Marginal Way, Ogunquit, Maine - Image 1
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Marginal Way Ogunquit Maine

4.6
·491k reviews·Ogunquit, United States

A mile-long paved coastal path offering stunning ocean vistas, leading to the charming village of Perkins Cove.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Marginal Way, Ogunquit, Maine - Image 1

Marginal Way Ogunquit Maine

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A mile-long paved coastal path offering stunning ocean vistas, leading to the charming village of Perkins Cove.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The Marginal Way is a must-see coastal walk with breathtaking views and charming shops."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The path is paved but long; good walking shoes are a must for enjoying the full 1.25 miles.

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone for stunning ocean vistas and charming village scenes.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Scenic Coastal Path

The Scenic Coastal Path

Ogunquit to Perkins Cove

A paved, 1.25-mile walk with breathtaking ocean views, rocky cliffs, and charming benches.

TikTokInstagram
Perkins Cove Charm

Perkins Cove Charm

End of Marginal Way

A picturesque fishing village with bobbing boats, lobster shacks, and unique shops.

TikTokInstagram
Lobster Shack Delights

Lobster Shack Delights

Near Marginal Way

Savor delicious lobster rolls and chowder with stunning ocean backdrops.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds

The Marginal Way is a popular spot, especially during peak summer. To enjoy the scenic 1.25-mile coastal path with fewer people, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. TikTokInstagram

Parking and Access Points

Parking can be a challenge, particularly in summer. Consider using the Obed's parking lot or the lots in Perkins Cove. Some visitors recommend starting from the Ogunquit Beach side for a different perspective. TikTokInstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Golden hour light, fewer people
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Nothing like grabbing a bowl of lobster strew from the Lobster Shack, walking the Marginal Way, and taking in all the charm of the downtown 🥰 Ogunquit is absolutely magical in the fall! #newenglandfall #maine #ogunquit #lobsterroll #bucketlisttravel
@ourrvventure
16K likes • 172.6K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The path is paved but long; good walking shoes are a must for enjoying the full 1.25 miles. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone for stunning ocean vistas and charming village scenes. TikTokInstagram

📌SAVE this if you’re planning a trip to Maine! Start your day in Ogunquit and walk the Marginal Way. It’s a little over a mile coastal path with nonstop ocean views (and lots of benches if you wanna stop and take it all in). Eventually, you’ll end in Perkins Cove a postcard-perfect harbor with bobbing boats, lobster shacks, and the cutest shops. Grab a lobster roll from Footbridge Lobster or Bar...
@ourrvventure
5.3K likes • 95.3K views
📍Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine is a must see when in town. It’s a nice 45 minute roundtrip walk with gorgeous views of the coastline. We parked at Obed’s parking lot and from there it’s a short walk down to the trail. Make sure to stop at Perkin’s Cove at the end for shopping and food #vacation #marginalway #ogunquit #ogunquitmaine #travel #traveltips #perkinscove #coastline #vacationland
julie__devine
283 likes • 12.4K views

💰 Perkins Cove Parking

Have cash ready for parking in Perkins Cove, as some lots are cash-only. Instagram

🐶 Dogs on Leash Welcome

Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to enjoy the walk with their owners. TikTok

A perfect hotel to stay in Ogunquit is Anchorage by the Sea, on Marginal Way. It’s right in town near all the restaurants and stores. There’s a great outdoor pool, indoor pool for when it rains and two hot tubs. Sit outside on the lawn and enjoy the beautiful ocean views. . . . #ogunquit #ogunquitmaine #kennebunkport #maine #newengland #marginalway #marginalwayogunquit #travelwithkids #kidstravel...
missy_on_the_move
213 likes • 9.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The path is paved but long; good walking shoes are a must for enjoying the full 1.25 miles. Instagram

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone for stunning ocean vistas and charming village scenes. TikTokInstagram

💰 Perkins Cove Parking

Have cash ready for parking in Perkins Cove, as some lots are cash-only. Instagram

🐶 Dogs on Leash Welcome

Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to enjoy the walk with their owners. TikTok

☕ Grab a Coffee or Treat

Stop at Lark Coffee or Scoop Deck for a refreshing break along your walk. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the Marginal Way's stunning coastal views and the charming atmosphere of Perkins Cove. The paved, accessible path is a major plus, making it enjoyable for all. Some find parking challenging during peak season, and the crowds can be significant in summer.

What People Like

Breathtaking ocean views
Paved, accessible path
Charming Perkins Cove

What People Dislike

Crowded in summer
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Marginal Way is easily accessible from Ogunquit village. You can start your walk from various points, including near Ogunquit Beach or from the charming Perkins Cove. Parking is available in designated lots, though it can fill up quickly during peak season. TikTokInstagramReddit

Popular parking spots include Obed's parking lot and lots in Perkins Cove. Some visitors suggest arriving early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. TikTokInstagramReddit

While there isn't direct public transport to the Marginal Way itself, Ogunquit is served by local trolleys during the summer season, which can help you get around town and to nearby attractions. TikTok

Yes, the Marginal Way connects Ogunquit Beach to Perkins Cove, making it a perfect walk to enjoy both the beach and the scenic coastal path. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there are parking lots available at Perkins Cove. Be prepared for potential fees and crowds, especially during busy times. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Marginal Way is a public coastal path and is free to access. There are no tickets required for entry. TikTokInstagram

The Marginal Way is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best enjoyed during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views. TikTok

The Marginal Way is generally open year-round. However, it's always a good idea to check local conditions or advisories, especially during inclement weather. TikTok

There are no entrance fees for walking the Marginal Way. It's a public access path for everyone to enjoy. TikTok

Yes, the Marginal Way is accessible at any time, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety. TikTok

