How to Find Cheap Hotels in Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport was founded in the early days of America's colonial period, and it was originally named Cape Porpus. This strange spelling was not an accident. (They did it on "porpus.") The spelling has now been modernized, and you'll hear locals refer to it as Cape Porpoise.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access

Find Transportation to Kennebunkport, Maine

1. Fly into Portland, Maine (about 30 miles away) or Manchester, New Hampshire (about 75 miles away). Make your choice based on how much scenic countryside you want to see as you drive.
2. Drive from either airport to your hotel in Kennebunkport.

Know What to See and Do in Kennebunkport, Maine

3. See the seaside. Everything you expect in a seaport is there, from fishing boats and pleasure boats to docks, piers and seagulls.
4. Take the Kennebunkport trolley. It's an easy, picturesque way to get around.
5. Swim at one of Kennebunkport's fabulous beaches. Some of these are easy to get to, while others are a little harder (ask the concierge of your hotel for directions and/or recommendations). Gooch's Beach, Mother's Beach and Arundel are in town. Goose Lake Beach is farther away and less crowded.
6. Bike from place to place. Bike rentals are plentiful and can help you avoid the parking fee at the town beaches. You can even bike to Goose Lake Beach, if you are up for an 11 mile round trip.
7. Take a walk. The History Center of Kennebunkport has a map of historic houses, making it simple to create your own walking tour. Also, look for the Wedding Cake House, built by a sea captain as a gift for his new wife before he went on a long voyage.
8. Shop at Kennebunkport's Dock Square. Maine's rich colonial history means the antique shops are brimming with interesting items, many with cheap prices.
9. Eat some of that magnificent Maine lobster.

Book Your Accommodations in Kennebunkport, Maine

10. Look for cheap hotels or accommodations outside Kennebunkport, especially during the summer high season. Many rich people summer in Maine, and it can be hard to find reasonably priced accommodations. To book accommodations, contact the Southern Maine Coast Tourism Association at [phone] or visit their Web site (see Resources, below).
11. Reserve early. You don't want to find everything taken when you get there.
12. Try a bed and breakfast. Prices vary, but breakfast is always included in the cost, and you'll get the chance to meet and spend time with friendly local hosts.
13. Search for cheap package deals. Airlines and major hotel chains offer combination flight, hotel and car rental deals.
14. Surf Kennebunkport's official Web site. From there, you can find many listing for hotels and other accommodations.

Tips & Warnings

• Most visitors arrive between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Try a spring or fall visit to find the best deals.
• Be aware that not all places are open year-round. Call ahead to make sure the hotel or inn you want will be open during your trip.