Portland & Kennebunkport stays

Question

I will be in Portland for 2 days & Kennebunkport for 2 days. Any advice on what not to miss out on since we will only be in each location a short period. Where should we go for lobster? And are there lobster bakes in these areas? This will be our first time in Maine.

Answer

Visiting Maine for the first time is exciting, and with only two days in Portland and two days in Kennebunkport, you’ll want to focus on highlights that capture the essence of each area — from lobster to scenic coastal towns and historic sites.

Portland – 2 Days

Portland is a lively coastal city with a mix of historic charm, modern dining, and arts. Key activities and must-see spots include:

Old Port District: Cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Ideal for walking, shopping, and people-watching.
Portland Head Light: The iconic lighthouse in Fort Williams Park in nearby Cape Elizabeth. Offers spectacular views and photo opportunities.
Casco Bay Islands: If time allows, take a short ferry ride to one of the islands for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Lighthouses Tour: Besides Portland Head Light, consider visiting Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse and Bug Light, both accessible and picturesque.
Art and Museums: Portland Museum of Art features local and regional works; smaller galleries are scattered throughout the Old Port.

Lobster in Portland:

Eventide Oyster Co: Known for lobster rolls and fresh seafood.
Highroller Lobster Co: Creative lobster dishes in casual dining style.
Portland Lobster Company: Waterfront spot with classic lobster platters.
Lobster bakes are also available seasonally; some local seafood shacks or tour companies offer lobster bake experiences with traditional corn, potatoes, and clams.

Kennebunkport – 2 Days

This charming town offers a more relaxed, picturesque Maine experience. Highlights include:

Dock Square: Shops, galleries, and cafes in the heart of town — perfect for strolling and picking up local goods.
Walk the Coastline: Beaches like Goose Rocks Beach or Walkers Point for scenic views and fresh air.
Seaside Tours: Whale watching or scenic boat tours for coastal wildlife.
Historic Sites: The Wedding Cake House and Bush Compound areas for photo ops and local history.

Lobster in Kennebunkport:

Old Vines Wine Bar & Seafood: Offers lobster in a sit-down setting with local flair.
The Clam Shack: A casual, must-visit spot for lobster rolls and fried seafood.
Lobster Bakes: Many local inns, seafood restaurants, or companies like Maine Lobster Shack and local tour operators offer traditional lobster bakes where you can enjoy lobster, clams, corn, and potatoes cooked together outdoors — a very Maine experience.

Tips for Your Maine Visit

Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and coastal paths.
Dress in layers — coastal Maine can be breezy even in summer, and temperatures can fluctuate.
Book lobster bakes in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Try to get an early ferry or morning visits to lighthouses to avoid crowds.
Allow flexibility in your schedule to enjoy spontaneous scenic stops along the coast.

With this plan, you’ll get a mix of iconic Portland sights, classic Maine lobster experiences, and the relaxed charm and scenic beauty of Kennebunkport, making the most of your short visit.