Things to do in Kennebunkport Archives - Page 4 of 7

Posts Tagged ‘Things to do in Kennebunkport’

Visiting the Best Beaches in Kennebunkport

August 2nd, 2012 by Judi Hauer

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.

Tags: kennebunkport beaches, summer in Kennebunkport, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Celebrating the Olympics in Kennebunkport

July 28th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

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!

Tags: summer in Kennebunkport, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Packing for a Picnic in Kennebunkport Maine

July 25th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

I have recently found that lots of folks are looking to plan a quiet, intimate picnic in Kennebunkport Maine this summer, so I have been spending quite a bit of time figuring out exactly how I would want my ideal summer picnic to go. And, of course, that means that I am going to share those plans with you! First and foremost, I would have to pick just the right location. Fortunately, there

A perfect evening for a picnic in Kennebunkport Maine!

are lots of wonderful spots to enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner in Kennebunkport, but one stands out to me as ideal. Located under three miles from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, the park at the end of the Cape Porpoise Pier takes the cake in my book. Not only is it convenient for picking up great prepared foods (don’t worry, I will get to that a little later), but its proximity to three dining options , means that you can pick up any of the food items you may have forgotten. Parking here is limited, but because a picnic is considered “recreation,” you can snag a spot at no charge (and no passes required). The rocks and benches right at the entrance are certainly picturesque, but they tend to be a little on the louder side. If you head down one of the narrow paths to the water’s edge, you will find countless nooks for a private moment with your hubby. And if you hit it just right and the tide is out, you can even sit on a small stretch of sand.

What truly makes the picnic, though, is the food. So on your way from the Maine Stay Inn to your date with Mother Nature, make sure to stop at the Cape Poropise Kitchen. With their great variety of prepared foods, wines, and cheeses, you’ll be be on cloud nine. So next time you are hankering for an old-fashioned picnic, look no further than Kennebunkport!

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Upcoming Events in Kennebunkport Maine

July 13th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

Kennebunkport Maine is full of fun activities throughout the year, but this weekend offers an exceptional number of exciting things to do – both indoors and out! And while the weather is forecasted to be phenomenal, some of the indoor options might just be what the doctor ordered when you need a break from the sun, which is something I certainly need in order to not look like a lobster (that particular shade of red is excellent on my plate, but not on me!). So here’s a sampling of some of the great events happening around town and the nearby area this weekend:

Tomorrow morning, ambitious visitors can jump in to Nicole’s Run, a 5k course along Kennebunk Beach, benefitting Caring Unlimited, a non-profit aimed at preventing domestic violence and assisting sufferers in need. Plus, you can sneak in your
Enjoy a glorious summer weekend filled with great events in Kennebunkport Maine!

morning run while benefitting a great cause and still be back for breakfast at the Maine Stay Inn.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, try the guided bird walk at Laudholm Farm. Since it starts at 7:30, you can make our 9:30 or 10:00 breakfast options with no problem!
Later in the day, you can explore the 18th Annual Private Gardens of the Kennebunks Tour or check out the Designer Show House at the Kenneth Roberts Estate. Either way, you’ll get to enjoy some of the most spectacular homes and gardens in the area, though with the garden tour, you’ll have to settle for being a pepping Tom! No medicine cabinet poking allowed!
Closer to your home away from home (that is what we strive to be, after all), you can hit up the book blowout at the Graves Memorial Library or the gallery show at Home Away, featuring Lakota inlay artist, Kevin Pourier.
And if you’re hankering for some cultural refinement, check out the opening artists’ reception at the True North Gallery in Kennebunkport Maine or the Dance By the River, hosted at the Kennebunk River Club, just up the street.
Sunday is Moxie Day at the Seashore Trolley Museum and features Moxie model railroads and memorabilia – a day not to be missed!
Cap it off with a Broadway Revue on Sunday evening at the Colony hotel – the perfect opportunity to enjoy live music and a cocktail on a glorious summer evening!

As always, though this is just a smattering of the incredible things to do in Kennebunkport Maine and is definitely not anywhere close to an exhaustive list, so let us know what interests you, and we’ll happily guide you!

