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

Should you visit Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Kennebunkport can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pensacola

Pensacola is a fun-filled, active, and entertaining beach town. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Pensacola travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Pensacola and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pensacola. Although Pensacola and Kennebunkport are popular destinations, Pensacola has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pensacola is very popular for its beaches, while Kennebunkport attracts visitors for its hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Pensacola is more touristy than Kennebunkport and is popular for its white sand beaches and long running naval history. It is also well known for Gulf Islands National Seashore. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline.

How is Pensacola different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Pensacola and Kennebunkport.

Pensacola offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. On a rainy day there are some nice museums in the area. You can visit the National Naval Aviation Museum, the Historic Pensacola Village, the Pensacola Lighthouse and Museum, or Pensacola Children's Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kennebunkport. 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Foodies will find both Pensacola and Kennebunkport both to be great destinations.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Pensacola. You'll find no shortage of seafood options around town. Oysters, shrimp, and fresh fish are popular on the menus. You'll also find lots of Cajun flavors as well as casual sandwiches and pizza.

Kennebunkport has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Evening events are nice in both Pensacola and Kennebunkport.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Pensacola. There's a casual nightlife scene with pubs, live music, and a mellow but fun setting.

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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Pensacola and Kennebunkport.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Pensacola. Family-friendly resorts with pools, waterslides, and lazy rivers are common. You'll also find beachfront hotels and more affordable options set back from the beach.

Kennebunkport is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.


Is Pensacola or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

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

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Pensacola. White sand beaches with blue water and mild temperatures make this a wonderful beach destination. Some of the best beaches include Casino Beach, Perdido Key Beach, and Opal Beach.

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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its hiking trails.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kennebunkport. There are waterfront walks and coastal trails. There are also trails that wander through forests or past marshland.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Pensacola. Step away from the beachfront development and you'll find some nice nature parks with quiet walking trails.

Is the Shopping Better in Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pensacola is not as famous, but is still a good beach town to visit for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Pensacola has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are sprawling shopping malls and shopping centers as well as local boutiques and quintessential souvenir shops.


Is Pensacola or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

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

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

Pensacola is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pensacola or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Pensacola or Kennebunkport.

Pensacola is a very kid-friendly beach town. Kid-friendly beaches, minigolf, a zoo, and even a few museums make this a great family destination. There are family-friendly resorts and kid-friendly restaurants that make for an easy vacation that everyone will enjoy.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kennebunkport. 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Both Pensacola and Kennebunkport are great destinations to visit as a couple.

Pensacola is a very popular place to visit for couples. Beautiful beaches and sunset cruises make this a great romantic getaway. You'll find great restaurants for a date night and plenty of activity once the sun goes down. During the day you can lounge on the beach or by the pool, sip drinks, and enjoy a vacation with your loved one.

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

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a moderate town for its public transit. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is quite limited in Pensacola. There's a bus system, but it's not particularly helpful to vacationers.

Is Pensacola or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Pensacola
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Pensacola is a mediocre beach town for its ease of walking around.

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

Pensacola is generally not a very walkable beach town. It's not a particularly walkable city and you'll want to have a car to fully enjoy your vacation.

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Pensacola?

How long in Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

It's fun to spend time in either Pensacola or Kennebunkport. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Pensacola due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pensacola, and 2-4 days is enough time in Kennebunkport.

Couples should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Pensacola. 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pensacola 3-7 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the entertaining destination of Pensacola. 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.

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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

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

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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the entertaining destination of Pensacola. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This beach town 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beach town of Pensacola. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Pensacola?

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

  • Pensacola Prices
    USA Prices
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pensacola $234
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Pensacola is $234, 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 Pensacola and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pensacola $115
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pensacola $230
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Pensacola and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Pensacola 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 Pensacola


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: Pensacola Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pensacola $64
    Kennebunkport $49
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Pensacola

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Pensacola:


  • Boca Grande Causeway Toll
    $5.00

Is it cheaper to fly into Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Pensacola 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
    Pensacola $84
    Kennebunkport $115
Typical Food Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of dining costs in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Two Ice Creams
    $6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pensacola

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

  • Palafox Palete Food Tour: $50
  • Seville Haunted Luncheon or Dinner and Ghost Tour: $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pensacola $13
    Kennebunkport $21
Typical Entertainment Prices in Pensacola

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Pensacola are as follows:


  • Bike Rental
    $16

Tours and Activities in Pensacola

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

  • 1hr Segway Tour Downtown : $57
  • 2hr Segway Tour of Downtown : $72
  • 3 Hour Sandbar Adventure on Motorized Floats: $69
  • Bay Cruise: $65
  • Condor Sailing Fun, Relaxing Public Dolphin & Sightseeing Cruise: $99
  • Daily Dolphin Cruise + Sightseeing Tour on Pensacola Beach: $35
  • Dolphin & Scenic Bay Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49, Pensacola: $50
  • Frisky Mermaid Fireworks Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $65
  • Frisky Mermaid Public Dolphin + Sightseeing Cruise Up to 49 Pax: $39
  • Ghosts and Graveyard Tour of Pensacola: $40
  • Ghosts of Haunted Trolley Tour: $35
  • Half Day Pontoon Boat Rental – Fun & Relaxing Water Adventure: $299

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
    Pensacola $44
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Pensacola

Also in Pensacola, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Walking Ghost Tour Pub Crawl - Boos with Booze : $20
  • Walking Pub Tour : $21
  • Party Bike Pub Crawl of Downtown Pensacola : $45


When comparing the travel costs between Pensacola and Kennebunkport, we can see that Kennebunkport is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Pensacola or Kennebunkport?

Pensacola has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Pensacola 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 Pensacola 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 Pensacola or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pensacola as well as Kennebunkport. Most visitors come to Pensacola for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Pensacola is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 82°F (28°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 69°F (20°C).

Pensacola receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pensacola usually gets more rain in July than Kennebunkport. Pensacola gets 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Pensacola or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Pensacola are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Pensacola because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

Pensacola is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pensacola averages around 69°F (21°C) in October, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Pensacola. In October, Pensacola usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Pensacola gets 4.2 inches (107 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn. The hurricane season in Pensacola is June to November.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pensacola 69°F (21°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

Both Kennebunkport and Pensacola during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pensacola this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kennebunkport. In the winter, Pensacola is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pensacola in January average around 51°F (10°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pensacola. Pensacola usually gets more rain in January than Kennebunkport. Pensacola gets 4.6 inches (117 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pensacola 51°F (10°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Pensacola or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pensacola and Kennebunkport. Many travelers come to Pensacola for the beaches. Also, many visitors come to Kennebunkport in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Pensacola is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Pensacola average around 67°F (20°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 43°F (6°C).

In April, Pensacola usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kennebunkport. Pensacola gets 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain each month for the spring. June to November is the hurricane season in Pensacola.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pensacola 67°F (20°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Pensacola

Pensacola Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 51°F (10°C) 4.6 inches (117 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 60°F (16°C) 5.6 inches (143 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 67°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 6.4 inches (163 mm) 63°F (17°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm) 69°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.4 inches (188 mm) 67°F (20°C) 2.6 inches (66 mm)
Sep 78°F (26°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 59°F (15°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Oct 69°F (21°C) 4.2 inches (107 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 61°F (16°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 39°F (4°C) 4.8 inches (123 mm)
Dec 54°F (12°C) 4.3 inches (109 mm) 27°F (-3°C) 4.1 inches (103 mm)