Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
I grew up on Southern Maine and live within an hour of the entire Southern Maine Coast. If you are looking for a perfect Maine day, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport offer a classic ocean town, beaches, and the East Coast Greenway.
We recently spent a day exploring the town – starting with a morning bike ride, midday in town and the afternoon at the beach.
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Biking The East Coast Greenway
The East Coast Greenways is a trail system that is in development from Maine to Florida and part of it runs right through Southern Maine. In Kennebunk and the surrounding area, this greenway is part of the Eastern Trail that runs on old rainway tracks. From Kennebunk, you can bike north through Biddeford, Saco, and Scarborough Marsh, one of the most beautiful and bird-rich stretches on the entire East Coast route.
This leads to the Scarborough Marsh Trail and the South Portland Greenbelt Walkway, which provides protected access right into Portland, Maine’s largest city. This is a great way to explore this part of Maine by bike.
If you have two cars, you can spot a car otherwise, bike this as an out and back. We biked from Biddeford to Kennebunk and then on the roads to Kennebunkport. The best part of this route is taking the bridge over the highway!
Explore Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is about as cute as it gets! Full of Maine coastal charm, there’s a tall ship, seafood restaraunts, cafes and a smattering of local and Maine-themed shops. Wander Dock Square, grab some clams, a coffee or an ice cream and enjoy the scene.
Some of our favorite stops include:
Clam Shack
A legendary local seafood stand at the bridge between Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. Famous for their lobster rolls and fried clams: don’t let the line scare you, it moves fast!
Seashore Trolley Museum
This is the world’s oldest and largest museum of mass transit vehicles! Great for families and history buffs, the museum offers rides on restored streetcars and a look back at early public transportation.
Local Art Galleries
Kennebunkport is full of local artists and creative spaces. Be sure to check out the Maine Art Hill galleries and Northlight Gallery for a taste of regional fine art.
K Port Provisions
This gourmet market and eatery is a hidden gem in Kennebunkport. You’ll find artisan cheeses, specialty foods, craft beer, and local wines, along with an excellent selection of sandwiches and gourmet to-go meals. It’s perfect for grabbing provisions for a picnic or beach day—or just treating yourself to something delicious.
Mornings in Paris – French Café
A cozy, elegant café offering artisan coffee, espresso drinks, and classic French pastries. It’s an ideal stop for breakfast or an afternoon break—try the croissants or the crème brûlée latte for a sweet escape.
Spend the Afternoon at the Beach
Kennebunk has some of the few sandy beaches in Maine making it the perfect places to spend time on the water.
Goose Rocks Beach
A wide, sandy beach perfect for swimming, walking, and relaxing. It’s a bit quieter than other beaches, making it a favorite for families and those seeking a peaceful coastal experience.uieter than other beaches, making it a favorite for families and those seeking a peaceful coastal experience.
Mother’s Beach
Located along Beach Avenue, Mother’s Beach is a favorite with families thanks to its gentle surf, tide pools, and playground right by the sand. Lifeguards and nearby amenities make it a safe and easy beach day for young kids. Perfect for a morning swim or afternoon picnic.
Enjoy your day in Kennebunkport
