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

Should you visit Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.

Clearwater

Clearwater is a adventure-filled, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Clearwater travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Clearwater and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Clearwater. Although Clearwater and Kennebunkport are both popular with visitors, Clearwater has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Clearwater is more popular for its museums and attractions, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Kennebunkport is known for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Clearwater is popular for its beautiful white sand beaches, laid back atmosphere, and watersports. It is also home to Clearwater Beach. Kennebunkport is popular for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Clearwater different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

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

Clearwater offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Perhaps most well known is the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, but there are also a surprising number of museums nearby such as the Dalí Museum, the impressive Chihuly Glass Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts.

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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Foodies will find both Clearwater and Kennebunkport both to be superb destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Clearwater makes for a great culinary experience. Head to the waterfront for some of the best seafood. Unfortunately this is also where you'll find the highest prices. Shrimp, crab, and a fresh catch of the day are common on many menus.

Kennebunkport has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Evening events are good in both Clearwater and Kennebunkport.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Clearwater. You'll find laid back beach clubs, glitzy wine bars, and relaxed bars where you can spend a nice night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Kennebunkport. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

Is Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

There are superb resorts to choose from in both Clearwater and Kennebunkport.

There are plenty of resorts in Clearwater to choose from. You'll find a number of nice resorts along the coastline. Some of the most popular are the Sandpearl Resort, the Opal Sands Resort, and the Clearwater Beach Marriott.

Kennebunkport is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.


Is Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

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

Clearwater has a few good snorkeling spots. There's both snorkeling and diving nearby. Some of the best dive spots are within and hour of the shore and you'll find diving shops that offer trips.

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Clearwater is very popular for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Clearwater. Clearwater Beach is on many lists as one of the best beaches in America. It's the most popular beach in the area and it spreads out over 2.5 miles. Sand Key Beach is another popular destination as is the pristine Caladesi Island State Park.

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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Clearwater 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.

Clearwater is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is notable for shopping. Also, Clearwater is not as famous, but is still a good coastal city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Clearwater. You'll find all of the standard shopping options in the area such as malls, shopping centers, and outlets. Westfield Countryside Mall is a popular destination as is the Cleveland Street District.

Is Clearwater or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Clearwater is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Both Clearwater and Kennebunkport are superb family-friendly destinations.

Clearwater is a very family-friendly place to visit. Check out the playground and activities around Pier 60. Less crowded and family-friendly Sand Key Park is another favorite spot and the playgrounds at New Coachman Park and Crest Lake Park are also fun. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is another popular attraction for visitors with kids.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Kennebunkport is very family-friendly. 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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Clearwater and Kennebunkport both superb destinations for a couple.

Clearwater is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are beautiful parks and beaches as well as romantic activities like sunset cruises and dolphin spotting tours. Couples will also enjoy dining on local seafood and shopping at the local venues.

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.

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

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Both Clearwater and Kennebunkport offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Clearwater. The Clearwater Jolley Trolley connects some of the area's highlights. There are also public buses that run several routes through town.

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

Is Clearwater or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Clearwater
Kennebunkport

Clearwater and Kennebunkport both are good when exploring on foot.

Clearwater is somewhat walkable. The waterfront and downtown areas are surprisingly walkable.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Clearwater?

How long in Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Clearwater or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Clearwater due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Clearwater, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Clearwater than Kennebunkport. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Clearwater, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Clearwater than Kennebunkport. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Clearwater that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Clearwater 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 Clearwater.


  • How many days in Clearwater or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Clearwater 3-5 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Clearwater. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Clearwater. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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.

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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the adventure-filled destination of Clearwater. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This coastal 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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal city of Clearwater. 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. 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 Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, and The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Clearwater?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Clearwater Prices
    USA Prices
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Clearwater $343
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Clearwater is $343, while the average daily cost in Kennebunkport is $269. 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 Clearwater and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Clearwater $141
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Clearwater $282
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Clearwater and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Clearwater 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 Clearwater


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: Clearwater Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Clearwater $221
    Kennebunkport $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Clearwater 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
    Clearwater $79
    Kennebunkport $115

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Clearwater

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Clearwater.

