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

Absolutely beautiful! I would recommend finding free half hour parking near one of the entrances and walking along the trail. There are certain places where you can venture off into the water! My husband and I absolutely loved it. It's more of a sightseeing trail than a hiking trail. read more

Great place to walk around and take in the crisp salty air of the ocean. So far its been off season so I have been able to find free parking on the weekdays on the road across from the fire and police station. I did see them start to set up the parking booth for the summer so rates will soon be around $4/hour from 8-8pm. So far i have seen them charging on the weekends to park. The hardest part is finding parking but once you're parked its easy to get to the Marginal Way Trail (just look for the Marginal Way Access Entrance). The trail itself is an easy walk and handicap accessible. I've seen numerous people in wheelchairs and strollers on the trail with no problems. There are some hills along the way but nothing major. Many benches to sit on throughout the trail. read more

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To see the sea The Marginal Way has been entertaining, edifying and amazing people ever since Josiah Chase Jr donated this land back in 1925. The path has been paved over, repaired and even had a bit added over the decades but it remains the same wonderful little margin of land that it was since the very beginning. The area gets pounded by fierce storms, nor'easters, blizzards and even an occasional hurricane and the path has been torn apart, parts washed away and just hammered by nature. But it always has been repaired and still preserves. Only a little over a mile long it is a journey that takes the traveler on a wonderful trip along the quintessential Maine coast line. Rocky, rugged and wild, the Marginal Way is an adventure in all weather all year long. In the summer it can get packed and difficult because of the crowds but in the winter you frequently can have it all to yourself. Not a difficult walk as long as you don't get stupid and fall over a cliff, it winds slowly up, down and around the rocks and edges. Lots of pink and white beach roses, honeysuckle and flowers in the spring and summer but in the winter it is usually covered in ice or snow and tortured and distorted shrubbery and a howling and biting wind are your companions. The once gentle path bares it's teeth and shows it's wild side. Stunning views of the rocks, cliffs, grand and historic houses and of course always the raging ocean are always there. The Marginal Way is one of the most memorable one mile walks I have ever been on. read more

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A bit overrated if you ask me. Nice views but overrun with people even on a Friday. We had to pay $4 per hour to park so it cost us $12 to make sure we had enough time to walk the whole thing and stop for pictures etc. For a large part of the northern end you are fenced in on both sides with lots signs saying to keep out of the private resorts. Not very welcoming. Plus there's not enough shade trees on that end so you're just baking in the sun. There are a few nice beach spots to stop and get your feet wet but also too crowded with people. I think I read that you could run the path but with all the people that's not really feasible either. The southern end is much nicer with more shade trees and less people. read more

Charming, well-kept walkway runs over the coast in Ogunquit. it is beautiful any time of the day or year, and in any weather. It is romantic at night, breathtaking during the day, and impressive when storm clouds sweep in.... Around every bend and every corner you find new views to see and little nooks to explore - rocky outcrops, waves hitting the shore, winter berries adding color to the walk... There are quite a few benches to sit on and enjoy the scenery - or perch on one of the rocks and get lost at sight of the storming sea... I want to go back already. read more

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Nice scenic walkway along the Atlantic between Perkins Cove and Ogunquit beach. Can be crowded during peek season. Dogs are allowed offseason read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - Dogs having fun on the beach off Marginal Way - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunqit - beautiful place by the sea! And Marginal Way is my most favorite place in Ogunquit, which is my most favorite place to be on earth. After growing up in KS and moving to NH for three years, I spent many days off at the Maine Coast. When I discovered Ogunquit and Marginal Way, this is where I spent most of my time. I spent many hours walking on the rocks below the path and exploring tidal pools...all without ever getting slammed by a wave or slipping into the surf! This is a great place to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic, or a full moon rise...or come out after dark lay down on a bench and gaze at the stars! Great place to sit and enjoy the beauty. Listen to the "clapping rocks" below one of the sharper bends in the path. Plus it's a short walk to/from Perkin's Cove. Get some exercise, smile and wave at fellow walkers and enjoy the beauty of Marginal Way! read more

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Breathtaking. The photographs speak for themselves. I highly recommend getting up well before the crowds to enjoy this walk in peace. It's gorgeous at sunrise and you can snag up a private beach between the rocks! Also, don't be afraid to venture out on the rocks for some quiet and extraordinary views. Drinks and food can be found at both entrances. As long as you can comfortably walk, you will enjoy, but you can always turn back on the path! read more

