The 2nd question every visitors asks as they arrive in Kennebunkport, “where do I get the best lobster?” The 1st being, “how do we get to see The Bush’s place?” Folks eagerly want to see Walkers Point out Ocean Ave, to see the Bush Compound where two former presidents and their family have spent every summer. So we locals give directions out Ocean Ave, past St Ann’s Church where the Bush’s go for Sunday service, to The Blowing Cave and Anchor to Windward perched on the sparkling granite shores, this scenic vantage offers a fantastic view of Vesuvius Point, the so-named peninsula where the Walker Bush family residence sits. It’s a magnificent oceanfront property and family estate – a must see in KPT.
On to Question 2….The Lobster!
You don’t need to wait in a long line in the hot sun to score an award-winning lobster roll. Reality is there are several delicious renditions of the lobster roll in Kennebunkport… with sit down dining and table service, not just an outside shack.
Nonantum Resort is a classic Kennebunkport dining spot, over a century old, this grand hotel has excellent cuisine. You can order your traditional lobster roll or a steamed lobster here, with a water view poolside at Latitudes, 95 Ocean dining room or the more casual Heckman’s Pub. Mix it up by trying the Chef’s unique Maine crustacean creations like Lobster Spring Rolls or Lobster Mac N Cheese. What’s fun about the Nonantum is its an old-world resort in an historic hotel, and its always a buzz with live entertainment, weddings and waterfront activity.
Rhumb Line Resort out Ocean Ave past the Bush estate is a great outdoor poolside venue for a casual lobster and clam bake. Here at this family-friendly resort, the crew cook lobster on an open firepit at Admirals’ Table. Their Down East Feast includes all the fixins – Lobster, steamed clams, drawn butter, clam chowder, corn on the cob, and strawberry shortcake! Yum! You can also order a good ole’ fashioned lobster roll, and their patent Fresh Fries are scrumptious accompaniment! Rhumb Line is affordable, fun, with a complete kids menu too, and after dinner you can relax by the fire pits or enjoy a round of corn hole.
Back in Kport, in Dock Square Hurricane and The Boathhouse are open for lunch and dinner with a commanding view of the Kennebunk River and they both serve lobster on their menu!
If you want fancy, the White Barn Inn takes Maine lobster to an elevated level, with a 4-course prix-fixe $125 per person menu. This is Maine’s only five-star dining, so bring your wallet and sport coat and prepared to be wowed with fine service and exquisitely prepared small artful plates.
Earth at Hidden Pond is also upscale in a cool “earthy” setting inland from Goose Rocks Beach. Their Lobster dishes are divine. Ocean at Cape Arundel Inn has a delicious Lobster Thermador in addition to Butter Poached Lobster – with a view of the ocean and Walker’s Point.
Enjoy your time in Kennebunkport, and enjoy your lobster – often! It’s a delicious seafood delicacy, you might want to order some Maine lobster to arrive at home to keep your Vacationland vibe going long after your Maine vacation.
As for Question 1, if you want to experience more of the Bush family and their presidential presence and legacy in Kennebunkport, visit White Columns, the 1853 Greek Revival – part of the Kennebunkport Historical Society. Its on Maine Street, and offers a wonderful tribute to the Bush family and the Summer White House at their First Family Legacy exhibit. Also see our fond memories of First Lady Barbara Bush and her favorite spots in Kennebunkport and our Salute to President George H. W. Bush in Kennebunkport, forever our #41.
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