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Favorite Places in Maine: Perkins Cove, Ogunquit

Photo by Shelia Grant

Perkins Cove and the pedestrian drawbridge.

Posted Aug. 24, 2011, at 4:10 p.m.
Last modified Aug. 24, 2011, at 7:09 p.m.

To get there

Take the Wells or York exit from the Maine Turnpike. From Wells drive south on Route 1, from York drive north on Route 1 to Ogunquit. In the center of town turn onto Shore Road and drive south to Oarweed Road that takes you to Perkins Cove.

The day my husband, Gary, daughter Becky, 16, and I discovered the Marginal Way Foot Path in Ogunquit we got a bit more of a hike than we intended.

Most people begin the 1.5-mile footpath in downtown Ogunquit and follow it to the terminus in Perkins Cove. Our hotel was just across from Footbridge Beach, however, so we decided to work our way along the beautiful coastline.

According to Google, it’s more than three miles by road from Footbridge Beach to Perkins Cove, and I’m sure it was longer following the meandering shoreline.

When we arrived, we discovered that the trolley was not yet running for the season and we had to walk all the way back. Good thing we got some great photos that day.

Marginal Way is beautiful, with all sorts of ledges to stop and sit on, little coves to explore and peeks at beautifully landscaped lawns and regal homes along the trail.

Perkins Cove is a great little port full of fishing charters, interesting shops and the wicked good seafood at Barnacle Billy’s. The walk back through town allowed us to check out jewelry shops, artisan shops, candy stores and other interesting businesses in downtown Ogunquit. I look forward to visiting again — though I’ll make sure the trolley is running before heading out for Perkins Cove on foot.

— Shelia Grant, Special to the BDN