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Posts Tagged ‘summer in Kennebunkport’

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A Maine Summer Vacation in Kennebunkport

May 19th, 2013 by mainestayinn

With Memorial Day Weekend just around the corner, that means that it is summer vacation time, and there’s no better place to enjoy a Maine summer vacation that in Kennebunkport!  Now you may think that I am a little biased towards this charming town, but the truth is that I’m “from away” and have explored just about every coastal vacation area in New England and after all of that travel, there’s a reason I landed in Kennebunkport.  Okay, more than a few reasons… So today I’ve decided to share some of my personal reasons for loving Kennebunkport for a Maine summer vacation.

One of the many great summer scenes in Kennebunkport!

One of the many great summer scenes in Kennebunkport!

  • It’s easy to get to!  No seriously, it’s a mere 86 miles from downtown Boston, and since you can cruise up I-95 on your typical three and four lane highways, the trip is easy-peasy.  Plus, with just two wide toll plazas, even that brief slowdown goes quickly (and it’s even speedier if you’ve got and “EZPass”).  Seriously, though, Kennebunkport has to be one of the most pain-free trips to your summer vacation destination and you’ll have plenty of gas to spare!  And if you’re a car-less urbanite, the Amtrak Downeaster is a fantastic and eco-friendly option!
  • You can go car-free in Kennebunkport!  With great sidewalks leading to fantastic activities and restaurants, you certainly don’t need to have a car in town.  Sure, if you want to do some more exploring, you certainly can bring a vehicle (and we have ample free parking), but many folks choose to explore by scooter or bicycle.  And yes, you can get either of those things within a short walk from the Maine Stay Inn!
  • The food is top notch.  Now many vacation destinations have a bad rap for serving less than stellar cuisine, and when you’re a food lover like me, that just takes the wind out of my sails.  But Kennebunkport is full of eateries that offer delectable cuisine that is sure to rival some of the great culinary havens in the country.
  • Kennebunkport has outdoor activities for everyone!  A lot of people don’t think about a Maine Summer Vacation meaning spending time at the beach, but Kennebunkport is known for its long stretches of soft sand and a few bits of craggy coastline, sure to satisfy everyone’s scenery needs.  But fortunately, if you’re looking for a break from some fun in the sun, there are tons of great trails through acres of concentration land and excellent spots for biking.  And if you’re not one to connect with Mother Nature, you can still enjoy a beautiful seaside setting while taking part in some retail therapy!

Honestly, I could go on and on about why Kennebunkport is ideal for your Maine Summer vacation, but the truth is, it’s great any time of year!  All of the innkeepers and staff at the Maine Stay Inn can’t wait to show you first hand everything that Kennebunkport has to offer – see you soon!

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Maine Bed and Breakfast Offers Stunning September Specials!

September 4th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Welcome to Kennebunkport!

Now that Labor Day has passed, our Maine Bed and Breakfast wants to make sure that everyone enjoys a September getaway, because this is a hidden gem in Kennebunkport.  Many people think that summertime ends on Labor Day, but here in Maine, that couldn’t be farther from the truth!  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, and I’d gladly shout it from any rooftop, because September is incredible!!!!  And after a hot summer like this one, the water is reaching record high temperatures at the beach.  Plus, if the summertime got away from you before you took that summer vacation, the Maine Stay Inn tries to make it as easy as possible to enjoy a beach vay-cay, by providing parking passes for the Kennebunk beaches, beach towels, chairs and umbrellas!  Yep, that means you don’t have to worry about shlepping any of those things from home.  It gets better, though, because if you want to reconnect with your inner child, we’ve got sand toys, boogie boards, and skim board to make your day on the sand and in the surf that much more fun.

Now you can enjoy all the incredible things about a getaway to Kennebunkport at an even lower price!  Visit our Maine Bed and Breakfast between now and September 20th and enjoy our “September Sizzler” pricing.  That means you can plan a relaxing five day, four night vacation and pay for only three! But if you can’t play hooky from work for four days, you can take advantage of a three night escape and save 50% on your third night.  That’s not all, though, because the Maine Stay is also offering guests the opportunity to stay for just $199 on any night from Sunday to Thursday (and that’s valid on a two night stay too!).  So choose from four rooms (Victorian Charm #15, Four Poster #18, or Cottage Suites 10 or 11) for just $199 plus tax, and you’ll still enjoy our unparalleled hospitality, gourmet breakfast, Summer Vacation Package, and afternoon tea and snacks while sticking to your budget.  Don’t let this amazing deal and this incredible weather pass you by, to start planning your Maine Bed and Breakfast vacation today!

