The Nonantum Resort in Kennebunkport, Maine offers a historic coastal stay in one of New England’s most coveted year-round destinations. Before the summer season even begins in Maine, this resort effortlessly fills every one of its 109 guestrooms. Built in 1883, The Nonantum Resort offers the best of rich New England history and a quaint coastal escape.
Kennebunkport famously houses Walker’s Point Estate, the summer home of the Bush family, who frequent The Nonantum for dinners, events, and even staying at the property quite a few times (despite owning a nearby compound). The resort is just that, good enough for presidents yet a welcoming place “where traditions begin” for all. The fairly valued resort offers dozens of family-friendly amenities for a peaceful escape to Kennebunkport.
About The Nonantum Resort
While The Nonantum’s come a long way since its early days as a small inn with 28 rooms and 10 staff members, the history remains omnipresent. The name, “Nonantum” stems from the location of the early inn, which opened in a popular trading site between settlers and Native American Algonquins. It translates to “blessing” or “pray.”
With each passing season in its 141-year-long history, the resort’s demand increased, leading to several expansions and additions such as the Carriage House, two full-service restaurants, and a waterfront saltwater pool. Today, it’s a popular place for Bostonians and families from across the world to vacation year-round. It recently holds the title as “Kennebunkport’s best hotel” according to TripAdvisor and the ideal spot to stay when visiting this charming Maine town.
Rooms average under $500 a night and can accommodate anywhere from two guests to 6+ in the spacious family rooms with precious Captain’s Quarters. Find rates and availability on The Nonantum reservations portal.
Stay at the heart of Kennebunkport
The resort’s prime location is just minutes away from the Kennebunk Beaches, the main downtown shopping and dining area, and right on the Kennebunk River for boating. Travel by vehicle, foot or ride one of the complimentary bikes to explore town. The Nonantum Shuttle service also offers free rides to and from downtown, the beach, and the lower village.
Dreamy waterfront views
The waterfront resort sits right on Kennebunk River. The grounds also lookout onto Colony Beach for a breathtaking view, especially at sunset! A white lighthouse stands at the banks of the property, setting up the perfect photoshoot opportunity. The resorts also hosts morning yoga on the lawn at 8:30 AM!
Pineapple Ketch Sailing from the resort dock
The resort dock is a pathway to exploration. Venture on a 1.5-hour sail on the Pineapple Ketch, a sailboat servicing Kennebunkport for nearly two decades. Reserve a seat for $75-100 per person or the entire boat, accommodating up to 12 guests, for $900.
Complimentary kayaks and paddleboards to travel Kennebunk River
As a more affordable option to explore the river, kayaks, paddleboards, and life vests are complimentary to Nonantum guests.
Camp Nonantum
New to The Nonantum is a child-friendly camp that’s just as fun for the adults! The lovely camp director, Esther, and her team offer almost 10 unique daily activities to keep the kids busy and learning. Parents are welcome to drop kids off or join in on the fun.
Camp Nonantum activities include everything from kid-friendly crabbing to tie dye and facepainting.
Blackrock Farm
The Nonantum Resort owns a 70-acre farm where plenty of its organic produce and flowers grow! You can taste the freshness in every bite at the resort’s dining and admire the stunning arrangements in every corner of the resort.
Things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine
While Kennebunkport, or as some say “Kennebunk” for short, is an idyllic summer escape, the town offers year-round reasons to visit. The condensed nature and accessibility of the town make it easy to enjoy all of these activities in a single trip, but you’ll be so smitten with Kennebunkport you’ll yearn to stay longer.
Explore Dock Square
Dock Square is the main downtown shopping area of Kennebunkport. Meander through a mix of bespoke Maine shops, quirky antiques and even a store completely dedicated to all things lobster-themed, conveniently named Lobstore.
Taste test the ‘best lobster roll in world’
The Clam Shack overlooks the Kennebunk River. On the side of this tiny shack reads a sign that names it the “best lobster roll in America,” according to Food & Wine. More impressively, The Clam Shack’s earned the title as “the world’s best lobster roll” by Taste Atlas. The Clam Shack is just a 15-minute walk from The Nonantum.
Surf at Gooch’s Beach
Gooch’s Beach, just a quick trip from the resort, is a great spot to catch some swell. Aquaholics offers group, camp, and private surf lessons at the beach!
Watch the Sunrise on Ocean Avenue
Take a right outside The Nonantum Resort to catch some of the most miraculous sunrises on the East Coast. Ocean Avenue is a beautiful stretch traveling east and west all along the coastline. The sunset on the resort property is equally mesmerizing.
Grab acai from Fiafia
It’s not unusual to find guests exclaiming “this is the best smoothie I’ve had in my life” at Fiafia. Forget Erehwon, Fiafia Maine is a hidden gem that might just have some of the best smoothies and acai bowls ever. Make sure to also try one of their fun lattes like Sweet Cardamom with macadamia milk.
Sea Love Candles
For a fun indoor activity that doubles as a souvenir stop, reserve a session at the pour-your-own-candle-bar, Sea Love Kennebunkport. The Nonantum’s signature scent is hand-poured at the shop! Make sure to also visit the on-site market and gift shop at The Nonantum for a caffeinated pick-me-up and high-quality American-made gifts.
Celebrate the holidays and Valentine’s Day
Kennebunkport doesn’t sleep after summer. The Maine town ranked as both “America’s most romantic town” and “the nation’s second-best holiday town.” Make sure to pay a visit in December and February for a totally different experience.
Getting to The Nonantum Resort from Boston
Kennebunkport is a straight 2-hour drive from Boston on I-95 North. Alternatively, catch the Downeaster train from North Station to Wells, Maine for $26. From there, the resort is about 17 minutes away, and the incredibly hospitable resort staff are willing to pick you up if can’t happen to find a carshare ride, as they are not as common in Southern Maine as Boston.
Find The Nonantum Resort at 95 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, ME 04046