Blog

The Schooner Eleanor sheds its shrink-wrap and the crocus muscle their way through the frozen ground. After a particularly snowy winter, we are very glad to see these harbingers. Soon, daffodils, tulips, and hyacinth will eclipse the crocus and water will be flowing in our water garden. Opening Day for the Red Sox has come and gone, which is another signal that spring is truly upon us. Our favorite sign, however, is the proliferation of ones that say "Open" hung cheerily in the windows of local restaurants and shops, many of which are awakening from their annual winter slumber. Hurricane, Mabel's Lobster Claw, Bandaloop, and On The Marsh have either opened or will open later this month, adding to the wonderful variety of places to grab a bite to eat in Kennebunkport and Kennebunk.

Spring is always a time of anticipation, renewal, and change. This spring is no different with a handful of area staples being reborn as new ventures. After sixteen years of serving delicious, northern Italian fare, Grissini Italian Bistro will soon reopen as Abbondante Italian Eatery under the steady hands of Local restaurateurs Merrilee Paul and David Ross, who also created 50 Local and Owen's Farmhouse. The venerable Cape Arundel Inn is reinventing its namesake restaurant as Ocean, helmed by Chef Pierre Gignac whose Ogunquit restaurant 98 Provence was an area favorite for 17 years. Another new restaurant set to open this summer is David's Kennebunkport which will be located in a brand new waterfront building that has risen on the spot that used to be the Landing Hotel and Restaurant. Acclaimed Portland chef, David Turin's latest venture will offer creative, contemporary cuisine in a prime spot overlooking the water.

Other changes are afoot in Dock Square where a handful of shops and galleries are set to open for the season with new names and fresh offerings. Stay tuned for updates as the tides of time continue to pull us toward warm days filled with sun and surf.

Kennebunkport is a very pet-friendly town. Many shops, restaurants, and lodging establishments actively welcome dogs, putting out water bowls and sometimes even treats. We have five pet-friendly rooms here at the Inn so we have done some homework to suss out places where folks can dine, lounge or play with their pets.

Beaches

Kennebunk Beach is extremely dog friendly. From June 15th until September 15th dogs are allowed on the beach before 9am and after 5pm. Dogs must either be on a leash or the owner must be carrying a leash.

Goose Rocks Beach requires that dogs always be on a leash. Dogs are allowed before 8am and after 6pm. At all other times of the year there are no restrictions at either beach other than leash requirements and clean-up.

Trails

The Bridle Path - Flat dirt path about two miles long that parallels the Mousam River. This is a lovely walk through the woods along the water. Accessible from Sea Road (parking at Sea Road School) and Route 9 (limited parking), Kennebunk.

Kennebunk Land Trust Preserves are open to the public for recreational enjoyment. Properties are marked clearly by signs and trail blazing. Motorized vehicles, fires and camping are not allowed. www.kennebunklandtrust.org.

1. Alewive Woods Preserve, Cole Road, West Kennebunk. Nearly 626 acres, the forested preserve features a 45-acre pond. Access to the pond is via a loop that is 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 miles depending on trail chosen.

2. Clark Preserve, Emmons Road, Kennebunk. The forested 90-acre tract has frontage on the Kennebunk River and a half-mile trail for hiking.

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, 321 Port Road (Route 9), Wells. 
The Carson Trail is a one-mile walk with salt marsh and river views. Leashed dogs are allowed. The trail is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Handicapped accessible. A trail map is available online: www.fws.gov/northeast/rachelcarson/aboutus.html.

Kennebunkport Conservation Trust, Gravelly Brook Road, Kennebunkport. A variety of trails are offered in three locations. Trails maps are available online: www.kporttrust.org.

1. Emmons Preserve, Gravelly Brook Road. Mark and Gail Roller Trail, Jeremy’s Trail and Jenne’s Trail feature short interconnnecting walks through woods and fields and along the Batson River. Parking is available.

2. Tyler Preserve, Tyler Brook Road, just off Mills Road and south of Beachwood Road, Kennebunkport. Access is on the paved road to left side of a private drive with parking available for four to six vehicles. The trail is one mile long with scenic, river views including waterfalls. There are benches and picnic areas.

3. Town Forest, Guinea Road, Kennebunkport. Over 1000 acres of pristine wildlife habitat with large ledge outcroppings, vernal pools and rare flora and fauna, the yellow-marked Jim and Agnes Steel Trail is 1 ½ miles long and one-way. Parking is available for four to six cars.

Vaughan Woods State Park, 28 Oldsfields Road (off Route 236), South Berwick. The 250-acre wildlife sanctuary has three miles of walks through old-growth stands of pine and hemlock and along the Salmon Falls River; one trail leads to the 18th century Hamilton House. Trails are steep and uneven in some sections. Resources: parking area, outdoor cooking facilities, picnic tables, restroom. Leashed dogs allowed. Admission fee. A trail map is available online: Maine State Parks.

