St. Andrews by the Sea

For us Mainers, there’s something truly special about the rugged beauty of our coastline. The sound of the waves, the salty air, and the endless expanse of the Atlantic define our identity. When it comes to finding that perfect seaside escape, particularly for camping, St. Andrews by the Sea in Kennebunk offers a unique and cherished experience. This isn't just any campground; it's a legacy, operated by the Kiwanis Club since 1947, embodying a long tradition of welcoming campers to Maine's stunning oceanfront.

St. Andrews by the Sea (also known as Kiwanis Oceanfront Camping) is revered by many as a place where generations have made their summer memories. It blends the rustic charm of camping with the breathtaking beauty of ocean views and direct access to the water. While some campgrounds prioritize endless activities, St. Andrews by the Sea prides itself on providing a "clean, quiet, and relaxing" environment. This focus on tranquility, coupled with its friendly and courteous atmosphere, makes it an ideal destination for Maine locals looking to reconnect with nature and enjoy the simple pleasures of coastal living.

The appeal of this campground lies in its simplicity and its incredible location. Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean, stepping out of your RV or tent, and being just moments away from the shore. While reviews sometimes note that sites can be close, the overall sentiment consistently highlights the beauty of being right on the water and the meticulous care taken by the Kiwanis Club. For us Mainers who understand and appreciate the unique allure of our coast, St. Andrews by the Sea is more than just a place to stay—it’s a beloved institution that promises a classic Maine camping adventure, year after year.

St. Andrews by the Sea is ideally situated at 262 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, USA. This prime location places it right on the beautiful coastline of Kennebunk, a picturesque town in Southern Maine renowned for its charming downtown, beautiful beaches, and vibrant maritime heritage. The campground’s address directly implies its oceanfront or near-oceanfront positioning, offering campers immediate access to the stunning Atlantic shore.

For Maine locals, accessing Kennebunk is straightforward. The town is conveniently located off US Route 1 and is easily reachable via Interstate 95 (the Maine Turnpike). Travelers from southern Maine cities like Portland or Saco can expect a relatively short and scenic drive. Even from central or northern Maine, the well-maintained road network makes Kennebunk an accessible destination for a weekend getaway or a longer summer vacation. Once in Kennebunk, Beach Avenue leads directly to the campground, indicating easy navigation even for those with RVs or trailers.

The true highlight of this campground's location is its direct proximity to the ocean. Many sites offer ocean views or are just a short walk to the water, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in coastal activities. Beyond the immediate ocean access, the campground is a convenient base for exploring the wider Kennebunk and Kennebunkport area. This includes charming Dock Square with its shops and restaurants, beautiful beaches like Gooch's Beach and Kennebunk Beach, and opportunities for whale watching or exploring the historic coastal towns. This blend of direct ocean access and proximity to local attractions makes St. Andrews by the Sea an exceptionally appealing and convenient choice for Maine residents seeking a classic coastal camping experience.

St. Andrews by the Sea, also known as Kiwanis Oceanfront Camping, is a full-service facility, offering a range of amenities designed to make your oceanfront camping experience comfortable and convenient.

• Diverse Site Options: The campground offers a variety of site types to cater to different camping preferences. These include:

  • Oceanfront & Ocean View Sites: Premium sites with direct views or immediate access to the ocean.

  • Full Hookup Sites: Many sites offer water, electrical (30 and 50 amp available), and sewer hookups, including "Pull through – full hookup – Sea Field" and "Outlook Bay - 50 amp and paved pad." Some sites also feature "dual hookups on each side" for easier setup.

  • Water & Electric Only Sites: For those who don't require sewer connections.

  • Tent Sites: Dedicated tenting areas are available, some with water and electric, and others "unserviced" for a more primitive experience. Tenting sites often include a "cooking counter."

  • Seasonal Sites: A significant portion of the campground (75 out of 135 total spaces) is dedicated to seasonal campers, allowing for long-term stays.

  • Bunkies: Semi-serviced or serviced "Bunkies" may also be available for a unique glamping-style experience.

• Modern Bathhouses: The campground boasts "marble" floors and walls in bathrooms, with "modern type showers with glass doors," indicating well-maintained and upscale facilities.

• On-site Store: A "small store" is located on-site, offering a "varied selection of drinks, nibbles, sweets, and a few sundry items," along with ice and firewood.

• Propane Sales & Refilling: Metered propane and cylinder refilling services are available, a convenient service for RVers and those with portable tanks.

• Coin-Operated Laundry: A self-service laundry facility is on the grounds for guest use.

• Communal Kitchen Shelter: A communal area, described as the "Kitchen Shelter," suggests a shared space for cooking or gathering.

• WiFi Packages: WiFi packages are available, likely for an additional fee, to allow guests to stay connected.

• Firewood Delivery: Firewood (soft and hardwood) can be delivered upon request to your site.

• Live and Cooked Lobsters: A unique offering is the availability of "Lobsters live and cooked," allowing guests to enjoy a quintessential Maine experience directly at the campground.

• Picnic Tables & Firepits: All serviced sites come with picnic tables and firepits.

• RV Services: Some information suggests "On-site RV service," "RV storage: secure," and "RV wash: self-service" or "staffed," adding to RV convenience.

• Direct Oceanfront Location: The most significant highlight is its prime location directly on the ocean, with many sites offering stunning ocean views or immediate access to the water, including a "small private beach."

