{"id":5846,"date":"2025-07-11T02:20:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-11T06:20:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/palmeravacationclub.com\/blog\/?p=5846"},"modified":"2025-07-10T14:21:37","modified_gmt":"2025-07-10T18:21:37","slug":"palmera-go-destination-highlight-ogunquit-me","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/palmeravacationclub.com\/blog\/2025\/07\/palmera-go-destination-highlight-ogunquit-me\/","title":{"rendered":"Palmera GO Destination Highlight: Ogunquit, ME"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Aerial view of Perkins Cove | Adobe Stock<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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There are charming coastal towns, and then there\u2019s Ogunquit, Maine. <\/strong>Quite literally meaning, \u201ca beautiful place by the sea,\u201d<\/strong> in the Abenaki language, Ogunquit is heaven on earth for those who adore small, walkable towns filled with local shops, galleries, and eateries, all with oodles of character. Located on Maine\u2019s southern coast in York County,<\/strong> Ogunquit\u2019s idyllic blend of a seaside getaway, no-rush atmosphere, immense inclusivity, and inspiring scenery welcomes all types of visitors from families, couples, creatives, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fishing Boats in Ogunquit | Adobe Stock <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Arts & Culture<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

While Ogunquit is known as a coastal destination that attracts visitors looking to spend time at the beach, for decades it was known as the Ogunquit Artist Colony.<\/strong> A major player in shaping American art, the artist colony welcomed creatives looking to learn and focus on plein air painting and more natural influences at the Ogunquit Summer School of Drawing and Painting<\/strong>, or experiment in modernism and abstract works at the Hamilton Easter Field\u2019s School of Drawing and Painting<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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“Skating – Pond near Perkins Cove, Maine” by Charles Herbert Woodbury, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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“On the Beach” by Charles H. Woodbury, National Gallery of Art, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
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Today, Ogunquit has maintained its legacy as an artist colony<\/strong>, and travelers looking to dive deeper into the town\u2019s art heritage have many opportunities to do so. Start by visiting the OMAA<\/strong>, or the Ogunquit Museum of American Art<\/strong>.<\/a> Here, you\u2019ll see the site of the original art colony, and view seasonal exhibitions in addition to a permanent collection of modern and contemporary American art,<\/strong> as well as a sculpture garden<\/strong> spanning three acres.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Continue on and explore local talent at the many galleries throughout Ogunquit.<\/strong> The most well-known gallery in town is the Barn Gallery<\/a><\/strong>. Home of the Ogunquit Art Association<\/strong>, founded by artists in 1928, the Barn Gallery is open seasonally <\/strong>and showcases rotating exhibitions, hosts an annual live auction, juried show, and gala, as well as many artist demonstrations and workshops <\/strong>that allow for hands-on sessions with master artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Tichnor Brothers, Publisher, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Enjoy art in motion at one of the Broadway plays or musicals performed at the historic Ogunquit Playhouse<\/a>.<\/strong> Originally established by Walter and Maude Hartwig in a downtown garage in 1933, the Playhouse has been a part of Ogunquit\u2019s creative heritage for decades.<\/strong> You\u2019ll want to catch a show at this iconic summer theatr<\/strong>e when you\u2019re in town.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Ogunquit’s Beaches<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You\u2019ll definitely want to explore Ogunquit\u2019s beautiful coastline while you\u2019re visiting\u2014who wouldn\u2019t want a beach day? Not only does this charming coastal town boast stunning ocean views, but the beaches are often praised for having silky smooth sand, a gently sloping beach face that allows for easy wading, and a calmer atmosphere than some beaches<\/strong>. While the Atlantic\u2019s water temperature is chillier along Ogunquit\u2019s shoreline than it is in the Southeast, you\u2019ll still have a blast on your beach day at Ogunquit Beach. We recommend checking the tide chart\u2014the beach is very wide during low tide, and very skinny during high tide.