Perkins Cove
Perkins Cove
4.5
About
This charming fishing village is one of the most picturesque spots in southern Maine. It’s renowned for its fresh seafood, such as lobsters, oysters, clams, and crabs, which you can catch on a private or group fishing tour. After a sumptuous seafood meal, tackle the Marginal Way, a cliff walk famous for its excellent harbor views and scenic lookouts.
This coastal enclave is busiest in the summer when vacationers descend on its turquoise beaches. It’s also a haven for art lovers—check out the galleries and local boutiques selling quirky knick-knacks and handicrafts.
– Tripadvisor
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view










What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Perkins Cove and nearby attractions
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
84 within 3 miles
Attractions
52 within 6 miles
See what other travelers are saying
- SUEZQANGELHamilton Square, New Jersey53 contributionsA nice reward after strolling down the Marginal WayWe walked the Marginal Way from our downtown Ogunquit lodging (see separate review for The Terrace by the Sea) for an early dinner/late lunch). The end stop was in beautiful Perkins Cove. Due to Covid or perhaps off season (first full week of October), several of the quaint shops were not open. The shops that were open offered a variety of goods, souvenirs, jewelry and artwork. We found the shops diligent in their Covid protocols. Parking was all metered and seemed plentiful for the off season- not sure it would be sufficient on a busier in season visit. This picturesque enclave was a great way to dine after our Marginal Way stroll. We enjoyed the Lobster Shack meal of lobster, lobster roll and chowder. The public restrooms were clean and the signage at the pier was helpful. There are several boat tours available at the pier as well. Many of the restaurants offered take out or outside dining. It was a pleasant way to spend a few hours and offered great picture taking opportunities.Visited October 2020Traveled as a coupleWritten October 11, 2020
- Brian KSchenectady, New York677 contributionsWent TwicePeaceful spot next to shops and the ocean. Just a great space to explore and watch the lobster boats come in for off load. Great stop after Marginal Way. The pay parking lot is full but there are always people leaving so we were able to park the two times we went there.Visited October 2020Written October 31, 2020
- Barbara LWorcester, Massachusetts11 contributionsA cove to enjoyBeautiful place to explore nature. The marginal walk is fantastic, the cove is appealing, the bridge the raises up for tall boats to enter or leave, it has fishing cruises, sightseeing cruises, sailboat cruises, great seafood restaurants, unique stores that are quaint, bathrooms available, just a fun place to walk, it could take half your day or more depending on what you do here. Parking is a problem at busy times, and you must pay by the hour.Visited May 2019Written March 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,490 reviews
Excellent
1,642
Very good
655
Average
157
Poor
26
Terrible
10
jack M
New York City, NY1,222 contributions
Sep 2020
Came back here two years later. Realized that the only reason this spot is famous is because it is the start and end of the Marginal Way, a very beautiful long trail around rocks and coves.
As for the cove itself it is a disgusting tourist trap. Restaurants with mediocre food and high prices. Also stopped at one restaurant for lunch at exactly 12:05 PM and were told that it had closed for the day. Pathetic! And the parking. All residents of the cove allow parking on their property for a fee (anything between $20 and $30). A real legalized rip off. I will never come up to walk the Marginal Way from this cove again.
As for the cove itself it is a disgusting tourist trap. Restaurants with mediocre food and high prices. Also stopped at one restaurant for lunch at exactly 12:05 PM and were told that it had closed for the day. Pathetic! And the parking. All residents of the cove allow parking on their property for a fee (anything between $20 and $30). A real legalized rip off. I will never come up to walk the Marginal Way from this cove again.