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

The Marginal Way is approximately 1.25 miles long, stretching between Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, the Marginal Way is a paved, well-maintained path, making it easy for most visitors, including families with strollers. TikTokInstagram+1

Absolutely! The Marginal Way is dotted with numerous benches, offering plenty of spots to pause, relax, and soak in the stunning ocean views. TikTokInstagram

Perkins Cove is a charming fishing village featuring quaint shops, art galleries, seafood restaurants, and a picturesque harbor. It's a perfect place to explore after your walk. TikTokInstagram

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Marginal Way as long as they are kept on a leash. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find excellent dining options right at Perkins Cove, including the famous Lobster Shack for lobster rolls and chowder. Other charming eateries are also available in Ogunquit village. TikTokInstagram+1

Lobster rolls and lobster stew are highly recommended, especially from places like the Lobster Shack or Footbridge Lobster. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, you can find delightful spots like Lark Coffee for a coffee break or Scoop Deck for ice cream, perfect for a treat during your walk. TikTokInstagram

Perkins Cove is renowned for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants offering lobster dishes, fish tacos, and other coastal favorites. TikTokInstagram

While seafood is prominent, many restaurants in Ogunquit offer diverse menus that may include vegetarian or vegan options. It's best to check individual restaurant menus. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Every turn offers a postcard-worthy view! Focus on the dramatic coastline, crashing waves, the charming boats in Perkins Cove, and the wildflowers. TikTokInstagram

Sunrise and sunset offer magical lighting for photography. Midday can be bright, but the vibrant blues of the ocean are still stunning. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The fishing boats and sailboats in Perkins Cove are a quintessential part of the scenery and make for fantastic photos. TikTokInstagram

Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography along the Marginal Way. Be mindful of other visitors and private property. TikTok

You can capture wide-angle shots of the expansive ocean, close-ups of the rugged rocky cliffs, and the interplay of waves against the shore. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Marginal Way is a fantastic outing for families. Its paved, 1.25-mile path is stroller-friendly and easy for little legs to manage. The constant ocean views and the chance to spot boats in Perkins Cove keep children engaged. Pack snacks and drinks, and take advantage of the numerous benches for breaks. Instagram

Consider starting your walk from the Ogunquit Beach side, allowing kids to enjoy some beach time before or after their coastal walk. Perkins Cove offers a fun destination with its quaint shops and the opportunity to see lobstermen at work. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

The Marginal Way offers a serene and romantic setting for solo travelers and couples. The peaceful coastal walk provides ample opportunity for reflection or intimate conversation, with plenty of secluded benches to enjoy the ocean's tranquility. TikTokInstagram

Starting your day with a sunrise stroll or ending it with a sunset walk can be particularly magical. Exploring Perkins Cove's charming shops and enjoying a meal together adds to the romantic appeal of the experience. TikTokInstagram

🐶 Pet-Friendly Explorers

Ogunquit welcomes furry friends on the Marginal Way! As long as your dog is on a leash, they can join you for the entire 1.25-mile scenic walk. It's a great way to ensure your canine companion gets to experience the beautiful Maine coastline too. TikTok

Remember to bring water for your pet and be mindful of other walkers. The paved path makes it comfortable for dogs, and the ocean breeze is always a hit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Marginal Way Walk

The Marginal Way is Ogunquit's crown jewel, a beautifully maintained, 1.25-mile paved path that hugs the coastline. It offers uninterrupted, breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, with dramatic rocky cliffs and the soothing sound of crashing waves. This accessible trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a brisk walk, or a romantic sunset amble. Along the way, you'll find numerous benches strategically placed for you to pause, relax, and truly soak in the coastal Maine scenery. TikTokInstagram+1

This scenic walk connects the main Ogunquit village to the charming fishing harbor of Perkins Cove. The journey is as much about the destination as it is about the path itself. Visitors often describe the experience as feeling like they've stepped into a postcard, with vibrant wildflowers in bloom during warmer months and the salty sea air invigorating the senses. TikTokInstagram+1

Whether you're starting from the beach side or heading towards Perkins Cove, the Marginal Way provides a memorable experience for all. It's a must-do for anyone visiting Southern Maine, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and coastal charm. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the Charms of Perkins Cove

Perkins Cove is a quintessential New England fishing village that serves as the picturesque endpoint (or starting point) of the Marginal Way. This historic harbor is alive with the sights and sounds of working lobster boats bobbing in the water, creating a truly authentic maritime atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

The cove is also a hub for visitors, offering a delightful array of boutique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. You can find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and enjoy some of the freshest lobster rolls and seafood dishes Maine has to offer. Don't miss the chance to try some local delicacies or simply enjoy the view with a coffee or ice cream. TikTokInstagram+2

Many visitors find Perkins Cove to be an integral part of the Marginal Way experience, providing a charming reward after the scenic walk. It’s a place to linger, explore, and capture some of those iconic coastal Maine photos. TikTokInstagram

Dining Delights: Lobster Rolls and More

No visit to Ogunquit and the Marginal Way is complete without indulging in Maine's famous lobster rolls. Several spots along the Marginal Way and in Perkins Cove are highly recommended for their delicious offerings. The Lobster Shack and Footbridge Lobster are frequently mentioned for their fresh, flavorful lobster rolls and hearty lobster stew. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond lobster, the dining scene in Ogunquit offers a variety of options. You can find casual cafes for a quick coffee or treat, like Lark Coffee or Scoop Deck, perfect for a mid-walk refreshment. TikTokInstagram Many restaurants in Perkins Cove and the surrounding village provide a range of seafood dishes and other American fare, catering to diverse tastes. Instagram

For those looking for a more complete dining experience, consider enjoying a meal with ocean views. The combination of scenic beauty and delicious local cuisine makes dining a highlight of any trip to the Marginal Way area. TikTok