A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Nags Head vs. Kennebunkport for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

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

Should I visit Nags Head or Kennebunkport? 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.

Nags Head

Other reasons to visit include nightlife and food. See Nags Head travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming, quaint, and character-filled town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Kennebunkport is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Nags Head and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • 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 Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Nags Head and Kennebunkport are both popular with visitors, Kennebunkport has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kennebunkport is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Nags Head is known for its nightlife. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Nags Head and is known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also home to Dock Square. Nags Head is popular for

How is Nags Head different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Nags Head does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice 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 Nags Head. There are a wide variety of seafood restaurants that serve locally caught fish, shrimp, and crabs. Cajon flavors are popular and you'll also find cheese grits at many places.

Is Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Nags Head is great for nightlife. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for nightlife and partying.

Many people head to Nags Head for the nightlife scene. You'll find the widest variety of nightlife options in the Outer Banks here. There are a number of bars and clubs around town where you can enjoy a drink or dance late into the night. During the peak summer months there's often live music at many places.

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 Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

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

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

Nags Head is not a resort destination.


Is Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for hiking. However, Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Nags Head is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for shopping. However, Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Nags Head is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nags Head or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Nags Head 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.

Nags Head is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Nags Head or Kennebunkport.

Nags Head is a very family-friendly destination. It makes a wonderful base for the many family-friendly activities in the area. Jockey's Ridge is a fun place to visit with kids. There are also wonderful beaches and many kids enjoying flying kites.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-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 Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for romance. Also, Nags Head is not as popular, but is still a nice for its romantic activities.

Kennebunkport is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Beaches, romantic hotels, and charming local restaurants make this a perfect couple's destination.

Nags Head makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are great seafood restaurants and a number of activities in the area that are fun for couples.

Is Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

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

Plenty of budget travelers visit Nags Head. This is one of the more affordable places to stay in the Outer Banks, so it appeals to more budget-oriented 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 Nags Head or Kennebunkport Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Nags Head. There's no real public transit around town, so you'll need to have your own car.

Is Nags Head or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Nags Head
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its walkability. However, Nags Head is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

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

Nags Head is generally not very walkable. This is one of the least walkable towns in the Outer Banks. You'll need a car to reach most restaurants and other activities in the area.

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Nags Head?

How long in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Nags Head or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Nags Head due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Nags Head, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Families should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Nags Head. 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 Nags Head. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Nags Head 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 Kennebunkport.


  • How many days in Nags Head or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nags Head 4-7 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back destination of Nags Head. 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.

Even though Kennebunkport is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

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

Kennebunkport is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the laid-back destination of Nags Head. This 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 is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the of Nags Head. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling.So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kennebunkport is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Nags Head?

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

  • Nags Head Prices
    USA Prices
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Nags Head $179
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Nags Head is $179, 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 Nags Head and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nags Head $80
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nags Head $160
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Nags Head and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Nags Head 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 Nags Head


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: Nags Head Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nags Head $40
    Kennebunkport $49

Is it cheaper to fly into Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Nags Head 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
    Nags Head $71
    Kennebunkport $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nags Head $14
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Nags Head

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

  • 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck: $65
  • Alligator River Kayak Adventure: $59
  • Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe: $59
  • Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour: $49
  • Nags Head Kayak Tour: $55
  • OBX Ghost Tours- The Original Ghost Tour of the Outer Banks: $25
  • OBX Ghost Tours: Lighthouse Wraiths & Dune Shadows: $26
  • Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $25
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Outer Banks: $17
  • Stand Up Paddleboard Adventure on the Outer Banks : $65
  • Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $15

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nags Head $12
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Nags Head

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nags Head:

  • Wine Tasting And Boat Ride: $109


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nags Head or Kennebunkport?

Nags Head has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Nags Head 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 Nags Head 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 Nags Head or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Nags Head are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nags Head because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

Nags Head is a little warmer than Kennebunkport in the summer. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 78°F (26°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 Nags Head. Nags Head usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during summer. Nags Head gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Nags Head. In July, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Nags Head gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nags Head 78°F (26°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Nags Head during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Nags Head is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Nags Head in October average around 62°F (16°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Nags Head. In the autumn, Nags Head often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport. Nags Head gets 205 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Kennebunkport. Nags Head gets 3.2 inches (82 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nags Head 62°F (16°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nags Head and Kennebunkport. Many travelers come to Nags Head for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kennebunkport can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Nags Head. In January, Nags Head is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Nags Head average around 41°F (5°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

Nags Head usually receives less sunshine than Kennebunkport during winter. Nags Head gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nags Head gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nags Head usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Nags Head gets 4.1 inches (105 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nags Head 41°F (5°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Nags Head or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nags Head as well as Kennebunkport. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Nags Head is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the spring. The daily temperature in Nags Head averages around 59°F (15°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 Nags Head this time of the year. In the spring, Nags Head often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Nags Head gets 262 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Nags Head usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Nags Head gets 3 inches (75 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nags Head 59°F (15°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Nags Head

Nags Head Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 41°F (5°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 42°F (6°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 59°F (15°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 67°F (19°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 74°F (23°C) 4.1 inches (105 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 78°F (26°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 78°F (25°C) 5 inches (127 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 72°F (22°C) 4.7 inches (119 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 62°F (16°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 53°F (12°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 45°F (7°C) 3.4 inches (85 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)