The Marginal Way is the walk that defines Ogunquit. It is a footpath of roughly a mile and a quarter that threads along the edge of the rocky shoreline, starting near the village beaches and ending at the little harbor of Perkins Cove. The path is paved for much of its length, lined with beach roses, bayberry and shrubs that bend in the wind, and dotted with benches where people sit and watch the surf break on the granite ledges below. The land was put together in the early twentieth century so that the shoreline would stay open to walkers, and it is still a public right of way, free to use and open all year. It is not a hike in the mountain sense. It is a stroll that most visitors finish in under an hour, but almost nobody does it that fast, because every few steps there is another angle on the water, another pocket cove or another bench with a view of a passing lobster boat.
The route
Most people begin at the village end near Shore Road and walk toward Perkins Cove, because the walk ends at a place with food, drink and shops. The path rises and dips along the bluffs, with a few short flights of steps and some stretches where the surface is narrow or uneven. Strollers and wheelchairs can manage parts of it, but the whole length is not step-free, so check conditions before you set out with a wheeled device.
Along the way there are small side paths down toward the rocks, though the ledges can be slick with spray and seaweed, so keep children close and stay off the wet black rock near the waterline.
What you will see
The Marginal Way looks out over open Atlantic, and on a clear day the horizon is a flat line of blue with the occasional sail. Closer in you will pass sea-carved coves, tide pools at low water, cormorants on offshore ledges and the large summer houses that sit just inland. Wildflowers and berries change with the season, so the walk looks different in June, August and October.
Benches carry small plaques in memory of people who loved the path, and many visitors pick a bench, read the plaque and sit for a while. Sunrise is a particular treat when the shoreline is quiet and the light turns the rock gold.
Making the most of it
A good plan is to walk one way and return by trolley or by a different route, which saves the half hour of retracing your steps. Wear shoes with grip rather than flip-flops, bring water, and carry a light jacket, since the breeze off the water is cooler than the village. In July and August the path is busiest around midday, so go early in the morning or around sunset for space and soft light.
After a storm, waves can throw spray onto the lower sections, and in winter ice can form on shaded patches, so use common sense and turn back if conditions look rough. Dogs are generally allowed on leash on public paths, but check local posted rules for the season.
Who it suits
Couples, families with school-age children, photographers, birdwatchers and anyone who wants the signature coastal experience of the area without buying a ticket. It pairs naturally with lunch in Perkins Cove, a cruise from the harbor or a visit to the nearby art museum. If you only have time for one thing in Ogunquit, this is the thing. It costs nothing, takes little time and gives a better sense of the place than almost anything else you could book.
What to expect
The experience
A paved shore path of about a mile and a quarter with benches, steps and ocean views.
Best time
Early morning or sunset; shoulder seasons for fewer people.
How long
Plan about an hour one way, longer with stops.
Tips
Wear grip shoes, bring water, and avoid the wet rocks near the waterline.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants the classic Ogunquit experience for free.
- Families
- Good for school-age children who can handle steps; a stroller will struggle in places.
- Couples
- Sunrise or sunset walk with a bench stop.
- Pair with
- Lunch at Perkins Cove or a harbor cruise.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is the Marginal Way free?+
Yes. It is a public path with no admission charge.
How long is the walk?+
About a mile and a quarter one way, which most people take in under an hour.
Is it stroller or wheelchair friendly?+
Parts are paved and flat, but there are steps and uneven spots, so the full length is not fully accessible.
Which direction should I walk?+
Most people start at the village end and finish at Perkins Cove, where there is food and a trolley stop.
Can I swim from the path?+
No. The shore is rocky and surf can be dangerous. Use the beaches for swimming.