"Your disguise can't hide all the features Of marginal creatures at best" (Little Feat) While we were exploring coastal Maine, we kept hearing rave reviews about Ogunquit--and especially the Marginal Way. So, on our drive home, we made a little detour and stopped in to see what all the fuss was about. Ogunquit was packed with tourists. A friendly police officer directed us to a parking lot near town hall, so all we needed next was to find the Marginal Way. That wasn't easy to do, because whatever on-line addresses we found for the entrance didn't work out. A friendly passerby gave us solid directions, and we soon found a small entrance sign. So, what on earth is the Marginal Way and where did that bizarre name come from? Well, it owes its existence to a remarkably generous donation. Back in 1925, Josiah Chase, Jr. donated a strip of oceanfront land to Ogunquit, kick starting what would become one of Maine's most beloved seaside strolls- a 1.25 mile cliff hugging path with some serious Maine-like scenery. Think of crashing waves, beach flowers, rocky cliffs, and even a lighthouse. We loved our scenic stroll along the flat wide paved path. I did see some more adventurous souls climb down toward the water, picking up rocks, setting up tripods for photo shoots, or filming Tik-Toks or Instagrams videos for "likes". One more thing: why is it called the "Marginal Way"? The name refers to its location on the margin between land and sea. read more

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We visited the Marginal Way one very hot morning in May. Parking at Perkins Cove is by the hour in one lot (pre-pay) or by the day for $20. Our one hour parking was about 6.50 through the Passport parking app. Most of the trail is exposed to full sun so a hat, sunscreen and water are highly recommended. There are several staircases down to the water along the pathway. A garden lines one side of the pathway close to town, part of a 'rewilding' project. There are two sections where the trail has a steep incline/decline. Otherwise there are gentle changes in elevation. Benches dot the pathway to sit and enjoy the views. The other end of the path exits street side near downtown where you will find plenty of gift shops and food options. Perkins Cove also offers a few shopping/food options. If you are staying in town this is a nice addition to your itinerary. The trail is paved and well maintained. read more

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The Marginal Way in Ogunquit is one of my favorite places in the world. This paved path from Ogunquit down to Perkins Cove is so scenic and relaxing, with views along the entire way. Love the steep rocky cliffs, the breaking waves, watching the surfers, listening to the pepples being pulled back in by the tide, and sitting on the plentiful benches and taking it all in. There are beautiful houses to check out along the shore line and also a few hotels where you can stop for a drink, and sit and enjoy the ocean view. We visit Ogunquit twice each year and one of the main things I enjoy is walking the Marginal Way at least twice per day. Love it here! read more

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This was a nice way to wrap up our weeklong organized New England fall foliage tour. We checked in around 4pm to our hotel Anchorage by the Sea right along Marginal Way. That still gave us time to walk to Lobster Lighthouse and Perkins Cove before dinner back at the hotel. From our hotel and back it was two miles round trip. I'm a huge fan of lighthouses and lobsters so Lobster Lighthouse was delightful. It's a nice paved walkway until you approach Perkins Cove. Then it's hard packed dirt. Maybe 100 feet. We got back to our hotel just in time for our lobster farewell dinner. read more

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Great scenic trail in Ogunquit on the shoreline. Only slight elevation change with beautiful scenery, nice houses and spots to check out on both ends of the approximately 1.5 mile each way path. Perkins Cove -- Ogunquit The paved trail is a bit narrow and with the joggers and selfie-takers can get a bit congested at times during high season. read more

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The experience of walking the Marginal Way in Ogunquit on a Friday afternoon the last week of October is one I will never forget. It was jaw-dropping, nature is so beautiful and I was just in awe the entire time. Pictures don't do justice, the color of the water, which changed as you walk along the path was unreal, it seemed fake. There were so many benches to stop and sit on to take in the incredible scenes. It was great exercise and an easy walk with some slight elevation at times. As you're walking the path you pass countless inns on the water, people in their Adirondack chairs on the lawns enjoying their morning coffee. Beautiful houses to admire as you walk. You cannot visit Ogunquit without experiencing this, just incredible, truly. read more

