The Best Kittery Maine Hotels and Lodging
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Nestled at the mouth of the Piscataqua River, Kittery Maine is a charming seaside town with a beautiful coastline that boasts a rich history and a vibrant present. It’s known as the Gateway to Maine because it’s the first town you enter after crossing the southern state line via Route 1.
From the historic allure of its naval shipyard to the modern-day pleasures of its shopping and dining scene, Kittery presents a delightful blend of old and new, making it an ideal destination for a New England getaway.
Know Your Lodging Options in Kittery Maine
Kittery Maine offers diverse lodging options for all tastes and budgets — from quaint bed and breakfasts and upscale inns to familiar hotels and unique rentals. Many of these conveniently provide easy access to shopping and culinary experiences.
Upscale lodging and B&Bs are among the top choices in this town. The upscale inns provide comfort and amenities like on-site dining and picturesque views, while the intimate B&Bs deliver personalized service in historic settings.
Lodging costs vary in Kittery based on a couple of factors. Summer and fall usually have peak prices due to high demand, while prices may also be higher near attractions and along the coastline. We recommend booking well in advance for the best deals.
Featured Kittery Maine Lodging Options
Getting to Know the Kittery Area
Surrounded by water on three sides, Kittery’s prime location just across the river from Portsmouth NH offers visitors the unique opportunity to explore the beauty and attractions of two New England states within minutes of each other.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history, indulge in some shopping, or simply enjoy the scenic coastal landscape, Kittery Maine welcomes all with open arms and endless opportunities for exploration.
Maritime & Cultural History
As the oldest town in Maine, Kittery is a treasure trove of colonial heritage and maritime tradition, making it an appealing destination for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts alike.
For instance, history is alive at sites like the Fort McClary State Historic Site and the Kittery Historical & Naval Museum, where visitors can delve into the area’s past and its connection to maritime defense.
Abundant Shopping Opportunities
Kittery is, perhaps, best known for its sprawling Kittery Premium Outlets, a paradise for those seeking retail therapy with a variety of brand-name stores. With the famous Kittery Trading Post just across Spruce Creek, the town is one of Maine’s best destinations for shoppers.
Culinary & Craft Brewing Scene
Downtown Kittery has several great restaurants that serve everything from fresh, local seafood to authentic Italian, Mexican, Vietnamese, and other international cuisines. For those who appreciate craft beverages, a visit to Tributary Brewing is a must, offering a taste of local Maine craftsmanship.
Natural Wonders
On top of that, nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find solace in Kittery’s picturesque coastline, with spots like Seapoint Beach offering serene settings for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Kittery Islands
There’s more to Kittery Maine than meets the eye. Exploring all that it has to offer means driving or boating to some of its several islands. These are four of the most notable islands to visit:
- In the Piscataqua River, Badger’s Island has a rich shipbuilding and maritime heritage.
- Since the early 19th century, Seavey’s Island has been home to an important naval facility — Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which still provides shipbuilding and repairs for the U.S. Navy.
- At the mouth of the Piscataqua River, Wood Island is home to the Wood Island Life Saving Station.
- Farther from the mainland (6 miles), Smuttynose Island within the Isles of Shoals is steeped in lore, including shipwrecks and a notorious 19th-century double murder.
These islands have unique character and history, contributing to Kittery’s appeal as a destination with a blend of natural beauty and intriguing history. Appreciate the scenic vistas, explore remnants of the past, and enjoy the tranquility that these islands provide — all within a short distance of the mainland.
More Kittery Maine Area Lodging, Hotels, and Bed and Breakfasts
Whether you prefer the quaint charm of a Victorian-era B&B, the scenic beauty of a waterfront inn, or the affordability and convenience of well-established hotels, Kittery’s lodging landscape caters to every traveler.
Hotels & Motels in Kittery Maine
Kittery Inn and Suites
70 US Route 1 Byp, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-439-9324
A cozy, family-owned property offering modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and friendly service. Conveniently located near shopping and dining, it’s a perfect base for exploring the area. Complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi are provided.
