A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kennebunkport vs. Halifax for Food, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Kennebunkport or Halifax?

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

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Halifax? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Halifax

Halifax is a cultural, historical, and friendly city. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food. See Halifax travel costs.

Kennebunkport and Halifax: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Kennebunkport and Halifax are both popular with visitors, Kennebunkport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Halifax and is known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also home to Dock Square. Halifax is popular for its maritime past.

How is Kennebunkport different from Halifax?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Kennebunkport
Halifax

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

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.

Halifax offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. You should head to Pier 21, where you'll find the Canadian Museum of Immigration. The Discovery Center is a great spot for kids, as is the Natural History Museum. Finally, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.


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

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 Halifax. You'll find lobster rolls and other seafood around town, but also make sure you try the Halifax donair, which is a shaved beef sandwich wrap that can be found a many pizza restaurants.

Is Kennebunkport or Halifax Better for Nightlife?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

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

If you're looking for night time activities Kennebunkport has a few options to choose from. You can check out the happy hours that many of the bars in the waterfront area host regularly.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Halifax. There's a laid back atmosphere to the nightlife scene. There are casual bars and pubs where you can meet the locals and a few nightclubs where there's a relaxed but fun atmosphere.

Is Kennebunkport or Halifax Better for Resorts?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a resort destination.


Is Kennebunkport or Halifax Better for Hiking?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Halifax offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find a mix of boutiques, artisan shops, large malls, and shopping centers.

Is Kennebunkport or Halifax More Beautiful?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Halifax 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.

Halifax is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Kennebunkport or Halifax Better for Families?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Halifax. There are a handful of kid-friendly museums like the Museum of Natural History. Kids will also appreciate a visit to the Discovery Center or stretching their legs at Point Pleasant Park. History lovers should go see the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site.

Is Kennebunkport or Halifax Better for Couples?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport is a very popular place for romance. Also, Halifax is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Halifax makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can wander down the waterfront or take a stroll through Point Pleasant Park. The city also has number of romantic restaurants and hotels.

Is Kennebunkport or Halifax Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Halifax is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kennebunkport is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Halifax. There's actually a decent number of hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kennebunkport is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find cabins and motels in the area, but no real hostels.


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

Kennebunkport
Halifax

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

While Halifax offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town as well as a ferry to Dartmouth.

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

Is Kennebunkport or Halifax a more walkable city?

Kennebunkport
Halifax

Kennebunkport and Halifax are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Halifax is a somewhat walkable place. It's a compact town that's relatively easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Halifax or Kennebunkport?

How long in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kennebunkport and Halifax. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kennebunkport than in Halifax. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Kennebunkport, and 2-3 days is enough time in Halifax.

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

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


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

One day in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Kennebunkport is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Halifax. 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.


A weekend in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Kennebunkport might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kennebunkport has to offer.

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

Five days in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Kennebunkport is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical destination of Halifax. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in Kennebunkport or Halifax?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. Since Kennebunkport is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Halifax. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver.


Which place is cheaper, Halifax or Kennebunkport?

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

  • Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
    Halifax Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Kennebunkport $269
    Halifax $137

The average daily cost (per person) in Kennebunkport is $269, while the average daily cost in Halifax is $137. 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 Kennebunkport and Halifax in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kennebunkport $124
    Halifax $65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kennebunkport $248
    Halifax $130
Compare Hotels in Kennebunkport and Halifax

Looking for a hotel in Kennebunkport or Halifax? 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 Kennebunkport


Hotels in Halifax


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: Kennebunkport Hotel Prices and Halifax Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kennebunkport $49
    Halifax $17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Halifax

Also for Halifax, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Arrival Transfer from Halifax Stanfield Airport YHZ: $85

Is it cheaper to fly into Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Prices for flights to both Halifax and Kennebunkport 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
    Kennebunkport $115
    Halifax $54

Typical Food Prices in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Bluenose II Restaurant
    $45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Halifax

