Kennebunkport is a good base for exploring the southern Maine coast, and the best day trips are short drives away. This guide covers the most rewarding options, with notes on timing, parking and pairing them with your time in the Kennebunks. Portland has its own guide and market, so it is mentioned only briefly.
Ogunquit: the Marginal Way and Perkins Cove
Ogunquit lies roughly twenty to thirty minutes south, depending on traffic. The Marginal Way is a mostly level shore path of about a mile along the rocks between the main beach area and Perkins Cove, with benches and sea views. At the cove, a footbridge crosses the small harbor, and there are shops, galleries and places to eat. Parking is tight in summer, so arrive early. Allow half a day.
Wells: Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
A short drive south of Kennebunkport, the refuge protects salt marsh and estuary. The Carson Trail is a gentle walk suited to families, and the refuge also has the Cutts Island and Timber Point trails. Trails are open year round from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset, and leashed pets are allowed only on the Carson Trail. Bring binoculars and repellent in warm months.
Cape Porpoise
Though technically part of Kennebunkport, Cape Porpoise feels like a separate village. The working harbor, the lobster boats and the view of Goat Island Light, built in 1833, make it a charming half-day trip, with a simple lunch by the water. Parking near the pier is limited.
Goose Rocks Beach
A few minutes north of the village, this quiet beach has tidal flats and a relaxed feel. It is a good alternative on days when the Kennebunk beaches are crowded. Check parking rules and bring your own supplies.
Kennebunk Lower Village and Summer Street
A short drive across the river takes you to the Brick Store Museum, the Wedding Cake House and the grand houses of Summer Street, along with St. Anthony's Franciscan Monastery. It is an easy half-day of history and architecture, especially useful on a rainy day.
Inland to the Seashore Trolley Museum
A short drive from the village, the museum is a major family attraction, and a full morning is easy to fill with rides and exhibits.
Further afield
Old Orchard Beach, York Beach with its lighthouse area, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire, are all within a drive, and Portland is roughly an hour away. These are longer outings, so start early, check opening hours and weather, and consider overnight stays if you want to see more. Always confirm seasonal hours for attractions and restaurants.
Planning tips
Route 1 and the coastal roads can be slow in summer, so leave early. Check the tide tables for beaches and the Marginal Way, bring layers and carry water. If you are traveling without a car, tours and trolleys cover some of the area, but day trips usually require a vehicle or a taxi.
Rainy day trips
If the weather turns, head for indoor sights: the Brick Store Museum, the Seashore Trolley Museum carhouses, a covered browse of the galleries in Dock Square or a drive along the coast to watch the surf from the car. Fog can make the Marginal Way and the refuge atmospheric, but wet rocks are slippery, so wear sturdy shoes and take care. Pack water, snacks, a rain jacket, sunscreen and a small first aid kit for any outing, and tell someone your plan if you walk alone.
Getting there without a car
Public transit along this part of the coast is limited, and many visitors rent a car or use taxis and ride-hailing for longer outings. Some tours, charters and private cruises can fill gaps, and hotels can often advise on shuttle options in season. If you have a car, fill the tank before the day begins, download offline maps and check parking rules and fees at each stop.
How to combine them
A balanced day might pair the Rachel Carson refuge in the morning with the Marginal Way and a lobster roll at Perkins Cove in the afternoon. A quieter day might combine Goose Rocks Beach with Cape Porpoise. A rainy day might send you to the Brick Store Museum and Summer Street.