Ogunquit, Maine: Part of the New England Lifestyle That Comes with South Shore Living

Ogunquit is one of those places that feels just far enough from the South Shore to feel like a getaway, yet close enough to visit without a ton of planning. There’s Ogunquit Beach, Perkins Cove, and all the classic Maine charm, but don’t miss The Marginal Way walk and Wells, ME.

The Marginal Way Walk

One of my favorite houses along the walk.

If you’ve never done it, The Marginal Way is a paved 1.25-mile coastal walk that runs from downtown Ogunquit to Perkins Cove. It hugs the rocky shoreline the entire way. No roads. No cars. Just ocean views the whole time. You’ll pass benches placed perfectly for stopping and looking out at the water. The cliffs, crashing waves, and open horizon feel very different from our South Shore coastline. You don’t need hiking boots. You don’t need a plan. You just walk.

These two pictures say it best same walk, different stages of life, still worth it.

September 2017

September 2025

And judging by the layers, we clearly love it in the fall.

Along the Rocks on Marginal Way

Perkins Cove

At the end of the walk is Perkins Cove, with its small shops, boats in the harbor, and restaurants overlooking the water. It’s compact and walkable. You can grab lunch, sit by the water, and take your time. If you go in shoulder season (late spring or early fall), it’s even better. Less crowded, same views.  I have bought some of my favorite things for my house here.

The Footbridge Walk (Toward Wells)

Another thing I love to do that I don’t think people always think about is starting near the Footbridge Beach entrance and walking north toward Wells. Instead of heading toward downtown, walk left along the sand. You’ll see a mix of charming old cottages and newer elevated homes built to handle coastal storms.

But what I really love: I don’t just walk along the ocean. I’ll also walk along the street side. I love seeing the fronts of the houses, the porches, the landscaping, and the fun coastal décor people put out.

I usually walk so far that I can’t turn around. Joe ends up having to pick me up.