The Beach House Inn is a small, beach-oriented inn on Beach Avenue in Kennebunk, close to Gooch's Beach and the Kennebunk beaches. It is an excellent choice for visitors who want to be near the sand rather than the shops, with the promenade, seawall and ocean views a few steps from the door. The inn has a casual, relaxed character, and its smaller scale gives it a personal feel. Guests can walk to the beach, spend the day swimming or reading, and return to a quiet inn in the evening. Dock Square and the village are a short drive away, and Ocean Avenue is easily reached. It suits couples, small families and travelers who prefer an unhurried coastal stay to a busy village base.
Choosing a room
Rooms differ in size and view, so ask about ocean-facing options and whether breakfast is included. Because the inn is small, it can sell out for summer weekends, and minimum stays are common. Rates peak in July and August and again during foliage season.
Location
The beach is the main attraction, and the walk along Beach Avenue to Mother's Beach and Colony Beach is pleasant. Parking is generally available at the inn, which helps given the strict rules at beach lots. The Seashore Trolley Museum, the White Barn Inn area and the monastery grounds are short drives away.
Who it suits
Couples, beach lovers and small families who want a quiet base. It is less suited to travelers who want to walk to restaurants and nightlife in Dock Square. Check which services and amenities are offered for your dates. Pair a stay with sunrise walks, a sail and a lobster dinner in Cape Porpoise.
Planning your stay
Bring a beach bag, sunscreen and sandals, and plan to spend as much time on the sand as possible. Tides shape the day, so check the tide table when choosing swim times. Ask about beach parking passes if you will drive to other beaches, and consider booking midweek in July and August, when rates may be lower and the beach is calmer.
In autumn, the shore is quiet and walks are rewarding. Getting there and getting around: the nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport, roughly an hour away by car, and Boston is about two hours away, so most guests arrive by car. Ask whether your hotel can arrange local transport, and confirm check-in times and parking fees when you reserve.
Why stay here
- ✓Steps from Gooch's Beach
- ✓Ocean views in select rooms
- ✓Small inn atmosphere
- ✓Beach Avenue promenade
- ✓Parking on site
- ✓Breakfast options, check when booking
- ✓Close to Colony Beach
- ✓Quiet residential street
Good questions
How far is the beach?+
Gooch's Beach is a short walk across Beach Avenue.
Can I walk to Dock Square?+
It is a short drive rather than a walk for most guests.
Is parking available?+
Generally yes, but confirm when you reserve.