
Parsons Way
A wild, natural beach with a scenic shore walk, offering a peaceful escape with limited parking. Ideal for quiet walks and fishing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Parsons Way
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A wild, natural beach with a scenic shore walk, offering a peaceful escape with limited parking. Ideal for quiet walks and fishing.
"Beautiful, clean, was there as tide was going out. Great walking beach."

🚗 Parking is Scarce!
Only about 6 parking spots. Be ready for a walk or arrive very early!
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
The 0.6-mile trail to the beach is lovely and well-maintained.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Shore Walk
Trail leading to the beach
A beautiful, well-maintained 0.6-mile trail offering a scenic prelude to the beach.

Low Tide Beachcombing
Parsons Way Beach
Experience a vast, clean beach perfect for walking and exploring as the tide recedes.

River Outlet Fishing
Where the river meets the sea
A popular spot for anglers, offering a good chance to cast a line in a scenic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pains & Peaceful Walks
Best for Nature Lovers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
I'm in Ogunquit with my family.. save me from this tourist trap please!
🚗 Parking is Scarce!
Only about 6 parking spots. Be ready for a walk or arrive very early!
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
The 0.6-mile trail to the beach is lovely and well-maintained.
Good striper fly fishing in southern Maine?
🐶 Dogs Welcome (Leashed)
Leashes required during Plover nesting season. Check local regulations.
🎣 Fishing Hotspot
The river outlet is a great spot for fishing, but parking can be tough.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Scarce!
Only about 6 parking spots. Be ready for a walk or arrive very early!
🚶♀️ Embrace the Walk
The 0.6-mile trail to the beach is lovely and well-maintained.
🐶 Dogs Welcome (Leashed)
Leashes required during Plover nesting season. Check local regulations.
🎣 Fishing Hotspot
The river outlet is a great spot for fishing, but parking can be tough.
🌊 Check the Tides
Visiting at low tide offers the most beach space for walking and exploring.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Parsons Way for its beautiful, clean, and natural beach, offering a peaceful escape, especially during low tide. The scenic shore walk is a highlight. However, the extremely limited parking is a significant drawback, often requiring a long walk to access the beach.
"We went in the evening so there were not a lot of people there.It was a very peaceful walk on the beach"
Jennifer Dorman
"Beautiful, clean, was there as tide was going out. Great walking beach. Free, dogs allowed (on leash during Plove nesting season). Parking was a nightmare. Only about 6 slots. So that means about 1/3+ mile walk."
Terese Kenyon
"Its a nice free place to visit, the parking is usually full, very little parking... it's pretty wild and real nature.. id of liked to fish there , but was not lucky enuff to get a parking space .."
Stephanie Berry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parsons Way is accessible via a short, well-maintained 0.6-mile trail. The main challenge is parking, as there are only about 6 designated spots. Many visitors park elsewhere and walk, or arrive very early to secure a spot.
Information on direct public transportation to Parsons Way is limited. It's best to check local Ogunquit transit options, but expect to potentially walk from a drop-off point due to parking constraints.
The parking situation is notoriously difficult. Arriving very early in the morning or during off-peak hours is highly recommended. Be prepared for a walk if you can't find a spot.
Yes, Parsons Way is located in Ogunquit, Maine. It's a natural beach area accessible from the town, though parking is the primary logistical hurdle.
The 0.6-mile trail is described as flat and well-maintained, suggesting good accessibility for most. However, confirm specific accessibility features if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Parsons Way is a free public beach. There are no admission fees to access the beach or the shore walk.
As a natural beach, Parsons Way does not have set opening or closing hours. It is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, parking availability may be a limiting factor.
No booking is required as Parsons Way is a free, natural beach. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, especially for parking.
Dogs are allowed on leash, but must be leashed during Plover nesting season. Be mindful of the natural environment and any posted regulations.
While it can get busy, Parsons Way is generally less crowded than other Ogunquit beaches, especially during weekdays or off-peak times. Visiting during low tide or evenings can offer a more peaceful experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Parsons Way is ideal for peaceful beach walks, beachcombing, fishing at the river outlet, and enjoying the natural scenery. It's a great spot for relaxation and connecting with nature.
While it's a beach, Parsons Way is more known for its walking and natural beauty rather than swimming. Water conditions can vary, and it's less of a typical swimming beach compared to others.
Parsons Way is a natural beach and typically has limited facilities. There are no restrooms or concessions directly on the beach. Visitors should come prepared.
Yes, the river outlet at Parsons Way is a popular spot for fishing. Anglers often find it a good location to cast a line.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for the trail, water, snacks, and any fishing gear if you plan to fish. Sun protection is also advisable. Be prepared for limited facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The scenic shore walk trail offers beautiful perspectives, especially with the natural landscape. The river outlet meeting the sea and the expansive beach at low tide are also prime photography locations.
The evening is a great time to visit for photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds. While not directly west-facing, the natural beauty provides excellent opportunities for sunset-inspired shots.
Parsons Way is excellent for landscape photography, nature shots, and capturing serene beach scenes. The wild, natural environment provides a picturesque backdrop.
Drone regulations can vary by location and season. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the Ogunquit Parks and Recreation department for current drone usage policies before flying.
Early mornings and late evenings offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a more serene atmosphere. Low tide also provides more beach to capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks, drinks, and sun protection. The natural environment is a highlight, but it also means fewer amenities. If your family enjoys exploring nature and a more laid-back beach day without the hustle and bustle of busier spots, Parsons Way can be a wonderful choice, provided you strategize for the parking situation.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Enthusiasts
This audience will likely value the free access and the opportunity to experience a less commercialized stretch of Maine coastline. The peace and quiet, especially during off-peak hours or low tide, are significant draws. Just remember that the limited parking is a recurring theme, so planning your visit around securing a spot or being prepared for a walk is essential for a smooth experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Parking Challenge
To mitigate this, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays when crowds might be thinner. Alternatively, if you're staying in Ogunquit, walking or biking to Parsons Way might be a more reliable option than relying on finding a parking spot. The 0.6-mile shore walk is described as pleasant, so it can be part of the enjoyable experience rather than just a necessity due to lack of parking.
The Natural Appeal of Parsons Way
The beach is also noted for being dog-friendly (on leash during nesting seasons), adding to its appeal for pet owners. The river outlet provides an interesting ecological feature and a popular spot for fishing, further enhancing the natural experience. Unlike many commercialized beaches, Parsons Way retains a sense of raw, untouched Maine coastline, making it a refreshing escape for many.

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