Ogunquit Beach
Ogunquit Beach offers a quintessential Maine coastal experience with its soft sands, scenic Marginal Way, and charming Perkins Cove.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Ogunquit Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ogunquit Beach offers a quintessential Maine coastal experience with its soft sands, scenic Marginal Way, and charming Perkins Cove.
"The soft sand and expansive shoreline at low tide make this beach absolutely stunning."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 8 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Marginal Way
This scenic coastal path offers stunning ocean views and connects Perkins Cove to the beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ogunquit Beach
Main Beach
Expansive soft sand and a gentle inlet perfect for swimming and relaxing. A quintessential Maine beach experience.
Marginal Way
Coastal path from Perkins Cove to Ogunquit Beach
A stunning 1.25-mile cliff walk offering breathtaking ocean views and access to Perkins Cove.
Perkins Cove
Southern end of Marginal Way
Charming fishing village with unique shops, art galleries, and delicious seafood spots.
Footbridge Beach
Northern end of Ogunquit Beach
A picturesque beach known for its iconic footbridge, offering a slightly more secluded feel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Everything
Beach Rules & What to Pack
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 8 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Marginal Way
This scenic coastal path offers stunning ocean views and connects Perkins Cove to the beach.
🦞 Savor Lobster Rolls
Don't leave without trying a classic Maine lobster roll from Perkins Cove or local spots.
☕ Grab Coffee & Pastries
Start your day with a treat from local cafes like Cove Cafe or Backyard Coffee House.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast! Aim to arrive before 8 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
🚶♀️ Stroll the Marginal Way
This scenic coastal path offers stunning ocean views and connects Perkins Cove to the beach.
🦞 Savor Lobster Rolls
Don't leave without trying a classic Maine lobster roll from Perkins Cove or local spots.
☕ Grab Coffee & Pastries
Start your day with a treat from local cafes like Cove Cafe or Backyard Coffee House.
🌊 Embrace the Cold Water
The Atlantic water is refreshing! Consider a wetsuit if you plan on extended swimming.
📸 Capture Perkins Cove Charm
Explore the quaint shops and picturesque drawbridge in Perkins Cove for great photo ops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ogunquit Beach is celebrated for its beautiful, expansive sandy shores and the charming atmosphere of Perkins Cove. Visitors love the scenic Marginal Way walk and the friendly vibe. However, the ocean water is notably cold, and parking can be a significant challenge during peak times.
"Beautiful Beach with a Great Vibe
The soft sand and expansive shoreline at low tide make this beach absolutely stunning. The water is very cold, but the warm and friendly people more than make up for it. A great spot to relax and take in the scenery!"
Gina Lewis
"Always a fun time, get here before 8am for good parking."
Mike Still
"The Kids LOVED it here!
I took my youngest son, 3 of my nephews & my niece here on a late afternoon swim last July in 2022 as we had heard this was a nice spot to drift down a light current on tubes. The inlet was a nice experience and made me feel safe to allow the kids to swim although their are no Life Guards. The water was a bit warmer than the ocean, their were people jumping from the low bridge and the kids were even able to find a treasure; a Sand Dollar!
I must admit that I was slightly disappointed to find out after arriving and reading posted signs that there are No Dogs or Bicycles allowed on this beach as we had brought our service dog. I know there is typically an exception made for Licensed Service Animals but it Clearly stated that the rule was strictly enforced and that Hefty fines would be given so we figured we’d avoid the confrontation. I stayed with her at the top of the wooden walkway in the parking lot where I had a very clear view of the children and could get to them with ease in case of an emergency. Next time however, I will have to bring another adult to swap off with.
All in all, we had a Great experience at this local “swimming hole”!"
Sara D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ogunquit Beach is accessible by car, with several parking lots available near the beach. During peak season, consider using the Ogunquit Trolley to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, the Ogunquit Trolley operates during the summer months, providing convenient transportation to and from the beach and around town.
Arrive early, especially on weekends and during summer. Parking lots fill up quickly. Weekday mornings are your best bet for easier parking.
Yes, Ogunquit Beach is walkable from the downtown area, though it's a bit of a distance. The Marginal Way offers a scenic walk from Perkins Cove to the beach.