Mount Agamenticus, Mountain Road, York. At 692 feet, Mt. Agamenticus was once a radar lookout during World War II and later a ski resort called the Big A. It offers spectacular views from the summit where migrating hawks can be spotted and offers a variety of trails from the summit and the base. For hikers with just a short time to spend, there are two loops: from the summit, Witch Hazel to Ring Trail (north/left) to Horse Trail, 0.8 mile, intermediate; from Mountain Road, Ring Trail (east/left) to Witch Hazel to Sweet Fern to Ring Trail (west/left), 1.5 miles. Eight trails range from moderate to difficult. Ring Trail is good for families. Open during daylight hours. Seasonal portable restrooms. Trail maps are available online: www.agamenticus.org.

Restaurants

What better way to enjoy your stay than to go out to eat with your pooch. The following is an unofficial list of local restaurants with pet friendly outdoor seating. We would highly recommend you contact the restaurant to confirm your furry friend is welcome.

Cape Pier Chowder House
207-967-0123
79 Pier Road, Cape Porpoise

Old Vines Wine Bar & Tapas Restaurant
207-967-2310
173 Port Rd, Lower Village Kennebunk

Pedro’s Mexican Restaurant
207-967-5544
181 Port Rd, Lower Village Kennebunk

Ryan’s Corner House Irish Pup & Restaurant
207-967-3564
17 Western Ave., Lower Village Kennebunk

The Colony Hotel
207-967-3331
140 Ocean Ave. Kennebunkport

The Kennebunk Inn
207-985-3351
45 Main Street, Kennebunk

50 Local
207-985-0850
50 Main Street Kennebunk

Shops

Scalawags - Scalawags is a neat shop with some great and unique items for dogs. Check out some of the “Made in Maine” toys for dogs. Mary Beth Kvaka is the owner of Scalawags and could be described as the ambassador of Kennebunkport for dog people. She is a fantastic resource, and can point you in the right direction for more dog friendly Maine places. Check out her website for more information: www.scalawagsonline.com.

Fetch - If you head north out of town for a drive along the waterfront, Portland is a worthwhile destination and FETCH is a can’t miss shop. You'll find the most innovative, well-constructed or just plain fun toys and gear from companies like RC Pet, Ruffwear, Upcountry, Lupine, Bison, Silverfoot, Ella Dish and more. Dive into their bins of dog coats and sweaters in wool and fleece, booties for city walking and mountain hiking. Then try out their lofty, sturdy beds that look great and keep their shape after many washings. Don't forget about their latest addition, a self-serve dog-wash station! www.fetchportland.com.

Planet Dog - The Planet Dog store is a real treat for pet owners. It's a fun place to take the dogs whether you're getting food, toys or visiting the groom shop. Planet Dog makes their own "orbee-tuff" toys which are mint scented as well. These toys are durable, fun and even float! This store also has an incredible selection of high quality food and treats. www.planetdog.com.

As crocus and daffodils begin to muscle their way through the soil after their long winter nap, another kind of awakening is taking place in town. After taking breathers of anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, many local restaurants are throwing their doors open again for business. We are very fortunate to have an absolutely amazing selection of restaurants in the area, ranging from humble lobster shacks to white tablecloths and china to pretty much everything in between. So wake up your palates and come sample some of the wonderful food that can be found in and around the area.

Some places that recently opened for the season or will open soon are:

Arrows - Opening April 7th - Arrows is a true country restaurant:  proscuittos and charcuterie are created on premise, fish of all types are prepared in the onsite smoke house, breads and pastries are created by a master pastry chef, and Arrows organic garden provides up to 90% of the restaurant’s produce needs. www.arrowsrestaurant.com

Bandaloop - Opening April 17th - Bandaloop is known for its use of organic and local foods, many vegetarian and vegan options, and an array of appetizers, entrees, and sauces to choose from. Everything is created in house, from the organic bread and sauces straight through to the desserts. www.bandaloop.biz

Cape Arundel Inn - Recently extended their hours to include Tuesday - Saturday from 5:30-9 PM and Special Sunday Suppers from 4-7 PM. - Cape Arundel Inn offers a combination of inventive Maine cuisine paired with warm, professional service and breathtaking ocean views. Be sure to arrive early to have a cocktail in their cozy living room or on their ocean view porch. www.capearundelinn.com

Hurricane - Opening April 6th - Hurricane serves only the freshest seafood and lobster and they feature many satisfying vegetarian dishes. Steak and chop lovers will easily find something on the menu to tempt them and their in-house pastry chef will delight your sweet tooth. www.hurricanerestaurant.com

Kennebunkport Inn's One Dock - Opened March 30th - After a total off-season makeover One Dock is now open with a fresh new look. Situated in a wonderful location overlooking the Kennebunk River, One Dock offers creative, contemporary New England cuisine and traditional Maine favorites with a bold fusion flair. www.onedock.com

Mabel's Lobster Claw - Opening April 5th - Owners Stephanie and Robert Fischer take great pride in serving the freshest quality pieces of  fish, steaks, and lobsters available.  Homemade pies, blueberry bread, and corn muffins are baked every morning on the premises. www.mabelslobster.com

On the Marsh - Opening April 5th - Ethnicity of cuisine flows through On the Marsh's menu which features the freshest products from local growers. All of their cuisine is prepared in house with a focus on the individual's palate. www.onthemarsh.com

Ryan's Corner House Irish Pub - Opened March 17th (of course!) - This Irish Pub is the real deal, serving up plates of Bangers and Mash, Shepherd’s Pie, and loads of potatoes!