Well worth supporting this amazing seaside path. One of the coolest things about Ogunquit. The sea and sky are never the same twice. read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

The Marginal Way Walkway is a 1.25-mile cliff walk located along the coastline in Ogunquit, Maine. The ocean-side walk offers some of the most gorgeous views of the Southern Maine coastline. There are two places to access the Marginal Way: the southern terminus as at Perkins Cove near Oarweed Restaurant while the northern terminus is located on Shore Road in between The Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort and Anchorage By The Sea Resort. Visitors to the path can choose one of 39 benches, located at ideal viewing spots all along the path, to sit and contemplate the vibrant Atlantic Ocean. They can also admirethe little lighthouse overlooking Ogunquit Beach, enjoy watching sailboats pass by or step off the path to explore a beach or rocky cove. Either end of the trail is a short walk from Ogunquit's many delicious restaurants. If you time it just right, you can even catch the sun as it sets to the west or head out early enough in the morning to enjoy the sun rise over the ocean. read more

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Love love love the marginal way- beautiful views!!! We love walking on the trail and enjoy the crisp fresh air and wonderful water views. We like to climb the rocks and it is also a great pic spots we have taken for years. read more

Marginal Way - Ogunquit, Maine A picturesque and easy walk with a paved seaside path offering ocean views, sandy beaches, and surfers riding the waves. This 1.25-mile coastal walkway winds along the rocky shoreline, with plenty of benches to sit, relax, and soak in the scenery. You'll pass by charming seaside homes, elegant resorts, and enjoy easy access to pocket beaches along the way. Marginal Way is perfect for all ages, fitness levels and strollers. read more

So we stayed at a resort very close to the entrance of the marginal way. We ventured out on a very cold afternoon, and enjoyed it very much. There were many places that were under construction, they are obviously doing a lot to fix up areas that were hurt by storms. It's a super nice pathway. Just over a mile long, right on the water, and you're also able to see beautiful houses which is a great plus. It's unfortunate. That dogs aren't allowed as mine would have loved it. I'd highly recommend this walk for anyone interested in the water. read more

We try to visit the Marginal Way each summer as this is the one place my mom loved. We know she is here with us when we walk this 1.25 mile cliff walk. A very well-kept paved path with beautiful views of the Atlantic shores There's no charge to walk along the path from Ogunquit Village to Perkins Cove. read more

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A must visit! One of our favorite walks in Maine. Stunning ocean views overlooking the rocky cliffs and ocean waves. Absolutely beautiful! read more

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Marginal Way is a stunning, scenic path to walk next to Ogunquit beach. The path is along the coast and allows you to even go out to the rocky shores. Along the way there are also little pitstops where you can go down stairways to get to mini beaches to go in the ocean. Its absolutely breathtaking. read more

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Magnificent views of the Maine coastline on this man made pathway. While driving to Maine, my in laws were peppering our car conversation with the Marginal Way. I never fully understood what it meant. We were all window shopping through town and we came across a path. Is this it?? I'm still not understanding the weird name, "The Marginal Way". But what we witnessed was the the full splendor of the Maine coastline. From the craggy cliffs to the large rocky beaches, the Marginal Way offers a visual of the coastline that my iPhone couldn't properly capture. I want to point out, the trail is approximately 1.5 miles. When you reach the end of the trail, we stopped and had lunch at a cute stop offering the same views. After lunch we walked another 1.5 miles back to Ogunquit. What impressed me the most was the cleanliness of everything. From the water to air, everything was pristine. Natural is just cool! Best of all, this is all free. If you're vacationing in Ogunquit, make time to walk The Marginal Way. read more

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There are some beautiful and almost magical views that can be seen from walking along this path. It was all I wanted when I think of the rough but amazing Maine coast. There are several places to sit, or if you are brave, to venture out on to the rocks. I did a little of both. My favorite was just sitting on a bench for a while and staring out into the vastness of it all. Parking was kind of hard to find. We settled on a public lot that was down and across the street. The town itself was quite busy, and many people were here. This place is highly recommended read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - The view - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

