experience,” he says. “It’s one of those deceptively simple moments that ends up being the highlight. Passing by Walker’s Point, taking in the coastline from the water, and seeing the town from a completely different perspective.”
Interested in some retail therapy? Christie recommends stopping into stores around Dock Square, where visitors can find everything from high-end artwork to cheeky souvenirs.
Related: The Maine Beach Town That’s Perfect for Labor Day Weekend—and Fall Too
Sources:
Eric Hrubant — New York City-based Founder & President of CIRE Travel, an affiliate of Global Travel Collection, luxury travel planner and renowned industry expert with more than 20 years experience. Connor Chess — New England-based Audley Travel specialist who plans tailor-made experiences for travel to Oceania and North America. Danielle Fisher: Fora Advisor specializing in boutique luxury, family, and group travel across Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Erica Christie: Fora Advisor specializing in luxury, family, travel across Europe, New Zealand, and the Caribbean.Hence then, the article about we asked 4 travel advisors for their favorite coastal getaway of 2026 they all said the same thing was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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