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

Should you visit Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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.

Sarasota

Sarasota is a underrated, relaxing, and entertaining city. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Sarasota travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quaint, character-filled, and charming town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Kennebunkport is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, hiking, and shopping. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Sarasota 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 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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kennebunkport. Although Sarasota and Kennebunkport are popular destinations, Kennebunkport has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kennebunkport is very popular for its food, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Sarasota attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and beaches. Sarasota is famous for its sandy beaches and its fun activities. Kennebunkport is famous for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. It is also well known for Dock Square.

How is Sarasota different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

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

Sarasota offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are some decent museums in town such as the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Classic Car Museum, and the Ca' da'Zan. Another highlight is the Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium.

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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Sarasota area. You'll find plenty of seafood around town, but there are also international restaurants and quirky local joints.

Is Sarasota or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

The vibe at night is nice in both Sarasota and Kennebunkport.

If you're looking for night time activities Sarasota has a few options to choose from. You'll find beach clubs, live entertainment such as drum circles, and plenty of bars around town. There are also evening cruises and late night parties.

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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its luxury resorts. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Kennebunkport to choose from. Luxury resorts and classic inns provide traditional and local accommodation options for visitors.

Sarasota has a few great resort options. You'll find beachfront resorts with pools and nice views.


Is Sarasota or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Sarasota is a popular place for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Sarasota is a good option for a beach vacation. There's no shortage of beaches in the area where you can spend a relaxing day playing the water and lounging in the sun. Siesta Key, Sarasota Gay Beach, Crescent Beach, and Coquina Beach are some of the favorites.

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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for hiking. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping areas.

Kennebunkport is well-known for its shopping. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Many visitors go to Sarasota to go shopping. Upscale shopping can be found at St. Armand's Circle. There's also Sarasota Square Mall and the Mall at University Town Center. If you want to pick up some local items you can check out Sarasota Farmers Market.


Is Sarasota or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Sarasota or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Sarasota is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kennebunkport is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Sarasota is a very family-friendly destination. There's a huge number of hands on activities for kids and families in the area. Many families enjoy a visit to Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium. There are also botanical gardens, science museums, and outdoor adventure centers. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary. The city also has many performing arts and entertainment options for kids. And make sure you check out the museum dedicated to the Ringling Brothers Circus.

Kennebunkport is a very kid-friendly city. 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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is great for its romantic activities. Also, Sarasota is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Sarasota is a good city for couples to visit. A night out at St. Armands Circle is a fun way to spend the evening. There are also sunset cruises, nice restaurants, comedy clubs, and more.


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

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Sarasota and Kennebunkport both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sarasota. There's a bus system around town but most visitors depend on their own car for transportation.

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

Is Sarasota or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Sarasota
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Sarasota is not a good destination for its ease of walking around.

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

Sarasota is generally not very walkable. While the downtown has some walkable parts, you'll need a car to access most things around town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Sarasota?

How long in Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Sarasota. 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sarasota 2-5 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Sarasota. 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

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

Kennebunkport is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kennebunkport, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the underrated destination of Sarasota. This 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 is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food and shopping around the city of Sarasota. 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 great place to explore. 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. This town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Kennebunkport or Sarasota?

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

  • Sarasota Prices
    USA Prices
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Sarasota $350
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Sarasota is $350, 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 Sarasota and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sarasota $108
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sarasota $216
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Sarasota and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Sarasota 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 Sarasota


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: Sarasota Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sarasota -
    Kennebunkport $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sarasota

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

  • Sarasota Airport (SRQ) to Anna Maria island - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • Sarasota Airport(SRQ) to Anna Maria island hotel-Arrival Transfer: $125
  • Sarasota–Bradenton Airport (SRQ) to Sarasota Round-Trip Transfer: $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Sarasota 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
    Sarasota $238
    Kennebunkport $115

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sarasota $11
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Sarasota

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

  • Anna Maria Island - Clear Kayak LED Night Glass Bottom Tour : $65
  • Parasailing Adventure above the Gulf of Mexico: $95
  • Sarasota Waterways Tour for All Ages: $60
  • 3-Hour Clear Kayak Beach Hopping Adventure in Sarasota: $65
  • Amish Experience Trolley Tour: Bridges to Understanding: $80
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sightseeing Adventure : $55
  • Anna Maria Island Dolphin Sunset Boat Tour: $58
  • Christmas Carol Trolley Holiday Music & Lights Tour in Sarasota: $77
  • City Sightseeing Trolley Tour of Sarasota: $73
  • Clear Kayak Ecotour at Robinson Preserve in Bradenton, Florida : $73
  • Clear Kayak Glass Bottom Day Tour - Anna Maria Island: $65
  • Clear Kayak Glass Bottom Day Tour - Sarasota: $65

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
    Sarasota -
    Kennebunkport $31


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sarasota and Kennebunkport, we can see that Sarasota 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 Sarasota would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sarasota 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 Sarasota Expensive? and Is Kennebunkport Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Sarasota or Kennebunkport?

Sarasota has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Sarasota 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 Sarasota 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 Sarasota or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

Both Kennebunkport and Sarasota are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Sarasota this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Sarasota is generally a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 82°F (28°C), 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 Sarasota. Sarasota usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during summer. Sarasota gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Sarasota. In July, Sarasota usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Sarasota gets 8.4 inches (214 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 2.6 inches (66 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Sarasota or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

Both Kennebunkport and Sarasota during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Sarasota 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.

Sarasota is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the autumn. The daily temperature in Sarasota averages around 76°F (24°C) in October, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Sarasota. In the autumn, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Sarasota gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in October than Kennebunkport. Sarasota gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year. Keep in mind that June to November is the hurricane season in Sarasota.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Sarasota 76°F (24°C) 
    Kennebunkport 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Sarasota and Kennebunkport. Many visitors come to Sarasota 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 the winter, Sarasota is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the winter temperatures in Sarasota in January average around 59°F (15°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 21°F (-6°C).

In Sarasota, it's very sunny this time of the year. Sarasota usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during winter. Sarasota gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Sarasota usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Sarasota gets 2.3 inches (59 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.4 inches (86 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Sarasota 59°F (15°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Sarasota or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Sarasota as well as Kennebunkport. Most visitors come to Sarasota for the beaches during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kennebunkport because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Sarasota is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Sarasota average around 73°F (23°C), 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 Sarasota this time of the year. In the spring, Sarasota often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Sarasota gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Sarasota usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Sarasota gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year. Also, June to November in Sarasota is the hurricane season.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Sarasota 73°F (23°C) 
    Kennebunkport 43°F (6°C)

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Sarasota

Sarasota Kennebunkport
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 59°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (59 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Feb 62°F (17°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 24°F (-5°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm)
Mar 67°F (20°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Apr 73°F (23°C) 2.1 inches (53 mm) 43°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
May 78°F (25°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm) 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jun 82°F (28°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 76°F (24°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm) 49°F (9°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm)
Nov 69°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)