Matthew Dyer, co-owner of Wandby Landing, agrees.

If youre looking for absolute luxury, theWhite Barn Innis it, he says.

All the amenities, the hospitalitywere lucky to have that in our area.

Home with American Flag, Captain Jefferds Inn, Kennebunkport, Maine, USA

Credit:Jon Lovette/Getty Images

And great food, too their haddock chowder is pretty fantastic, and they have an awesome watermelon margarita.

I love just sitting on the porch there with a watermelon margarita.

Theres plenty of temptation to settle in for a few days and never explore beyond the resorts front entrance.

Exterior of The Wanderer

The Wanderer

I think Goose Rocks is one of the best beaches in the world, says Dyer.

It’s just a wonderful long walk, he says.

Our beaches are dog friendly before 9 and after 5.

Yachtsman Hotel and Marina Kennebunkport Maine

Courtesy of Yachtsman Hotel

Getting up early with your coffee or bagel and going to the beach with your dog is really fun.

There are many options, but three in particular stand out to Dyer.

The kayaks to the islands are amazing down there.

Guest room at Hidden Pond Cottage

Courtesy of Hidden Pond

There wont be anyone with you, and its just perfect, rocky coast, says Dyer.

It’s always great to take a picnic out there, Kingston suggests.

Jake [Peterson] is a great chef.

“Coastal scenic at sunset with hotel and fishing boat on a bay marina (Kennebunkport, Maine, USA). More New England coast images in lightbox below…"

EasyBuy4u/Getty Images

Its pretty perfect for a rainy day, says Dyer.

Everything is so beautiful Martha Stewart buys her pigeon baths there!

They have fancy pigeons and peacocks and ducks walking around.

Weathered old rowboat beached on an island in Maine

Chris Becker Photo/Getty Images

Dyer, too, is a Snug Harbor aficionado.

Best Shopping

Courtesy of Minka

Daytrip Society + Daytrip Jr. Its a great spot to be, and you always know people will be really nice.

Jackie and Paul at Seacraft their stuff is very, very cool.

Inside of the store Minka

Courtesy of Minka

They’ve brought another level of just fun, professionalism, and cool to the area, says Kingston.

Minkahas an awesome selection, Dyer says.

They represent Maine well, but they also have their own unique style.

Dishes from Wandby Landing

Courtesy of Wandby Landing

Farm + Tableis in a beautifully appointed old barn, and they have the best gifts from local craftsmen.

Its a magical spot, says Dyer.

Our number one thing during the season is just getting lobster atNunan’s, says Greaney.

“Wharf made of wood and wood shingles at sunset, located in Kennebunkport, Maine, United States. Best of Maine and New England in lightbox below…"

EasyBuy4u/Getty Images

It’s like pretty bare bones.

But it’s always a big hit, and the whole experience feels like authentic Maine, she explains.

Steve Kingstons spot shouldnt be missed, says Dyer.

Kennebunkport Maine

Downtown Kennebunkport, Maine.Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Theres no better location its on the bridge between Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.

Its the best spot to people-watch.

Greaney recommends the everything croissant, an everything-seasoning-sprinkled dough with a cream cheese filling.

Kennebunk port, Maine, small town, city street

Linda Raymond/Getty Images

German Lucarelli is as legit as they come, says Kingston.

How to Get There

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Fly into Portlands Jetport or Boston Logan.

The Jetport is only about 30 minutes away, but airlift options can be limited.

Narrated, hour-long tours run daily, with a fare of $28 for adults.