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What an amazing scenic walk. I ran it and loved every step of the adventure so I decided to walk it again later in the day with my husband and took photos along the way. So many beautiful places to take photos and enjoy the beauty of the ocean! read more

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As we approached Perkins Cove, I passed on the opportunity to park in a private lot for $15 in favor of $7 for 2 hours in the town-owned lot. Had we continued on another 15 yards, we would have found 2 free parking spaces. Perkins Cove is picturesque but very small so after taking a few photos from the wooden bridge, we headed off for the equally picturesque Marginal Way. I found this gravel pathway that hugs the rugged coastline for over a mile to be even more impressive than the Cliff Walk in Newport. On our return to the parking lot, my wife attempted to pass our parking receipt on to another visitor but was caught in the act by the lot attendant and duly admonished. LOL read more

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Great view, lovely and extremely well-maintained walk on the ocean's edge. When you're done, have a glass of wine or a lobster roll at one of the many restaurants, or visit the touristy shops. read more

AN ABSOLUTELY MUST DO! MARGINAL WAY IN OGUNQUIT MAINE IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPOTS IN ALL OF AMERICA & IT'S FREE PEOPLE! These natural picturesque scenes where Ocean & Rocky Coastline collide are INCREDIBLE.! These are the kind of JAW DROPPING PICTURES that Europe puts in their commercials to lure American tourists to come to their country because you can't get this anywhere else on earth. And guess what it's right here in our own American backyard of Maine. Ogunquit ( is pronounced O Gun Quit) was named by the Abenaki tribe, it means "beautiful place by the sea" & indeed it is. Around every turn & corner there is a new natural magnificent magical spot that is different than the one you just passed 50 feet back. It is Only a 1 & 1/2 hour or so drive from Boston. There is a Lighthouse & 39 benches located on the 1 1/4 mile path along the breathtaking vistas of rocks & ocean. You might sit on a bench to take in the view or pull up a rock to blend in with nature. The water here is COOOOLD! But the scenery is SPECTACULAR! You will walk without even realizing you are exercising because you are just captivated by the natural beauty here. It sure beats walking on a treadmill. LOL! There is a quaint Maine village of shops, restaurants & Public Restrooms at the end called Perkins Cove. At the opposite end in downtown Ogunquit there are even more shops & Restaurants too. It used to be, you had to have Mega Bucks & be really Rich to have the Good Life, not anymore. The Game has changed. You've been Upgraded. Now You Can Live Like a King on a Limited Budget! read more

If you like your hiking trails paved, then this is the hike for you! You can walk Maine's rocky beaches without actually having to trip on rocks! Needless to say, the views are stunning. We came a couple weeks ago, when unfortunately a lot of the vegetation was dead. I'd like to come back when the flowers are bloom, I bet the beauty is overwhelming. read more

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

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Ugh. Yes the views are beautiful but Ogunquit is a cluster. Maybe I'd try going again in like, January but on a nice late summer Sunday, it's a mob of people and traffic. Parking lots charge $25 or if you're lucky you'll find one that charges $4 an hour. If you haven't pulled your hair out trying to park, you can make your way to one of the entrances. The walk itself is paved and fenced so it takes away a lot of the charm and increases congestion. Luckily there are places you can escape the crowds and go out onto the cliffs. Definitely a place for tourists, I prefer my walks more secluded. The cliff walk in York was much better, though shorter. read more

This place is a must see if you're in the area. A great walk with phenomenal views of the ocean and there are some small private private beach areas to chill out on and enjoy the experience up close and personal. Lots of benches along the way as well to sit down and relax. Can't go wrong here spending an hour or 2. read more

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

What a wonderful way to spend a couple hours on a summer afternoon. Very clean, beautiful views, and two nice little towns on either end, with good restaurants and ice cream stores, shopping, etc. Very well maintained! read more

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Four stars because they're only dog friendly after September. Otherwise a BEAUTIFUL stop. Lots of restaurants and shops on the adjacent street. Paid Parking available nearby near the police station. Nice walk along the coastline with many spots to climb out over the rocks or walk on the beach. read more