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The Marginal Way is one of my favorite places to visit. I don't think I've ever visited Ogunquit and not walked it at least once! The Marginal Way is the most beautiful walk along the cliffs and ocean. We were fortunate that the day we visited there was some sort of painting competition going on and there was artists set up all along the way painting their view of the beautiful scenery there. read more

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Strolling the Marginal Way was definitely worth the detour. As first-timers, we weren't sure what to expect and we're very pleasantly surprised, making the short trip from York to Ogunquit. Parking wasn't too difficult to find about an hour before sunset, although it's street parking and the area is a little hilly (could be somewhat difficult if you've got older folks in your party). Once we made our way down to the pathway, it was clear why everyone recommended visiting. The views are truly incredible...the rocky Maine shoreline, breaking waves, lovely homes perched atop the rolling coastal bluffs. My photos don't do it justice. Seems like it's a favorite of locals and tourists alike. We saw many people out walking the pathways and a number taking in the sunset from one of the numerous benches along the way. We hope to get back here again soon . read more

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The air is thick. And man....these are some f*cking serious and priceless ocean views. A little over a mile, Marginal Way offers a magnificent, jaw-dropping intense Coastline. It's that, the sound of waves crashing, seagulls and the wind that makes this walking path rewarding with mesmerizing Maine views. We started in the village of Perkins Cove since that starting point was a minute walk from our hotel and ended almost in the 'downtown' area of Ogunquit. I noticed ladies decked out with leggings and sneaks using this path as exercise as well as two guys doing a run. But honestly- this is more for taking it all in if anything. Plus this path is so damn narrow to squeeze in a run, all you're doing is either dodging or bumping into people. Worth mentioning- everyone on the path, had masks on. If you want to catch a romantic moment, go ahead because Marginal's got that too with several benches along the path to catch the waves. It was beautiful exploring this gem during our short stay in Ogunquit. It's just you and the open sea. And it's all free. read more

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An Oceanside walk in Ogunquit. The walk is paved and has several benches to stop and sit and admire the ocean views. It was a bit crowded. There are several entry points along the path, which is a nice option if you do not want to walk the entire path. Definitely a must do . read more

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Fantastic views, easy access to the water, some shade along the way, and many beautiful houses to see. Worth the walk!!!

A nice walking path. Quite pleasant and all can for the most part do this. If up to me, there would be a treacherous one by the rocks. Yet for conservation purposes, it's probably this flat for that reason. There are flowers for people to enjoy, but admittedly my eyes were focused on the ocean. Also where the waters had overtaken the jagged rugged rocks. It's a good way to get some views in. Also it does lead to steps on a beach. Water was 59 degrees, so that didn't happen. You can use streets to get back to main parking areas, or simply turn around on this think it's a 1/2 mile hike. There are some benches, to just get lost in the view of miles of endless ocean. If in the area, it's worth taking this quick hike. read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

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What an absolutely beautiful walk along the ocean. Easy for all types of people, it is nicely paved with some areas of incline and then descent. We took our toddler and she walked some, and rode in the stroller for other parts. Beautiful views of the ocean and houses. Parking is kind of expensive, we parked in a lot for $20. The town is also very cute with several restaurants and small shops. read more

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Ogunquit, Maine This is the longest stretch of ocean walkway on the East Coast. I think the pathway is around 3 miles with beautiful views...but no bathrooms. Coast was fogged in when we arrived but still beautiful. Parking can be tricky, paid lots on either side. read more

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A beautiful scenic walk along the Maine coast in Ogunquit. There's a sign on Shore drive indicating where it begins, then the paved foot path takes you on a 1.25 mile walk along the rocky coastline. There are multiple points where some benches are available to sit. But bring your phone because it's a walk worth captuing. There are beautiful homes nestled along the way, and lots of places to view the wonderful water, rocks, trees and beauty of Maine. This is a must do when visiting Ogunquit. read more

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Easy walk along the coastline with plenty of spots to walk down the rocks to the waterline. read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - View along the path - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

