Beautiful day at Perkins Cove
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Perkins Cove Ogunquit

4.6
·29 reviews·Ogunquit, United States

A charming working fishing village with unique shops, a historic drawbridge, and the start of the scenic Marginal Way.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and enjoy fresh air

CrowdMedium
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Beautiful day at Perkins Cove

Perkins Cove Ogunquit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the crowds and enjoy fresh air

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming working fishing village with unique shops, a historic drawbridge, and the start of the scenic Marginal Way.

4.6
(29 reviews)

"Touristy but cool. Take a sailboat with Captain Jack on the Silverlining. He's super cool and the boat is a classic."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Nightmares

Parking is tough! Consider walking from your hotel or using trolleys. Be mindful of loading zones to avoid tickets.

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Marginal Way

Start your day with this stunning coastal path that leads right to Perkins Cove.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Hand-Operated Drawbridge

The Hand-Operated Drawbridge

Perkins Cove

Witness the only remaining wooden, double-leaf draw-footbridge in the U.S. A true engineering marvel!

Marginal Way Coastal Walk

Marginal Way Coastal Walk

Starts near Perkins Cove

A breathtaking 1.25-mile scenic cliff walk offering stunning ocean views and leading directly to Perkins Cove.

Charming Shops and Eateries

Charming Shops and Eateries

Perkins Cove Road

Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, and candy stores, with a focus on fresh seafood and local treats.

Lobster Shack Experience

Lobster Shack Experience

Various locations in Perkins Cove

Savor delicious, generously portioned lobster rolls from local seafood shacks, a quintessential Maine experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Perkins Cove Crowds

Perkins Cove is a charming, but often crowded, destination. Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak times, especially during summer weekends. Parking can be challenging, so consider walking from your accommodation or using local trolleys if available.

Embrace the Coastal Charm

Perkins Cove is a working fishing village with unique shops and eateries. While it's a popular tourist spot, embrace the authentic atmosphere. Don't miss the hand-operated drawbridge, a true landmark, and enjoy the scenic Marginal Way walk that leads directly to the cove.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the crowds and enjoy fresh air
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Scenic foliage and fewer tourists
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere, sunset views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cove Cafe in Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove. The French toast with homemade blueberry jam and cream cheese with a side of bacon was crazy delicious! ☕️🥞 #maine #mainefaves #southernmaine #coastalmaine #ogunquit #perkinscove #breakfast #blueberryfrenchtoast #frenchtoast
@maine.faves
209.8K likes • 1.8M views

🚗 Parking Nightmares

Parking is tough! Consider walking from your hotel or using trolleys. Be mindful of loading zones to avoid tickets. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Marginal Way

Start your day with this stunning coastal path that leads right to Perkins Cove. TikTokInstagram

This is your sign to romanticize your next beach town getaway 🥹😍 Here’s how to spend a perfect day in 📍Ogunquit, ME: 🌅 start your day of with a sunrise on the Marginal Way. Make your way to the Perkins Cove ☕️ grab breakfast + coffee the Cove Cafe 🛟 explore Perkins Cove, watch lobstermen haul in their catch, and snap photos of the hand-operated drawbridge 🌊 head to Ogunquit Beach for some beach ...
@ourrvventure
36.6K likes • 543.5K views
Final days at Kiki's II, 119 Perkins Cove Rd, Ogunquit Any questions? 207-216-6111 #kikisogunquit #kikisperkinscove #perkinscoveogunquitmaine #perkinscoveshops #shopsinogunquitmaine #finaldays
kikisogunquit
21 likes • 3.9K views

🦞 Lobster Roll Heaven

Don't leave without trying a lobster roll! Footbridge Lobster is highly recommended for generous portions. TikTokInstagram

🛍️ Unique Shops Galore

Discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and a delightful candy store. Instagram+1

Arguably one of the most charming coastal towns in New England 🦞🌊 Some ideas for a perfect day in Ogunquit, Maine ⬇️ Sunrise stroll on Marginal Way, smoothie bowls by the sea, lobster rolls in Perkins Cove, beach time, cute shops, and a show at the Ogunquit Playhouse to end the night. This town is pure charm.✨ #newengland #charmingtown #maine #ogunquit #placestovisit #fallinnewengland #lobsterr...
ourrvventure
94.4K likes • 1.7M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Nightmares

