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Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine – A Beautiful Coastal Getaway

Although this little town has fewer than 1000 people, it is still one of Maine’s most popular small towns to visit. There are so many things to do in Ogunquit Maine.

I decided to explore New England and stumbled upon this little town filled to the brim with history and culture. I tremendously enjoyed the fact that this coastal town offers a peaceful escape from the city.

Fishing boats docked in Perkins Cove

New England comprises a few US states, including Maine. This area always calls my name because of the long Atlantic coastline and abundant natural beauty. Even though Ogunquit is fairly small, it is a hive of activity on the weekends.

I opted for a sightseeing trip, but families will find there is plenty to keep the kids occupied too.

Ogunquit is a coastal town, which means that beach bums will delight in the suntanning spots. However, there are also museums and other fascinating attractions to keep you busy.

To simplify your trip planning, I have separated the attractions and activities into categories.

Top Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine

Hit the Beach:

Ogunquit Beach

 

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I have already mentioned that Ogunquit is a coastal town, so what better way to kick this off than with a roundup of the best beaches?

Ogunquit Beach is three and a half miles long. That means that you are sure to find a spot just for you and your friends or family. I had absolutely no trouble finding an open spot for us to spread out our towels. The namesake beach of this town is quite popular and will usually be crowded. It is family-friendly with clean restrooms. The waves are small, so swimming is safe here.

Of course, the beach is ideal for suntanning and building sandcastles, but there is more to do as well. Beachgoers seem to enjoy kayaking in the water as well as surfing and bodyboarding. The water is safe and at times quite warm, so it is only logical that the crowds would flock here.

It makes sense to start your Ogunquit trip with a beach day. The fabulous coastline is one of the trademarks of New England and it would be a shame to miss out. I found that the water is generally quite cold, but on sunnier days, it is still pleasant to take a dip.

Footbridge Beach

Aerial view of the footbridge in Ogunquit

Although I am a traveler at heart, I don’t always enjoy crowds. Of course, I had to experience the bustling namesake beach of Ogunquit for myself, but it was very busy. And that is when I discovered the hidden gem that is Footbridge Beach.

As the name suggests, Footbridge Beach is accessed via a footbridge. It is on the northern side of Ogunquit and notably quieter than Ogunquit Beach. The peaceful and serene ambiance of Footbridge Beach means that you can enjoy the scenery without the crowds.

If you’ve seen and experienced Ogunquit Beach, it is possible to walk to Footbridge Beach from Ogunquit Beach. You simply continue northeast. This area is quieter and less busy. However, you can still swim, soak up the sun, and enjoy the coastal scenery.

 

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The water is the same chilly temperature as Ogunquit Beach. The average water temperature in Ogunquit, Maine tends to reach only 42.8 in winter, 42.8°F in spring, and 55.4°F in autumn. The summer months are balmier, but the water temperature will still only average about 62.6°F.

But don’t see the colder water temperature as a reason to avoid the surf! The sunrays will soon warm you up once you get out. And, additionally, the conditions are so calm that swimming is completely safe. This is why so many families flock to the Ogunquit beaches in summer.


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Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine

Marginal Way

One of the things to do in Ogunquit is walk the Marginal way cove

There are so many fun things to do in Ogunquit Maine, but Marginal Way is a must. It is a coastal walk on a cliff and about three miles long. If the distance puts you off, have no fear. I counted at least 35 benches all along the walk. Simply walk until you get tired, sit down, and enjoy the view.

It is a very scenic route to walk and it offers some of the most spectacular views. During the summer months, it is one of the best things to do in the morning, before it gets too hot. I highly suggest packing a picnic basket and stopping halfway to enjoy it with a view of the ocean.

Marginal Way connects Ogunquit Beach and the nearby town of Perkins Cove. Perkins Cove is one of the best places to visit near Ogunquit Maine, but I’ll get to that later.

I enjoyed the fact that the entire path of Marginal Way is paved. This makes it easy to walk, even for the elderly or very young children. It is also possible to push a stroller here, so it is the ideal family outing.

If you do go, remember your camera! The ocean views are breathtaking and you’ll even get to see a lighthouse, which makes for the perfect photo op!

Go on a Boat Tour or Cruise

There are many things to keep you busy in Ogunquit Maine. As it is a coastal town, I do suggest partaking in as many of the ocean-themed activities as possible. It is one of the trademarks of New England and Maine itself and should be treated as such.

Finestkind Scenic Cruises is one of the top choices for boat cruises in Ogunquit Maine. They offer something for everyone. By boat, you can experience the beautiful Ogunquit shoreline. Guests onboard will learn all about the local lobster trade. You may even get to see lobsters being caught while onboard! You will also catch a glimpse of the local harbor seal population.

