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

Should you visit Tampa or Kennebunkport?

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

Should I visit Tampa 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.

Tampa

Tampa is a low-key, laid-back, and easy-going city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food and beaches. See Tampa travel costs.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a character-filled, charming, and quaint town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Kennebunkport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Kennebunkport travel costs.

Tampa and Kennebunkport: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
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
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tampa than Kennebunkport, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tampa is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Kennebunkport is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, hiking, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Kennebunkport is more touristy than Tampa and is known for its historic and charming atmosphere, its wonderful local seafood, and its stunning coastline. Tampa is well known for its amusement parks, wildlife parks, and popularity as a cruise ship port. Also, Tampa is famous for Busch Gardens.

How is Tampa different from Kennebunkport?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Tampa does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Tampa is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Tampa offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a surprising number of great local restaurants around town as well as a good food truck scene. Some favorite dishes include fresh caught seafood, Grouper sandwiches, and Cuban sandwiches.

Is Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Nightlife?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Tampa is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Tampa is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The city has some good nightclubs, sports bars, and other spots where locals enjoy spending the evening.

Is Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Resorts?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a resort destination.


Is Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Tampa is adequate for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are few places where you can go snorkeling in Tampa. While the water isn't always the clearest, there are some nice snorkeling and diving spots in the area. Options include Shell Key and Egmont Key, Crystal River, and Fort De Soto.

Kennebunkport is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Beaches?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Tampa is great for its beaches. However, Kennebunkport is not a beach destination.

Tampa is considered a top beach destination. Popular beaches near Tampa include Ben T. Davis Beach, Fred Howard Park, and Indian Rocks 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 Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Hiking?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Tampa 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.

Tampa is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kennebunkport. Head to Dock's Square for the best local shops with a charming atmosphere.

Tampa is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Tampa or Kennebunkport More Beautiful?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Kennebunkport offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's scenic coastline and dramatic lighthouses make this a beautiful area.

Tampa is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Families?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Tampa or Kennebunkport.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Tampa. The city has a number of kid-oriented attractions including Busch Gardens Amusement Park, several kid-friendly museums, and a number of animal centers, aquariums, and wildlife rescue facilities.

Kennebunkport is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Tampa or Kennebunkport Better for Couples?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is an excellent place to visit for couples. However, Tampa is lacking in options for romance.

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.

Tampa is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The area does have great restaurants and some fun places to explore, but the downtown area has room for improvement and much of the city is suburban.

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

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Tampa is lacking in options 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 Tampa. There is the street car that runs from downtown Tampa to Ybor City and stops at 11 stations.

Is Tampa or Kennebunkport a more walkable city?

Tampa
Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Tampa is lacking in options for its walkability.

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

Tampa is generally not very walkable. While there are some neighborhoods that are considered walkable, you really need a car if you hope to explore Tampa in depth.


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

Should I spend more time in Kennebunkport or Tampa?

How long in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

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

Families should spend more time in Kennebunkport than Tampa. 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 Tampa. 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Kennebunkport? Ideal Length of Stay
    Tampa 2-3 
    Kennebunkport 2-4

One day in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the laid-back destination of Tampa. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tampa. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kennebunkport. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the easy-going destination of Tampa. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Kennebunkport is a fun place to experience. Kennebunkport is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Tampa or Kennebunkport?

You'll find food around the city of Tampa. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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 small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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 Tampa?

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

  • Tampa Prices
    USA Prices
    Kennebunkport Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Tampa $218
    Kennebunkport $269

The average daily cost (per person) in Tampa is $218, 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 Tampa and Kennebunkport in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Tampa $85
    Kennebunkport $124
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Tampa $170
    Kennebunkport $248
Compare Hotels in Tampa and Kennebunkport

Looking for a hotel in Tampa 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 Tampa


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: Tampa Hotel Prices and Kennebunkport Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Tampa $69
    Kennebunkport $49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tampa

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

  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Tampa Bay Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $168
  • Tampa Bay Cruise Port to Tampa Hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $168
  • Private transfer from Tampa airport To Zephyrhills, FL: $155
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport TPA to Lakeland/Winter Haven: $144
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport (TPA) to St Petersburg Accommodation: $144
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Lakeland / Winter Haven - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $120
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $120
  • Tampa Airport (TPA) to Clearwater Beach- Arrival Private Transfer: $119
  • Private transfer Tampa airport To Ruskin, FL: $112
  • Private One-way Transfer from Tampa Airport To Tampa: $100
  • Private Transfer from Tampa Airport to Land O' Lakes Florida: $100
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Tampa Airport TPA to Tampa City in Luxury SUV: $94

Is it cheaper to fly into Tampa or Kennebunkport?

