Kennebunkport has a cocktail consumption reputation, labeled “a drinking village with a fishing problem,” where the well-healed are well-fueled, Kenne-drunk-port, Kenneboozeport, lol, I could go on. Suffice it to say the locals and folks from away like their cocktails out & about Dock Square, and liquorin’ up in Lower Village across the bridge. K’port may be Maine’s most socially lubed seaside village. What a distinctive drinking title?! Truly Kennebunkport and Kennebunk have so many lively happy hours, bars, pubs, and waterfront decks where you can drink in the view and a cocktail too.
Here’s your guide to some of the best spots for cocktails in Kennebunkport:
Stripers Waterside at the Breakwater Inn and Spa has a graceful lawn along the Kennebunk River. Order a cocktail or wine from the bar then lounge in an Adirondack chair outside – its Maine heaven – as the sun sets its even better, by the firepit.
The Colony Hotel has the grandest vantage of them all, overlooking the ocean. Go to the Marine Room and out by the pool for a cool Manhattan at this 101 year old stately seaside hotel in season – May to mid-October. Imagine the fortunate folk who spent their entire summers here back in the day. Cheers.
Arundel Wharf has a huge outdoor dock, its casual and convivial – nothing fancy – just where the locals go on sunny evenings from May to September.
The Boathouse Bar has a commanding view of the River, especially from the bar and the outdoor deck. This is a great place for drinks, inside or out on the deck, with a happy hour select nights, off season.
Old Vines Wine Bar is old school cool, with an outdoor terrace and a warm wonderful bistro interior. Old Vines bartenders are THE best, crafting clever cocktails, sharing their lingo and love of the extensive wine and beer pours. A sophisticated small plate menu offers perfect pairings.
Pedros is Mexican, obvi – serving fresh margs and a fiesta vibe. Sip on their outdoor patio under a sombrero or inside at the funky bar.
Pilot House is a classic nautical bar frequented by locals, with upstairs scenic dining in their new two story building.
Batson River Brewing & Distilling next door to Maine Art is a chic tasting room with a cozy interior and several fantastic outdoor spaces – an upper deck, enclosed porch and patio with fire pits overlooking town. Try their Maine craft liquor and beer and toast to Made in Maine!
Nonantum Resort’s Latitudes is a super scenic spot for an outdoor beverage and bite, often with happy hours and live music overlooking the resort pool and the Kennebunk River. Inside Heckman’s Pub has an historical Maine hotel feel, 1883, with a friendly staff and cocktails infused with Maine blueberries and more local flavors. with a pub menu and Maine classics for a la carte cuisine.
Admiral’s Table at the Rhumb Line is a relaxed resort cabana bar a few miles for Dock Square, open in summer time. Come for drinks by the pool, stay for a Down East Feast of chowder, clams, lobster and corn at a picnic table. Rhumb Line’s cheeseburgers and fries are cheap and wicked tasty too.
Enjoy your visit to Kennebunkport, and post your best selfies sipping around town – hashtag #LoveKpt. Kennebunkport is easily walk-able. Don’t drink and drive, stroll home, call an Uber. Cheers!
Photos and Content Copyright KennebunkportMaineLodging.com