Marginal Way, Ogunquit ME

• 4-star hike
• 1 mile each way
• Easy | No elevation gain
• Ogunquit, ME | Maine
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The image shows a paved walking path along a rocky coastline with the ocean on one side. Two individuals are walking on the path, one wearing a white top and purple bottoms, and the other wearing a grey top and navy shorts. The weather appears to be clear and sunny. In the distance, there are houses along the coastline, adding to the scenic view.

Taking a stroll along the Marginal Way.

It can be hard to find publicly accessible coastal walks in the US that aren't crowded out by private property, but when we do they are spectacular and Ogunquit's Marginal Way is no exception. This one mile flat paved route follows the coastal headlands between the lobster shacks of Perkins Cove and the south end of the town. An additional half-mile stroll will lead you all the way to Ogunquit's long and pristine public beach.

Many folks stick to the path and take in the views from one of many benching along the route, while others find access points to explore the rocky shoreline. Some also investigate the geological interpretive sign that provides many insights into the half a billion year history that formed the promontory upon which the Marginal Way sits. This sign is located on a gravel cut-through path that doesn't follow the paved route, so we've marked it on our map.
Expand ↓ Map

4★ Marginal Way 1.0 mi each way, easy, no elevation gain
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions

Ogunquit is extremely popular in the warmer seasons, so expect crowds along this trail at weekends and holidays. Parking can be extremely difficult at these times, and still not so easy on other fair weather days. We like the paid Perkins Cove lot at the south end of Marginal Way as it has a 3-hour limit that is usually adequate time to walk as far as the public beach and back, though it isn't long enough to stop for a bite to eat. There are several paid public and private lots around town, and we've marked the public lots close to the trail on our map.

The image is a view of a coastal area, showcasing a rocky shoreline with waves crashing against it. Several houses are situated close to the edge of the shore, surrounded by greenery. The ocean extends into the horizon under a clear sky. A small boat can be seen in the water near the coast.

Ogunquit's extremely popular and scenic coastal walk.

The image shows a small, white lighthouse with a black lantern room and gallery located near the edge of a body of water. The lighthouse is situated on a paved area with rocks lining the waterfront. The sky is clear with few clouds, suggesting fair weather.

Lobster Point's squat 1948 lighthouse located on the trail.

The image shows a beach scene with people scattered across the sand near the water’s edge. Some individuals are walking along the shore, while others are seated under umbrellas or standing in small groups. The sky is clear with minimal cloud cover, and the horizon shows a calm sea meeting the sky.

Ogunquit's long and well-maintained public beach.

Tangents:
• Official: Ogunquit Parking Lots
• Public Maps at AllTrails: Marginal Way Footpath
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article

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