I have a couple (young 40s) coming up from N. Carolina. He has never seen foliage in New England, nor has he ever been to Maine. SO, we are booked a night in Woodstock VT. We will do the gorge, Quechee, etc.... THEN the next morning we will drive (via scenic Kangamangus) east, probably lunch in waterfront in Old Portland and my intention is to sleep in EITHER Ogunquit or Kennebunkport, making for a reasonably short drive the home the next morning. (We hope to lobster out of Marblehead). I have been to Ogunquit many times and am familiar. We can't afford the Cliff House, but don't want to go 2 star it either. However, I don't much at all about Kennebunkport. We want scenery. I had dreamed of Camden, or Boothbay, but its just too much driving. HELP!!! I appreciate it. Yes, I know.... bookings are difficult for one night. I'm optimistic....

It will be the first weekend in Oct. (forgot to mention)

The Colony and the Nonantum in K'port should fit your bill, but might be a bit pricey. Nonantum is along the river. Along Shore Road in Ogunquit there are a number of places facing the beach and it is beautiful. Unfortunately I do not have any experience with the specific hotels, but I would google "accommodations, Ogunquit, ME" and look for the places on Shore Rd such as the Sea Chambers and Sparhawk. Then try Tripadvisor for reviews. You'll be walking distance to everything. Things will book up for that weekend, so act quickly!

I don't think things will necessarily book up for that weekend. The seacoast is not really a fall destination and it is usually quite quiet by then with shoulder or off season rates, particularly when tourism is down.

Either Kennebunkport or Ogunquit are very nice. Or, you could stay in Wells (in between the two) for more modest prices. We really like the Kennebunkport Inn and Cape Arundel Inn (both with wonderful dining). If you want to be right on the ocean, have a look at the Atlantic Motor Inn in Wells.

A good place to start searching for lodging (with reviews) is Trip Advisor.

Check out the Yachtsman Lodge in Kennebunkport. Can park your car right in front of your room, walking distance to Dock Square, shopping and restaurants, wonderful breakfast, tea in the afternoon.

http://www.yachtsmanlodge.com/