Kennebunkport Fall Foliage

It seems strange to say this coming off a weekend that boasted 80 degree temps, but Fall is officially here. At our Kennebunkport Maine bed and breakfast we had an amazing summer of perfect weather and if the first week of Autumn is any indication of what is to come, we say bring it on!

I think that most people are conditioned to think of Vermont or the White Mountains in New Hampshire when considering a fall foliage getaway. While western mountain destinations may be tempting when considering an early autumn escape, our experience tells us that Kennebunkport fall foliage along the Atlantic coast provides a unique visual experience. In Kennebunkport the contrast of the bright sugar maple leaves with the deep blue of the ocean and the light blue of the sky is striking.

Centuries old Sugar Maples frame the inn and turn bright red and gold throughout October.

In addition to the change in leaf color, we are fortunate enough to be exposed to the transition in dune and marsh grass – the gradual change from deep green to harvest gold has been in process for the last couple of weeks. You can see both dune grass and more typical fall foliage at Laudholm Farm and at the Rachel Carson Preserve. The other benefit of leaf peeping along the Maine Coast is that you can actually do it from the water. If you take advantage of our Autumn Escape Package, we’ll set you up with a half day kayak rental so that you can explore the Kennebunk River.

If you’d like to make your own kayak or bike rental arrangements you can do so through Coastal Kayak in Lower Village Kennebunk.

So, if you haven’t planned your foliage getaway already we’d suggest looking at the first couple weeks of October and figuring out when you can be in Kennebunkport to experience the height of Maine foliage. If you can come earlier you’ll be treated to pre-peak foliage along the coast and closer to peak foliage on drives inland.

As always, everyone at the Inn will be more than happy to help customize daytrips into the mountains or up the coast.

All the best, Rob

Autumn Brews in Kennebunkport

In New England people feel differently about the changing seasons. I love the transition from late summer to early fall. On the Maine coast and especially in Kennebunkport, the air takes on a crisp quality; you can often smell wood smoke in the air as dormant fireplaces are put into use again and there’s no doubt that it’s nice to snuggle under plump down comforters during cool autumn nights.

Enjoy fall brews and ales in Kennebunkport Maine

Leigh and I have lived in New England for our entire lives and this season has become my favorite. I love the change that we see in Kennebunkport: the pace slows, chefs at Kennebunkport restaurants take advantage of the changing season to refresh their menus, Kennebunkport shops and boutiques often offer special sales and deals and there’s nothing better than the vibrant colors of sugar maples opposed to the deep blue of the Atlantic ocean.

One of the primary things I love about fall is autumn beer. If you’re thinking about a trip to Kennebunkport I’d suggest taking the time to enjoy some of Maine’s finest breweries.

Just down the road from the Inn, in Lower Village Kennebunk, is the home of Shipyard Brewing, Federal Jacks. In the fall you’ll find Pumkinhead and Brewer’s Brown on Tap. Pumkinhead is a subtly spiced british style ale – not my favorite. Brewer’s Brown on the other hand is one of my favorite Kenebunkport brews. This is full bodied, dark brown has a nice smoky taste up front and a smooth finishing and crisp hop taste at the back.

After Jacks you can head over to Sebago Brewing Company in Kennebunk, Maine. Look for Local Harvest Ale in the late summer and early fall. This American Pale Ale has a bouquet of citrus, pine and lemon grass and a deep mahogany color. Or, try Boathouse Brown which can be enjoyed year round but for me especially works on a cool fall afternoon.

Our other local brew house is just up the road on Saco Island. At Run of the Mill Public House you’ll find a host of beers brewed on premise. From classic English style Pale Ales like “Alewife Ale” to real Malt centric ales like “Tented Kilt Scottish Ale” your sure to find something to satisfy your palate. This is a great place to enjoy the deck overlooking the falls. Their menu is traditional pub food, but done with a local focus. Good ingredients and a very cool restored mill setting make this a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.

There are so many fantastic craft brewers in Maine that you could spend a week tasting tour – if you want to, our Kennebunkport Bed and Breakfast is the place to make your home. Just a short drive up the coast you’ll find Portland where Allagash, Sebago, Shipyard, Gritty’s, Gearys and Peak Brewing all have their breweries. We’ll be happy to help with directions to these beer lovers destinations. Maybe we’ll see you out there!

Enjoy this new season.

All the best, Rob

New Website and Blog

Welcome to the new website and blog for Captain Fairfield Inn. On these pages we will keep you up-to-date with Kennebunkport Maine activities and events, as well as all the news here at the inn.