"Beautiful place by the sea," indeed! The Marginal Way epitomizes the town's Native American name in which it resides. No matter how poor a photographer you may be, have no fear, because this place is so photogenically spectacular you can't go wrong with any shot your make. The entire walk from Ogunquit's town center to Perkins Cove is only a mile or two long, but what a gorgeous mile that is. Crashing waves, pocket beaches, craggy coves, windswept trees, the open ocean - terrific sight-seeing, picture-taking, and no doubt painting en plein air is on order. Best time imo is sunset or sunrise - the color of the sky and the color of the water is breathtaking. read more

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There is no way to avoid something as BEAUTIFUL as Marginal Way when staying in Ogunquit/Perkins Cove! It is magical pathway along the ocean that everyone dreams of!!! Splashing ocean water on the rocky coast while walking, jogging--YES!!! It's only .8 from Ogunquit to Perkins Cove!! 1.6 miles round trip!!! Perfect!! read more

"best of maine" "things to do in maine" "Acadia south" Hoping my quotes above help the Marginal Way oceanside trail end up on more people's to do list. We had the benefit of living in York ME for one month and didn't discover the trail on our own. Fortunately, some friends who live in Medford, MA rhapsodized about the trail and the treat of eating at Barnacle Billy's. The real treat though is the pounding Atlantic ocean on the peaked granite Maine coast. The trail is 10-20 feet above the ocean so not the 80-100 feet off the ocean you'll see on the Acadia Otter Cliff trail. This yields a different and more intimate interplay with the ocean. The trail is public and perhaps the only reason it's marginal is that it is a thin line between the ocean and fabulous, private estate houses with yards going down to the trail You can marvel at architecture and imagine a plush life style on your right (walking south) or marvel at nature on your left (walking south). Definitely put this on your Maine itinerary. If your out-of-state and driving in from Vermont or Massachusetts to Maine its only 15 miles after you cross the New Hampshire/Maine border on I-95. read more

How I love thee... This spot... will take your breath away, clear your head, and remind you how powerful the rocky coast can be. I have been lucky enough to enjoy this path since I was in diapers (sometimes- halfway through, I still wish I could get carried). It is a spectacular view. Not to mention my FAVORITE secret (not so secret) 'Little beach' is located off to the side. It used to have a makeshift stairway leading down to the beach but updates have since been implemented and while it doesn't have the same rustic charm, now its safe (if that is something you appreciate). They also have a lifeguard now through mid September, which is a very good thing considering the waves/tides can be a different beast away from the white sandy beach and closer to rocks. If you have kids I highly suggest this spot, we used to park and take the trolley down to the marginal way entrance and walk to the Little Beach just in time for low tide, where we would climb on the rocks and be mesmerized for hours by the starfish and crabs in the little tide pools. It also doesn't have the overwhelming crowds the other beaches do (I know kicking myself for giving this up), but it is truly something that should be shared....(...I may delete this later). This year they had a monarch butterfly project underway, where they had a protected breeding area off to the side. So not only is it aesthetically pleasing but it is also an educational experience as well! There are two entrances/exits... one in Perkins Cove over by the Oarweed and another off shore road about a half mile away from the center of town. read more

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What a lovely, lovely walk this is. Full of scenic vistas, an abundance of both wild flora and curated gardens, bird watching, and sweeping, panoramic ocean views, this walking path is absolutely deserving of your attention if nature and fresh air is appealing to you (and why wouldn't it be, especially here in the great state of Maine?). The mostly flat, sometimes gently winding walk - which is over a mile long - can be started either at Perkins Cove (by Jackie's Too Restaurant) or nearish to Ogunquit Beach (by Anchorage by The Sea). The land the footpath is on was donated in 1925 to Ogunquit and is maintained today by an NPO. It doesn't loop, so you will have to backtrack along the same way you came, but really that isn't a problem when there's so much to see. There are also a tremendous amount of benches along the path, so feel free to stop and take it all in. This is an exceptional walk for people of all ages and abilities, as it's very easy to do. Loved that we decided to spend some time here - oddly enough we didn't actually make it all the way to the end because we were just ambling along and before we knew it the sun was beginning to set - and am delighted to come back when it's a bit warmer. So, grab a cup of coffee, a good friend, and a take an afternoon off to leisurely stroll along the incredibly charming Marginal Way. read more