Finestkind III offers cocktail cruises for those that are on the hunt for a classy evening. On the other hand, sightseers may want to opt for the scenic cruise to the Nubble Lighthouse in York. This is one of the most beautiful sights in Ogunquit and well worth a visit.

If you are planning a boat trip or cruise, I suggest calling ahead. The weather can affect these trips, so it is best to be prepared.

Dabble in the Arts:

Abacus Art Gallery

 

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The beach may be synonymous with Ogunquit, but the weather doesn’t always play along. I experienced a couple of very windy days during my trip. Instead of allowing the weather to get me down, I decided to explore the art scene of Ogunquit.

The Abacus Art Gallery is part of a franchise. The gallery has stores in five different locations, Ogunquit being one of them.

The art gallery jewelry, wood art, clocks and bookends, lamps, metal sculptures, and even cribbage boards. However, the main focus is the art of Dana Heacock, which is available as cards, prints, or calendars. Her work spans a wide range of subjects and is beautiful and endearing.

The Abacus Art Gallery is one of many boutique stores in Ogunquit and worth a visit on a winter’s day. It is a fantastic way to explore local art while making the most of your trip.

Ogunquit Playhouse

If you want art and culture, the Ogunquit Playhouse should actually be your first stop. This playhouse has been the home of musical theatre for more than 80 years. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, so history buffs will have a field day when visiting.

I have always been a theatre fanatic, so places like these always call my name. I make a point of visiting the local theatre whenever I travel to a new place. Ogunquit was no different. I found the Ogunquit Playhouse to be of historic interest, and they put on quite a show!

The Playhouse has a 21-week season during which they put on about five different shows. The season runs from May to October. During this time, they put on a show every night from Tuesday to Sunday. It is the ideal weekend treat!

You are likely to see new works for the stage on the bill as well as some of the classics. Theatergoers can expect to see the likes of Billy Elliott, Grease, and Mary Poppins on the boards. However, they are also highly focused on producing new works for the stage, so be sure to check those out as well.


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Family-Friendly Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine:

The Ogunquit Dog Park

The Dog Park

Throughout my trip, I saw families enjoying the sights and activities of Ogunquit Maine. It is one of those towns that simply call to people with children. There is so much to do and the beaches and attractions are geared for families. One good example is the Ogunquit Dog Park.

This beautiful park is the ideal place to take the entire family on a nice day – furry friends included! It is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk and is highly accessible to all. The park spans about an acre, which is plenty of space for dogs to run around and play. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll and the children can play in the shade of the trees.

Wonder Mountain Fun Park

This park is about a five-minute drive from the center of town and it is one of the most fun things to do in Ogunquit Maine. The Wonder Mountain Fun Park is generally only open on weekends and, as the name suggests, is a fun place.

Children will have a ball at this park. There are go-karts that you can take a dizzying speed around a track. Children twelve years and older can pilot their own go-kart. However, there are double-seater go-karts available, and the passenger only needs to be four years old. This is one of the best things to do as a family in Ogunquit Maine.

The Human Maze is another attraction at the park that delights both old and young. It is ever-changing so every time you visit you can try your hand at it again. It is a maze with obstacles and challenges, but with no real possibility of getting lost or stuck.

Visitors to the park can also take a turn in the arcade or try their hand at mini-golf. In my experience, there is so much to do here that it warrants a day trip, so do plan accordingly.

Attractions and Other Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine:

Ogunquit Trolley

 

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This was my very first time visiting Ogunquit Maine. That meant that I had no idea what the town held, what to do, or where to go. That is why I was so delighted by the Ogunquit Trolley. It is one of the best ways to get around. It also means that you can leave your car at the hotel and let someone else do the driving for a change.

The Trolley is a wonderful way of getting the lay of the land. It is a good way of understanding the town and seeing the sights before setting off by yourself.

The Trolley is essentially a little sightseeing bus. It takes a beautiful route and you’ll see most of Ogunquit simply by taking the Trolley. The Trolley runs daily for most of the year and occasionally they will have off days over holidays.

It is an extremely affordable way of getting around such a small town, and a lot of fun to boot!

The Trolley will allow you to see Marginal Way, Ogunquit Beach, and most of the shops and attractions. This means that you’ll know where things are before making your way there yourself. This gives you a good understanding of the town and its layout and will have you living like a local.

The Ogunquit Museum of American Art

 

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There are a lot of things to do in Ogunquit Maine for history buffs and art fanatics alike. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is an art lovers’ paradise. I discovered that the purpose of this museum is to acquire, preserve, exhibit, and interpret various artforms originating in America.

The museum celebrates the origin and artistic heritage of the original Ogunquit art colonies. It is one of the best-known museums in Ogunquit and therefore a lot of travelers choose to stop here. I was surprised at the size of the museum. For such an important exhibit, it seemed very small. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in content.

There are some artifacts that remain in the museum year-round. Others are rotated throughout the year, so you’re always sure to see something new.