Parking is tough! Consider walking from your hotel or using trolleys. Be mindful of loading zones to avoid tickets. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Marginal Way

Start your day with this stunning coastal path that leads right to Perkins Cove. TikTokInstagram

🦞 Lobster Roll Heaven

Don't leave without trying a lobster roll! Footbridge Lobster is highly recommended for generous portions. TikTokInstagram

🛍️ Unique Shops Galore

Discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and a delightful candy store. Instagram+1

🌉 Iconic Drawbridge

See the unique hand-operated drawbridge, a true landmark of Perkins Cove. TikTokInstagram

☕ Breakfast Delights

Cove Cafe offers delicious breakfast options, including blueberry French toast. TikTokInstagram

⛵ Sailboat Tours

Take a memorable sailboat tour with Captain Jack on the Silverlining for a classic experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(29 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Perkins Cove is a beloved, albeit touristy, destination known for its picturesque charm, unique shops, and delicious seafood, especially lobster rolls. Visitors appreciate the scenic Marginal Way walk and the iconic drawbridge, though parking can be a significant challenge and some find it overly commercialized.

"I ordered some bulk live lobsters from the lobster shack, while picking up my order and I parked in the loading zone with my car and a 50 gallon cooler, the municipality gave me a parking ticket for parking in a loading zone,
The police department said if it was a commercial transaction that it would be allowed, I own a commercial business but I bought lobsters we could play the word game but I was trying to be honest and they were not very receptive."

Karl Moeller

"Touristy but cool. Take a sailboat with captain Jack on the Silverlining. He’s super cool and the boat is a classic."

Dr. D

"One of my favorite places."

Elise Jorgensen

What People Like

Picturesque charm
Delicious lobster rolls
Marginal Way walk

What People Dislike

Difficult parking
Can be crowded
Touristy atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Perkins Cove is easily accessible by car, but parking can be very limited, especially during peak season. Many visitors choose to walk from their accommodations in Ogunquit or utilize local trolleys. The Marginal Way coastal walk also leads directly to Perkins Cove, offering a scenic approach. TikTokInstagramReddit

Parking in Perkins Cove is notoriously difficult and often expensive. There are a few small lots, but they fill up quickly. Be very cautious about parking in loading zones, as you may receive a ticket. Reddit

Yes, the Marginal Way is a beautiful 1.25-mile scenic path that connects Ogunquit Beach to Perkins Cove. It's a highly recommended way to experience the coastline. TikTokInstagram

Ogunquit typically has a trolley service during the summer months that can take you to and from Perkins Cove, offering a convenient alternative to driving and parking. Check local schedules for availability. Reddit

To avoid traffic, try visiting Perkins Cove during weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Perkins Cove itself is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the shops, restaurants, and the drawbridge. TikTok

The Marginal Way coastal walk is free to access and enjoy. It's a public path maintained for visitors to appreciate the stunning coastline. TikTok

Shop hours in Perkins Cove can vary, but most are open daily during the peak tourist season (late spring through early fall). It's best to check individual shop websites or call ahead if you have specific stores in mind. Instagram

It's advisable to book boat tours, especially popular ones like Captain Jack's Silverlining, in advance, particularly during the busy summer months, to secure your spot. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to see or walk across the Perkins Cove drawbridge. It's a historical landmark open for public viewing. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Perkins Cove offers a variety of dining options, from casual seafood shacks to sit-down restaurants. Cove Cafe is popular for breakfast,TikTok and Footbridge Lobster is highly recommended for lobster rolls.TikTok Barnacle Billy's is also a well-known spot. Instagram

For a fantastic lobster roll, try Footbridge Lobster, known for its generous portions.TikTok The Lobster Shack is another popular choice. TikTok

Yes, Cove Cafe is a highly-rated spot for breakfast in Perkins Cove, famous for its blueberry French toast. Perkins Cove Kitchen is another newer option. TikTokInstagram

You can expect a lot of fresh seafood, especially lobster rolls, clam chowder, and other coastal Maine specialties. There are also casual eateries and sweet shops. TikTokInstagram

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants in Perkins Cove offer salads, vegetable sides, and other non-seafood options. It's always best to check menus or ask your server about specific dietary needs. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The iconic drawbridge is a must-photograph spot.TikTokInstagram Capture the colorful boats in the harbor, the charming shops along Perkins Cove Road,TikTok and the stunning ocean vistas from the Marginal Way. TikTok

Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography in Perkins Cove. The golden hour can create magical shots of the harbor and coastline. TikTok+1

Yes, you can often see the drawbridge operate to allow boats to pass. Check the schedule or wait for a boat to approach for a dynamic photo opportunity. TikTok

Generally, photography is welcomed in Perkins Cove. However, always be respectful of private property and individuals when taking pictures. Instagram

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both wide harbor scenes and details of the shops. A polarizing filter can enhance the ocean blues. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Perkins Cove offers a charming and engaging experience for families. Kids will be fascinated by the working fishing boats and the unique drawbridge. TikTokInstagram Exploring the candy store, Perkins Cove Candies, is always a hit, and the relatively flat paths make it manageable for strollers. Instagram

Consider a short, scenic boat tour from the cove for a different perspective of the coastline. While parking can be a challenge, the overall atmosphere is family-friendly, and the opportunity to try classic New England seafood like lobster rolls provides a memorable taste of Maine. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts

The Marginal Way is the star attraction for walkers and nature lovers. This beautifully maintained 1.25-mile path offers breathtaking ocean views, rocky shorelines, and peaceful benches to rest and soak in the scenery. TikTokInstagram It's the perfect way to connect with the natural beauty of the Maine coast and leads directly into the heart of Perkins Cove. TikTok

Once in Perkins Cove, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, observing the fishing boats and the unique drawbridge. The combination of the scenic walk and the quaint village atmosphere makes for a fulfilling experience for those who appreciate coastal landscapes and gentle exploration. TikTok

Foodies and Seafood Lovers

Perkins Cove is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Maine seafood. The lobster roll is king here, with Footbridge Lobster and The Lobster Shack being top contenders for generous and delicious servings. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond lobster, explore other local flavors at spots like Cove Cafe for breakfast TikTok or Perkins Cove Kitchen for innovative brunch options. Instagram The vibrant atmosphere of the working harbor adds to the culinary experience, making it a true taste of coastal New England. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Perkins Cove Drawbridge

The hand-operated drawbridge in Perkins Cove is a unique and historic landmark, built in 1941. It's the last of its kind in the United States and serves a vital function: allowing larger fishing vessels to enter and exit the dredged cove while still providing pedestrian access to the peninsula. Visitors can often witness the bridge being raised by pushing a button, a fascinating process that highlights the working nature of this charming fishing village. TikTokInstagram

This drawbridge is more than just a functional structure; it's a symbol of Perkins Cove's maritime heritage. Its wooden construction and manual operation add to its rustic charm, making it a popular spot for photos and a testament to traditional engineering. Watching it operate is a memorable experience that connects visitors to the cove's history and ongoing maritime activities. TikTok

Exploring Perkins Cove Shops and Boutiques

Perkins Cove is lined with a delightful array of independent shops and boutiques, offering a unique shopping experience. You'll find everything from art galleries showcasing local talent Instagram to charming bookstores like Perkins Cove Bookshop,Instagram and even a popular candy store, Perkins Cove Candies.Instagram These shops contribute significantly to the cove's picturesque and inviting atmosphere, making it a pleasure to stroll and browse. TikTokInstagram

Many of these establishments have been part of the Perkins Cove community for years, offering handcrafted goods, coastal-themed souvenirs, and fashionable apparel. Kiki's Ogunquit is noted for its fun fashion and welcoming team.Instagram The variety ensures there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for a unique gift, a memento of your trip, or simply enjoying the ambiance of a classic New England seaside town. Instagram

Culinary Delights: Lobster Rolls and More

When visiting Perkins Cove, indulging in a classic Maine lobster roll is practically a rite of passage. Several establishments are renowned for their delicious offerings. Footbridge Lobster is frequently praised for its large portions and fresh ingredients, making it a top recommendation for many visitors. TikTokInstagram

Beyond lobster rolls, Perkins Cove offers a diverse culinary scene. Cove Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast, known for its blueberry French toast.TikTok For a broader dining experience, consider restaurants like Barnacle Billy's Instagram or the newer Perkins Cove Kitchen, which features creative brunch dishes. The aroma of fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere of these eateries enhance the overall Perkins Cove experience. TikTokInstagram