Ogunquit began as a fishing town in the 1680s, evolved into an artists’ colony in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and has since secured its role as a summer destination for travelers, especially the artistically inclined and the LGBTQ+ community. Ogunquit revolves around two poles: the beach and the art world, the latter of which includes a noted art museum and many galleries. As such, the town offers a near-perfect balance between the natural and the cultural, the kind of place where you fear that there’s not much to do when you first arrive, then realize that you didn’t leave enough time when you near departure. Days are easy to schedule on the fly — head to the beach or set off on a long walk when the weather calls; explore the museum and many boutiques and restaurants when the weather takes an unfortunate turn.

In Maine, “summer” is a verb, and in Ogunquit it’s clear why. July and August offer perfect weather to wander the village with an ice cream cone in hand. It’s also the time of year for the occasional festival, concert, or special event, which can result in crowds and congestion. September is a good option for those looking for warmish weather without the crowds. Spring is always iffy — some days are lovely, and others are damp and raked with chilly winds. Winter can be bitingly cold and wind-blasted, but it’s also when the town celebrates Christmas by the Sea, a weekend of choir concerts, hayrides, tree lightings, and a holiday parade.

Ogunquit Museum of Art

The Ogunquit Museum offers big city sophistication in a small-town setting. Founded by artist Harry Strater in 1953, it builds upon the village’s history as an esteemed art colony dating from the late 19th century. The museum has some 3,000 works in its permanent collection, and its seasonal shows often feature artists linked to Maine.

Marginal Way & Perkins Cove

The Marginal Way is a footpath that follows a dramatic stretch of coast for about a mile. If you start at the north and don’t dawdle, you’ll arrive at gem-like Perkins Cove in about 20 minutes. The route passes rocky tide pools and pocket beaches, and rises atop low, craggy bluffs. Perkins Cove is a photo-worthy cluster of small buildings huddled around a protected inlet, with art galleries and T-shirt shops having long ago replaced the fishing shacks.

Footbridge Beach

Footbridge Beach is about a mile north of town at the end of Ocean Street, connected via a plank bridge over the Ogunquit River. The beach has restrooms and a lifeguard but little else, and tends to be a quieter alternative than the adjacent seven-mile-long Wells Beach.