Sandy Pines Camping Resort in Kennebunkport Opens Second Season with New Glamping Accommodations, Programming

New custom-designed glamping accommodations open at Sandy Pines Campground, Kennebunkport, Maine, in its second season (photo by Douglas Merriam)

Kennebunkport, ME – Sandy Pines Campground opens May 11, 2018 for its second season with a roster of curated new experiences, custom designed glamping accommodations and engaging programming benefiting every level and style of camper – from RVers and traditional tent campers to glampers.

“When guests come to Sandy Pines, we aim to immerse them in the best of Maine – its natural beauty, nostalgic charm, a feeling of community – and set the stage for making new memories each time they visit,” said co-founder and hotelier Tim Harrington. “During our first season, we took note of what campers enjoyed most and built on those types of offerings for 2018.”

Sandy Pines opened in June 2017 with a plethora of resort-level amenities, including a rustic Grand Lodge, General Store stocked with local Maine provisions and a dedicated s’mores section, heated saltwater pool, Kids’ Kamp, lawn games and more.

For Summer 2018, campers can look forward to weekly entertainment like TBT Movie Nights by the Pool, screening throwback flicks served with popcorn and ice cream bars; Saturday Night Fever, where campers can convene for live music, a burger bash and cocktails – mixers provided, BYOB; and Sundae Funday ice cream buffet complete with toppings bar.

The Snack Bar will offer tasty breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries and breakfast burritos, plus grab-and-go salads and sandwiches, perfect for easy outdoor dining. A Maine visit isn’t complete without lobster and Sandy Pines campers can pre-order lobster dinners for delivery, which include steamed lobster, butter, sides, dessert and utensils. 

Grownups don’t get all the fun! New Kids’ Kamp activities will keep tiny tykes busy crafting dreamcatchers, learning to build teepee shelters, tie-dying keepsake t-shirts and more. Parents can loosen the leash on their free-roaming pre-teens but ensure they’re well-fed with Camper Cash, redeemable for ice cream, the snack bar or other in-park activities.

Glamping

Nature enthusiasts angling for elevated accommodations can choose from several new options available for nightly rental, beginning late June 2018. 

This season, Sandy Pines will unveil 12 Camp Carriages, akin to stylish cottages on wheels. These retreats are uniquely decorated by Kennebunkport designer Krista Stokes and are outfitted with king-size beds, A/C, exterior window shutters, fire pits and seating areas.  Krista also collaborated on designing 12 Hideaway Huts, wooden A-frames that are sleek and modern, yet rustic. The cozy structures feature full-size beds and lighting with outdoor seating areas and fire pits.

Lastly, Sandy Pines will add four more of their popular safari-style Glamp Tents, bringing the total to 16 professionally decorated accommodations, each with unique elements like antiques, four-post beds, chandeliers and more. Kennebunkport’s Louise Hurlbutt designed the four new tents, named Tradewinds, Robin’s Nest, Elements and Under the Stars.

Themed Weekends

Sandy Pines will expand their experiential park programming with new themed weekends. The first is Vintage Camping Weekend, June 15-17 during Father’s Day weekend, where owners of restored, DIY and unique campers will converge to swap stories, play games, enjoy live music, BBQ and the Great Outdoors. All park guests are invited to get in on the fun and tour the vintage campers.

To celebrate the Fall Equinox on September 22, Sandy Pines will host a family-focused “Great Maine Camp Out.” Campers of all ages are invited to spend the night, take an astronomy class, learn techniques for campfire cooking, listen to fireside storytelling by local authors and more.

Located minutes from Goose Rocks Beach in charming Kennebunkport, Sandy Pines Campground provides an experience that is authentically Maine, embodying the best of the Pine Tree State’s coast – natural beauty, salty breezes and a small-town ambiance. New England charm is infused throughout the grounds, from the rustic Grand Lodge to the General Store stocked with Maine provisions, including a section solely for s’mores creations, and a multitude of outdoor activities. The park’s campsites cater to traditional tent campers and RVers along with the option of booking professionally-decorated Glamp Tents, Camp Carriages and Hideaway Huts for nightly rental or purchasing a park model RV “tiny home.”

Sandy Pines Campground, 277 Mills Road, Kennebunkport, Maine 04046, www.sandypinescamping.com or call (207) 967-2483. Follow on Facebook at Sandy Pines Maine and on Instagram at @sandypinesmaine.

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Cupid Cooks Up Romance in Maine for the Kennebunks ‘Paint the Town Red’ February Festivities

KENNEBUNKPORT, ME – This February, the Kennebunks transform into a romantic retreat for lovebirds. “New England’s Most Romantic Town” will once again roll out the red carpet inviting couples to rendezvous during the month-long Paint the Town Red festivities.

Dock Square in downtown Kennebunkport will be decked out in red twinkly lights, while restaurants, hotels, galleries and shops in the area welcome sweethearts with a calendar of special events, romance hotel packages, red plate dining specials, and red tag sales from retailers.