Tags: Kennebunkport events, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Last Days to Enjoy Kennebunkport’s Designer Show House

July 11th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

Only a few more days remain to enjoy the first Kennebunkport Designer Show Houseat the Kenneth Roberts’ Estate, so don’t miss out on a chance to enjoy one of the most spectacular pieces of real estate in town! So over the last few months, some of the top designers in New England joined together to redesign this incredible estate. Though they worked individually on their chosen

Don’t miss out on a chance to see the Kenneth Roberts’ Estate and it overhaul to become the Kennebunkport Designer Show House.

room or space, there is a cohesiveness to the home that is rarely found in designer show houses. So yes, the inside is stunning, but what really takes your breath away is the facade of the building. It’s stone exterior survived the blaze that destroyed the home’s insides several decades ago, and seems like something out of a fairy tale. Plus with gardens and private outdoor spaces to explore, you’ll be able to enjoy the summer weather in Kennebunkport without missing your beach time to much!

But the best way to explore the grounds and show house is to make a real day out of it, walking from the Maine Stay Inn, heading towards Cape Porpoise along Wildes District Road. Not even half a mile away lies the entrance to the estate on Rocky Pastures Lane. So meander over and enjoy the lilly pond, winding driveway, and stone creations before indulging in a leisurely exploration of the home. Plus, if you head out the back way, you’ll end up just past the Bush Estate, which means that you can stroll “home” along Parsons Way, enjoying some more spectacular scenery. Just make sure you wear some comfy footwear! But make sure to pick up your tickets at the front desk of the Maine Stay, because you won’t want to miss out on a single second of exploring to track down a volunteer at the estate to ring you in. Enjoy!

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Searching for Sweets in Kennebunkport Maine

June 25th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

If you’re anything like me and have more than just a single sweet tooth (I’d say I have a whole mouth full!), look no further than Kennebunkport Maine to quell your cravings. Fortunately, though not for my waistline, there are lots of great options for candy, cookies, and frozen confections just a short stroll from our Kennebunkport bed and breakfast. But if you find yourself hankering for a sugar fix before you even arrive, Yummiescandy store in Kittery is a great place to stop. Not only are they conveniently located for

Check out that candy on display!

some extra retail therapy, they’ve got over 10,000 pounds of sweets on their shelves at all times. You’ll never see anything like it! Assuming you have a teeny bit more control that I do, and you actually make it into Kennebunkport, the very first thing you’ll likely encounter is the Sugar Shack. Located right next to the area Chamber of Commerce, it’s brightly colored sign and inventive window display are sure to catch your attention. And their traditional assortment of sweets come in just as striking tones. Nearby, you’ll find the new Chase Hill Bakery, a once famous bakery, whose owner retired, only to reopen recently. It’s well on its way toward reclaiming its former glory.

As you drive deeper into town, you’ll pass a brand new frozen yogurt shop (stay tuned for more on that one at a later date!) and a great new artisan ice cream shop called Rococo. With rich and flavorful varieties, its definitely a new fave! But if some good old chocolate is what you crave, don’t miss out on the Candy Man. Not only do they offer a mix of sweet munchies by the bin, but their chocolate assortment is out of this world, with the items made at their very own shop in York, ME. No matter what you’re craving though, Kennebunkport Maine has got you covered!

Tags: Kennebunkport Dining, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Kennebunkport Designer Show House at the Kenneth Roberts Estate

June 23rd, 2012 by Judi Hauer

The Designer Show House has finally opened in Kennebunkport! While it’s the first of its kind in town, Designer show houses seem to be a new trend in getaway destinations, and this one is truly incredible. The fact that this is the home of acclaimed author Kenneth Roberts just adds interest to a piece of property folks in the area have been dying to see for years. Situated on nearly 100

Kenneth Roberts Estate Kennebunkport

acres of land between Wildes District Road (just a hop, skip, and a jump from the Maine Stay Inn) and Ocean Avenue, this 6,000 square foot stone mansion prevails over rolling fields, coastal marshes, and a lovely lily pond. A fire destroyed the interior of the entire building in 1977, but was lovingly restored to create the perfect backdrop for the show house. And despite the fact that each room has been designed by a different creative genius, the home remains cohesive and delightful.

