Discover Ogunquit, Maine, with our travel guide. Dive into pristine beaches, scenic walks, artsy attractions, and indulge in coastal delights in this charming New England town.
Ogunquit, Maine Travel Guide
Nestled on the southern coast of Maine, Ogunquit is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, scenic coastal walks, artsy vibe, and charming downtown. Its name means "beautiful place by the sea" in the Abenaki language, and the town truly lives up to this description.
Getting There
Reaching Ogunquit, Maine, is relatively straightforward, with a variety of transportation options depending on where you're coming from. Here's how to get there:
By Car:
From Boston: Ogunquit is about 70 miles (approximately 1.5 hours) north of Boston. You would typically take I-95 N (Interstate 95 North) from Boston and use exit 7 for US-1 toward York/Ogunquit in Maine. Follow US-1 N to Ogunquit.
From Portland, ME: Ogunquit is roughly 35 miles (about 40 minutes) south of Portland. Head south on I-95 and take exit 7 for US-1 toward York/Ogunquit. Follow US-1 N to your destination in Ogunquit.
By Plane:
While Ogunquit doesn't have its own airport, the closest major airport is Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine. Once you arrive in Portland, you can rent a car for the short drive to Ogunquit or use other local transport options.
Local Transportation:
Ogunquit Trolley: During the peak season, the town offers a trolley service which runs between various popular spots in Ogunquit, including the beach, Perkins Cove, and downtown. It's a charming way to get around and can help avoid parking hassles.
Top Attractions
Ogunquit is filled with a variety of attractions that cater to nature lovers, art enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy the coastal charm of Maine. Here are the top attractions in Ogunquit:
Ogunquit Beach: This sprawling sandy beach is one of the most beautiful in Maine, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Its soft sand and gentle waves make it popular with families.
Marginal Way: A scenic footpath stretching over a mile along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, craggy cliffs, and beautiful coastal homes. There are several benches along the way, perfect for resting and soaking in the views.
Perkins Cove: A picturesque harbor area filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. It's also the starting point for various boat tours. The manually operated drawbridge in the cove is a unique feature.
Ogunquit Playhouse: A historic theater that hosts top-notch theatrical productions, often featuring Broadway talent. It's one of the last remaining summer theaters from the Straw Hat Circuit.
Ogunquit Museum of American Art: This museum houses a notable collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, all set against the backdrop of stunning ocean views from its garden.
Footbridge Beach: A quieter alternative to Ogunquit's Main Beach, it's accessed via a quaint footbridge over the Ogunquit River.
Bald Head Cliff: Located a bit north of Ogunquit in neighboring York, it offers impressive coastal views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Mount Agamenticus: While a short drive from Ogunquit, this small mountain offers hiking trails, panoramic views of the surrounding region, and the chance to see diverse wildlife.
Downtown Ogunquit: A charming area filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries. The village center is perfect for leisurely strolls, shopping, and dining.
What to Do
Ogunquit, with its seaside charm and vibrant arts scene, offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all tastes. Here are the top activities to partake in while in Ogunquit:
Beach Relaxation: Spend a day (or more) at Ogunquit Beach or Footbridge Beach, sunbathing, building sandcastles, playing beach games, or simply enjoying the ocean views.
Walking the Marginal Way: This scenic footpath runs for over a mile along the coast, providing stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and nearby beaches. It's a must-do for first-time visitors.
Boat Tours: Departing from Perkins Cove, several companies offer boat tours, which might include coastal sightseeing, fishing, or even lobster-catching experiences.
Theater: Attend a performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse, known for its Broadway-quality shows and impressive productions.
Art Exploration: Visit the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, which showcases a significant collection of American art. Moreover, stroll through the town's many art galleries, each presenting unique works, often inspired by the local landscape.
Shopping: Explore boutique shops in both downtown Ogunquit and Perkins Cove. From souvenirs and crafts to high-end clothing and jewelry, there's something for every shopper.
Dining: Indulge in Maine's famed seafood at local eateries. Whether you fancy a lobster roll, clam chowder, or a fine dining experience, Ogunquit's diverse culinary scene won't disappoint.
Water Activities: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and navigate the calm waters of Ogunquit Beach, or venture into the open sea for a more challenging paddle.
Trolley Rides: Hop on the Ogunquit Trolley to explore the town in a leisurely manner. It's not only a mode of transportation but also a charming way to see the sights.
Hiking: While Ogunquit itself is relatively flat, nearby areas, like Mount Agamenticus, offer hiking trails suitable for various skill levels, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Spa Day: Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and rejuvenation at one of Ogunquit's spas or wellness centers.