Paint the Town Red celebrations continue all month long with special dinners and culinary experiences, mixology classes, wine tastings and more. A full list of events can be found at www.lovethekennebunks.com.

Red Romance Lodging Packages

         Kennebunkport Resort Collection: The “Love KPT” lodging package includes a two-night stay for two people at The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel (starting at $373) or the Kennebunkport Inn (starting at $405), arrival goodies of red wine and chocolate-covered strawberries, a three course dinner for two, and a late check-out at noon. The package is available from now through March 30, 2017. To book, visit the individual property’s website.  To help curate the perfect romantic getaway, couples can call upon Kennebunkport Resort Collection’s (KRC) Cupid Concierge, Tasha Harper.  Services include creating customized music playlists for the room, delivering flowers, scheduling couple’s massages and arranging late check-out, dessert in bed, and much more. The Cupid Concierge can be reached at cupid@lovekpt.com or 207-967-1517.

         Captain Fairfield Inn: the Romance Package includes an artisan cheese and meat board, a bottle of wine, and a single red rose; the package can be added to bookings for $75; rates start at $159 per night.

         Breakwater Inn & Spa:  Romance Package includes hand-made sweet treat from the property’s chef, sparkling water, and seasonal flower bouquet. Available February 1-28, 2017, rates start at$204 per night, plus 9% occupancy. Blackout dates may apply, based on availability. To book call 207-967-5333.

         The Kennebunk Inn: the full service inn and restaurant located in the heart of Kennebunk is offering a discounted weekend package rate on February 10 and 11, 2017 for two-nights (price excludes tax).  Rooms:  Adams $160, Jefferson $180, and Madison Suite $200.

         King’s Port Inn: mention LoveKPT when making the hotel reservation and receive a free gift upon arrival. To book, call 207-967-4340.

         Captain Lord Mansion: the “February is for Lovers” package includes reduced mid-week rates, romantic third night free package, split of sparkling wine, chocolate-covered popcorn and frequent visitor credits.  The third night free package is not valid February 17 through 20, 2017 and cannot be combined with any other coupon, discount or third party gift certificate. Rates start at $199 per night.

Local restaurants will feature Red Plate Specials ranging from specially priced bottles of champagne and three-course dinners with wine, to pizza making. Red Tag Savings will also be offered throughout the month at participating shops, attractions and spas, ranging from 50% off all items to complimentary admission.  For full details and list of participating restaurants, shops, spas and attractions, visit: www.lovethekennebunks.com.

Paint the Town Red deals and events are available from January 27 through February 28, 2017. All details, restrictions, and booking instructions – as well as a complete list of events and specials – can be found at www.lovethekennebunks.com. Consumers can follow the love on social media using #lovethekennebunks.

 

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Kennebunkport’s Lodge on the Cove Expands Kids Programs from Farm to Sea

Kennebunkport’s Lodge on the Cove

KENNEBUNKPORT, ME –  This summer, families will find adventures and activities a plenty at The Lodge on the Cove, an original motor lodge completely refurbished with a playful “retro chic” vibe. Nestled on a wooded cove in Kennebunkport, ME, the family-friendly resort known for its ice cream socials and live music around the pool, adds new programming and packages designed for exploration and growing the imagination.

With the resort’s new Little Explorers’ Farm to Sea package, kids are immersed in both farm and sea life starting with a tour of a local organic vegetable farm. The discovery continues at the shoreline as they beachcomb for small sea creatures armed with a tidal pool kit and waterproof pocket guide.

The Little Explorers’ Farm to Sea stay package includes accommodations, tour of the nearby Frinklepod Farm, bucket, net and custom tide pool guide for the beach, and an ice cream sundae at The Dory.  Available from May 27 through October 10, 2016, rates start at $189 per room, per night for one child; add $35 for each additional child.  Two night minimum stay required. To book, visit www.lodgeonthecove.com or call 800-879-5778.

Also debuting this season are a variety of add-on amenity packages created with the resort’s tiniest adventurers in mind.  Priced at $35 per child, new stay enhancements include:

–          Pirates of Kennebunkport – child receives a patch and bandana, pirate language guide, soft foam sword, chocolate coins and map of property with where to find treasure.

–          South Street Superhero – features a cape with child’s name, mask, wrist bands, superhero coloring book and assigned special lodge superpower.  

–          Throwback Craft Kit – includes coloring book and washable markers, sidewalk chalk, rock decorating kit, paper airplane kit, etc.

–          Pajama Party – available Friday nights from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, mom and dad can enjoy a private dinner for two, while the kids gather at the clubhouse for dinner and a pajama party. Ages 4 to 12.

New complimentary programming includes “Home on the Range” gatherings at the fire pit on Thursdays with folk songs, ghost stories.  Family yoga classes, movie nights and nightly bonfires with s’mores are also available to guests free-of-charge.

