The Best Things to do in Ogunquit, Maine

Growing up on the North Shore of Boston you either went south to Cape Cod or north to Maine for the weekend. We were “Cape People.” My uncle had a home with a guest house in Hyannis so we would spend many a summer weekend (and even a winter one here and there) visiting with him, enjoying everything the Cape had to offer, as well as his small stretch of private beach. 

So when we decided to head to Ogunquit, Maine, for the weekend, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had visited this idyllic seaside community once or twice for dinner and a musical at the famed Ogunquit Playhouse, but never spent more than a few hours in the area. But it turns out their is plenty to keep a family busy north of the Massachusetts border. Here are the best things to do in Ogunquit, Maine. 

Take a Nature Walk

I am not a huge hiker or climber. So when Alex told me we would be walking the trail at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, I felt a bit nervous. But this easy trail is accessible to all ages, including those with carriages or wheel chairs. And the views from the observation decks were beautiful. Make sure to bring your binoculars!

Hit the Beach or Take a Nap on the Sand

We have had some hot days this summer, but the water in the north is still on the chillier side. So when we visited Footbridge Beach, it was more to soak up the sun than play in the surf. Arielle loved building her very first sand castle, though I think she enjoyed trampling it more. And of course, I had to bring a good book so I could get a little beach reading in, and Bringing Home the Burkin by Michael Tonello, the co-owner of Respoke, fit the bill. 

Shop ‘til you Drop

I swear that in order to open a store in Ogunquit the main requirement is that it be absolutely adorable and filled with items that shopaholics, like myself, will go absolutely ga-ga over. First off, the toy stores in both Ogunquit proper (Village Toy Funatic) and it’s neighboring village of Perkin’s Cove (C&S Toy Chest), are stocked with unique and fun items you will not find anywhere else. I also absolutely loved Art & Soul and walked out with a matching set of evil eye bracelets, one for me and one for Arielle. You’ll also find plenty of tee-shirt shops, gift shops, and other specialty stores. There is something for everyone right in downtown Ogunquit. 

Take in Breathtaking Views along Marginal Way

On Sunday we decided to wander along Marginal Way, and wow! It is stunning. In fact, it is so beautiful that we ended up having a mini photo shoot at almost each corner we turned. Arielle especially loved the small lighthouse and insisted on having her picture taken with it. She is definitely my little girl.

While it is possible to make the trek in sandals and with a carriage, it is a bit rocky and many places have no railing or guard to prevent someone from falling. Make sure you’re steady on your feet and have a hand on little ones at all times.   

Get your Murder, She Wrote on in Perkin’s Cove

When I heard we would be right near Perkin’s Cove I started to geek out. As the inspiration for Cabot Cove in Murder, She Wrote, I was so excited to check out this charming village. With plenty of small shops that sell everything from souvenir tees to handcrafted pottery, to fine jewelry, Perkin’s Cove may be on the smaller side, but it has lots to offer. While you’re there, make sure you hang out by the bridge which is lifted up whenever a boat needs to leave or return to the Cove. It’s something to see. 

Catch a Show

Unfortunately during this trip we were unable to get to the Ogunquit Playhouse for a production, but I’ve been to a few of their shows and they are always incredible. They’ve also started doing junior productions, such as Moana Jr., for young kids, making it a great place to spend an evening or a particularly hot afternoon with the family. 

Treat Yourself to Something Sweet

I am a fan of anywhere with a good candy store and Ogunquit as a few. Harbor Candy Shop is right in downtown Ogunquit and the walls are lined with cases brimming with fine chocolates. At Perkin’s Cove Candies you can pick up bags of delicious delights. Both shops also have an impressive selection of salt water taffy. 

If you’re more into baked goods then you’ll want to head to Congdon’s Doughnuts. It’s a little ways off the downtown but definitely worth the drive. Also, the Village Food Market and Cafe has a case full of cakes and pies that looked mouth-watering, as well as a coconut almond latte that I had to try. Spoiler alert: I wish I could have gotten a second one, it was that good. 

Visit Nubble Lighthouse at Golden Hour

Down the street from Ogunquit is York, Maine, home to Nubble Lighthouse. This historic landmark has become an iconic symbol of coastal Maine and you’ll find families grabbing photos in front of it at pretty much any time of the day. While it was a bit crowded when we drove up around the golden hour, the cliff overlooking the ocean with the lighthouse just beyond made it easy to stake out a good spot to document your visit to Vacationland.  

You can see what I packed for our trip to Ogunquit here and if you’re looking for help on how to budget for your next trip, make sure you grab my free travel budget guide too! 

Have you been to Ogunquit? What was your favorite thing to do or what would you like to do when you go?