Marginal Way Ogunquit
A stunning 1.25-mile paved coastal walk in Ogunquit, Maine, offering breathtaking ocean views and connecting to charming Perkins Cove.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Marginal Way Ogunquit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden hour light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 1.25-mile paved coastal walk in Ogunquit, Maine, offering breathtaking ocean views and connecting to charming Perkins Cove.
"Absolutely beautiful walking path with breathtaking views, definitely worth visiting!"
🚶♀️ Paved & Accessible Path
Enjoy an easy, paved 1.25-mile walk suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Tips
Metered parking available; arrive early for best spots. Perkins Cove parking is limited. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Cliff Walk
The entire 1.25-mile path
A paved, accessible path offering breathtaking ocean vistas, rocky coastline, and native flowers.
Perkins Cove Charm
Southern end of Marginal Way
A historic fishing village with quaint shops, restaurants, and a picturesque drawbridge.
Lobster Point Lighthouse
Midway along Marginal Way
A small, charming lighthouse offering a picturesque photo opportunity along the coastal path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Paved & Accessible Path
Enjoy an easy, paved 1.25-mile walk suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Tips
Metered parking available; arrive early for best spots. Perkins Cove parking is limited. :parking:
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture stunning ocean views, lighthouses, and native flora. Don't miss sunrise! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Pet Policy
Dogs are not allowed on the Marginal Way between April and August. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Paved & Accessible Path
Enjoy an easy, paved 1.25-mile walk suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking Tips
Metered parking available; arrive early for best spots. Perkins Cove parking is limited. :parking:
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Capture stunning ocean views, lighthouses, and native flora. Don't miss sunrise! :camerawithflash:
🐶 Pet Policy
Dogs are not allowed on the Marginal Way between April and August. :dog:
💰 Donation Appreciated
Donation boxes are available to help maintain this beautiful path. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the Marginal Way's breathtaking ocean views and well-maintained, accessible path. Many highlight Perkins Cove as a charming addition to the walk. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
"Absolutely Beautiful Walking Path. It's Flat w/ Breathtaking Views! They Have Gorgeous Native Flowers Along the Path. Skies Were Overcast, But Definitely Worth Visiting. Would Go Again!"
Abrina Capobianco
"So happy we stopped here! We enjoyed walking the Marginal Way by the water. Town looked cute but spent the majority of our time down on the Walkway. It was a beautiful September day and views were amazing. Easy walking for everyone to enjoy. Definitely worth your time to stop here. Plenty of public metered parking and a few "free" spots if you arrive early enough."
Bonita Kiser
"Marginal way cliff walk is 1.25 mile walk with plenty of benches to stop and take a rest. We started the walk in Perkins Cove Ongunquit. Park your car in the lots and preceed to walk into Perkins cove to the end of the street. Marginal Way has a pathed path past Stanley hotels and inns and rocky beaches. You will pass the small lobster point light house and from the path will notice Ongunquit beach. It's a beautiful walk and a must for photographers. I spotted many different birds and I enjoyed capturing the ocean views and all the georgeous plant and flowers. If you continue to the end on the path you will end up near The Sparkhawk OCEANFRONT RESORT on shore Drive."
Cindy Madar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Marginal Way is easily accessible from Ogunquit village and Perkins Cove. You can start your walk from Shore Road, near hotels like The Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort, or from Perkins Cove. Parking is available in metered lots near the main village and in Perkins Cove, though it can be limited.
From Ogunquit village, you can access the Marginal Way near the Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort on Shore Road. This provides a great starting point for your coastal stroll.
Yes, there are several parking options. Metered parking is available along Shore Road and in lots near the village. Perkins Cove also has parking, but it fills up quickly. Some limited free parking might be available if you arrive very early.
Absolutely! The Marginal Way connects the main Ogunquit village to Perkins Cove, making it a convenient walk from many accommodations and shops in town. 
The Marginal Way runs along the coast between Perkins Cove and Shore Road. A common starting point is Perkins Cove, or you can find access points along Shore Road. Use 'Perkins Cove, Ogunquit, ME' or 'Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort, Ogunquit, ME' for GPS navigation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Marginal Way is a public walkway and does not require tickets for entry. It's free to access and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.
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 scenery.
There is no entrance fee to walk the Marginal Way. However, donation boxes are available at both ends and the center to support its upkeep.
Pets are not allowed on the Marginal Way between April and August. Swimming is also discouraged due to strong currents and the lack of lifeguards.
Yes, the Marginal Way is accessible 24/7. For the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Marginal Way is approximately 1.25 miles long, one way. It's a manageable and scenic walk that can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Yes, the Marginal Way is a paved pathway, making it accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and easy walking. There are some minor elevations, but it's generally considered an easy trail.
You'll experience stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky coastline, native flowers, and charming houses. Perkins Cove and Lobster Point Lighthouse are particular highlights.
Yes, the Marginal Way is equipped with numerous benches along the path, offering plenty of spots to rest, enjoy the views, and take a break.
Perkins Cove is a historic fishing village featuring charming shops, art galleries, restaurants, and a drawbridge. It's a delightful place to explore after your walk.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Marginal Way is a photographer's dream! Capture the dramatic coastline, crashing waves, vibrant native flowers, Lobster Point Lighthouse, and the charming architecture of Perkins Cove. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly magical light. +1
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset provide the most beautiful lighting conditions. Overcast skies can also create dramatic, moody shots.
Lobster Point Lighthouse is a classic photo spot. Perkins Cove with its drawbridge and colorful buildings also makes for great shots. The rugged coastline itself is a constant subject.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and any posted signage regarding drone operation in this area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details like the lighthouse or distant boats. A tripod can help with low-light photography during sunrise or sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and water, and plan for a leisurely pace to allow kids to enjoy the surroundings. The benches offer great spots for breaks and to simply take in the ocean air. The relatively short length makes it manageable for younger children, and the beautiful scenery ensures they'll be engaged throughout the walk.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
After your walk, explore the charming shops and enjoy a romantic dinner in Perkins Cove or Ogunquit village. The town itself is known for its quaint atmosphere and welcoming vibe, making it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Starting your day with a walk along the Marginal Way is a fantastic way to experience Ogunquit. It’s a chance to clear your head, enjoy the fresh sea air, and appreciate the coastal landscape. Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible views!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Perkins Cove
+1Many visitors find Perkins Cove to be incredibly photogenic, with its colorful buildings, working fishing boats, and the iconic drawbridge. It’s a place where you can truly soak in the coastal Maine experience. Don't miss the opportunity to browse the local boutiques for souvenirs or simply sit by the water and watch the boats come and go. The cove offers a vibrant yet peaceful contrast to the natural beauty of the Marginal Way itself.
+1Marginal Way: A Coastal Gem
+2This scenic trail is more than just a walk; it's an experience. It connects the main village of Ogunquit to the charming Perkins Cove, making it a convenient and rewarding stroll for visitors of all ages and abilities. The path is designed to be enjoyed by everyone, including those with strollers or mobility aids. The dedication to maintaining its beauty is evident, with recent improvements ensuring a pleasant experience for all who visit.
Whether you're seeking a peaceful morning walk, a stunning sunset view, or simply a chance to connect with nature, the Marginal Way delivers. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of the Maine coast and create lasting memories. Many visitors describe it as a highlight of their trip to Ogunquit, often returning multiple times to experience its magic.
+1
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