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A well-maintained path that hugs along the ocean and opens up to amazing views at every turn. There are many little side ventures one can take, whether it be walking down the rocks to dip your toes in the ocean water or climbing up a big boulder to get yet another incredible view. Since the path is well groomed with ample benches along the way, it is a very family-friendly walk with young children. For our children, the reward is at the end of the path. You go down a set of stairs and suddenly there is a small, but oh-so-beautiful sandy beach perfectly cornered in by several large rocks. With the large rocks in the water, it almost looks like a tropical beach. It's the perfect spot to go for a dip and cool off after walking on a hot summer day as the waves are mild. read more

Marginal Way Preservation Fund - Amazing views at every turn - Community Service/Non-Profit Near Me - Ogunquit, Maine

What could be more romantic or adventure entreating than a beach lined with rocks? I was in the adventurous mood, so my friends and I explored the rocks closest to the ocean. Was that stupid? Maybe,especially considering it was raining on and off, but what's life without a little exploration? We all left unscathed, anyway ;D The path for those only seeking to enjoy the view with their loved ones, friends, or family...or alone is very well maintained. I'd love to return to Marginal Way on a date someday. It's very peaceful, and if you check out the photographs, worth the walk. read more

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

Fantastic way to walk off a great meal! We started from Perkin's Cove parking lot and followed the Beautiful rugged Maine coastline. Watched some brave surfers catch some waves and took some of the best pictures. Make some time for this walk. read more

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Very Scenic Walk We walked from our hotel all the way to Perkins Cove. You walk right on top of the cliffs right next to the Ocean. The views are just awesome. There are benches along the way if you want to sit and look at the ocean while maybe having a glass of wine and snack. Beautiful at night as you can watch the sunset. You need good walking shoes or sneaks because the trail is just a path with a few challenging spots. We walked it both during the day and just before sunset. read more

Absolutely do not miss this. FREE. I suggest you have lunch after this walk as it's a bit lengthy & requires suitable shoes or at least flip flops. Quintessential Maine coastline walk with beautiful views worthy of a respite on one of the many benches or perched on one of the over hanging rocks. Breeze. Sail boats. Salty air. Local birds. Bring your camera! read more

The Marginal Way walk along the coastline of Ogunquit and Perkin's Cove is a MUST! The walk is a great hike and you can also mosey along stopping at benches along the way to see the coast of Maine and beyond. The water is beautiful and various hues of dark blues. The flora along the walk is gorgeous. And there's a lovely scent of garden roses (you can't do that along the Gulf Coast)! We were staying at a property that had an entrance on to the Marginal way which was very convenient. Fortunately, I wore a hat & brought water because it does get very toasty (sunny) along the hard surface pathway. AND the best part - it's FREE!! read more

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Very beautiful and scenic but crowded walk. Make sure you wear something comfortable. There are areas along the way too where you can stop to go swimming. There are also public bathrooms in Perkins cove and restaurants and shops. Parking in Perkins cove was $20. read more

If you're looking for some relaxation, this is your place. Take a seat on any of the benches along the path and get a different perspective of the rocky Maine coastline at each spot. Absolutely beautiful! A must-see when in Ogunquit. Also a perfect viewing point to watch the sunrise. Don't forget to checkout Perkins Cove at the end of Marginal Way. There you will find docked boats, a drawbridge, shops and good eats. read more

"Be sure there are no bees present before stopping to smell the flowers." "Do you smell that? Do you like it? Isn't that nice?" These and other words can be heard along this famous historic walk. Did you know the Marginal Way has been around for nearly a century? The path offers a nice long winding tour of the seaside. Not for the faint of heart, especially if you decide to go off the beaten path climbing down onto the rugged rock ledges. Trust that you can get a great photo of you do. You won't be disappointed. Just remember, don't disrupt nature or the bees! read more

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

Ogunquit came recommended, but honestly, Marginal Way was the only good thing about this town. It was crowded, overpriced, touristy, and traffic was a nightmare (it took us something like 45 minutes to drive 5 miles and get out of town). I enjoyed the walk and views on Marginal Way, but now that I've done that, I wouldn't bother with Ogunquit again. read more

