A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cape Cod vs. Kennebunkport for Food, Resorts, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Cape Cod and Kennebunkport. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a relaxing, laid-back, and wealthy beach destination. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include shopping, food, and beaches.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a character-filled, charming, and quaint town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Cape Cod and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kennebunkport than Cape Cod, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kennebunkport is better known for its museums, nightlife, and resorts, while Cape Cod is more popular for its beaches, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cape Cod is well known for its long scenic coastline, charming compact towns, and magnificent migrating whales. Kennebunkport is well known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Also, Kennebunkport is famous for Dock Square.

How is Cape Cod different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kennebunkport and Cape Cod. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kennebunkport. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Cape Cod does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Dining out at restaurants in both Cape Cod and Kennebunkport can be an enjoyable experience.

Cape Cod has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The region is famous for its fresh seafood and popular dishes include the fried clams and broiled lobster. There are also many diners and brunch cafes where you can enjoy pancakes or eggs benedict.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Kennebunkport makes for a great culinary experience. Fine dining, seafood restaurants, and local cafes all make this a wonderful town for foodies. The town's famous for its lobster, but you can also try the scallops, crab, or oysters.

Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Cape Cod is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

People don't go to Cape Cod for the nightlife. This area isn't really known for its nightlife, but the downtown of Hyannis has some activity at night.

Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Cape Cod is not as popular, but is still a nice beach destination for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Kennebunkport to choose from. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Cape Cod has a handful of resorts to choose from. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, White Elephant Resorts, and Chatham Bars Inn are favorite resorts in the Cape Cod area.


Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Cape Cod is great for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Cape Cod is considered a top beach destination. Beaches in the area include long stretches of soft sand as well as tidal pools where kids can play. Several of the best beaches around Cape Cod include Mayflower Beach, Marconi Beach, and Race Point Beach.

Kennebunkport is not a beach destination. It's lined with rocky and sandy coastlines that are perfect for finding critters at low tide or searching for seashells. Mother's Beach is popular with families and Gooch's Beach is a popular place for walking. Middle Beach is a great spot for climbing over rocks.

Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Hiking trails can be found around both Cape Cod and Kennebunkport, and they are notable.

Cape Cod offers some nice hiking trails. Hikes range from casual strolls to longer trails. Popular options include Bass Hole Boardwalk in Yarmouth and the 22 mile Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Is the Shopping Better in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

If you're looking to go shopping, Cape Cod and Kennebunkport both offer plenty of superb spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Cape Cod. Many of the area's towns have charming Main Streets where you can enjoy shopping and dining.

Kennebunkport is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.


Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Both Cape Cod and Kennebunkport are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Cape Cod. The coastal towns have a number of kid-friendly activities. In the Upper Cape, Falmouth is one of the best towns for families. On Mid Cape, Dennis and Yarmouth are both kid-friendly. Dennis has a resorty vibe and Yarmouth has kid-friendly museums. On the Lower Cape, both Harwich and Orleans are family-friendly options.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly place to visit. You can explore the rocks around Mother's Beach or take the kids out on a lobster boat. There's also a lot of history around Dock's Square and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in town.

Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Cape Cod and Kennebunkport both superb destinations for a couple.

Cape Cod is a great beach destination if you're traveling as a couple. With its charming character and relaxing beach setting, honeymooners and couples will appreciate all that the area has to offer. There are peaceful settings and charming villages to explore. There are also award-winning restaurants and beautiful views.

Kennebunkport is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Cape Cod and Kennebunkport both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cape Cod. While there are buses and shuttles to help you get around, a car really is necessary to explore the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Kennebunkport. During the summer months there's a Shoreline Trolley that connects towns.


Is Cape Cod or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Cape Cod
Kennebunkport

Cape Cod and Kennebunkport are notable when it comes to walkability.

Cape Cod is a somewhat walkable beach destination. Many of the small towns in the area have compact and walkable areas, but the region is spread out so it's helpful to have a car to get from place to place.

Kennebunkport is somewhat walkable. It's downtown is compact and particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Cape Cod Worth Visiting? and Is Kennebunkport Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Cape Cod?

How long in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Cod or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cape Cod due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Cape Cod, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Cape Cod. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kennebunkport, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Cape Cod. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kennebunkport that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Cape Cod if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kennebunkport.


  • How many days in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Cod 5-7 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Even though Cape Cod is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The town of Kennebunkport offers food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Cod. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Kennebunkport is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kennebunkport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Cape Cod is a small town with plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This beach destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Cape Cod might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Cape Cod?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Cod is $183, while the average daily cost in Kennebunkport is $220. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Cod and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Cod $92
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Cod $184
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Cape Cod and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Cape Cod or Kennebunkport? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Cod


Hotels in Kennebunkport


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Cod $50
    Kennebunkport $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Cape Cod change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Cod $60
    Kennebunkport $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Cod $27
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Cape Cod

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Cape Cod.

  • National Seashore Tour with Guided Hike: $65
  • 3-Hour Private Sightseeing Outdoor Escape Game in Eastham: $39
  • Cape Cod Explorer Tour: $80
  • Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Cape Cod Sunset Kayak Tour: $80
  • Kayak The Creek Nature Tour: $80
  • Mayflower Trolley Tour!: $36
  • Plymouth Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Private Open-Air Pedicab Tour in Provincetown: $117
  • Private Province Town Pedicab Tour: $149
  • The Anne Hutchinson Tour of Provincetown: $30
  • Truro Cape Cod Lighthouse and Highland House Museum Tour: $65

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Kennebunkport.

  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140
  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Cod $19
    Kennebunkport $31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cape Cod and Kennebunkport, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. And not only is Cape Cod much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cape Cod would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cape Cod and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kennebunkport would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kennebunkport than you might in Cape Cod.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cape Cod Expensive? and Is Kennebunkport Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Cape Cod or Kennebunkport?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cape Cod or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Cape Cod are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Cod this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Cape Cod is around the same temperature as Kennebunkport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cape Cod in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Kennebunkport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during summer. Cape Cod gets 304 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Cape Cod gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Cod 68°F (20°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Cape Cod during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cape Cod for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cape Cod is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Cape Cod average around 53°F (12°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In the autumn, Cape Cod often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Cape Cod gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cape Cod. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in October than Kennebunkport. Cape Cod gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Cod 53°F (12°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Cod and Kennebunkport. Many visitors come to Cape Cod in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kennebunkport can be very cold during winter. Cape Cod can get quite cold in the winter. Cape Cod is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the winter. The daily temperature in Cape Cod averages around 31°F (-0°C) in January, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Cape Cod usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during winter. Cape Cod gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

Cape Cod gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Cape Cod usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Cape Cod gets 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Cod 31°F (-0°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Cape Cod or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Cod as well as Kennebunkport. Most visitors come to Cape Cod for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Cape Cod is a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Cod in April average around 45°F (7°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 43°F (6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kennebunkport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Cod this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Cod often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Cape Cod gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Cape Cod receives a lot of rain in the spring. Cape Cod usually gets more rain in April than Kennebunkport. Cape Cod gets 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Cod 45°F (7°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Cape Cod

Cape Cod Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 31°F (-0°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 32°F (-0°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 38°F (3°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 45°F (7°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 68°F (20°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 68°F (20°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 62°F (17°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 53°F (12°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)