Guide

Best Beaches in Ogunquit

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Destinations

Ogunquit's beaches offer soft sand, clear water, and plenty of space to spread out. Here's where to swim, walk, and watch the sunset.

Ogunquit sits on a stretch of southern Maine coast that draws swimmers, walkers, and families all summer long. Whether you want a quiet stroll across the Footbridge, a full day of sunbathing at Ogunquit Beach, or a spot to swim with your kids, the town has a beach for your mood. We've rounded up four standouts, each with its own character and what visitors keep coming back for.

Tips for Your Visit

Visit Footbridge Beach and Main Beach in shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and easier parking. Ogunquit Beach and Ogunquit Public Beach get packed in summer, so arrive early if that's when you're going. Bring layers: the Atlantic is cold year round. Check tide times before you head out, especially if you're visiting Main Beach or Ogunquit Public Beach, where tides affect how much sand you'll have. Parking can be tight and pricey at peak times, so budget extra time. If you're planning to float or swim, bring a tube or floatie. Lifeguards are on duty at Ogunquit Public Beach; the other beaches don't have them.

Footbridge Beach

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Footbridge Beach lives up to its name. You reach it by walking across a short, scenic footbridge that opens onto a long, wide stretch of soft sand. It's one of the quieter options in Ogunquit, especially if you visit off season, and dog owners particularly love it for a calm afternoon walk.

The views here are genuinely stunning. You'll see the coastline wrap around the end, and on a clear day the light on the water feels almost cinematic. Visitors praise the sand quality and the cleanliness of the beach. There's no foot wash station, but that's a minor quibble. One recent visitor noted that the beach and the footbridge itself attract respectful, lovely crowds.

Ogunquit Beach

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This is the big, popular beach in town. Wide stretches of white sand, plenty of room to sunbathe and picnic, and good swimming when the water's not too cold. Parking is right along the shoreline, and there are bathrooms on site. It fills up in summer, but visitors report it's busy without feeling overwhelming.

The beach is clean and well maintained. The water is cold and clear, and the whitecaps pattern nicely against the rocky coastline. Ogunquit Beach also hosts community events like Christmas by the Sea in December, which includes a bonfire and fireworks on the sand. Even regulars say it doesn't lose its appeal: one visitor wrote that no matter how many times they return, it feels magical.

Main Beach

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Main Beach is smaller and more intimate than its neighbors. The soft sand and expansive shoreline at low tide make it a good spot to relax and take in the scenery. Parking and restrooms are available in the lot next to the beach.

The water is cold, but the warm, friendly atmosphere makes up for it. Families with young kids find it appealing, especially for wading and floating. One visitor brought five children and found the inlet calm and safe for swimming, though there are no lifeguards on duty. Tide matters here: the beach shrinks as the tide comes in, so arriving early gives you more space.

Ogunquit Public Beach

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This is a busier, more action-oriented beach. Clean sand, good parking and restrooms, and lifeguards on duty during peak season. It's popular with families and groups who want to play games and swim together.

Ogunquit Public Beach has a gentle inlet and current that make it fun for floating on tubes, which visitors mention as a highlight. Information about tides and currents is posted on site, which is helpful since the tide comes in further throughout the day. Parking fills up, so arriving early is wise. Plan on walking a bit for cheaper parking if you arrive later. Expect crowds, especially on warm days, but the beach is large enough to find your own space.