While not a formal park and ride, the Ogunquit Trolley can be a good alternative to driving and parking directly at the beach, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ogunquit Beach itself is free to access. However, there are parking fees for the lots adjacent to the beach.
Ogunquit Beach is generally open from dawn until dusk. Lifeguard hours vary by season and location on the beach.
No, dogs are not allowed on Ogunquit Beach. There are exceptions for licensed service animals, but rules are strictly enforced.
Bicycles are not permitted on Ogunquit Beach. It's best to leave them at your accommodation or a designated area.
Lifeguards are present at Main Beach during the summer season. Always be aware of posted signs and safety guidelines.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, building sandcastles, and walking along the shore. The inlet is great for a gentle float.
The Atlantic Ocean water at Ogunquit Beach is typically quite cold, even in the summer. The inlet may be slightly warmer.
The Marginal Way offers stunning coastal vistas, Perkins Cove with its drawbridge is picturesque, and the iconic footbridge at Footbridge Beach is a great photo opportunity.
Yes, there are public restrooms and changing facilities available near the main beach areas.
The Marginal Way is a beautiful 1.25-mile paved coastal path with stunning ocean views, connecting Perkins Cove to Ogunquit Beach. It's perfect for a leisurely walk.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove and Barnacle Billy's are popular choices for delicious lobster rolls.
Yes, many restaurants cater to families. Cove Cafe offers great breakfast options, and Treehouse Taqueria provides a fun, casual dining experience. +1
Try Treehouse Taqueria for tacos and margaritas in a treehouse setting, or enjoy cocktails and live music at The Front Porch Piano Bar. +1
Cove Cafe in Perkins Cove is highly recommended for breakfast, especially their blueberry French toast.
Seafood, particularly lobster rolls and chowder, is a staple. You'll also find American fare, tacos, and casual beachside dining options. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The Marginal Way offers dramatic coastal shots, Perkins Cove provides charming village scenes, and Footbridge Beach has iconic views. Sunrises over the ocean are also spectacular.
Early morning for sunrise and soft light, and late afternoon for golden hour before sunset, offer the most beautiful lighting conditions.
The hand-operated drawbridge in Perkins Cove, the footbridge at Footbridge Beach, and the rocky coastline along the Marginal Way are popular photo subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastal landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant boat shots.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the town of Ogunquit for current rules and restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Perkins Cove provides charming shops and intimate dining experiences. Enjoying a quiet morning coffee or a sunset cocktail adds to the romantic appeal. 🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Iconic Marginal Way
As you stroll along the Marginal Way, you'll encounter numerous benches perfect for pausing to soak in the scenery, listen to the waves, and perhaps spot some seabirds. The trail is particularly magical during sunrise and sunset, casting a warm glow over the ocean. Reaching Perkins Cove at the end of your walk provides a delightful reward with its quaint shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining options.
Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera! The path can get busy, especially during peak season, so consider visiting early in the morning for a more serene experience. The walk is approximately 45 minutes roundtrip, allowing ample time to enjoy the views and explore Perkins Cove.
Perkins Cove: A Quaint Fishing Village
The heart of Perkins Cove is its picturesque harbor, where you can watch lobstermen at work and admire the colorful fishing boats. A unique feature is the hand-operated drawbridge, which still lifts to allow boats to pass through. This area is also a prime spot for enjoying fresh seafood, with several highly-rated restaurants serving up classic Maine lobster rolls and other coastal delicacies.
Visitors often recommend grabbing a rum punch from Barnacle Billy's or enjoying breakfast at Cove Cafe. The atmosphere in Perkins Cove is relaxed and inviting, making it a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy the coastal ambiance, and capture some memorable photos.
Ogunquit Beach: Sand, Surf, and Serenity
The water at Ogunquit Beach is part of the Atlantic Ocean, meaning it can be quite chilly, even during the summer months. However, many visitors find the refreshing water invigorating. For those seeking a calmer water experience, the inlet area offers a more sheltered spot for swimming and floating, often with a gentle current. Lifeguards are typically on duty at Main Beach during the peak season, adding an extra layer of safety.
While dogs and bicycles are generally not permitted on the beach itself, the surrounding areas and nearby trails offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. The beach is a fantastic destination for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Maine coast.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit