Exploring Activities in Southern Maine: A Guide
**Discovering the Charm of Southern Maine: A Guide to Ogunquit, Kennebunk, and Beyond**
Southern Maine, home to picturesque coastal towns, vibrant art scenes, and a rich cultural heritage, offers a myriad of experiences for visitors. One such gem is Ogunquit, a coastal town known for its old-world charm, beautiful beaches, and artistic enclaves.
**Ogunquit's Attractions**
Ogunquit Beach, a 3.5-mile stretch of soft sand, is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and shell collecting. The beach is family-friendly, with facilities including food stands, restrooms, and a sheltered seating area. For those interested in exploring the local wildlife, the beach is an ideal spot for bird watching[1][2][4].
Perkins Cove, a picturesque fishing village just south of the town center, is famous for its charming harbor, hand-operated footbridge, shops, dining, and boat tours. It offers a quaint, scenic waterfront experience[1][2]. The area is also home to Perkins Mini Golf, a fun and family-friendly activity[1].
Marginal Way, a 1-mile paved coastal walking path between Perkins Cove and Ogunquit Beach, offers stunning ocean views, access to small beaches, and opportunities to see local wildlife like piping plovers[1][2]. The path leads to the out-of-use Marginal Way Lighthouse, adding a touch of history to the walk[1].
The Ogunquit Museum of American Art, dedicated to American modern art, features works by notable Maine artists. The museum also boasts an oceanfront sculpture garden, providing a cultural and artistic complement to Ogunquit’s natural beauty[1][2].
The Ogunquit Playhouse, a historic theater, is renowned for Broadway-caliber performances in an intimate setting. It brings performing arts to this seaside town and is a significant cultural attraction[1][2].
For those interested in local history and architecture, the Ogunquit Memorial Library, a fairy tale-like fieldstone building with historic paintings and antique furnishings, is a must-visit[1].
Additional experiences include strolling through the lively town center with its variety of restaurants, galleries, and shops, and taking a ride on the vintage Ogunquit Trolley that stops around town and at the beach for an easy and charming way to get around[1].
**Exploring Kennebunk and Beyond**
Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, known for their old-world charm, beautiful beaches, and lobster and seafood, are also worth a visit. Kennebunkport is the main vacation destination of the two towns, with beaches like Gooch's Beach, Middle Beach, and Mother's Beach[3].
Maine Art Hill in Kennebunk has a collection of galleries and studios showcasing local artists[5]. The Wedding Cake House, an architecturally unique building, is another attraction in Kennebunk[5].
For a luxurious stay, consider Hidden Pond in Kennebunkport, a resort surrounded by forest and offering organic dining[6]. The Shoreline Explorer also operates dedicated trolleys for Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, making exploration easy[7].
York Harbor Beach, great for families, offers opportunities for tidepooling. York is also home to the Nubble Lighthouse, one of the most photographed spots in Southern Maine[8].
In Wells, the Maine Diner, a famous diner featured on the Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, is a must-visit[9]. The town is also home to the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Reserve, which includes 14,000 acres of protected coastal areas and four trails to choose from[10].
For those seeking a unique accommodation experience, Huttopia Southern Maine is a stylish glamping spot with on-site amenities for families[11]. The Front Porch in Ogunquit, a destination restaurant and piano lounge serving American fare, is another popular spot[12].
In Kennebunkport, Rococo Artisan Ice Cream offers a variety of inventive ice cream flavors, while HB Provisions is known for its legendary whoopie pies[13]. The Nonantum Resort, offering a variety of amenities along the Kennebunk River, and the Nellie Littlefield Inn & Spa, a charming hotel with a picturesque exterior, are excellent choices for accommodation[14][15].
The First Families Kennebunkport Museum, a historic home with guided tours available, and the Seashore Trolley Museum, with an impressive collection of vintage streetcars and trolleys, are worth a visit[16][17].
The Southern Maine region, which encompasses Portland and everything south of the city, offers a combination of natural beauty, cultural enrichment, and local charm that make it a must-visit destination in New England[18]. With its diverse attractions and experiences, Southern Maine promises an unforgettable getaway.
[1] https://www.visitogunquit.org/ [2] https://www.travelnewengland.com/destinations/maines-coast/ogunquit/ [3] https://www.discoverkennebunkport.com/ [4] https://www.visitmaine.com/destinations/kennebunkport/ [5] https://www.visitmaine.com/destinations/kennebunk/ [6] https://www.hiddenpond.com/ [7] https://www.shorelineexplorer.com/ [8] https://www.visitmaine.com/destinations/york/ [9] https://www.mainediner.com/ [10] https://www.fws.gov/refuge/rachel_carson/ [11] https://us.huttopia.com/en/campsites/usa/maine/kennebunkport/huttopia-southern-maine [12] https://thefrontporchogunquit.com/ [13] https://www.rococoogunquit.com/ [14] https://www.nonantumresort.com/ [15] https://www.nellielittlefieldinn.com/ [16] https://www.firstfamilieskennebunkport.org/ [17] https://www.trolleymuseum.org/ [18] https://www.visitmaine.com/destinations/southern-maine/
In Southern Maine, one can discover a fusion of lifestyle and home-and-garden experiences, such as strolling through the vibrant town center filled with restaurants, galleries, and shops in Ogunquit. Meanwhile, travelers exploring Kennebunk and beyond can visit Kennebunkport's famous Maine Art Hill, showcasing local artists, or the Maine Diner, a renowned eatery in Wells, offering a unique dining experience.
