Things To Do
Loveable Lobster Rolls 🦞
Mabel's Lobster Claw
A two‑minute walk from The Colony and a favorite of Martha Stewart, and recently, Seth Rogen. It fills up fast, but their takeout window is a great backup plan.
The Pilot House
A beloved spot for both locals and visitors, known for its full bar, solid food menu, and relaxed nautical vibe. If you’re early enough, grab a drink aboard the Spirit of Massachusetts, the historic dry‑dock schooner right outside.
The Clam Shack
An iconic walk‑up shack in Dock Square, featured on the Travel Channel’s Food Wars. A Bush family favorite. Grab a fresh‑squeezed lemonade and enjoy the picnic tables or their air‑conditioned seating.
Alisson's Restaurant
Another Food Wars contender and a Dock Square staple. They offer three different lobster roll styles or try the Lobster Roll Trio if you can’t decide!
Shopping 🛍️
Dock Square
Just a quick 5-minute drive or a 20‑minute walk from The Colony, Dock Square is the heart of downtown Kennebunkport/Kennebunk. Start your morning with coffee from local favorites like Mornings in Paris, Dock Square Coffee House, or Coffee Roasters of the Kennebunks. From there, wander through the boutiques, galleries, and gift shops that make this area so charming. If you’re around during the week, check out Happy Hour at spots like Alisson’s, Federal Jack’s, The Pilot House, and Batson River.
Attractions and Exploring 🌿
Walkers Point
Steps from The Colony Hotel, Ocean Avenue offers one of the most scenic strolls in town. On one side, you’ll see classic Maine coastline, rocky shores, crashing waves, and endless ocean views. On the other, you’ll pass beautiful homes and gardens overlooking the water. A highlight along the way is Walker’s Point, the Bush family’s longtime summer home. It’s just a five‑minute drive from the hotel and has hosted world leaders over the years.
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
About twenty minute drive down Route 9, you’ll find the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, a peaceful 9,125‑acre preserve established in 1966. The easy 1.1‑mile loop trail winds through salt marshes and boardwalks, offering great views and a chance to spot migratory wildlife. It’s dog‑friendly, kid‑friendly, and wheelchair accessible a perfect low‑key outdoor adventure.
Goat Island Lighthouse
A short 10‑minute drive brings you to Cape Porpoise, a classic Maine fishing town. Enjoy fresh seafood with views of Cape Porpoise Harbor and Goat Island Lighthouse (only accessible by boat or kayak, but beautiful from shore). For food, you can’t go wrong with: Casa 77 for a cozy date‑night vibe Cape Pier Chowder House for a relaxed, casual meal right on the water
Seashore Trolley Museum
If you’re looking for something fun and unexpected, check out the Seashore Trolley Museum, the world’s largest interactive trolley museum. Open 9:30 AM–4:30 PM, the Museum lets you climb aboard restored trolleys from around the world and learn how they’re brought back to life. Great for families or anyone who loves a quirky, memorable experience.
Beaches 🏖️
Colony Beach
Steps from The Colony hotel, Colony Beach is a great place to see boats come down the Kennebunk River into town from this smaller, rocky beach. You may also recognize it as the beach from Taylor Swift's "Mine" music video. Note that parking is free but extremely limited.
Goose Rocks Beach
Our favorite beach when visiting the area! A nice wide white sand beach with calm waves, perfect for all ages! Head to the kiosks outside The General Store to purchase a permit to park between 8am and 5pm. ~$40/day parking free after 5pm.
Gooch's Beach
Largest beach in the area. Hang out on the sea wall with a coffee and a bite from downtown, and get a glimpse of surfers catching some waves! Be sure to check the tide chart as most of the beach is covered during high tide. Purchase a parking pass online via the Passport Mobile app or beach kiosks. Parking is ~$30/day.