Back to Kennebunkport

The Nonantum Resort

From $285/night • Score: 4.6★ (1420 reviews)

Exterior 1Exterior 2Interior 1Interior 2Surroundings

First Impressions & Architecture

As you approach The Nonantum Resort along the winding, elm-shaded lanes of Kennebunkport, Maine, the property reveals itself as a quintessential beacon of late-19th-century coastal grandeur. Established in 1883, this historic landmark commands a privileged position directly on the shimmering Kennebunk River, seamlessly blending the storied maritime heritage of Southern Maine with refined hospitality. The resort’s architecture instantly transports the discerning traveler to a bygone era of leisurely summer escapes, characterized by classic New England shingle-style construction, sweeping wraparound porches, and crisp white trim that contrasts poetically against the deep blue of the tidal river.

Stepping out of your vehicle, the immediate sensory impression is one of crisp salt air mingling with the scent of manicured lawns and towering pine trees. The expansive waterfront grounds are an architectural and landscape triumph, dotted with an armada of iconic bright red Adirondack chairs that invite guests to pause, sit back, and watch the graceful ballet of passing lobster boats and sailing yachts. The main Victorian-era building exudes a stately yet welcoming aura, retaining its historical integrity while offering modern touches that signal an effortless transition into contemporary luxury. Historic photographs line the sunlit corridors, whispering tales of generations of families who have made The Nonantum their seasonal home away from home.

The reception experience strikes an expert balance between professional efficiency and warm, unpretentious Maine charm. Staff members greet arrivals with genuine local hospitality, offering orientation maps of the walkable downtown core just minutes away. The lobby itself serves as a comfortable maritime parlor, featuring nautical accents, polished hardwood floors, and large windows that frame the ever-changing tides of the river. It is a grand entrance that honors the resort's rich past while instantly setting a tone of relaxed, coastal sophistication.

The Room Experience

Accommodations at The Nonantum Resort span a thoughtfully curated variety of settings, ensuring that every guest finds their ideal sanctuary. Whether you choose a classic, character-filled room in the historic 1883 Carriage House or opt for the contemporary, spacious comfort of the Portside Lodge rooms overlooking the marina, the design ethos remains firmly rooted in coastal elegance. Soft maritime palettes of navy, seafoam, and crisp linen white dominate the interiors, mirroring the natural beauty of the surrounding Kennebunk River landscape.

Upon entering the room, attention to detail is immediately apparent. Custom handcrafted wooden furnishings pay homage to the region's shipbuilding history, while plush pillow-top mattresses swathed in high-thread-count Egyptian cotton linens promise a restorative night's sleep. Thoughtful touches continue into the seating areas, where oversized armchairs positioned near large windows create the ultimate nook for diving into a summer novel or enjoying a quiet cup of morning coffee. Many rooms feature private balconies or patios that open directly to sweeping river views, allowing guests to fall asleep to the gentle lapping of the tide and wake up to glorious sunrise vistas over the marina.

Modern conveniences are seamlessly integrated without disrupting the historic aesthetic. Flat-screen televisions, high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi, individual climate control, and artisanal local bath products elevate the overnight experience to true resort standards. Bathrooms are impeccably maintained, featuring gleaming tile work, spacious walk-in showers or deep soaking tubs, and plush Turkish bathrobes that add an extra layer of pampering. Turndown service, though subtle, reinforces the feeling of attentive, high-touch hospitality that defines a premier luxury stay in Kennebunkport.

Signature Amenities & Atmosphere

What truly elevates The Nonantum Resort from a historic hotel to a legendary destination is its unparalleled suite of signature amenities, anchored by its prime riverfront positioning and vibrant maritime culture. The resort’s private on-site marina serves as the beating heart of its outdoor programming, offering guests unprecedented access to the water right from the property's docks. From exhilarating sailboat charters and authentic hands-on lobster boat excursions to serene lighthouse tours along the rugged Maine coast, the sea is quite literally at your doorstep.

Beyond the marina, the resort masterfully caters to both relaxation-seekers and active travelers. The expansive waterfront lawns are a hub of daytime leisure, transitioning effortlessly into magical communal gathering spaces as the sun begins to dip below the horizon. Evening fire pits cast a warm, flickering glow across the grounds, where guests gather to roast gourmet s'mores, share stories of the day's maritime adventures, and sip craft cocktails under a canopy of stars. For families, The Nonantum is widely celebrated for its award-winning children's programs, which offer engaging, supervised activities ranging from pirate cruises to tie-dye workshops, ensuring that younger travelers are as enchanted as their parents.

The atmosphere throughout the property is one of inclusive, effortless elegance. There is no rigid formality here; instead, the resort cultivates a sophisticated yet profoundly relaxed environment. Guests can transition seamlessly from a morning paddleboard session on the river to a sun-drenched afternoon lounging by the heated outdoor pool, enveloped by the soothing sounds of coastal New England life.

Food, Drink & Local Nightlife

Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Nonantum experience, headlined by the resort’s acclaimed premier dining venue, 95 Ocean. Situated with commanding, panoramic views of the Kennebunk River, 95 Ocean delivers a farm- and sea-to-table dining experience that celebrates the bountiful terroir of Maine. The soaring ceilings and expansive windows frame the waterfront views, creating a dramatic backdrop for a meal that highlights locally sourced seafood, prime meats, and organic produce from nearby farms.

Dinner at 95 Ocean is a masterclass in regional flavor profiles. Diners can begin with exquisitely fresh local oysters on the half shell or a velvety, sherry-kissed Maine lobster bisque before moving on to standout entrées such as pan-seared sea scallops with wild mushroom risotto or traditional, perfectly butter-poached native lobster tail. The culinary team demonstrates a deep respect for classic New England recipes while infusing them with modern, inventive flair. The thoughtfully curated wine list features exceptional varietals from around the globe, alongside a robust selection of craft beers from Maine’s thriving microbrewery scene.

For a more casual yet equally vibrant dining experience, the resort’s Lazy Lobster deck offers open-air fare, handcrafted cocktails, and live acoustic music throughout the summer months. Here, the atmosphere is breezy and convivial, drawing locals and hotel guests alike to mingle over casual lobster rolls and refreshing local IPAs. When venturing beyond the property, guests will find themselves perfectly positioned in a walkable-core setting, just a short, picturesque stroll from Dock Square. Here, Kennebunkport’s renowned nightlife awaits, featuring upscale cocktail lounges, historic pubs, and chic boutiques nestled within beautifully preserved 19th-century sea captain's homes.

Who This Stay Is For

Practical Travel Notes