A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Jacksonville vs. Kennebunkport for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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.

Jacksonville

Jacksonville is a fun, vibrant, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a character-filled, charming, and quaint town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, hiking, and shopping.

Jacksonville and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jacksonville than Kennebunkport, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jacksonville is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and big city activities, while Kennebunkport is more popular for its resorts, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Jacksonville and is known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Jacksonville is well known for its beautiful beaches and lively downtown area. Also, Jacksonville is famous for Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens.

How is Jacksonville different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Jacksonville is great for its historical sights. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Jacksonville offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of museums that range from art museums to science or kid-friendly museums. Some favorites are the Museum of Science and History, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mandarin Museum and Historical Society, and Kingsley Plantation.

Kennebunkport offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.


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

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Jacksonville and Kennebunkport.

Jacksonville has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Local cuisine has its own identity. Unique dishes around town include garlic crabs, seafood boil, gumbo, and shrimp and grits. The local cuisine is similar to Lowcountry dishes with a lot of Cajun influence. If you want something different from seafood, you should try the barbecue.

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 Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Jacksonville is great for nightlife. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Jacksonville for the nightlife scene. The young population brings out the nightlife scene. There's a great concentration of bars and clubs in the area known as The Elbow, which is at the intersection of N. Ocean and E. Bay Street. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, lounges, and clubs around town that make for a fun night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Jacksonville is not a resort destination.

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

Jacksonville is not a resort destination.


Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

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

Jacksonville is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beaches that are just a short distance from the city. Some have a historic vibe while others are more lively. Atlantic Beach is about a half hour drive from the city. For a laid back vibe head to Neptune Beach and the most popular beach in the area is Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport offers some nice hiking trails. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Jacksonville is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Jacksonville and Kennebunkport.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Jacksonville. There are countless malls and shopping districts around town. Some of the best shopping is found at St. John's Center, Five Points, and Avondale.

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


Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kennebunkport. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Jacksonville. It's filled with adventure parks, zoos, animal farms, nature centers, and gardens. Adults will have as much fun as kids exploring the city and all of its family-friendly attractions.

Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Jacksonville is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kennebunkport makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Jacksonville is a nice destination for couples. It's a young city that's near nature and has plenty of adventurous activities. There's sailing, botanical gardens, restaurants, and plenty of bars around town.

Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Jacksonville is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Jacksonville. There are a few hostels in town as well as affordable motels. The city has a young population with plenty to do. Although it's often overlooked by tourists, there's a surprising and underrated appeal to the backpacker crowd.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport Better for Students?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Jacksonville is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Kennebunkport is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Jacksonville. There are a few colleges and universities in town. The city's population is also very young, making it a great place to study.

Kennebunkport is not popular with students.

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

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Jacksonville is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Jacksonville offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system includes trolleys, the Skyway, buses, water taxis, and the ferry.

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

Is Jacksonville or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Jacksonville
Kennebunkport

Jacksonville and Kennebunkport are notable when it comes to walkability.

Jacksonville is a somewhat walkable city. Downtown Jacksonville is the most walkable part of the city.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Jacksonville?

How long in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Jacksonville or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Jacksonville, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Jacksonville. 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 Jacksonville. 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 Jacksonville than Kennebunkport 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 Jacksonville.


  • How many days in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Jacksonville 2-3 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the lively destination of Jacksonville. 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.

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jacksonville. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Kennebunkport is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the youthful destination of Jacksonville. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

Kennebunkport is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Jacksonville. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a popular place to visit. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Jacksonville?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Jacksonville is $220, 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 Jacksonville and Kennebunkport in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville


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: Jacksonville Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Jacksonville $53
    Kennebunkport $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Jacksonville

Also for Jacksonville, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Carnival Cruise Port Transfer to Jacksonville: $336
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Amelia Island: $195
  • JAX Airport Transfer to Hyatt Place/ St. Johns Town Center: $164
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $123
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville City - Arrival Private Transfer: $61
  • Carnival Cruise Port to Jacksonville Airport (JAX) - Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • Jacksonville Airport (JAX) to Jacksonville Cruise Port -Arrival Private Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Jacksonville 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
    Jacksonville $96
    Kennebunkport $67

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • 1 Hour of Chocolate Pizza Making Class in Jacksonville: $18

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Jacksonville $20
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Jacksonville

For Jacksonville, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Jacksonville Ghosts and Ghouls Tour By US Ghost Adventures: $30
  • 2-Flights Indoor Skydiving Experience in Jacksonville: $91
  • 20 Minutes Chocolate & Candy Factory Tour in Jacksonville: $6.00
  • 90 Minute Self-Guided Arcimoto FUV Adventure: $125
  • Amelia Island Area Kayak Rental on Lofton Creek with Adventures Up The Creek: $36
  • Amelia Island Guided Kayak Tour of Lofton Creek : $60
  • Big Talbot Island Self Guided Tour with Smart Helmets: $115
  • CraigCat Boat Tour from Fernandina Beach: $145
  • Downtown Fernandina Historical Walking Tour: $30
  • Eight Flags Road Tour: $50
  • Electric Bike Art and Architecture Guided Tour in Jacksonville : $60
  • Electric Bike Tour with Free Application for Navigation: $50

Tours and Activities in Kennebunkport

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

  • 90 Minutes Ghost Walking Tour in Kennebunkport: $30
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $140
  • Ghost Tour with Folklore, Gossip & Scandals: $29
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $27
  • Historic District Walking Tour: $45

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Jacksonville $20
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Jacksonville

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Jacksonville:

  • Jax Brewery Tour (Drinks Included): $135


When comparing the travel costs between Jacksonville and Kennebunkport, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Jacksonville or Kennebunkport?

Jacksonville has a larger population, and is about 510 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Jacksonville and Kennebunkport, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Jacksonville and Kennebunkport. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Jacksonville this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Jacksonville is a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Jacksonville in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 69°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kennebunkport this time of the year. In Jacksonville, it's very sunny this time of the year. Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during summer. Jacksonville gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

Jacksonville gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Jacksonville usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Jacksonville gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Jacksonville 82°F (28°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Jacksonville as well as Kennebunkport. Many travelers come to Jacksonville for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, 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, Jacksonville is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Jacksonville average around 70°F (21°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Jacksonville this time of the year. In the autumn, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Jacksonville gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in October than Kennebunkport. Jacksonville gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Jacksonville is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Jacksonville 70°F (21°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

Both Kennebunkport and Jacksonville are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Jacksonville in the winter for the museums, 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. Jacksonville is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the winter. The daily temperature in Jacksonville averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Jacksonville usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during winter. Jacksonville gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Jacksonville usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kennebunkport. Jacksonville gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Jacksonville 53°F (12°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Jacksonville or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

Both Kennebunkport and Jacksonville during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Jacksonville for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Jacksonville is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Jacksonville in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 43°F (6°C).

In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Jacksonville. In the spring, Jacksonville often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Jacksonville gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Jacksonville usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Jacksonville gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, the hurricane season in Jacksonville is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Jacksonville 68°F (20°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Jacksonville

Jacksonville Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)