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I grew up just 20 minutes south of Perkins Cove but it still feels like a magical Maine coastal village to visit.
Perkins Cove, tucked into the town of Ogunquit, is one of my favorite places to recommend to friends who are coming up to enjoy the area. It is a small working harbor that manages to be both peaceful and lively, quaint but never too polished. The kind of place where time slows down just enough for you to catch your breath.
One of the best ways to reach the cove is by walking the Marginal Way, a stunning oceanfront path that winds along the cliffs from Ogunquit Beach. The walk is just about a mile, but I always tell people to leave time for stopping. There are plenty of benches along the way where you can sit and watch the waves crash below or catch sight of a sailboat gliding past.
Once you arrive at the cove, everything is close by. There are art galleries and small shops selling jewelry, sea glass, and souvenirs, but it never feels crowded. I love popping into the stores to see what is new, and I always seem to leave with a little something to remind me of the visit.
Of course, you cannot come to Perkins Cove without having seafood. Barnacle Billy’s is a casual favorite where you can enjoy a lobster roll with a view of the harbor. For something a little more refined, MC Perkins Cove offers upscale dining with breathtaking views of the open ocean.
If you are feeling adventurous, boat tours depart right from the dock. You can head out for a lobstering cruise, try a sunset sail, or simply take in the coastline from the water. It is a wonderful way to see the region from a new angle.
While summer is the most popular time to visit, I have to say I love coming here in late September. The light gets softer, the air cooler, and the crowds start to thin, but all the charm remains.
Perkins Cove may be small, but it has everything I love about coastal New England in one spot. If you are planning a trip to Maine, it is absolutely worth a visit. And if you need help crafting a coastal itinerary with places like this woven throughout, I would love to help.
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