Prices for flights to both Kennebunkport and Tampa 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
    Tampa $92
    Kennebunkport $115

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tampa

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

  • Ybor City Food Tour with 5 Local Delicacies Tastings: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Tampa $20
    Kennebunkport $21

Tours and Activities in Tampa

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

  • 1.5-hour Dolphin Sightseeing Cruise from Tampa: $31
  • 2 Hour Guided Segway Tour: $79
  • 3 hour E.G. Simmons Park Mangrove Tunnel Tour: $64
  • Adventure Island Water Park Ticket: $39
  • Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Admission Ticket: $63
  • Clear Kayaking Glow Tour in Tampa Riverwalk: $74
  • Downtown Tampa Private Evening Cruise for up to 12ppl: $510
  • Escape to Paradise: Private Island Boat Adventure in Tampa: $630
  • Experience the season with a scavenger hunt in Tampa with Holly Jolly Hunt: $20
  • Ghost Hunters Paranormal Ghost Tour: $39
  • Ghost Investigation Tour Interactive Paranormal Experience 18Plus: $35
  • Ghost Investigation Tours with Interactive Paranormal Experience: $35

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
    Tampa $26
    Kennebunkport $31

Sample the Local Flavors in Tampa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Tampa:

  • Tampa Bar Hunt: Tampa Takeover Bar Crawl: $12
  • Naples Bar Crawl Experience: $15
  • Tampa Terrors: Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $30
  • Tampa Terrors Spirits & Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl: $36
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Historic Ybor: $40
  • Tampa Bar Crawl on New Street Legal Golf Cart: $40
  • Downtown 3-Hour Food and Wine Tour: $145
  • Tampa's Top Dive Bar Tour Experience by Golf Cart: $275


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

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


Which is Bigger, Tampa or Kennebunkport?

Tampa has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Kennebunkport. When comparing the sizes of Tampa 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 Tampa 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 Tampa or Kennebunkport in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Tampa and Kennebunkport. The summer months attract visitors to Tampa because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kennebunkport this time of year.

In the summer, Tampa is a little warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tampa in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 69°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kennebunkport this time of the year. In Tampa, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tampa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kennebunkport during summer. Tampa gets 265 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 282 hours of full sun in the summer.

Tampa gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Tampa usually receives more rain than Kennebunkport. Tampa 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
    Tampa 82°F (28°C) 
    Kennebunkport 69°F (20°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Kennebunkport in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Tampa as well as Kennebunkport. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Tampa this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kennebunkport for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Tampa is generally much warmer than Kennebunkport. Daily temperatures in Tampa average around 75°F (24°C), and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tampa this time of the year. In the autumn, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Tampa gets 234 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 196 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in October than Kennebunkport. Tampa gets 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Tampa or Kennebunkport in the Winter?

Both Kennebunkport and Tampa are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Tampa 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. Tampa is much warmer than Kennebunkport in the winter. The daily temperature in Tampa averages around 60°F (15°C) in January, and Kennebunkport fluctuates around 21°F (-6°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tampa. Tampa usually receives more sunshine than Kennebunkport during winter. Tampa gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Kennebunkport receives 163 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tampa usually receives less rain than Kennebunkport. Tampa 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
    Tampa 60°F (15°C) 
    Kennebunkport 21°F (-6°C)

Should I visit Tampa or Kennebunkport in the Spring?

Both Kennebunkport and Tampa during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Tampa in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Kennebunkport for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Tampa is much warmer than Kennebunkport. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tampa in April average around 71°F (22°C), and Kennebunkport averages at about 43°F (6°C).

In Kennebunkport, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tampa. In the spring, Tampa often gets more sunshine than Kennebunkport. Tampa gets 299 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kennebunkport receives 212 hours of full sun.

Tampa usually gets less rain in April than Kennebunkport. Tampa gets 2.1 inches (53 mm) of rain, while Kennebunkport receives 3.3 inches (85 mm) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Kennebunkport and Tampa

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