Photography: With its picturesque landscapes, coastal scenes, and vibrant town life, Ogunquit is a haven for photographers, both amateur and professional.
Seasonal Events: Depending on when you visit, you might catch local events like the Ogunquit Patriot Day celebration, the Christmas by the Sea festival, or various art festivals and fairs.
Food in Ogunquit
Ogunquit, being a coastal town in Maine, boasts a rich culinary heritage rooted in both the sea and New England traditions. Here's an overview of the local cuisine you can expect to savor in Ogunquit:
Lobster: It's hard to talk about Maine without mentioning its iconic lobster. Whether you like it boiled, grilled, or in a roll, the lobster in Ogunquit is some of the freshest you'll ever taste. Many visitors enjoy "lobster shacks" where you can pick your lobster and have it cooked on the spot.
Clam Chowder: A creamy soup filled with tender clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes celery, this dish is a New England staple. It's especially comforting on cooler days.
Fried Clams: Lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, this is a beloved dish in Ogunquit and the surrounding areas.
Blueberries: Maine is renowned for its wild blueberries. They're smaller than the typical store-bought variety but pack a sweet-tart punch. They're used in various dishes, from pancakes and muffins to pies and jams.
Whoopie Pies: A classic Maine treat, whoopie pies consist of two soft, cake-like cookies (often chocolate) with a creamy filling sandwiched in between.
Fisherman’s Platter: This dish offers a mix of seafood, typically including haddock, shrimp, scallops, and clams, all fried to crispy perfection.
Steamers: Soft-shell clams steamed in their own juices with seaweed, often served with melted butter for dipping.
Lobster Bisque: A creamy and flavorful soup made from lobster, herbs, and spices, often with a splash of sherry.
Crab Cakes: Delicacies made of crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, pan-fried or baked until golden.
Potato Donuts: A twist on the classic donut, using potato as a primary ingredient, making for a moist and tender pastry.
Craft Beers: With the craft beer movement strong in New England, Ogunquit boasts a selection of local brews, many of which perfectly complement the region's seafood.
Maple Syrup: While more associated with the broader region of New England than just Ogunquit, no culinary exploration of the area would be complete without tasting genuine maple syrup, whether on pancakes, waffles, or used as a sweetener in various dishes.
Dining in Ogunquit provides an authentic taste of coastal New England. Many restaurants pride themselves on sourcing local, ensuring the seafood is fresh, often caught the same day it's served. With a mix of traditional dishes and innovative takes on classics, the town's culinary scene is sure to satisfy any palate. Here are a few options to check out while in the area.
Barnacle Billy's: An iconic seafood spot in Perkins Cove, known for its lobster and clam chowder.
The Front Porch: A piano bar and restaurant offering a vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu.
MC Perkins Cove: A fine dining experience with panoramic ocean views.
Where to Stay:
Ogunquit offers a variety of neighborhoods and areas that cater to different preferences when it comes to lodging. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Ogunquit, each with its unique charm:
Downtown Ogunquit:
Advantages: You'll be within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and the Ogunquit Playhouse. Being centrally located, it's also a short stroll to the Main Beach and a manageable walk to Perkins Cove.
Lodging: Here, you'll find a mix of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and inns.
Perkins Cove:
Advantages: This is a charming area with a nautical vibe, boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries. It's the starting point of the Marginal Way and offers a quieter atmosphere than the downtown area.
Lodging: There are several cozy inns and bed and breakfasts.
Beach Area:
Advantages: If you're looking to maximize your beach time, staying near Ogunquit Beach or Footbridge Beach is ideal. These areas provide easy access to the sand and surf.
Lodging: You'll find various beachfront hotels and motels.
U.S. Route 1 Corridor:
Advantages: Staying along the Route 1 corridor can sometimes be more budget-friendly while still being conveniently located. It's a short drive or trolley ride to the main attractions.
Lodging: This area has a mix of motels, inns, and vacation rentals.
Nearby Attractions
York: Just to the south, York is home to beautiful beaches, the historic Nubble Light, and York Wild Kingdom.
Wells: North of Ogunquit, it offers beautiful beaches and is a popular spot for birdwatching at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm.
Tips:
Parking: Ogunquit can be busy, especially during the summer. Arrive early or use the town's trolley service to get around.
Seasonality: While summer is peak season, fall offers beautiful foliage, and many establishments remain open, making it a quieter yet charming time to visit.
Ogunquit is a seaside gem that captures the essence of coastal Maine. With its mix of natural beauty, art, entertainment, and gastronomy, it's a must-visit for anyone traveling in the New England region.