The Lodge on the Cove features 30 rooms with semi-private decks, bright, chevron patterned wall treatments, and a mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings. The social hub of the resort is the octagonal-shaped main lodge with comfortable seating around a large fireplace, board games, and colorful local art. The lower level of the lodge houses The Dory, a poolside bar with light bites and specialty cocktails. The Lodge on the Cove is also only a short stroll away from downtown Kennebunkport’s famous Dock Square where guests will find shops, boutiques and restaurants.

The Lodge on the Cove is located at 29 South Main Street, Kennebunkport, ME 04046.  For more information, visit www.lodgeonthecove.com or call 800-879-5778. 

The Lodge on the Cove is owned and managed by the Kennebunkport Resort Collection (KRC),  representing diverse luxury and upscale properties such as Hidden Pond, one of the finest luxury boutique hotels in the Northeast;  The Tides Beach Club, Southern Maine’s only beachfront luxury boutique hotel; the Kennebunkport Inn, centrally located in downtown Kennebunkport; Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, a grand, oceanfront summer estate in nearby Cape Arundel; The Cottages at Cabot Cove, featuring individually designed luxury cottages; the Grand Hotel, located on Chase Hill in Kennebunk; and The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, a social locale situated harbor side on the Kennebunk River.  KRC also owns and manages restaurants and catering venues in the area. Information on all KRC hotels and resorts can be found at www.kennebunkportresortcollection.com or follow @kennebunkportmaine on Instagram.

 

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Kennebunkport Resort Collection Offers ‘Stay & Play’ Packages in Coastal Maine

KENNEBUNKPORT, ME– Lighter crowds and moderate temperatures gives travelers a jump on the joys of summer during the late spring months in the coastal New England town of Kennebunkport. With the opening on May 6 of the seasonal hotels in the Kennebunkport Resort Collection (KRC), a new “Stay & Play” package paves the way for visitors to tailor their fun with resort credits of up to $50 per night for use towards dining, outdoor pursuits, spa and more.

Starting May 1 (or May 6 at select seasonal properties) through June 23, the “Stay & Play” package is available for one, two, or three night visits and includes resort credits up to $50 per night.  Guests can choose from any of the following eight boutique properties:

• Hidden Pond, a 60-acre luxury resort reminiscent of summer camp with starting rates of $309 per night and $50 per night KRC Resort Credit;
• The Tides Beach Club, the only boutique hotel in southern Maine located right on the beach with rates starting at $159 per night and a $35 per night KRC Resort Credit;
• Cape Arundel Inn & Resort featuring oceanfront views and sitting on the desirable Ocean Avenue, rates start at $149 per night and feature a $35 per day KRC Resort Credit;
• Kennebunkport Inn, a local landmark and casually hip hotel in Dock Square with rates starting at $129 per night and $25 per night KRC Resort Credit;
• The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, located on a prime waterfront site on the harbor side of the Kennebunk River with rates starting at $129 per night and $25 per night KRC Resort Credit;
• Grand Hotel, just a short stroll from the center of town with rates starting at $119 per night with a $25 per night KRC Resort Credit (available midweek only);
• The Lodge on the Cove, an original motor lodge completely refurbished with a playful, “retro chic” vibe with starting rates at $99 per night and a $25 per night KRC Resort Credit;
• The Cottages at Cabot Cove features 16 unique cottages with distinctive personalities located on an idyllic cove fed by the Kennebunk River and the sea beyond. Rates start at $179 per night and include a $25 per night KRC Resort Credit.

KRC Resort Credits can be used towards amenities and activities on property such as signature French 75 cocktails at One Dock Prime, hotel stay enhancements including wine, cheese plates, milk and cookies, and kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals, as well as at any of the KRC restaurants, gift shops and Tree Spa at Hidden Pond.  To book the “Stay & Play” package, visit the individual property websites, www.kennebunkportresortcollection.com, or call (800) 573-7186.  (Package is subject to availability, black-out dates and minimum stay restrictions may apply.)

While in Kennebunkport, travelers can bike around town or on the back roads to view the first signs of summer, shop the many boutiques and galleries of Dock Square and lower Kennebunk, and dine at some of the hottest restaurants in Kennebunkport including Ocean at the Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, One Dock Prime at the Kennebunkport Inn, Hidden Pond’s “farm to fork” restaurant Earth, among others.

Comprising a diverse portfolio of luxury and upscale properties, the Kennebunkport Resort Collection (KRC) includes Hidden Pond, one of the finest luxury boutique hotels in the Northeast;  The Tides Beach Club, Southern Maine’s only beachfront luxury boutique hotel; the Kennebunkport Inn, centrally located in downtown Kennebunkport; Cape Arundel Inn & Resort, a grand, oceanfront summer estate in nearby Cape Arundel; The Cottages at Cabot Cove, featuring individually designed luxury cottages; sister property The Lodge on the Cove, a family-oriented boutique resort; the Grand Hotel, located on Chase Hill in Kennebunk; and The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel, a social locale situated harbor side on the Kennebunk River.  KRC also owns and manages restaurants and catering venues in the area.

For more information on the KRC portfolio of hotels and restaurants, visit www.kennebunkportresortcollection.com or follow @kennebunkportmaine on Instagram.

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