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Visiting the Best Beaches in Kennebunkport

August 2nd, 2012 by mainestayinn

Every day at least one guest at our Maine bed and breakfast asks which is the best beach in Kennebunkport, and that is never a question I can answer!  The problem is simple – they are all lovely!  But fortunately, each is “best” for something.  So here’s my attempt at explaining them and why they are so excellent:

  • Colony Beach: Less than a half mile from the inn, this beach is definitely walkable, which is a huge perk for folks who want

    Another gorgeous evening along the best beaches of Kennebunkport!

    to stay out of their car on vacation, eat that extra scoop of ice cream, of just want to check out a scenic spot.

  • Gooch’s Beach: The area’s largest stretch of sandy beaches, this beach can sometimes lose 100% of its coastline, as an extremely high tide can relegate swimmers to the sea wall.  Fortunately, it’s a high wall, providing excellent vista.
  • Middle Beach:  Mostly full of flat, smooth rocks, this stretch is ideal for quietly reading or skipping rocks.
  • Mother’s Beach: Families, this one’s for you.  With easy access to a playground and clear boundaries on either end, it is ideal for someone to keep tabs on their little ones.
  • Goose Rock’s Beach:  A gorgeous spot, that’s for sure, but with very high rates to park your car, it’s best feature is that fresh sand dollars.

We’re very lucky at the Maine Stay Inn to have such a fabulous assortment of beaches, and are so pleased that Mother Nature has made such scenic vistas across the area.

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Celebrating the Olympics in Kennebunkport

July 28th, 2012 by mainestayinn

It’s hard to believe that the Olympics are finally here, and the excitement, while not as tangible as in London, is certainly palpable in Kennebunkport.  It certainly seems like folks are getting in the spirit by participating in lots of great outdoor sports.  And fortunately this area does not have a shortage of outdoor activities, which means there’s something for everyone!  Runners and

celebrating the olympics in in kennebunkport

Hop aboard a scenic cruise in Kennebunkport!

walkers relish in the plethora of paths and trails for recreation nearby.  If you’re up for it, there’s nothing nicer than venturing out for a jog on one of the 7 miles of trails at Laudholm Farm, just a few minutes’ drive from the Maine Stay Inn.  Something smaller on your agenda? Then check out the Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge.

More of a water baby?  There’s certainly lots of swimming available along the beaches, but if prolonged frolicking is in the forecast, consider signing out  a wetsuit.  They may not be gracing fashion runways anytime soon, but you’ll certainly fight the chill in our northern waters!  Sometimes, though, being on the water is just as important as being in the water, which means you should check out one of the several kayak and canoe rentals in the area.  Whether you need guides, lessons, or just company, there are plenty of options right nearby.  And if you want to experience some top-notch sailings, there out countless folks waiting to take the responsibility off your hands.  At the Arundel Wharf, you’ll find the Schooner Eleanor, a gorgeous gaff-rigged sailboat, which is a favorite of guests and staff alike.

But let’s not forget that you won’t have to go anywhere for some of the best access to sports.  Our big backyard features a regulation size net, perfect for v0lleyball.  But without a sand pit, diving to save the ball’s not recommended – just remember to save those dives for the beach!  And the large expanse of our backyard is great for other ball sports like soccer or whiffleball.  If you’re more interested in a shopping kind of marathon, Dock Square in Kennebunkport is the prime location.  So here’s to a great 17 days of Olympic fun in Kennebunkport!

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Soaking Up Sun in Kennebunkport Maine

June 12th, 2012 by mainestayinn

One of the best things about summertime in Kennebunkport is soaking up some rays (with sunscreen on, of course!) without overheating – it’s just one of those perks of being a seaside community in New England.  And as the weather has heated up, more and more visitors of the Maine Stay Innare looking for the best tips on where to catch some sun.  So I thought it might be helpful to

The beach is just one of many great spots to enjoy the weather!

keep you in the loop too!

  • The beach.  I would say “Duh!” but then I’d run the risk of sounding like a snotty pre-teen.  While this one might be obvious, there are enough beaches in the area, that this bears narrowing down.  Gooch’s Beach, just across the bridge in Kennebunk, offers the widest stretches of sand, but also tends to be a favorite spot for families, surfers, and groups playing games.  Maybe you’re looking for something more peaceful for your Kennebunkport vay-cay?  If so, Middle Beach tends to be the least populated, mostly because it has the least sand – so bring a chair (we’ve got plenty for you at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast) and dig your toes into the most incredible flat, smooth stones you could dream of!
  • On the water.  During calm seas, many guests choose to head off-shore with one of the many boat rides available in town.  The Schooner Eleanor is probably the most popular choice, as trips stay close to shore (offering incredible views), minimizing the chilly air off the sea and embodies the classic and charming feel of Kennebunkport with this hand-crafted 55′ triple masted ship.  Others prefer to go sightseeing under their own steam and rent canoes or kayaks for some on-the-water fun – but definitely make sure you slather up well – those reflected rays sure are strong!
  • With a meal.  Fortunately, Kennebunkport has quite a few wonderful waterfront dining establishments, but Tia’s Topside and the Arundel Wharf to an excellent job of providing wonderful outdoor dining areas along with some great food.
  • At the Maine Stay.  Our big backyard and comfy loungers are calling your name!  Plus, with the shade of a handful of 100+ year old pine trees, you can plan a quick escape if the sunshine gets to you.  Need I say more?

