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

Should you visit Marathon or Kennebunkport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Marathon or Kennebunkport, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, nightlife, and food.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Marathon and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Marathon and Kennebunkport are both popular with visitors, Kennebunkport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kennebunkport is more popular for its museums, food, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Marathon is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Marathon is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. Kennebunkport is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also home to Dock Square.

How is Marathon different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

Kennebunkport is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a handful of local museums around town like the Brick Store Museum, the First Families Kennebunkport Museum, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Marathon is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Kennebunkport. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Marathon. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

Is Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

The vibe at night is good in both Marathon and Kennebunkport.

If you're looking for night time activities Marathon has a few options to choose from. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

With a similar set of options, very good resorts can be found in both Marathon and Kennebunkport.

Marathon is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

In Kennebunkport, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.


Is Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Marathon is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Marathon has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

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

Marathon is considered a top beach destination. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

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 Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Marathon is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport has hiking trails worth exploring. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Marathon and Kennebunkport are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Marathon is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly island. 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 Marathon or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Marathon and Kennebunkport are both very good to visit as a couple.

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting for couples.

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

Marathon
Kennebunkport

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

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

Is Marathon or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Marathon
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Marathon is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Marathon?

How long in Marathon or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Marathon or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Marathon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Marathon. 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 Marathon. 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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. 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 Marathon or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Marathon. 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 Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxing destination of Marathon. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island 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 Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife when visiting the beautiful island of Marathon. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Marathon?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $158, 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 Marathon and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Marathon 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 Marathon


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: Marathon Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Kennebunkport $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Marathon 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
    Marathon $51
    Kennebunkport $67

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

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
    Marathon $24
    Kennebunkport $31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Marathon and Kennebunkport, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. And not only is Marathon much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Marathon would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Marathon 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 Marathon.

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


Which is Bigger, Marathon or Kennebunkport?

Marathon has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Marathon 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 Marathon 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 Marathon or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Marathon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Marathon in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Marathon is a little warmer than Kennebunkport in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Kennebunkport. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Marathon. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during summer. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Marathon usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Marathon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Marathon is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the autumn, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Marathon gets 258 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 Marathon. Marathon usually gets more rain in October than Kennebunkport. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Kennebunkport. The winter months attract visitors to Marathon because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

It's quite cold in Kennebunkport in the winter. In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during winter. Marathon gets 252 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Marathon usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Marathon or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Marathon as well as Kennebunkport. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Marathon this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Marathon is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 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 Marathon this time of the year. In the spring, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Marathon

Marathon Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)