Written September 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
philc57
Raynham, MA45 contributions
Jul 2021
Very nice area accessible by foot trolley vehicle although parking seems to fill fast. Nice shops ,restaurant /lounges, fishing, sightseeing, lobster boat tours are available Marginal way walk starts or finishes here depending on which way you look at it. Seems to be something for everyone and for all ages
Written August 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda S
Aventura, FL23 contributions
Jul 2021
Very lovely area - pack to the gills. Parking is at lots ($20-25) all over the area - and almost impossible to find. Lotts of little restaurants and shops to wander about. You get the Finestkind Boat tours from here. Nubble cruise was beautiful?
Written August 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cac1234
Germantown, NY2,085 contributions
Jun 2022
Perkins Cove has something for everyone. There are a few different (paid) parking lots or one may walk down Shore Road or the Marginal Way to reach the area with shops including art galleries and jewelry stores, and restaurants. From the Cove one may go on a sailboat or other boat excursion. There is a nice little harbor and wonderful drawbridge to walk across. It is a nice place to spend part of a day!
Written June 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Trish W
McMurray, PA949 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
A very cute little town with a working harbor, lots of little shops and restaurants, and a pretty footbridge that has to be raised at high tide for boats to come and go. We were standing on the bridge when The Finest Kind boat was coming in. They were yelling, "push the button to raise the bridge," so we did, and lowered it after they passed through. Take a boat ride, walk the Marginal Trail, or eat at one of the seaside restaurants.
Written September 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
NHjo
Saco, ME8,246 contributions
May 2023 • Solo
Parking is very limited at Perkins Cove, so if you don't get there early during tourist season or you're not a walker, you're out of luck. Some of the restaurants and gift shops are very good, like Perkins Cove Candies and Jack's Too Restaurant, and the views are great. I've been going here for decades, and one of my favorite parts of Perkins Cove is the iconic draw bridge.
Written May 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ann Z
Phoenixville, PA63 contributions
Sep 2021
Walked the Marginal Way to Perkins Cove and it was by far the cutest little destination with plenty of shops and restaurants. We took stunning photos from the bridge of the colorful boats and flowers. Most beautiful part of Ogunquit!
Written October 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Susan R
7 contributions
Jul 2021
Don.t forget your camera! This is by far the most scenic place in Ogunquit with its rocky shoreline on one side and picturesque cove filled with boats on the other side. In the middle is a delightful maze of shops and eateries. The stunning white drawbridge and cove are photos that must be had and the flowers and garden gate at Barnacle Billys are a must snap too! Definitely a must do while visiting!
Written August 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SkeeLovr
Hallowell, ME452 contributions
Aug 2020
Sweet spot! Dining, shopping, sea views, salt air! Check out the footbridge. Watch it open when the boats come in. Make a reservation at one of the many charter fishing operations or take one of the many boat excursion tours located there. One caveat: if you drive, parking is scarce and at a premium. Worth the visit, however!
Written August 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paula B
Webster, MA1 contribution
Oct 2022 • Family
Authentic Maine fishing village. In this enclave of Ogunquit, located just south of the town center, explore an array of shops, restaurants and scenic walking routes.
Shop along the streets of Perkins Cove. Browse through boutiques selling locally made wares and unique gifts. See local talent on display in the many art galleries in town.
Shop along the streets of Perkins Cove. Browse through boutiques selling locally made wares and unique gifts. See local talent on display in the many art galleries in town.
Written October 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Es ce qu’il y a un coût pour visiter le sentier de marginal way ? Es ce bien pour une famille avec 4 enfants 5 ans 6 ans 7 ans 10 ans ?
Sandra N
Warren, PA103 contributions
No cost to take the way. Yes children.
Does the bus from York to Perkins Cove run during lunch and supper?
Mark P
18 contributions
I would think so!
Where do you start to walk the way..is it 8 shore road? Parking?
lsaurenman
Sierra Madre, CA32 contributions
Hi Karen
It starts in the parking lot across from Barnicle Billy’s and goes to before you get to the business district where the road to go down to the beach is. If you are starting from that end, walk a little way out of the business area in the main road and you will see a small sign indicating access to the trail. Have fun!😊
JayKay05
Fresno, CA24 contributions
For family with children 11, 6,3 what should we do to interest them?