For Halifax, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Peggy's Cove Small Group Night Tour with Dinner: $157

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kennebunkport $21
    Halifax $28

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

Tours and Activities in Halifax

For Halifax, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $107
  • Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 Admission & Tour: $14
  • From Peggy's Cove Bus Tour: $75
  • Halifax City Sightseeing by Private a/c vehicle: $151
  • Halifax Guided Driving Tour with Sunset at Peggy’s Cove: $64
  • Halifax Harbourfront Food Walking Tour: $92
  • Halifax Sunset Cruise Aboard the Tall Ship Silva: $33
  • 2-Hour Deep Sea Fishing Tour: $94
  • 2-Hour Sea-Doo Sightseeing Tour: $254
  • 50-Minute Boat Tour of the Harbour: $42
  • Best of Halifax Harbour Tour: $40
  • Georges Island Kayak Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kennebunkport $31
    Halifax $15

Sample the Local Flavors in Halifax

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Halifax:

  • Nova Scotia Annapolis Valley Wine Tour Lead by a Sommelier: $168


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

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


Which is Bigger, Kennebunkport or Halifax?

Halifax has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Kennebunkport and Halifax, 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 Kennebunkport or Halifax?

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 Kennebunkport or Halifax in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kennebunkport and Halifax. Many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Halifax in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

Kennebunkport is a little warmer than Halifax in the summer. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 69°F (20°C) in July, and Halifax fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Halifax this time of the year. In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kennebunkport usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during summer. Kennebunkport gets 282 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 230 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Halifax. Kennebunkport gets 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C) 
    Halifax 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Halifax in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kennebunkport as well as Halifax. 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. Additionally, most visitors come to Halifax for the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Kennebunkport is around the same temperature as Halifax. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kennebunkport in October average around 49°F (9°C), and Halifax averages at about 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Kennebunkport often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Kennebunkport gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Halifax. Kennebunkport usually gets less rain in October than Halifax. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 121 mm (4.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C) 
    Halifax 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Halifax in the Winter?

Both Halifax and Kennebunkport are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Halifax because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Halifax can be very cold. Kennebunkport can be very cold during winter. In January, Kennebunkport is generally cooler than Halifax. Daily temperatures in Kennebunkport average around 21°F (-6°C), and Halifax fluctuates around -4°C (24°F).

Kennebunkport usually receives more sunshine than Halifax during winter. Kennebunkport gets 163 hours of sunny skies, while Halifax receives 111 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Halifax. In January, Kennebunkport usually receives less rain than Halifax. Kennebunkport gets 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 129 mm (5.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C) 
    Halifax -4°C (24°F)

Should I visit Kennebunkport or Halifax in the Spring?

Both Halifax and Kennebunkport during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Halifax in the spring. Kennebunkport is much warmer than Halifax in the spring. The daily temperature in Kennebunkport averages around 43°F (6°C) in April, and Halifax fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

It's quite sunny in Kennebunkport. In the spring, Kennebunkport often gets more sunshine than Halifax. Kennebunkport gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Halifax receives 148 hours of full sun.

Halifax gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Kennebunkport usually gets less rain in April than Halifax. Kennebunkport gets 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain, while Halifax receives 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C) 
    Halifax 4°C (39°F)

Typical Weather for Halifax and Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Halifax
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) -4°C (24°F) 129 mm (5.1 in)
Feb 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) -5°C (24°F) 108 mm (4.2 in)
Mar 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) -1°C (31°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Apr 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 4°C (39°F) 110 mm (4.3 in)
May 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm) 9°C (48°F) 105 mm (4.1 in)
Jun 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 14°C (57°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Jul 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 18°C (64°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm) 18°C (65°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Sep 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 15°C (58°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Oct 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 10°C (49°F) 121 mm (4.7 in)
Nov 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm) 5°C (40°F) 140 mm (5.5 in)
Dec 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm) -1°C (29°F) 152 mm (6 in)