AWOL Kennebunkport

The hotel offers a distinctive blend of historic charm with modern, minimalist design, particularly evident in its cozy cabins featuring fireplaces and private outdoor spaces. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional cleanliness of the accommodations, the delicious and varied breakfast, the attentive and friendly staff, and the prime walkable location close to town. This hotel is an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic or peaceful retreat, dog owners due to its welcoming pet-friendly policy, and sightseers or explorers who appreciate easy access to local attractions on foot. Its unique style also appeals to those looking for a stylish and cozy getaway. To maximize privacy and enjoy unique amenities, consider booking one of the cabins. Additionally, be aware that some rooms in the main house may experience more noise, so inquire about specific room layouts if quiet is a high priority.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently praise the presence of fireplaces in many rooms and cabins, adding a cozy and charming ambiance, especially during cooler weather. Many accommodations also feature private outdoor spaces equipped with fire pits, providing a relaxing spot for evenings. The availability of bicycles for guest use is a popular amenity, allowing for easy exploration of the surrounding area. While the design is modern, some guests noted a lack of certain practical amenities within the rooms, such as room safes, irons, ironing boards, and sufficient counter space in some bathrooms. Some house rooms also lack kettles or coffee machines, requiring guests to use communal options. Despite these minor omissions, the overall design and unique features like the soaking tubs in select units contribute positively to the guest experience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel consistently receives high marks for its exceptional cleanliness, with guests frequently describing rooms and common areas as spotless and well-maintained. Most guests find the rooms and cabins to be cozy and comfortable, often highlighting the spaciousness of the accommodations, particularly in the cabins and suites. The beds are generally reported as very comfortable, though some guests found their mattresses to be lumpy or too soft, impacting sleep quality. A recurring point of feedback concerns the bathrooms, which some guests found to be tiny or awkwardly designed, often lacking sufficient counter space, towel bars, or proper window coverings for privacy. Noise levels can be an issue for some rooms, particularly those in the main house or near the road, with reports of thin walls allowing sounds from neighboring rooms or outside traffic to be heard.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast experience is a significant highlight for most guests, consistently described as awesome, delicious, and outstanding. The spread is noted for its variety and healthy options, often including fresh fruits, yogurt, granola, and a selection of breads and pastries. Many appreciate the inclusion of unique items like quiche or specific baked goods. While the breakfast is typically served buffet-style, some guests noted that seating is primarily outdoors, which can be less ideal in inclement weather, and there are no indoor dining facilities beyond taking food back to the room. A few guests mentioned that the coffee could be weak or that the breakfast start time of 8 AM was a bit late for early risers. Additionally, the hotel offers complimentary cookies in the afternoon, which are widely praised as a delightful treat.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's prime location is a major advantage, with guests consistently praising its walkability to the town's shops, restaurants, and attractions, including Dock Square. It is situated on a quiet street, offering a peaceful retreat while still being conveniently close to the bustling center. Parking is readily available and often included, with ample off-street options, which guests find very convenient. However, accessibility within the property can be a concern for some; rooms in the main house are accessed via narrow, steep, twisting staircases with no elevator, making it challenging for guests with heavy luggage or mobility issues. Some also noted that the paths to the cabins are made of sand, which can be difficult to navigate with luggage or certain footwear, and can track sand into the rooms.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to provide local recommendations, assist with requests, and ensure a comfortable stay. The check-in process is generally described as quick and efficient, though some guests noted that the front desk is not always continuously manned, requiring a call or wait for assistance. While the majority of interactions are positive, a few guests reported initial experiences with an indifferent attitude or a lack of proactive assistance with luggage upon arrival. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to a positive guest experience.

Additional Information
The hotel is notably pet-friendly, with many guests appreciating the thoughtful provisions for their dogs, such as blankets and bowls, making it a welcoming choice for animal owners. Guests also value the complimentary bicycles available for exploring the area and the provision of beach bags and towels in rooms for trips to the coast. A delightful touch mentioned by many are the freshly baked cookies offered in the afternoon. Some guests noted that late check-in procedures can be less clear, with keys left in a pot and no staff present. There were also isolated comments about a lack of umbrellas during rainy weather and issues with soundproofing in some units, particularly in the main house, which could lead to noise disturbances from other guests.