Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Perkins Cove is one of those places in Maine that feels like it was made for postcards. Tucked into the southern coast in the town of Ogunquit, this little fishing village has all the hallmarks of a perfect New England day trip: salty air, lobster shacks, local shops, and ocean views that go on forever. I have visited Perkins Cove more times than I can count, and each time I find something new to love. Whether you are here for the seafood, the scenery, or just to slow down and breathe in the sea breeze, it is a spot I always recommend.
Getting There
Perkins Cove is part of Ogunquit and is located just over an hour north of Boston. If you are planning a coastal Maine road trip or staying anywhere between Kennebunkport and York, it is an easy addition to your itinerary. Parking can be tight in the summer months, so I recommend arriving earlier in the day or taking the Ogunquit Trolley, which is a fun and stress-free way to get around.
Start With a Stroll Along the Marginal Way
One of the best ways to arrive at Perkins Cove is by walking the Marginal Way, a paved cliffside path that runs about a mile from Ogunquit Beach right into the cove. The walk itself is worth the trip. You will see waves crashing on rocks, sailboats dotting the horizon, and plenty of benches if you want to sit and take it all in. I usually grab a coffee before starting the walk and take my time. Early morning is especially peaceful.
See more about walking the Marginal Way
Exploring Perkins Cove
The cove itself is small, more of a pocket-sized harbor than a bustling port, but that is exactly its charm. You will find a handful of art galleries, jewelry shops, and locally owned boutiques lining the edge of the cove. It is the kind of place where you can meet the artist behind the watercolor print or chat with the jeweler about the sea glass in their designs.
As a travel agent, I often get asked if Perkins Cove is worth it as a stop. My answer is always yes, but not because there is a list of things to check off. It is about the feel of the place. The mix of salty sea air and warm summer sun. The wooden footbridge that still has a hand-cranked drawbridge mechanism, and yes, it really works. The way the lobster boats bob in the harbor like they have been there forever.
Don’t Miss the Lobster
You cannot talk about Perkins Cove without mentioning the food, and yes, you should get the lobster roll. There are a few restaurants that serve fresh-caught seafood right on the water, but Barnacle Billy’s is probably the most well known. I have had clients come back raving about the clam chowder and the rum punch. There is nothing fancy about it, and that is part of the appeal. You order at the counter, grab a table overlooking the cove, and enjoy some of the freshest lobster you will ever eat.
If you are looking for something a bit more sit-down, MC Perkins Cove offers a more upscale experience with sweeping views of the Atlantic. It is perfect for a sunset dinner if you are staying in the area.
Boat Tours and Sailing Trips
For those who want to get out on the water, Perkins Cove is a great launch point. You can take a scenic cruise along the coast, join a lobstering tour where you help pull up traps, or even hop on a sailboat for a sunset ride. These tours fill up fast in summer, so I usually recommend booking ahead. That is something I can help arrange for clients.
One of the things I love about these small boat tours is how personal they are. You get a sense of the history, the rhythms of coastal life, and often a few great stories from the captain.
When to Visit
Summer is peak season and it is when the cove is at its liveliest. Shops are open, flowers are in bloom, and boats are coming and going. But do not overlook late spring or early fall. The weather is still lovely and there are fewer crowds. In October, you will even get some fall foliage mixed with ocean views, which is a pretty special combination.
If you are planning to include Perkins Cove in a longer Maine itinerary, it pairs well with nearby stops such as Ogunquit Beach, Kennebunkport, and even Portsmouth, New Hampshire just across the state line.
Final Thoughts
Perkins Cove may be small, but it has a way of making a big impression. It is one of those places that feels like Maine in miniature. A working harbor, a coastal path, independent shops, and the kind of lobster roll that leaves you thinking about your next trip back. Whether you are building a week-long coastal Maine itinerary or just looking for a memorable afternoon stop, I always suggest making time for Perkins Cove.
And if you are planning a New England getaway and are not quite sure where to start, I would love to help you plan the perfect route, with plenty of spots like this tucked in along the way.
