Ogunquit Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Ogunquit, named by the Abenaki people meaning “Beautiful Place by the Sea,” lives up to its title with an effortless blend of natural splendor and sophisticated charm. Unlike many coastal towns that shutter completely after Labor Day, Ogunquit maintains a vibrant pulse, centered around its thriving arts community and welcoming atmosphere. The town is physically defined by a barrier beach that protects the calm river mouth, creating a unique geography where you can float down a lazy river and step directly onto the oceanfront.

The town’s character is split between the bustling Main Street, lined with gay-friendly bars, piano lounges, and boutiques, and the historic fishing enclave of Perkins Cove. Connecting them is one of New England’s most spectacular walkways. Whether you are seeking a romantic culinary retreat, a family beach vacation, or a solo cultural excursion, Ogunquit provides a polished yet unpretentious Maine experience that has drawn artists and travelers for over a century.

A Haven for Art and Inclusivity

What truly sets Ogunquit apart is its deep-rooted history as an art colony. In the early 20th century, modernists flocked here to capture the raw beauty of the cliffs and coves, establishing a legacy that survives in the Ogunquit Museum of American Art and the numerous galleries in Perkins Cove. This artistic spirit birthed the Ogunquit Playhouse, a legendary summer stock theater that attracts top-tier talent from New York and London, making the town a cultural heavyweight despite its small size.

Furthermore, Ogunquit is celebrated as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in the United States. The hospitality here is genuine and inclusive, with a nightlife scene that punches well above its weight class. From drag brunches to sing-along piano bars that run late into the night, the town offers a communal joy that turns first-time visitors into annual regulars.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Marginal Way - This 1.25-mile paved cliff walk is the crown jewel of Ogunquit, hugging the coastline between town and Perkins Cove. It is free to access, features 39 memorial benches for resting, and offers unobstructed views of the Atlantic (0 mi from center).

Perkins Cove - Originally a small fishing community, this area features a manual drawbridge that operators raise for passing sailboats. It is packed with seafood shacks, jewelry stores, and is the departure point for most boat tours (1.2 mi from center).

Ogunquit Beach - Accessible via Beach Street, this 3.5-mile peninsula of sand is famous for its gradual slope, making the water accessible at all tides. Parking costs $25-$30 per day, but the dunes and soft white sand are worth the price (0.3 mi from center).

Ogunquit Playhouse - A National Historic Register landmark, this theater produces 5-6 major musicals every season from May through October. Tickets generally range from $50 to $120 depending on the show and seat location (0.8 mi from center).

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Ogunquit is relatively easy; it is located just off I-95, about an hour north of Boston and 45 minutes south of Portland. Once you arrive, the best advice is to park your car and leave it. Parking in town and at the beach is expensive and scarce. Most visitors rely on the Ogunquit Trolley system, which loops between the beach, hotels, and Perkins Cove frequently during the season.

Pack layers regardless of when you visit. The ocean breeze can drop temperatures significantly in the late afternoon, even on hot July days. If you plan to dine at popular spots like Barnacle Billy’s or The Front Porch, reservations are highly recommended, or be prepared to eat on the earlier or later side of standard dinner hours.

Ogunquit is a destination that changes its personality with the seasons, but never loses its charm. While summer offers the classic beach experience, the “shoulder seasons” of June and September provide a sweeter spot for those looking to enjoy the scenery without the density of peak crowds. No matter when you choose to visit, the “Beautiful Place by the Sea” rarely disappoints.