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A fantastic super scenic walk right on the Atlantic Ocean. Unspoiled granite cliffs with the waves crashing all around you. Just a mile and a quarter long, this paved trail is for elders and grannies but is so picturesque that all can enjoy. There are many park benches all along the walk, some tucked away on a hill or private cove. Romantic moments. Crowded in the summer months, you dodge the families, wheelchairs, and baby carriages. Starts at Perkin's Cove and comes out at Shore Road in Ogunquit. Free to all!! Donation box on site. Minis 1 star for not allowing dogs. read more

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I do this way every day, every summer on my vacation and I find something new every time. Last year it was a baby seal sunning itself on the rocks. They have made many improvements to the walk over the years and it very manageable for all ages. Beware, dogs are not allowed in season on the route. I love this "beautiful place by the sea" so much, I have asked my family that when I pass I want to be cremated and my ashes spread here so I can enjoy it for eternity. read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

WOW! The views here are incredible. Leisurely stroll along the coast of Maine with sites including Ogunquit beach and monuments along the way. It's a narrow path, where a mask and avoid going with large groups while COVID is around. read more

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Simply breathtaking!!! Awe worthy. Great destination to experience nature at its best! The sights & scenery is flawless...colorful beachfront homes, the greenery, the blue ocean, the beach& beautiful & walkable trail which delivers you to a quaint little town with shops serving jewelry, ice cream and apparel, etc. Bring tour walking shoes & your camera. Picturest. Parking can be fleeting & is metered. Highly recommended, park up and enjoy. - Children/family friendly trail. - If elderly or have walking issues you may want to consider the distance of the trail & that seating is few and far between. - Trail is bustling. - Explore the beauty! read more

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Off the charts beachfront walkway. Sweeping vistas of Maine's rocky coast. Benches along the way are located at great photographic opportunities. See my pics. No more words are needed. read more

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A lovely walk in Ogunquit to see the cove and enjoy views of the Ocean. Even when we're not staying in the area we make a point to stop at the marginal way. I walked it fully for the first time on the hottest day of the year so far and wished for shade but they are actively working on adding trees and shrubs to provide some shelter. Love this path! read more

Marginal Way is a paved shoreline walk beside the Atlantic Ocean in Ogunquit ~ 1.25 miles each way. It is a favorite Sunrise spot for photography. There are 39 Benches where it's comfortable to watch the ever-changing sea. We met about 10 couples taking their early morning walk, when the Sun was peaking through the clouds for a second here & there. Wind chill was 25, but 2 hours later it warmed up considerably & turned into a nice day. Behind me were manicured lawns in front of the mansions, as I looked down @ the rocky coast & crashing waves. At the end is a small Lighthouse. read more

Gorgeous paved walkway with flowers and 39 benches from Perkins Cove to Ogunquit, and vice versa, about a mile long. The walkway is a bit narrow so be sure to bring a mask if Covid-19 is still a thing when you visit. It's also mostly in the sun. We parked in the paid parking lot in Perkins Cove ($4 an hour, max. 3 hours), walked to Ogunquit, visited mostly all of the shops, walked back, and ate lunch at Jackie's Too Restaurant. There is a public parking lot at the other end near the Ogunquit Police Station that you can park in as well. read more

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The Marginal Way is a local wonder. I feel so lucky to live close by to this walking path cut right into the rocks. The views are fantastic and the path connects Perkin's Cove down to Ogunquit beach main entrance. I got engaged to my fiancé on this walking path! If you find yourself in the area do yourself a favor and visit the Marginal Way. Wonderful landscaping and many benches are placed alongside the walk and curves around the landscape to give a great view of Ogunquit Beach and the river mouth. The path is paved and wide enough for handicap needs. read more