There’s a reason Maine is called Vacationland… there is so much to sea and do …especially in Kennebunkport Maine. Hence the Maine motto: “
the way life should be.” A vacation in K’port Maine should be on your bucket list. The only remaining question is: what to pack for a Kennebunkport Maine getaway?
Here is our guide to packing for a Kennebunkport trip:
Pack layers. Locals in Maine say, “if you don’t like the weather in Maine, wait a minute.” Summer in Kennebunkport, temps can vary from 50’s at night to high 80’s in the day – all in the span of a few hours. Sun, rain and fog can brighten or dampen your spirits, often all in one day. On the coast, cool air, and occasional fog, can roll in quickly off the ocean (that’s “chowdah weatha”). The sun can quickly warm up the beaches of Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. The only question is “whether” you are prepared for the “weather”? Dress in layers, have a waterproof shell, and a fleece.
Comfy shoes are key, as you will want to walk the beautiful streets of Kennebunkport, the shops of Dock Square, and out Ocean Ave passing The Nonantum Resort, The Breakwater Inn & Spa, the grand Colony Hotel, beyond Colony Beach along Parson’s Way passing the oceanfront homes including Walkers Point – home to the Bush family and former Presidents #41 and 43.
Sunscreen. Just because Maine is far north, 43-degrees latitude, doesn’t mean the UV index is dialed back. Particular on the water, boating in the Kennebunks, the refraction from the sun is intense – even when the sea breeze feels cool. Cover up, lotion up, or you could look like a cooked Maine lobster! You can buy sunscreen at Dock Square Pharmacy!
“Sweatah weathah” is a Maine expression for evenings when the sun sets and temps drop. You’ll want to be reaching for a “sweatah”, or even bettah – a fleece from LL Beanah. See this guide to Maine expressions and slang to be “local.”
Matchy matchy fancy schmancy outfits are not needed like in The Big City. Maine has its own sense of style, or lack thereof. If you look too smart, that might freak the local folks out. Nautical prep is perfect for Kennebunkport, but again – not overdone.
Or buy a tacky t-shirt to flaunt that you “aint from around here.” A “Kennedrunkport” t-shirt or a President Bush #41 or #43 hat are perfect to wear to the native watering hole – The Pilot House – nicknamed the P-House. If nothing else, the locals will think you’re “wicked” funny.
Swimsuits… you may not have the courage to stick your toe in the Atlantic, never mind actually “swim” in the ocean – but bring a swimsuit along anyways. You may encounter a nice ocean view hot tub staying at the Seaside Inn overlooking Kennebunk Beach, or wish to lounge by The Colony’s salt water sea view pool, or relax at the fun family-friendly Rhumb Line Resort. Please no Speedos or banana sacks guys – that’s more of an Old Orchard Beach vibe – for Canadians, eh?! Ladies, thongs are a stretch – K’port is a conservative town.
If you didn’t pack properly, just shop local at Dock Square Clothiers, Dannahs for Men, Kennebunk Outfitters, or make a road trip to The Beaner… LL Bean open 24/7/365 in Freeport, or the Kittery Outlets.
Backpacks and duffle luggage are better than rollie suitcases. You look like a city slicker rolling in with your black carryon bag with wheels, bumping along the brick sidewalks of Kennebunkport.
A Camera, iphone – whatever. Take lots of #Kennebunkport selfies to make your friends at home jealous. Kennebunkport and Kennebunk Maine have so many gorgeously scenic settings, beautiful sand beaches, Goat Island lighthouse, Cape Porpoise Harbor, pretty Dock Square, and boating excursion that take you out to sea.
Post photos on Facebook @KennebunkportME and Instagram @KennebunkportNow– feasting on local Maine lobster with butter, or a sunset cruise aboard the Pineapple Ketch sailboat, to make the folks at home instantly envious.
Stay in Kennebunkport or Kennebunk Beach at your choice of world class upscale resorts like the historic riverfront Nonantum Resort, or family friendly lodging at Rhumb Line.