Tides Beach Club

Tides Beach Club, Kennebunkport: A Michelin Key Selected Coastal Gem

The Tides Beach Club in Kennebunkport, a distinguished Michelin Key Selected property, consistently earns high praise for its blend of classic charm and contemporary luxury. Guests frequently describe it as a "gem" and an "immaculate" establishment offering an unforgettable oceanfront escape on Goose Rocks Beach. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting exceptional service, stylish design, and its idyllic location as prime reasons for its acclaim.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Tides Beach Club is exceptionally positive, with guests frequently lauding it as a pristine seaside hideaway offering "amazing hospitality" and a "wonderful getaway" experience. Reviews suggest a very good to excellent rating, with many guests expressing a strong desire to return.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several aspects of The Tides Beach Club:

• Service: The staff is frequently described as "wonderful" and the hotel is "known, perhaps above all else, for its service," providing an amazing and attentive experience.
• Location: Its direct beachfront setting on the serene Goose Rocks Beach is a major draw, offering stunning ocean views and immediate access to the sand.
• Design: The hotel boasts a contemporary makeover within a grand old Victorian building, featuring bright colors and a youthful atmosphere. Interiors are inspired and furnished by Jonathan Adler, showcasing a laid-back, seaside-chic design that is both sharp and a natural update to classic Northeastern coastal style.
• Amenities: Highlights include beach access with service for lunch or dinner on the sand, complimentary self-parking, a sun terrace, and a wellness center. Guests also have access to the spa and common spaces (pools, garden) at the exclusive sister resort, Hidden Pond. Other amenities include a fitness center, room service, happy hour, beach umbrellas, sun loungers, garden area, massage services, water sports, hiking, cycling, fishing, and available bikes. The hotel is a seasonal property, typically open from mid-May through October.

3. Room Quality

The Tides Beach Club features 21 intimate guest rooms, including two oceanfront suites, all inspired and furnished by Jonathan Adler. Rooms are described as simply yet luxuriously appointed, offering either one king- or one queen-sized bed with a vast range of views. They are spacious, bungalow-like, and decorated in rich, feel-good ocean blue and coral hues, contributing to a comfortable and chic atmosphere. Air conditioning is available in rooms.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at The Tides Beach Club is highly regarded, offering an authentic selection that is "nothing short of perfection." Guests can enjoy delectable lobster rolls and impressive oyster towers. The hotel's bar and restaurant provide a relaxing atmosphere with breathtaking ocean views, where patrons can unwind with classic cocktails like the famed watermelon cosmo. Breakfast is served every morning in the restaurant.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at The Tides Beach Club receive consistent praise. Guests frequently highlight the "wonderful" staff and "amazing hospitality." The hotel is particularly "known, perhaps above all else, for its service," with staff going above and beyond to ensure an amazing experience. Services include room service, housekeeping, a welcome drink, and a free shuttle service.

6. Location & Accessibility

The Tides Beach Club is ideally situated on the peaceful coast of Southern Maine, as the only full-service, waterfront hotel directly on Goose Rocks Beach. This affords guests immediate and easy beach access, with the white beach just a five-minute walk away. While offering a secluded feel, it is still accessible to local attractions. The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is approximately 3.8 km away, and The Wright Gallery is about 4 km distant. The property is also relatively close to the President Bush Compound. Portland International Jetport airport is located about 45 km away, and the hotel offers a free shuttle service for transport.

7. Value & Pricing

The Tides Beach Club is considered a luxury property, with pricing that "definitely will lighten your purse." A minimum price of $501 USD has been noted, indicating its premium positioning. While specific daily rates can vary, the overall consensus suggests it is a high-end experience, and for many, the unparalleled service, prime beachfront location, and luxurious amenities justify the cost, making it a worthwhile splurge for a special getaway.

8. Common Complaints

While generally highly rated, some guests note that the luxury experience comes at a significant price, making it a considerable investment ("definitely will lighten your purse"). Additionally, some might find "a lot of activity in and around the inn" due to its lively social scene. It's also important to note that the Tides Beach Club is not a pet-friendly establishment.

Sources

1. tidesbeachclubmaine.com
2. kennebunkport-bedandbreakfast.com
3. michelin.com
4. hotels.com
5. fodors.com
6. expedia.com