A grand hotel with white siding and red roof, featuring a central dome, behind a pool lined with blue lounge chairs and red umbrellas.

A historic hotel

The Colony Hotel

Perched on the scenic shores of Kennebunkport, The Colony Hotel is more than a place to stay; it’s a beloved coastal tradition. As a proud founding member of Historic Hotels of America and Maine’s first green hotel, we blend timeless hospitality with a forward-thinking commitment to preserving the natural environment that makes this place so special. From locally inspired experiences to eco-conscious practices across the property, every stay reflects our deep dedication to the land, the sea, and the spirit of Maine. Whether you’re returning year after year or discovering us for the first time, The Colony welcomes you to discover the charm, character, and a sense of place won't be found anywhere else!

Learn More: Historic Landmarks

In the image, there's an old, large building under construction with scaffolding, set on a hill with some snow.
The image shows a white building with a red roof, surrounded by trees. Red leaves climb the tree, and flags are visible on the building.
A large white building with a red roof stands by the beach, surrounded by trees, with people enjoying the shore and water.
A coastal resort pool with blue lounge chairs and red umbrellas, overlooking a scenic ocean view under a clear blue sky.
In the image, there's an old, large building under construction with scaffolding, set on a hill with some snow.
The image shows a white building with a red roof, surrounded by trees. Red leaves climb the tree, and flags are visible on the building.

How The Legacy Began

Designed by the famous architect John Calvin Stevens, the hotel was originally built in 1914 as Breakwater Court. It was later purchased by George and Agnes Boughton in 1947, which marked the beginning of the now-renowned multigenerational legacy of family ownership. George oversaw significant renovations between 1947 and 1948, expanding the number of guest rooms and improving public spaces and recreational offerings. In late 1948, the hotel reopened, taking the new name of The Colony Hotel, renamed to match the Boughton family’s sister property in Delray Beach, Florida.

Learn More: our Sister Property

A vintage black and white photo shows a classy indoor dance party with couples dancing, dressed in formal attire, and enjoying the event.
A large, historic building with a tower, situated on a grassy area by the water, dated 1914.

The Story Continues

In the modern era, the hotel introduced a renewed commitment to historical preservation and environmentally friendly operation. In 1984, the hotel became a contributing property within the Cape Arundel Summer Colony Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Colony Hotel and the Boughton Family played a crucial role as founding members of Historic Hotels of America in 1999. This formally recognized the hotel for its preserved architectural character and legacy.

Under the leadership of third and fourth-generation Boughton family members, including John Martin, Jestena Boughton, and Hilary Roche, our commitment to historic and environmental preservation continues, still paired with world-class hospitality. For over 10 years, we have donated $1 for every night’s stay to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust to implement eco-friendly and historic preservation initiatives not just at The Colony, but throughout Kennebunkport.

A building with "Cuisine" signage, large windows, a parked black SUV in front. Overcast roof and a chimney on top complete the scene.
A white building with red roofs, adjacent to a parking lot, is set against a backdrop of trees and a body of water.
A cozy bedroom with a large bed, modern pendant light, blue curtains, a small kitchenette with a fridge, and a balcony view.

In the Modern Era

Most recently, in 2023, led by John Martin, the property completed a major campus addition, “Coveside,” which includes 46 guest rooms and the Coveside Market. This new investment enhances and expands infrastructure, preserves historic charm, and offers modernized guest amenities for a new coastal experience at The Colony. Looking to the future, we have recently partnered with 4ocean to offer a unique package that, when booked, donates $10 each night to ocean protection and restoration efforts to preserve our precious coastlines. These efforts reflect The Colony’s ongoing commitment to hospitality excellence, historic preservation, and eco-conscious practices; all while embracing a forward-thinking vision for future generations.

Four dogs sit on lounge chairs facing the ocean, enjoying the scenic seaside view.

Pet Friendly Stay

We love pets!

Known as one of Maine’s most pet friendly resorts, the Colony Hotel provides everything you will need to keep your four legged traveling companion comfortable: water stations, biodegradable bag dispensers and acres of walking/playing areas.

There is a nightly pet fee.

Sustainable Hospitality at The Colony Hotel

Green Hotel

At The Colony Hotel, we are committed to providing warm, personalized hospitality while being mindful of our environmental impact. We recognize our connection to all living things and operate with a focus on ecological, economic, and cultural sustainability. Since 1995, we have donated $1 per night’s stay to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust. Our green initiatives include waste reduction, recycling, and energy conservation, while ongoing education ensures that sustainability remains second nature to both our employees and guests.

  • Housekeeping
    • offer guest option not to have sheets and towels changed daily.
    • reduce guest room waste with in-room recycling program
    • guest room water conservation program
    • biodegradable liquid soap, shampoo and conditioner in guest room dispensers
    • non-toxic cleaning materials
    • environmentally safe laundry detergent
    • guest room bedspreads re made into dog blankets
  • Kitchen
    • no use of Styrofoam in kitchen
    • no use of aerosol spray products
    • non-toxic cleaning materials
    • compost organic kitchen waste
    • fry oil used to produce bio-diesel
  • Grounds and Maintenance
    • no use of chemicals in garden
    • native plants in garden
    • herbs and flowers for kitchen use
    • recycle motor oil, antifreeze
    • minimize construction waste
    • insulate rooms to reduce energy usage
  • Shop
    • re-use packing material from shipping
    • locally made and environmental products
    • products with no animal testing
  • Administration
    • distribute Green Meeting Guide
    • photocopy all materials on both sides
    • use recycled paper products
    • recycle cans, newspapers, glass and plastics
    • cut used office paper for note pads
    • energy star compliant equipment only
    • buy bulk to reduce excessive packaging
    • purchase local products to minimize fuel and packaging used
A coastal pool area with red-and-white umbrellas, lounge chairs, and flowers overlooks the ocean under a clear blue sky. The image shows a seaside view of a pool surrounded by red and white umbrellas, seen from a balcony with chairs and a small table. A putting green with multiple holes and red flags, surrounded by trees, a birdhouse, a bench, and a building with an awning. The image shows a large white building with a red roof, featuring a porch and three white chairs on the lawn in front.