  • Clearwater Beach Fun and Tropical Food Tour: $99
  • Clearwater Beach: Tropical Delights Walking Food Tour: $106
  • Taste of Downtown St Petersburg-A Walking/Food Tour: $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Clearwater -
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Clearwater

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Clearwater are as follows:

  • Clearwater Beach Yoga Experience : $35
  • !! Flippers Fun Boat !! Dolphin Adventure Clearwater Beach!: $32
  • 1,5h Tiki Tour with Unlimited Alcoholic Drinks, Clearwater Beach: $50
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour around Clearwater Beach: $79
  • 2 Hour Sunset Cruise in Clearwater, Florida: $35
  • 2 Hour Tarpon Springs Sunset and Night Guided Kayak Tour: $49
  • 2 Hours Kayak Eco Tour in Tarpon Springs: $54
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg: $67
  • 2.5 Hour Kayaking with Manatee and History Tour in Tarpon Springs: $68
  • 2.5 Hour Shell Key Island Adventure Including Dolphins And Shells: $59
  • 3 hour - Two Island Sandbar Tiki Adventure: $595
  • 4 Hour Egmont Key Island Tour With Dolphins & Snorkeling Included: $79

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: $35
  • Haunted Ghost Walking Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour: $50
  • From Boston: Kennebunkport Day Trip & Optional Trolley Tour: $125
  • Kennebunkport, Maine: Lunchtime Culinary Walking Tour: $150
  • A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Clearwater -
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Clearwater

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Clearwater:

  • The Tour and Wine Tasting Experience at Aspirations Winery: $25


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Clearwater and Kennebunkport, we can see that Clearwater is more expensive. And not only is Kennebunkport much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kennebunkport would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kennebunkport 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 Clearwater would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Clearwater than you might in Kennebunkport.

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


Which is Bigger, Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Clearwater has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Clearwater 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 Clearwater or Kennebunkport?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Clearwater or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Clearwater as well as Kennebunkport. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Clearwater this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Clearwater is a little warmer than Kennebunkport in the summer. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kennebunkport. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Clearwater this time of the year. In the summer, Clearwater often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Clearwater gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun.

Clearwater receives a lot of rain in the summer. Clearwater usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Clearwater gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Clearwater or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Clearwater are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Clearwater for the shopping scene. Also, 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 the autumn, Clearwater is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Clearwater in October average around 75°F (24°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 49°F (9°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Clearwater. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during autumn. Clearwater gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Clearwater gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. June to November in Clearwater is the hurricane season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Clearwater 75°F (24°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

Both Kennebunkport and Clearwater during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Clearwater 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. In January, Clearwater is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Clearwater average around 60°F (15°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

It's quite sunny in Clearwater. In the winter, Clearwater often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Clearwater gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun.

Clearwater usually gets less rain in January than Kennebunkport. Clearwater gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Clearwater 60°F (15°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Clearwater or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Clearwater and Kennebunkport. Most visitors come to Clearwater for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Clearwater is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the spring. The daily temperature in Clearwater averages around 71°F (22°C) in April, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kennebunkport this time of the year. In Clearwater, it's very sunny this time of the year. Clearwater usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during spring. Clearwater gets 299 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Clearwater usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Clearwater gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring. The hurricane season in Clearwater is June to November.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Clearwater 71°F (22°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Clearwater

Clearwater Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 60°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 61°F (16°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 67°F (19°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 71°F (22°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 77°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 81°F (27°C) 6.5 inches (165 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 8.4 inches (214 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 8 inches (203 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 81°F (27°C) 6.3 inches (161 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 75°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 68°F (20°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (56 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)