But whatever and wherever you choose, there are infinite incredible spots to catch some sun this summer in Kennebunkport Maine!

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Historic Kennebunkport Inns Prepare For Garden Party

June 8th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Tomorrow’s Garden Party is quickly approaching and a group of Historic Kennebunkport Inns are working ’round the clock (okay, maybe not quite!) to prepare for the parties!  And we’re no exception, which means that the gardens are groomed, the lawns mowed, and the kitchen is in high gear.  So tomorrow, instead of our traditional tea and warm, freshly baked cookies in the

Kennebunkport Inns Garden Party

Even our flowers are ready for tomorrow's party!

afternoon, guests of the Maine Stay Inn can enjoy a teatime reminiscent of those across the pond and hop aboard a complimentary limo to explore the gardens and treats of other Historic Kennebunkport Inns.

But in case you can’t make it this weekend, I thought I would share a favorite recipe for lemon pound cake that is going to grace the tables tomorrow afternoon! So to make these at home, you’ll need:

  • 5 tablespoons softened butter
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 cup flour
  • 1 dash Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon pure lemon extract
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 eggs

In a mixing bowl, cream the sugar and butter until light and fluffy.  Then add the eggs, zest, and extract, and mix until fully blended.  Next, you’ll want to add half the milk and mix to combine, then add the dry ingredients.  Again, beat on low-medium until  combined, and finish by adding the last bit of milk.  Mix again.  Meanwhile, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.  Once it’s preheated, coat two nonstick mini muffin tins with a non-stick spray or oil (not butter).  Using a mini ice cream scoop or melon baller, spoon batter into pans.  Bake about 10 minutes, or until edges are just browning and cakes are just set in the middle.  Remove from oven and invert onto rack (if you let them cool in the tins they will overcook – I learned the hard way).  Delectable by themselves, they are positively heavenly when topped with a dollop of fresh lemon curd!  Hope you enjoy this recipe and that the visitors to tomorrow’s Historic Kennebunkport Inns Garden Party do too!

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Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast to Host Garden Tea Party

June 6th, 2012 by mainestayinn

As part of this weekend’s Kennebunkport Festival festivities, our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast is getting ready to host a fun tea party in our backyard!  In addition to a variety of teas (both hot and chilled!), we’ll be bringing out lots of traditional teatime favorites. Think English inspired – miniature lemon pound cakes with fresh lemon curd, scones and oh-so-indulgent clotted cream,

Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast garden party

Our wrap-around porch and big backyard are perfect for this weekend's Garden Party!

and cucumber-mint sandwiches!  So guests will be able to soak up some rays while relaxing on the lawn and enjoying fun finger foods. Plus, guests of the Maine Stay Inn and the other Historic Inns of Kennebunkport can take advantage of complimentary limousine service between the inns.  In fact, each one will be hosting their own garden party, and each serving a different beverage (some, like us, serving teas for a light afternoon refresher, while others have chosen different wines as a pre-dinner cocktail session) along with tasty treats.

And given the spectacular weekend forecast, it’s sure to be an awesome event!  So not only will visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the great food and, of course, great company of other guests and staff members from each Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, but it will be a fantastic chance to admire some of most historic and quintessentially New England spots in town.  Plus, with transportation provided, you won’t have a care in the world.  And because of this Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast garden party, you won’t have to worry about lunch!  Yes, breakfast has been planned to be especially hearty and will certainly carry you until the fun finger foods come out in the afternoon.  So hit the beach, enjoy the art galleries, or hit up the great boutiques in town, but whatever you do, don’t miss the Garden Parties!

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Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Offers Awesome June Savings!

June 1st, 2012 by mainestayinn

Today marks an exciting day at our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast- the start of June and of our incredible early summer special.  Yes, while bed and breakfasts throughout the area have entered their summertime pricing, we’ve decided to make a June

kennebunkport summer sunset

A perfect June sunset in Kennebunkport

vacation even more affordable!  Though the water temperatures haven’t quite reached their annual peaks, a day at the beach this month is sure to be just as lovely.  In fact, with the kiddos not out of school just yet, the sands are likely to be even more peaceful and relaxing.  Plus, the Maine Stay Inn will still make sure to provide everything to make your beach vay-cay as easy as possible (think complimentary parking passes for our closest stunning beaches, towels, chairs, and even umbrellas).  All you have to do is pack the sunscreen!

