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

Should you visit Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Wilmington 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.

Wilmington

Wilmington is a charming, historic, and welcoming city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

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.

Wilmington and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wilmington. Although Wilmington and Kennebunkport are both popular with visitors, Wilmington has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wilmington is more popular for its beaches and historical sights, while Kennebunkport is known for its food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Wilmington and is known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Wilmington is popular for its laid back beaches, historical waterfront area, and university setting. It is also home to the Battleship North Carolina.

How is Wilmington different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Spend time exploring the good sights and museums in either Wilmington or Kennebunkport.

Wilmington is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are art, history, and science museums around town. The Battleship North Carolina is a popular destination. Science enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science or the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. For art, head to the Cameron Art Museum or Art in Bloom Gallery.

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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Wilmington. Head to the waterfront for local seafood restaurants that offer outdoor seating and fresh caught fish. There are also farm-to-table restaurants and local diners with casual food.

Is Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

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

If you're looking for night time activities Wilmington has a few options to choose from. Live music is popular around town. There are also bars, lounges and dance clubs. When the weather is warm, many places make use of the outdoor setting, which makes for a relaxed and fun evening.

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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its luxury resorts. However, Wilmington is not a resort destination.

Kennebunkport is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Wilmington is not a resort destination.


Is Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

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

Wilmington is considered a top beach destination. Nearby you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They have long stretches of sand and great waves. The water is usually warm enough for swimming between the months of April and October. During these peak months parking can be challenging, but during the quieter times, you shouldn't have trouble.

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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for its Old Town?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Wilmington is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Kennebunkport does not have a historic old town.

Wilmington is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Historic District is along the waterfront and has 18th and 19th century architecture. There are also great restaurants and interesting shops.

Kennebunkport does not have a historic old town.

Is Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Wilmington 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.

Wilmington is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for shopping. Also, Wilmington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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

Wilmington offers some nice shopping areas. Head downtown for the most interesting local shops. You'll find boutiques and souvenir shops where you can pick up art, accessories, or antiques.

Is Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

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

Wilmington is a very family-friendly destination. Near town you'll find several beaches - Wrightsville Beach, Kure Beach, and Carolina Beach. They're all family-friendly and perfect for a day's activity. The city also has the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, the Children's Museum of Wilmington, and the Wilmington Railroad Museum. For a rainy day there are also indoor play areas and entertainment centers.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

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

Wilmington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beaches are great for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing. In the evening head into town and enjoy one of the local seafood restaurants on the waterfront. You'll also find great shopping and historical sights in the area.

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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport Better for Students?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

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

It's common for students to visit Wilmington. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a popular school that brings many students to town.

Kennebunkport is not popular with students.

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

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Wilmington and Kennebunkport both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Wilmington. There are public buses around town, but for practical reasons, you'll want to have your own vehicle.

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

Is Wilmington or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Wilmington
Kennebunkport

Wilmington and Kennebunkport are good when it comes to walkability.

Wilmington is somewhat walkable. The Historic District is best explored on foot. You can also get around Wrightsville Beach on foot, but traveling between these places requires a car.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Wilmington?

How long in Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

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

Couples should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Wilmington. 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.


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

One day in Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Wilmington. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wilmington. 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.

Even though Kennebunkport is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Wilmington. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This city 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, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Wilmington. 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 that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Wilmington?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wilmington is $204, 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 Wilmington and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wilmington $120
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wilmington $240
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Wilmington and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Wilmington 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 Wilmington


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: Wilmington Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Wilmington 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
    Wilmington $56
    Kennebunkport $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wilmington $17
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Wilmington

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

  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $50
  • 2-Hour Tour de Wilmington E-Bike Tour: $55
  • 2.5 Hr E-Bike tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & one Haunted Pub: $65
  • 4.5 Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Adventure Tour: $85
  • 4.5-Hour Wilmington River to Sea E-Bike Adventure Tour: $85
  • Black Water Adventure Cruise: $33
  • Craft Beer and History Crawl Shared Experience in Wilmington: $30
  • Eagles Island 50 minute Narrated Boat Cruise: $21
  • Eco Kayak Tour in Wrightsville Beach: $75
  • Half Day Carolina Beach E-Bike Tour: $75
  • Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington's History, Haunts & Breweries: $85
  • Half-Day E-Bike Tour of the Filming Locations in One Tree Hill: $85

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
    Wilmington $39
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Wilmington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Wilmington:

  • 2-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55
  • 2-Hour Wilmington E-Bike Bar Crawl: $55


When comparing the travel costs between Wilmington 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 Wilmington Expensive? and Is Kennebunkport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Wilmington or Kennebunkport?

Wilmington has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Wilmington are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Wilmington in the summer for the beaches 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.

Wilmington is a little warmer than Kennebunkport in the summer. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 81°F (27°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 Wilmington. Wilmington usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during summer. Wilmington gets 283 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Wilmington. In July, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Wilmington gets 8.1 inches (207 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wilmington 81°F (27°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Wilmington during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Wilmington for the shopping scene 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, Wilmington is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wilmington in October average around 65°F (18°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Wilmington. In the autumn, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Wilmington gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets less rain in October than Kennebunkport. Wilmington gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wilmington 65°F (18°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Wilmington and Kennebunkport. The winter months attract visitors to Wilmington because of the museums, the shopping scene, and 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, Wilmington is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Wilmington average around 45°F (7°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Wilmington usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during winter. Wilmington gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Wilmington usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Wilmington gets 3.9 inches (98 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wilmington 45°F (7°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Wilmington or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

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

Wilmington is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the spring. The daily temperature in Wilmington averages around 63°F (17°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 Wilmington this time of the year. In the spring, Wilmington often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Wilmington gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Wilmington usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Wilmington gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wilmington 63°F (17°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Wilmington

Wilmington Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 47°F (9°C) 3.7 inches (94 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 63°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 70°F (21°C) 4.4 inches (113 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 77°F (25°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 81°F (27°C) 8.1 inches (207 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 80°F (27°C) 6.9 inches (176 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 5 inches (128 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 65°F (18°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 56°F (14°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)