• Clean, Quiet, and Relaxing Atmosphere: The campground's motto emphasizes a serene environment, promising a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. Reviewers frequently describe it as a "quiet campground."

• High Standards of Cleanliness and Maintenance: The campground consistently receives high ratings (e.g., 10/10/10 from Good Sam) for the completeness of facilities, cleanliness of restrooms and showers (described as "marble" and "modern"), and visual appeal of the grounds.

• Friendly and Courteous Staff: The Kiwanis Club operation is noted for its "friendly and courteous atmosphere," with staff committed to making stays memorable.

• Proximity to Downtown St. Andrews: While the provided address is in Kennebunk, ME, some search results suggest "St. Andrews" could refer to St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada. However, assuming the Kennebunk location based on the given address, the highlight would be proximity to Downtown Kennebunk or Kennebunkport, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and local attractions.

• Unique Lobster Service: The ability to order "Lobsters live and cooked" directly at your site offers a quintessential Maine dining experience without leaving the campground.

• Long-Standing Reputation: Operated by the Kiwanis Club since 1947, it has a long history of welcoming campers and has built a loyal following of returning guests, speaking to its enduring quality and appeal.

• Dual Hookups: Some sites offer "dual hookups on each side," making it very convenient for RVers to position their rig comfortably.

As a campground operated by the Kiwanis Club, St. Andrews by the Sea likely maintains a consistent pricing structure, but may offer specific deals or special rates for extended stays, typical of a well-established private campground. While immediate, broad "promotions" like discount codes might not be publicly advertised, potential offers or savings opportunities for Maine locals often include:

• Seasonal Sites: A significant portion of the campground is dedicated to seasonal campers (75 out of 135 sites). This indicates that competitive rates for full-season commitments are available, providing a long-term summer home for Maine residents without having to move their RV.

• Extended Stay Rates: While specific "weekly" or "monthly" discounted rates were not explicitly detailed, it is common for campgrounds of this nature to offer reduced per-night pricing for stays longer than a few nights. Some information from a similar Kiwanis campground mentioned a "4 Week Rate - Full Service" which could be applicable or serve as an example.

• "Fuel Saver Special": One source mentioned a "Fuel Saver Special" where campers can "Leave your rig with us between stays at no charge!" This is a significant convenience and potential saving for locals who wish to make multiple trips without transporting their RV back and forth.

• Off-Peak Season Rates: Rates are often lower during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to the peak summer months. Inquiring about these periods could lead to more affordable stays.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on current rates, seasonal availability, and any specific offers, it is highly recommended to contact St. Andrews by the Sea directly. They can provide precise details on pricing for various site types and lengths of stay.

For reservations, inquiries, or more information about St. Andrews by the Sea, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 262 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, USA

• While no phone numbers were explicitly provided for this exact campground based on the search, similar Kiwanis-run campgrounds often use a main phone number. For general inquiries about camping in the Kennebunk area or to find direct contact if needed, one might refer to:

  • General Maine State Park Reservations (not this specific campground): (207) 624-9950

  • Kennebunkport Conservation Trust (for island camping inquiries): (207) 967-3465

  Given the provided address in Kennebunk, the best approach would be to search for the official website for "St. Andrews by the Sea Kennebunk" or "Kiwanis Oceanfront Camping Kennebunk" for direct contact information if it is not immediately apparent. The provided phone numbers (603-447-2177, 603-447-5092) from prior tasks are for New Hampshire campgrounds and are not applicable here.

As specific contact numbers for "St. Andrews by the Sea Kennebunk, ME" were not explicitly returned in the search results for the given address, and the name "Kiwanis Oceanfront Camping" appeared prominently with contact details for New Brunswick, it's crucial for users to verify the exact contact for the Kennebunk, ME location by searching its official website or directly with "Kiwanis Club Kennebunk."

For us Mainers, St. Andrews by the Sea in Kennebunk offers a highly suitable and deeply appealing coastal camping experience, perfectly aligning with our state's cherished values of natural beauty, community, and peaceful escapes.

Firstly, its direct oceanfront location is an unparalleled draw. Living in Maine means we have a profound appreciation for our coastline, and the ability to camp right by the sea, with immediate access to sandy shores and the refreshing ocean breeze, is a dream come true for many. It provides an immersive experience where the sights and sounds of the Atlantic are a constant companion, offering a serene backdrop for relaxation and a natural playground for all ages.

Secondly, the campground's reputation for being "clean, quiet, and relaxing" resonates strongly with locals seeking genuine tranquility. While we appreciate the vibrant energy of our coastal towns, sometimes we simply want to unwind in nature. St. Andrews by the Sea delivers on this promise, fostering an atmosphere where you can truly disconnect and rejuvenate. The high standards of cleanliness, especially in the bathhouses, further enhance the comfort of a rustic yet well-maintained environment.

Finally, the long-standing operation by the Kiwanis Club instills a sense of tradition and community that many Mainers value. It speaks to a commitment to hospitality and a consistent quality that has brought generations back year after year. For us, this isn't just a temporary stop; it's a place to create enduring family memories, a home away from home by the sea. Whether it's enjoying fresh local lobster delivered to your site or simply basking in the coastal ambiance, St. Andrews by the Sea provides a classic and highly suitable Maine camping adventure that truly captures the essence of our beautiful state.

St. Andrews by the Sea

262 Beach Ave, Kennebunk, ME 04043, USA