So with rates starting at just $169 per night, there’s no reason not to get a jump on summer with a Kennebunkport getaway.  You can enjoy breakfast on our wraparound porch, and start the day off right with delectable fresh fruits, juices, teas and coffees, a gourmet breakfast inspired by the best seasonal produce, and cap it off with a bowl of homemade granola – the perfect way to fuel your adventures around town.  Cool beverages and freshly baked goodies will be waiting in the afternoon, as an ideal post-lunch dessert or pre-dinner snack.  Many visitors to our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast choose to indulge while relaxing on the wraparound porch.  It’s ideal for enjoying this early summer weather and for watching the horse-drawn carriage plod by.  And with these long, glorious days, no matter what your agenda has in store, they’ll be plenty of time to lounge with a glass of wine in our great big backyard.  So now that Memorial Day has come and gone, it’s time to get to work planning your summer vacation to a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast!

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5 Reasons to Choose a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast This Summer

May 23rd, 2012 by mainestayinn

I hate to admit it, but I am a teeny bit biased – I just love BnBs, so staying at a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast for a summer vacation would seem like a natural choice, but it turns out that there are plenty of folks who have only stayed in big hotels.  For them, choosing to visit a B&B would stretch their comfort zone.  But as I enjoyed a leisurely jog through town today, I passed the only big hotels in town, and it got me thinking about why choosing a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, like the Maine Stay Inn, is the logical choice for a summertime (or anytime) getaway.  By the time I got back, I had pared my list down to five main reasons (and not in any particular order):

  • Location, location, location!  The fact is, that because B&Bs are smaller than hotels, you’ll get much closer to “the action”  -
    Kennebunkport harbor

    Just a block from the harbor!

    in Kennebunkport you’d be able to walk to shops, galleries, restaurants, and the waterfront from a bed and breakfast, but not if you chose one of the few area hotels.

  • Top-notch service.  Years ago, a Kennebunkport bed and breakfast might have been just that, but not today!  Innkeepers and staff members are dedicated to providing visitors with the best service possible, without being overbearing.  Not to worry, there won’t be any grannies pounding on your door, reminding you to leave room for the holy ghost here!
  • The food!  At a big hotel in town, you’re lucky to find a continental style smattering of cold muffins or pastries that you can pretty much guarantee haven’t been baked fresh, but at the Maine Stay Inn, gourmet breakfast will greet you daily!  Honestly, what could be better than waking up to the smell of freshly baking breads or rolls?  Plus, close proximity to great restaurants means that you’ll have easy access for the meals we don’t serve.
  • Peace and quiet… shhhh!  Let’s keep this our little secret, but despite being just a few short blocks from the heart of downtown, the Maine Stay sits on nearly two acres of land, which means that the grounds are nice and quiet.  Perfect for relaxing, reading, or socializing with your family!
  • Unique accommodations.  Who wants to have the same experience as the guy at the end of the breakfast table?  Not me, that’s for sure!  So with 17 different rooms, suites, and cottages, you can be sure to have something to fit your style and the experience (and price) you are looking for!

So this summer, the choice is clear – try a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast for your summer vacation!

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Kennebunkport Hotels to Host Garden Party

May 7th, 2012 by mainestayinn

Kennebunkport hotels garden party Kennebunkport festival 2012

Garden Party joins Kennebunkport Festival 2012 itinerary!

For many, the Kennebunkport Festival serves as the area’s official kick-off to summer, and this year instead of sponsoring an event, several small Kennebunkport hotels and inns have teamed up to host a progressive Garden Party.  Much like a “round robin” or progressive dinner, guests of the Historic Inns of Kennebunkport can enjoy a chauffeured tour of each of the unique gardens and lush lawns, and in a limo, no less!  Yes, a limo!  But while most of the inns are within close proximity, but a few require hopping in a car or on a bike, and these Kennebunkport hotels know that after a glass of wine or two, that might not be such a good idea.  So instead, we’re making sure you end up at your destination safely!

Because this great event will be held on the afternoon of June 9, 2012 (from about 3 to 6 for all of you planners out there), the gardens should be rich with flowers and foliage and temperatures ideal for lounging about.  Some of the inns will be serving complimentary wines and nibbles, while others, like the Maine Stay, will 0ffer a tea-tasting.  With warm and iced varieties of different blends and tea time treats (and not just our famous cookies!), the assortment will be ideal for a summer afternoon.  So mingle with visitors and innkeepers alike while resting up for an evening of Kennebunkport Festival activities at each of the participating Kennebunkport hotels and inns – it’s sure to be fun and worry-free!

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