A Perfect Weekend in Ogunquit, Maine
A classic seaside village in many ways, Ogunquit, Maine, also boasts an array of one-of-a-kind diversions and adventures.
At the end of Beach Street,
awning-shaded chairs provide a
front-row seat to the Atlantic.
Given the lovely sand beaches, impressive restaurants and eateries, famous seaside walk, and ocean resort–style lodging, it’s not hard to see why Yankee chose Ogunquit, Maine, as “Best Beach Town” in 2012. A classic seaside village in many ways, Ogunquit also boasts an array of one-of-a-kind diversions and adventures. Whether you want to kick back and relax on the beach or take a tour of the burgeoning local arts scene, this is the perfect backdrop for a prime summer weekend.
Photo Credit : Kindra Clineff
» WHAT TO DO
Ogunquit Museum of American Art Outside, landscaped grounds accented with sculptures and gardens surround the cliff-hugging museum. Inside, exhibits in five galleries are drawn from a 2,000-piece permanent collection that includes works by Marsden Hartley, Rockwell Kent, Walt Kuhn, Henry Strater, and Thomas Hart Benton. ogunquitmuseum.org
Ogunquit Playhouse Catch a musical in the 675-seat Ogunquit Playhouse, which has been operating every summer since 1933. Over the years, such stars as Sally Struthers and Rue McClanahan have performed here in productions including The King and I,The Full Monty, and Crazy for You. Take a backstage tour for all the inside scoop. ogunquitplayhouse.org
Marginal Way Well-placed benches make it easy to rest and enjoy the views on this 1-1/4-mile-long, gently rolling, paved footpath that traces Ogunquit’s shoreline from Perkins Cove to Shore Road. marginalwayfund.org
Photo Credit : Kindra Clineff
Footbridge Beach At the better-known Ogunquit Beach, things can get a little busy at the height of summer. So for a bit of a breather, try Footbridge Beach: Located at the northern end of Ogunquit Beach, it qualifies as something of a hidden gem. Enter via a footbridge over the Ogunquit River, spread out your towel, and soak up the rays and relaxation. ogunquit.org
»WHERE TO EAT
Caffé Prego Murano glass, Venetian carnival masks, and Florentine wood trays are the background for authentic Italian flavors served within steps of Ogunquit Beach. The Italian-sourced coffee is the perfect complement to the pastries, while the paninis and brick-oven pizzas earn raves. caffepregoogt.com
Jonathan’s Buy a package here, and you’ll enjoy a fine-dining farm-to-table menu downstairs followed by a show in the intimate upstairs venue, where touring acts such as Dar Williams, George Winston, Madeleine Peyroux, and Paula Poundstone perform. jonathansogunquit.com
Barnacle Billy’s/Barnacle Billy’s Etc. Opened by the Tower family in 1961, Barnacle Billy’s soon became a Perkins Cove landmark and a magnet for lovers of classic Maine seafood. Proving you can never have too much of a good thing, the family opened a successful sister restaurant next door, Barnacle Billy’s Etc., in 1989. At both places, diners can count on the freshest seafood around, from the claw meat–filled lobster roll to the hearty clam chowder.barnbilly.com
»WHERE TO STAY
Cliff House Reopened in August 2016 after a major renovation, this upscale resort perched on Bald Head boasts an indoor lap pool, an outdoor infinity pool, and luxe spa accommodations. Don’t miss out on the chance to stay in a guest room with panoramic ocean views or enjoy a fine meal at the on-site restaurant, the Tiller. cliffhousemaine.com
The Dunes This aptly named collection of cottages and guest rooms features 12 landscaped acres bordering a tidal estuary. Rowboats waiting at the dock make it a cinch to access the beach, but the Dunes’ heated pool is equally inviting. To this, add a knowledgeable, helpful staff and a location that puts downtown attractions within strolling distance. dunesonthewaterfront.com
Beachmere Inn Can’t decide among a Victorian inn, a cottage, and a contemporary motel? The Beachmere has them all. It’s located in a prime oceanside location by the Marginal Way and within steps of Ogunquit’s restaurants and shops. beachmereinn.com
2 Village Square Guests here can walk to shops, galleries, restaurants, the beach, and the Marginal Way—that is, if they can tear themselves away from the heated pool, hot tub, and massage room. Many of the newly renovated guest rooms have direct views of the ocean. 2vsquare.com
Photo Credit : courtesy of 2 Village Square
The Black Boar Inn Ogunquit’s oldest structure (c. 1674) now houses the Black Boar Inn, a delightful eight-room inn. Guests enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, working fireplaces, and close proximity to the town and the beach. theblackboarinn.weebly.com