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Hampton Inn & Suites Kittery
275 US Route 1, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-439-0751
The Hampton Inn & Suites Kittery is a comfortable hotel located in Kittery, offering easy access to nearby attractions like the Kittery Premium Outlets and Kittery Trading Post. The hotel offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi, and guests can enjoy nearby beaches and downtown Portsmouth NH.
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Bed and Breakfasts in Kittery Maine
The Water Street Inn
6 Water St, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-707-8855
Small, cool, and modern boutique hotel located in Kittery Maine. Situated on the bank of the Piscataqua River, the historic home was reopened as The Water Street Inn in 2018. All the conveniences and comforts of a modern hotel, including free Wi-Fi, free parking, and a terrace.
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Campgrounds & RV Parks in Kittery Maine
Litson Villas
127 State Rd, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-439-5000
A charming campground in Kittery Maine offering cozy cabins for short or long-term rental periods. Located on the scenic coast of Maine and New Hampshire, the cabins have comfortable beds and flatscreen televisions. Guests can enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and nearby attractions, including beaches, shopping, and dining.
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Vacation Rentals, Cottages, & Cabins in Kittery Maine
Houseboat Right on Kittery/Portsmouth Harbor
This unique vacation rental is a charming houseboat located in Kittery Maine at Badgers Island Marina. It offers stunning views of the river and Portsmouth skyline, and it’s equipped with all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, including a full kitchen and a cozy living space.
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Featured Lodging Options in Nearby Towns
Explore All of Kittery & Beyond
Kittery Maine offers a blend of coastal charm and historic intrigue. The famed Kittery Premium Outlets beckons shoppers, while the Fort McClary State Historic Site and the Kittery Historical & Naval Museum provide glimpses into a storied past. There are even several parks and lots of coastline to explore.
While you’re in the area, though, you can visit a few other great towns in the Southern Maine Coast. Here’s what you can expect on day trips to Portsmouth NH, York, and Ogunquit.
Portsmouth NH
Since you can see the Portsmouth NH skyline across the Piscataqua River, we won’t blame you for wanting to explore this picturesque coastal city. It’s steeped in history, offering visitors a vibrant downtown with colonial architecture, delightful boutiques, and art galleries. The bustling Market Square, historic Strawbery Banke Museum, and scenic Prescott Park add to the city’s charm.
York & Ogunquit
And if you have the time, we recommend exploring more of the Southern Maine Coast. Nearby, the seaside town of York enchants visitors with the iconic Nubble Lighthouse and sandy York Beach. And, Ogunquit Maine delights with stunning shoreline, including Ogunquit Beach and the scenic Marginal Way walk. Each town boasts a unique New England allure with captivating attractions and memorable experiences.
You’ll find even more lodging in these Southern Maine Coast towns, including campgrounds and RV Parks.
FAQs About Kittery Maine Hotels, B&Bs, & Other Lodging
What are the best hotels with a pool in Kittery Maine?
The Kittery Inn and Suites and the Hampton Inn & Suites Kittery offer indoor pools in Kittery Maine for guests.
What are the best hotels near Kittery outlets?
For lodging near the Kittery Premium Outlets and the Kittery Trading Post, we would recommend the Hampton Inn & Suites Kittery because it’s 0.3 miles from the trading post and just 0.6 miles from the premium outlets. The Kittery Inn and Suites is pretty close as well, within 2 miles — in fact.
What are the best hotels near the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
For Kittery lodging near the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, The Water Street Inn is just 0.8 miles away and a great choice. Another good option is the Litson Villas, which are just 1.2 miles away.
Do lodging prices vary by season in Kittery Maine?
Yes, Kittery Maine lodging prices typically peak during the summer and fall seasons, which are popular times for tourists to visit the New England coastline.
How far is Kittery Maine from nearby attractions in York and Ogunquit?
If you want to take a day trip from Kittery Maine to nearby towns, York and Ogunquit are close enough to plan a full day of exploring. For reference, The Water Street Inn is the farthest-west lodging option, and York is less than 8 miles north via Route 1, while Ogunquit is about 14.5 miles north on Route 1.