Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Guide to Kennebunkport, Maine


Everything you need to know about Kennebunkport, here it is!

Hotels:
Tides Beach Club – 10 minutes out of town, this is the spot people travel to be.  It’s right on Goose Rocks Beach (our favorite beach in Kennebunkport), the restaurant is great and always a very fun and happy scene.  Rooms are spacious and you’ll feel like you’re truly on vacation.

Hidden Pond – great for families.  It’s located a mile away from the beach in the woods.  They offer one-bedroom bungalows to multi bedroom houses.  They’ve got a pool for adults and a clubhouse and pool for kids.  It appeals to all ages.  There is also free transportation and access to their sister property, the Tides Beach Club so you get to enjoy the best of both worlds!

Restaurants:

Nunan’s Lobster Hut Located right on Route 9 just a few minutes outside of town, it’s a local favorite for a reason.  Make sure to bring cash as well as arrive promptly at 5PM otherwise you’ll be sure to wait.  And also make sure to save room for dessert, because their blueberry pie a la mode is too good to pass up.
Best for all things lobster & blueberry pie.


The Ramp -  A casual sit down establishment.  This place is too cool for school without even trying.  Different sports and political banners hang from the sealing are fun and whimsical.  The Adirondack chairs overlooking the water outside don’t hurt either.  They don’t take reservations, but we promise it’s worth the wait!  Our secret – come for a late lunch and there’s usually never a wait!  Our favorite is the lobster roll and their ‘original’ steamers.
Best for steamers, lobster roll, casual lunch/dinner


Pier 77It’s the sister restaurant of the Ramp.  It’s more upscale if you are looking for a finer dining experience and the view overlooking the inlet is the perfect addition.  The food is terrific and menu is diverse and delicious.
Best for a dinner date, seafood

BandaloopThe menu is constantly changing depending on what is in season and Bandaloop is known for using local and organic food.  It is a very fun place to dine with friends and the food here will accommodate even your pickiest friend.  It’s vegan/vegetarian friendly, but if you’re a meat eater – don’t you worry!  There are plenty of hearty options.
Best for dinner with friends

White Barn InnDining at it’s finest.  This is the place you go for that special occasion or if you are on vacation and just want to treat yourself.  It’s located in The White Barn Inn, a Relais Chateaux property and as you would expect, the service and food is exquisite.  Opt for the tasting menu and wine pairing – you won’t regret it!
Best for a special occasion, 5* dining

Tides Beach ClubAfter spending a day laying on Goose Rocks Beach, there’s nothing more welcoming than the Tides Beach Club for happy hour.  They offer $3 beers/$9 signature cocktails.  I opted for the refreshing Strawberry Ricky, sticky wings and a mini croissant with lobster salad.  Picture that along with sitting outside on the porch in a rocking chair.  Pure bliss.
Best for happy hour, snacks


Earth (at Hidden Pond) Make sure to call and make a reservation because this restaurant is not to be missed.  The dirt road leading up to the restaurant makes you feel like you are in the middle of nowhere, but once you walk into the restaurant, you’ll feel like you’ve discovered treasure.  It’s a modern take on a rustic barn.  The food is innovative, delicious and relies heavily on local food.  After dinner, make it out to their fire pit for a glass of wine. 
Bet for romantic dinner, drinks

Stripers @ The Breakwater Inn Perhaps one of the most relaxing and beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen.  Grab my personal favorite, an Allagash beer, an Adirondack chair and watch as the sun sets!  Or if you don’t make it for sunset, try their Sunday brunch - it's delicious!
Best for Sunset, Sunday brunch

One Dock  Recently renovated and located in the lobby of the Kennebunkport Inn.  One Dock is an upscale restaurant, but our favorite part is the bar and live music on weekends.  So grab a drink and stay for dinner or head on over to one of our favorites, Bandaloop.
Best for drinks before dinner in town

WayfarerA local diner where the food is great and prices are right!  It’s charming, about 5 minutes from town and Tides/Hidden Pond.  Make sure to bring cash!
Best for breakfast

Clam ShackAs the name implies, it’s a great place to grab a quick bite.  It’s simple, it’s delicious and it’s as fresh as can be. 
Best for a quick lobster roll

Pictures from my trip:

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