‘Ogunquit’ means ‘Beautiful Place by the Sea’ in Algonquin — and this southern Maine destination definitely lives up to the hype. Popular with families, couples and groups of friends looking to kick back on the beach, explore galleries and museums, eat well or get out on the water, Ogunquit is a brilliant holiday base. Accommodation options range from intimate B&Bs to expansive clifftop resorts, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. To top it all off, the best places to stay in Ogunquit are well-placed for sea swims, days spent unwinding on 3.5-mile Ogunquit Beach, or soaking up the town's many attractions.
Stroll the streets of Ogunquit village to shop in quirky independent boutiques, feast on fresh seafood, or taste homemade fudge and mouth-watering ice cream. Culture buffs will find the Ogunquit Museum of American Art particularly fascinating, whilst the Ogunquit Playhouse is a top spot to catch excellent theatre in the summer. OgunquitFest, on the other hand, is a family-friendly autumn festival — a sure-fire hit with the kids. Venture to the southern part of Ogunquit to amble around pretty Perkins Cove, an idyllic fishing village, which is good for a wander or a boat tour.
There’s sailing, kayaking, fishing and swimming to enjjoy out on the water as a couple, individual or family. Depending on your experience, boat hire and guided tours are easily arranged. Active travellers can also follow myriad cycling, running and hiking trails in the area. Don’t miss Marginal Way, the scenic coastal path connecting Ogunquit and Perkins Cove, nor the area’s many beaches, which are ideal for a walk, swim, sunbathe or picnic.
Friendly and charming, the best places to stay in Ogunquit fill up fast during the summer months, so book your trip well in advance!