Absolutely amazing. I'd been here 20 years ago and upon my recent return, it was just as beautiful as I remembered. It's a walk around the coast, between 1 and 2 miles. It takes you from the town area to Perkins Cove. It's a great way to connect the 2 areas, as opposed to a car, trolley, or street walk. Where you have the coast on one side, you have gorgeous homes on the other. It isnt very wide of a path but that was never a problem. Everyone else on it had very calm and leisure energy which I note because if fellow walkers were obnoxious or loud, itd impact an otherwise peaceful mindset. I walked it 2 out of 3 days. read more

This walkway is great! Just about a mile long it offers beautiful views of the water and of the homes that are sitting on the waterfront. I loved that there were so many benches throughout for people to sit on. There are little beach coves, rock ledges to walk out to, and just beautiful scenery! I had a great time getting around this path. read more

We stopped here in the middle of the week, before July 4th. We were on our way out of Maine after a stay in Freeport. There were already crowds in Ogunquit. Clearly much more of a tourist town than where we'd been. This is a nice walk, good view. It's a mile and a quarter one way, so about an hour or less, round trip. It is not entirely level, so be warned if you are not ready for uphills. The walk is fairly narrow, so there's a bit of "excuse me, pardon me" as parties passed in opposite directions. read more

If you take a trip to Ogunquit and don't walk the Marginal Way, there is something seriously wrong with your planning skills. Unless you're suffering from an unplanned-drunk-falling-over injury like my friend who visited it with me, just do it. Even if you're suffering from an unplanned-drunk-falling-over injury, you should still do it. I wish I could walk it everyday. read more

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I absolutely love the Marginal way. It is so beautiful to walk the length of no matter what time of year. You can watch beautiful sunsets from any point, and they have several benches along the entire way to just stop and take it all in. read more

Between the sunset and the alleged super moon, there couldn't have been a better time to wander The Marginal Way. If you don't know (like I didn't know), it's just a winding sidewalk that moves in and out of coves, winding its way along the ocean. There are paths and trails and you can hop onto any number of rocky crags. Yeah, I finally used the term Rocky Crag in a legit review. It's a lovely traipse suitable for all ages. It's a good spot to impress your aging grandmother. It's also a good spot to wear down your rambunctious children by having them scamper up and down rocky crags. ROCKY CRAG! read more

The Marginal Way is a gorgeous stroll along the cliffs above the ocean in Ogunquit. One of my most favorite memories of vacations in Maine is walking the Marginal Way with family and friends. We would bundle up (or at least bring a long sleeve as the breeze could be cool) and head out along the way, stopping to take in the scene of waves crashing and flowers blooming. And then we might climb along the cliffs, rest on a bench or head down to a beach below. I love stopping at the spot with the crooked trees too. Whenever I'm in Ogunquit I find my way here. Last time it was cool, but we heaed out anyway for the views and tranquility. It gets busy in the summer, and it's a narrow walkway so try to head out early in the morning and you might beat the crowd. read more

This is one of my all time favorite walks! Hadn't been in a while and the weather for the area that day wasn't predicted to be the best, but we thought let's give it a try. It was also a holiday weekend so we expected the entire area to be very busy and it was. We parked in one of the close by parking lots for not too bad of a price and crossed the street to the walkway leading to the Marginal Way. It was an overcast day and a bit windy by the ocean, but such a glorious walk. The views are amazing and there is just something about watching waves crash against the rock formations that can mesmerize you. The smell of the ocean is unrivaled! The walk is very doable for just about anyone. There are some areas a little steeper than others, but there are also numerous benches along the way if you need a rest. This particular day we walked the Way into Perkins Cove and then walked back along the street in order to check out some shops. Love it! Can't wait to go back! read more

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

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This is a MUST do if you are in or near Ogunquit. Yes, please take your time (whether its busy or not) taking in the sights and smells along the ocean. Sit at one of the many benches and as another yelper mentioned, head out onto the rocks to check out the pools. The entire way is now paved and there are no steps to climb. The seating areas now have nice and fairly even stone pavers to transition from the walk to the benches. The walk is just over a mile long, so its manageable by anyones standards. Whether is a crisp autumn day, a summer breezy day, or even a moonlight lit crisp winter day, the walk is simply worth the trip. read more

I'm not sure how something so beautiful can get less than five stars. This was a wonderful walk, varying in slope and view. It was lovely, well maintained, and had plenty of seating along the way. If you're in the area, I think it's a must to walk the way and take a look at the breathtaking views of Wells and the ocean. read more