Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, Maine
Updated: Sep 3
The most adorable little coastal destination
A postcard perfect destination
As a small child I gleefully consumed my very first Maine lobster at the landmark Barnacle Billy's restaurant in Perkins Cove , which is tucked at the south end of the town of Ogunquit and the south end of the impossibly beautiful coastal cliff walk, The Marginal Way. "Billy's" was and remains the salty casual kind of eatery you are delighted to find if you seek the dining vibe that harks back "from the day." It's also indicative of the quintessentially New England charm of Perkins Cove.
This picturesque harbor has been a draw to throngs of fisherman, artists, summer residents, and tourists alike, for more than a century.
A history of art, fishing, hardscrabble locals, and summers under parasols
Perkins Cove in Ogunquit has a colorful and storied Maine history. For more than 100 years "The Cove" has been a working fishing and lobstering harbor, an artist colony landmark, and for generations, a destination for visitors seeking the kind of vacation spot that feels a bit like stepping back in time— or still feels authentic enough that you can close your eyes and imagine it generations ago.
This darling New England spot can only be described as "insta-worthy," so much so that Perkins Cove is known to be one the most photographed places in southern Maine.
Galleries, boutiques, souvenir shops
There's something special about a favorite souvenir from a beloved destination. Local shops' offerings include Perkins Cove branded apparel, beach and resort wear, jewelry, local arts & crafts, and fine collectible art. In the heart of the cove shops like Dock Square Clothiers, Perkins Cove Pottery Shop, and The Laughing Gull will let you gleefully mark 'complete' on your vacay shopping list. For art collectors, cove galleries include Todd Bonita Art Gallery, TaleSpin Studio, and The Maine Art Collective, which showcases the works of dozens of wonderful local artists.
Dining with a view
Dining and snacking, no matter your taste, is a rewarding and indulgent experience in Perkins Cove. Most restaurants have lovely views from indoor dining rooms and summer patios. And it wouldn't be proper trip to Maine without sampling something lobster.
Favorite ways to indulge in fresh "Maine Lobstah" include a classic lobster roll, creamy lobster bisque, steamed lobster, or lobster salad. Some of the Perkins Cove eateries to discover include The Lobster Shack, Jackie's Too, Barnacle Billy's Etc., and for a little more upscale dining, M.C. Perkins Cove.
To satisfy a sweet tooth with ice cream, handcrafted chocolates, sweet pastry, and coffee drinks, there are some decadent offerings to be discovered at Ayla's Sweet Wonder, Perkins Cove Candies, and Compass Rose Creamery.
"Two if by sea" - out on the water
Imagine...The soothing sound of the ocean gently lapping the wooden hull of a vintage sailing sloop, the Silver Lining, or the peals of laughter when your grandchild (or you!) holds a live Maine Lobster on a lobster cruise adventure aboard the Salty Lewer, or the fun of landing a Haddock on charter fishing trip aboard the Bunny Clark Charter Fishing boat, or to inhale the briny breeze as you cruise on the tour boat, the Finestkind, past landmarks along the coast, Ogunquit's Perkins Cove is home to several boat cruise companies, and this is a marvelous way to see Ogunquit, Ogunquit Beach, Nubble Lighthouse, and the abundant wildlife in and around these waters.
The drawbridge
The landmark white wooden Perkins Cove Drawbridge has been a fixture since 1890. Built originally to allow fisherman to cross from the other side over the narrow harbor, it has evolved to become one of the prettiest landmarks in Ogunquit. The 40-foot double-leaf draw-footbridge spans the narrow entrance to the cove's inner basin. Fisherman and charter captains can sound a horn for someone nearby to open the bridge to pass through as the head out to fish, or sail, and as they return with the day's catch and their happy passengers.
The Marginal Way
Ogunquit's 101-year-old coastal path begins (or ends) in Perkins Cove. This mile-plus walk meanders along the rocky cliffs from "The Cove" to center Ogunquit. A gently sloping paved path takes walkers along the shoreline from above the wave-washed rocks and jagged shale. The views out over the ocean, north to Ogunquit Beach and south to Perkins Cove, and beyond to York are breathtaking. Along the land side are the coastal homes, some old, more quite new, that have the prestige of being perched on such a magnificent stretch of coastline. Along the way are little beaches that can be accessed at lower tides and offer a chance for a swim or a picnic.
How to get there & where to park
Located on Perkins Cove Road in Ogunquit. Just over a mile from downtown Ogunquit, visitors can walk, bike, or take The Ogunquit Trolley, The Ogunquit Shuttle Cart, or stroll The Marginal Way on foot. Driving? Set your GPS for Perkins Cove Road. Parking is available at three locations. Just outside the entrance to the cove is Perkins Parking, a paid lot offering daily rates. In Perkins Cove daily paid parking is available at a private lot, Barnacle Billy's Parking, and in the heart of the cove some hourly paid parking spots are available. At the height of the summer season parking can be a challenge and many savvy visitors choose to leave their cars at their accommodations and enjoy the walk.
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