Michael H
Trumbull, CT109 contributions
There,a. Zoo on US 1 in York. Kittery Trading Post is like Bass Pro or Cabela's. Old Orchard Beach has amusement park. Lots of beaches all along coast. Yummy 's candy store on U S 1 in York - advertise 10,000 lbs of candy.
1piddlineasy
Meadows of Dan, VA1 contribution
Will all the shops be open the first week of October and is this a good time to go?
Phil T
Pascoag, RI5 contributions
I THINK that some would be closed by then but we have not been there that late in the year for a long time. We usually go in September after the schools open and most, if not all, are still open then.
1piddlineasy
Meadows of Dan, VA1 contribution
Is Sept. 29th through Oct. 6 a good time to go to Perkins Cove? Will it be crowded and will all the shops be open?
CherylHy
Haverhill, MA30 contributions
After Labor Day things start to wind down at Perkins Cove. If you have some specific shops you want to visit, I'd check on line to see if they're open and what their hours are. I've never gone to Perkins Cove after Labor Day - I'm thinking that if the weather is nice, it might be a good time to visit. It does get cold and sometimes windy there where it's right on the ocean.
Sandy205
Little Compton52 contributions
Am going to be in the Perkins Cove area on Sunday, April 29th. Will the shops in Perkins Cove be open? I have read that some do not open until May. I would be disappointed to visit if all the shops are closed. Would appreciate any information.
Thanks
CyndyandByron
Bridgeton, NJ910 contributions
If the weather is forecast to be good, many owners get a jump on the season. It is a short season so any extra days mean money in the owner's pocket. Most of the shopowner's have websites so try communicating prior to arrival. If you are staying at a hotel, they will also know the local information. Perkins Cove has some restaurants that are open on the weekend in the early season, but not during the week. They all have websites and season updates. So it is possible to get some idea of available locations prior to arrival.
andisutherland56
Randolph Center, VT
Is a prepaid ticket necessary for the Trolley from York Perkins Cove ME
charm3
Terryville, CT117 contributions
No pay exact cash onboard. No change provided
Plourde1340
Rochester, NH5 contributions
Is there a trolley/bus from Long Sands in York to Perkins Cove?
Doubleabret
Maine, United States7 contributions
There is a shuttle (purple line) that runs from Perkins Cove to Short Sands beach. You would either then walk to Long Sands or take a transfer to the York trolley.
Plourde1340
Rochester, NH5 contributions
Is there a bus/trolley from Long Sands in York to Perkins Cove?
Barbara M
New York City, NY99 contributions
I'm sorry we had our car but walked most everywhere so I don't know.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingPerkins Cove - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Perkins Cove
- We recommend booking Perkins Cove tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 Perkins Cove tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Perkins Cove:
- (0.02 mi) Ogunquit’s only Oceanfront Cottage on Private Ocean Beach – Perkins Cove, Maine
- (0.02 mi) Oceanfront - Glorious Views of Perkins Cove
- (0.03 mi) Modern property in the heart of Perkins Cove with amazing views of the Atlantic
- (0.05 mi) Auberge on the Cove
- (0.09 mi) Located Steps From Perkins Cove, Enjoy Shopping, Dining, & Beach--Full A/C!
- Restaurants near Perkins Cove:
- (0.01 mi) Footbridge Lobster
- (0.02 mi) Lobster Shack
- (0.03 mi) M.C. Perkins Cove
- (0.04 mi) The Trap
- (0.10 mi) Oarweed Cove Restaurant
- Attractions near Perkins Cove:
- (0.02 mi) Dunegrass Collection
- (0.02 mi) Sail Me
- (0.03 mi) Sail the Gift
- (0.03 mi) The Spot
- (0.03 mi) Perkins Cove Candies
Perkins Cove Information
Excellent Reviews | 1,642 |
---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 655 |
Perkins Cove Photos | 638 |