So for the next three weeks, visitors can enjoy the Kennebunkport version of Extreme Makeover Home Edition in one of the most spectacular settings in the area. And fortunately, due to its proximity to the Maine Stay, outdoor adventurers can plan to stroll over and enjoy a delightful morning (or afternoon) on the grounds before touring the home. But best of all, ticket sales for this event support the Kennebunkport Historical Society. So not only is visiting the house a wonderful opportunity to experience spectacular design inspiration first hand (or just satisfy your inner nosiness, if you are anything like me), but ticket sales benefit a wonderful cause! Yes, the historical integrity of Kennebunkport is part of what makes this community so charming, and much gratitude is due to the organization for its work over the decades. So with ticket prices just $20 for this incredible experience, it’s well worth it! I hope you enjoy the tour as much as I did - and I am already asking about next year!

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HBO Documentary “41″ Premiers in Kennebunkport

June 13th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

Over the last week or so, there has been a flurry of activity not far from our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfastat the Bush family compound, and it certainly warrants a bit of attention. Not only did George H.W. Bush just celebrated his 88th birthday, but the Navy just completed construction of the USS George H.W. Bush, a Nimitz-class supercarrier. Honestly, I have no idea what that

The Bush Estate has been buzzing with activity this week!

means, but I am pretty sure it means big, powerful, and pricey! But after a small, contained vacuum cleaner fire at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, it set sail on its way to Kennebunkport, where the former President took a helicopter from his estate to the ship. It apparently came close enough to shore that you could see it very clearly, but, of course, I missed that incredible photo-op! Nevertheless, this was a momentous occasion, especially because it was the first time in naval history where such a ship was commissioned for a still-living namesake.

But what seemed to cause an even greater stir this week was the premier of the HBO documentary “41,” which took place on the grounds of St. Ann’s Church. An easy walk from the Maine Stay Inn, many visitors took the opportunity to stroll by. Of course, security was tight, but the unimaginably large tent was visible from the Kennebunk Beaches and was quite a sight to behold when viewing from Ocean Avenue. Now, the rest of us will just have to wait for the public airing of this supposedly wonderful film, but fortunately, the wait’s not too long – it runs on HBO tomorrow night! For a preview, check out the trailer here on HBO’s YouTube channel. I don’t know about you, but I will certainly be watching – even if only to catch a glimpse of Kennebunkport “back in the day!”

Tags: Kennebunkport events, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Soaking Up Sun in Kennebunkport Maine

June 12th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

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!

Tags: Maine Summer Vacation, summer in Kennebunkport, Things to do in Kennebunkport
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Music in Kennebunkport: Live at the Hive

May 25th, 2012 by Judi Hauer

Check out The Hive for live music near Kennebunkport

While Kennebunkport hasn’t exactly been known as the music capitol of Maine, the area has certainly seen an upswing in the variety and caliber of performers coming to the area, especially with the opening of The Hive. Located in downtown Kennebunk, this unassuming storefront houses a “swarm” of activity ranging from after school arts programs for kids as young as kindergarten to emerging musical performances. But while I knew this new arts center was fully operational and getting rave reviews, I hadn’t yet had a chance to check it out for myself. Until tonight.

So since Dairy Queen called to me for dessert, I decided to indulge – and then enjoy an evening stroll through downtown Kennebunk before returning to the Maine Stay Inn. Slowly, the sound of music grew louder, until I reached the entrance to The Hive. While it initially appeared that only a few folks had gathered around the small elevated platform, a closer look revealed a good sized gathering of people in the back. Honestly the atmosphere was great, and tickets to see the best R&B group in Maine were just $10. Obviously, the value was there – Kenya Hall and the rest of the group offered incredible music and wonderful accompaniment just a mere inches from the patrons. The lighting was done perfectly, and the proximity to two great restaurants (and Dairy Queen, of course!) means that you can make a full evening out of it. My only complaint was that the tunes were a bit too loud for my liking, especially since things are low key around our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast, but that won’t stop me from going back and staying longer (I’ll just come prepared next time!). So if you’re in the mood for some live musical performances, look no further than The Hive – it won’t disappoint!

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Welcome to Maine Stay Inn, a Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast Inn and Cottages.