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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There are three public beach parking lots in town that charge a daily flat fee or by the hour. You\u2019ll find private parking lots as well, but because of congestion, it\u2019s smart to walk<\/strong> from your accommodations if you can. Main Beach<\/strong> is the most popular, offering a public restroom and restaurants right on the water. Just up the shoreline, Footbridge Beach<\/strong> is also a favorite. As the name might imply, beachgoers must cross a footbridge over the Ogunquit River to access the beach. There\u2019s also Little Beach<\/strong>, a gem nestled in a small cove just south of Main Beach that can only be reached off of Marginal Way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Outdoor Activities <\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The Marginal Way<\/strong> sits at the top of the must-do activity list for those visiting Ogunquit. A 1.25-mile-long cliff walk,<\/strong> this winding path hugs the shoreline at the top of granite, wave-cut cliffs. Wander down the walkway to the sound of waves crashing against the rocks at high tide, or take a beat to enjoy the beautiful surroundings on one of the many benches along the way.<\/strong> You\u2019ll definitely understand how Ogunquit captured the heart of many an artist and became a muse for New England art in general. The Marginal Way will take you from Shore Road (close to Main Beach) to the idyllic Perkins Cove.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Bench on Marginal Way | Adobe Stock<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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The Ogunquit River<\/strong> is a tidal river, flowing between the mainland and Ogunquit Beach. Other than simply enjoying its serene beauty, there are many ways to explore it! A common activity is kayaking, <\/strong>since the <\/strong>waters are gentle and it\u2019s perfect for beginners or a relaxing paddle. Or, try paddleboarding\u2014gentle waters are great to have when balancing on top of a SUP. Because it is a tidal river, we suggest you take a look at the tides <\/strong>since it can cause strong currents. If the water is rolling easily, try floating down the outgoing tide on a tube! Other activities include fishing, eco tours, and just plain and simple wildlife watching.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Aside from kayaking and paddleboarding, there are other opportunities to get out on the water in Ogunquit. Due to the town\u2019s size, Perkins Cove is the only working harbor for fishing crafts and boat tours<\/strong>. For scenic tours that cruise the Ogunquit shoreline, to exploring the Island Ledges<\/strong> where harbor seals can be found, and even to view York\u2019s<\/strong> Nubble Lighthouse, reserve your tour with Finestkind Cruises<\/a><\/strong>. Enjoy freshly baked muffins with a hot coffee on a Scenic Breakfast Cruise, or even a refreshing drink aboard the Cocktail Cruise. Or, hop aboard a lobster boat and experience lobstering first-hand! While Finestkind offers sailing cruises as well, the other tour operators in the harbor specialize in scenic sails alone. Choose from Sail Me<\/a>, Sail the Gift<\/a>, Goose Sailing Cruises<\/a>, <\/strong>and Silverlining Sailing Cruises.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Fishing boats docked in Perkins Cove, Ogunquit, on coast of Maine south of Portland, USA | Adobe Stock<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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Around Town <\/em><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

Because of its size, Ogunquit is a very walkable town. The Village<\/strong>\u2014what\u2019s considered Downtown Ogunquit\u2014is at the heart of it all. This is where you\u2019ll find the Ogunquit Playhouse<\/strong>, the Main Beach parking and access<\/strong>, as well as a slew of locally owned shops, restaurants, and of course, ice cream parlors. Take your time strolling through The Village and duck into art galleries, boutiques, and more at a leisurely pace\u2014you won\u2019t want to miss a thing!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The second popular area is Perkins Cove<\/strong>, a quaint area housing the working harbor and that\u2019s full of lobster shacks and dangerously delicious seafood restaurants. Like previously mentioned, this is where you\u2019ll catch your boat cruise, or start or finish the Marginal Way walking path<\/strong>. Perkins Cove also has more local shops and studios for you to explore. This is also where you\u2019ll find the iconic Perkins Cove Drawbridge<\/strong>, a wooden double-leaf footbridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Perkins Cove Drawbridge | Adobe Stock <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
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We\u2019ve stressed how walkable Ogunquit is, simply because it\u2019s the best way to get around\u2014especially during the high season when parking is a bit tricky to find! But what is walkable? From the heart of The Village to Perkins Cove, you\u2019re looking about a 20\u201325-minute walk.<\/strong> But don\u2019t forget about the scenic route\u2014Marginal Way! Not that cutting through the absolutely charming town of Ogunquit isn\u2019t scenic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Day Trips <\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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York, ME