The museum contains exhibits of paintings, sculptures, mixed media, photographs, and more. The focus is on contemporary art and it is one of the greatest tributes to true-blue American artists.

Ogunquit Heritage Museum

 

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History buffs will adore the Ogunquit Heritage Museum. It is situated inside a wonderful 18th century Cape-style house in the Dorothea Jacob Grant Common Park. This historic building is on the National Register of Historic Places. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from June to October. Admission is free, which means you have no excuse not to pop in for a visit.

The house itself is noteworthy enough, but it also houses a magnificent collection of artifacts. It tells the story of the history and heritage of Ogunquit and surrounding areas. There are documents, art, and historically significant pieces to view.

If you are like me and enjoy old houses, you will be delighted to see that the house still has its original fireplaces, flooring, and paneling.


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Grab a Bite or Something to Drink in Ogunquit:

Bread and Roses Bakery

Delicious breakfast at Ogunquit, Maine

The Bread and Roses Bakery is an absolute top breakfast spot. This is one of the best things to do in Ogunquit Maine before heading out on the town for the day. The bakery has been in operation since 1989 and is a wonderfully historic business.

I always strive to support local businesses when traveling, and you won’t be disappointed with this bakery. They are famous for their quiche but I opted for a breakfast sandwich, served on a croissant. It did not disappoint. I also rounded out my trip to Ogunquit with a late afternoon tea at this bakery. I thoroughly enjoyed their blueberry sour cream coffee cake, and highly suggest you give it a try.

This little bakery is sure to steal your heart and it is the number one spot for breakfast or an afternoon tea. They have a varied menu and can also cater to special functions. Therefore, if your trip should include a birthday or the like, do check out their catering options.

Barnacle Billy’s

Barnacle Billy's seafood restaurant

 

I headed to Maine with one thing on my mind – lobster. Lobster is synonymous with Maine and you cannot plan a trip there without sampling the local cuisine. Barnacle Billy’s is the best seafood spot in Ogunquit. Lobster is, of course, what they are known for, and I just had to try it for myself.

I headed there for the dinner rush and was pleasantly surprised. They have lobster in all shapes and forms. I opted for the classic boiled lobster, buttered in its shell. But they also have lobster stew and lobster rolls. Other popular options seemed to be clam chowder and steamed clams.

This place is the stuff of legends and has played host to some big names in the past. They have been in business for the better part of half a century, and I see them going from strength to strength in the future.

The food was delicious, and they have outdoor seating right by the water. This means that you get dinner with a beautiful view to boot!

The Cliff House Resort

This is arguably one of the most beautiful places in town. It is also one of the classiest things to do in Ogunquit Maine. I highly suggest spending a few nights at the Cliff House Resort. It is one of the best places to stay in Ogunquit Maine. It is worth taking advantage of their luxury accommodation.


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But you do not need to be a guest to indulge in a little luxury. The resort also offers the opportunity for guests to enjoy cocktails or a drink at their bar. As the name suggests, the resort is located atop a spectacular cliff. This ideal location offers breathtaking views of the ocean below.

The resort also has a spa offering a wide range of treatments along with an oversized outdoor hot tub with a sea view.
Grab a bite at their restaurant, pop in for a drink, or spend a few nights. Regardless of your choice, you won’t be disappointed. I did not stay at the resort, but I did visit and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I highly recommend it. The view alone is reason enough, but the added luxuries only add to the experience.

 

Things to Do Near Ogunquit Maine:

I spent a few days in Ogunquit Maine, and there is plenty to keep you busy for an entire week. However, the surrounding area offers just as much to see and do, so day trips are easy enough.

Perkins Cove

Thing to do near Ogunquit, Visit Perkins Cove Bridge, Maine

Perkins Cove is a little town just outside of Ogunquit. It borders Ogunquit Beach and Marginal Walk ends at Perkins Cove. It is a small fishing village and well worth a visit in its own right. The village is full of adorable shops, galleries, and restaurants. It is ideal for those that want to experience more of the coast when in Ogunquit. Be sure to try their saltwater taffy as that is what they are known for!

Portland

Portland is about an hour’s drive from Ogunquit Maine. They are also known for lobster, being in Maine, and it is known as a cultural and economic hub. There are beaches and islands to explore, lighthouses to visit, and more than 300 restaurants. It is a big town with a lot of fun activities for children and adults alike. I suggest taking a day and exploring all Portland has to offer.

Light house in Portland, Maine


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Conclusion

So there you have it, so many amazing things to do in Ogunquit Maine for a great coastal getaway. I must say as a traveler I have visited a lot of different places and I really enjoyed my time here.

I hope you get a chance to visit sometime soon so you can experience how beautiful this little coastal town really is.

Now, it’s your turn, comment below and let us know what you are looking forward to the most when you finally do visit!

Thank you for reading!


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