Anyone who's spent time living in the northeast knows you long for summer days spent relaxing by the frigid Atlantic Ocean. Few places capture that idyllic New England charm like Ogunquit, ME — with its miles of beaches, thriving arts scene + taste for seafood. It's no wonder that this destination has been lauded as one of the best beach towns you've never heard of.

Hi, SDtoday editor Michael here.Before moving to San Diego, I grew up on the East Coast, and I built many memories on the beaches of Ogunquit. Looking at photos, I remember days with my family, the chilly ocean water, and the taste of freshly pulled salt water taffy.

Footbridge Beach has to get its name somewhere. | Photo via SDtoday

Why go?

Ogunquit wouldn't be a beach town without its three miles of beaches, whether you wave hello to Main, Footbridge, or North beaches. Come prepared to spend the day with family — Ogunquit has been named one of New England's best family beaches.
The town celebrates its culture + history with festivals throughout the year. In early June, the town celebrates its LGBTQ+ community with Ogunquit Pride then dives into its history during BonAire! Locals enjoy holiday celebrations throughout each season like fall's OgunquitFest, Christmas by the Sea, or Splash into Spring.
Keep up with news in the area. Learn from locals via the Ogunquit Barometer or expand your boundaries with The Weekly Sentinel that covers Ogunquit + nearby towns in York County. Or, get ideas from The Maine's "48 hours in Ogunquit."

Floating into Ogunquit. | Photo via SDtoday

Act like a local

Outdoors: Ogunquit has history as a fishing town, and Perkins Cove does a reely good job keeping that spirit alive. You can also browse artists' shops, snap a picture or the footbridge, and pick up some saltwater taffy.
Food: Seafood is a must, and you butter get some lobster — Ogunquit Beach Lobster House is always a great option.
Watch: Don't miss curtain call, the Ogunquit Playhouse is the spot to catch a show.
Explore: Walk along the Atlantic Ocean on Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile path with 39 benches and plenty of scenery.
Drink: Start your morning like a local with coffee from Bread & Roses Bakery, or pick up a pastry to end the day with a delicious dessert.

Spend the night in Ogunquit Center. | Photo via Vrbo.

Where to stay

Vrbo: Bring the family to this Cottage Street home and stay at this 3 BD, 1 BA home in the heart of Ogunquit Center that's a 12-minute walk to the beach. (~$200/night)*
Airbnb: Sunny Beach Cottage sleeps seven, and is a quarter mile from Footbridge Beach. (~$285/night)
Splurge hotel: Anchorage By the Sea offers beachfront views, upscale dining, and modern comforts. (~$164/night)
Save hotel: The Admiral's Inn offers a beach-friendly atmosphere with pools + dining that's withing walking distance to town center and the ocean. (~$102/night)