<\/strong>~20 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Another coastal town in Maine, York, is a short drive south from Ogunquit. Spend the whole day or maybe a half-day in this New England charmer of a town, and you\u2019ll be able to enjoy family-friendly activities and attractions, see iconic landmarks, and soak up the beach town vibes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Kennebunkport, ME
<\/strong>~25 Minutes<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A well-known spot for those wanting to visit New England, Kennebunkport is also one of Maine\u2019s charming and overwhelmingly aesthetic coastal towns. Filled with upscale seafood restaurants and farm-to-table dining, you\u2019ll also find high-end shopping to boot!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Portsmouth, NH
<\/strong>~30 Minutes <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Head to New Hampshire for a trendier take on a New England coastal village that can be found in Portsmouth. Stroll waterfront parks, sip on stouts in local breweries, and enjoy a live performance by local musicians. Dripping in history, it\u2019s the state\u2019s oldest settlement and only seaport.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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As one would assume about any coastal town, Ogunquit\u2019s peak season starts in late spring and ends in early fall.<\/strong> Visitors love the warmer New England weather, especially when a beach day or two is on the trip\u2019s itinerary! This is also the time when the town is fully open<\/strong>. If you want to fully experience Ogunquit, book your trip within this window. Now, the absolute busiest time within this season is in July and August\u2014a classic coastal summer.<\/strong> Weekend crowds are big during this time, making the parking situation incredibly tight. For a less-crowded trip, try booking in June or September.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Starting in mid-October, the fall colors start to appear. Fall is considered the shoulder season on Ogunqui<\/strong>t, and is often overlooked but can be a really special trip for couples and those looking for a low-key getaway. Some shops and stores stay open until Halloween, but some do close after the summer season ends.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s rare that we recommend not<\/em> visiting in a specific season, as many vacation destinations have their own year-round attributes. But as far as winter in Ogunquit goes, it\u2019s best you stick to the weekend. <\/strong>That\u2019s really because many inns and restaurants only open on the weekends. New England gets pretty chilly in the winter\u2014maybe that\u2019s an understatement\u2014but if you\u2019re absolutely dead-set on enjoying snowy seaside landscapes, opt for visiting in December to enjoy the town\u2019s Christmas by the Sea celebration.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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While visitors can definitely do Ogunquit the luxurious way, many people are surprised to learn that there\u2019s a pretty wide range of accommodation types.<\/strong> But of course, go ahead and pamper you and your group to ocean views and luxury and upscale resorts if you\u2019re so inclined to do so! As any destination with loads of charm would have, Ogunquit offers enchanting bed and breakfasts as well as inns and boutique hotels, giving you a more personalized stay as you experience Ogunquit. Just don\u2019t sleep on the family-owned and pristinely kept motels and other affordable accommodations throughout the town\u2014seriously, no pun intended!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Palmera Vacation Club members have a unique set of tools to make travel that much easier.<\/strong> One of the tools members can use is the RCI Exchange.<\/strong> By using their Palmera Vacation Club points, members can find week-long or shorter stays at great prices throughout the world. If we specifically look at Ogunquit, here are a few options:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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**Availability and point ranges subject to change. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Additionally, a second tool members have is Quest Travel Club.<\/strong> Find discounted stays, as well as flights, rental cars, and activities! The following are a few examples of what you could find with Quest in September 2025:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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**Availability and price ranges subject to change. <\/em><\/p>\n\r\n\t\t