Throughout the summer, most New Englanders flock to the Cape to spend their vacation days at the beach, probably fearing great white sharks. I, on the other hand, have been heading up to Ogunquit, Maine for a week every summer since I was two years old. Not only is Ogunquit one of Maine's most treasured vacation spots, but it also offers more than just a pretty postcard. This southeastern town on Maine's beautiful coast has brought my family memories for a lifetime and for that reason, here are my five favorite things about Ogunquit:
1. The Trolleys!
Many of the small Maine vacation towns offer a unique form of transportation. They are known as the trolleys. The Ogunquit trolleys have a distinct red and green theme that can be spotted from miles away. They circle the town, bringing people from the beach, to Perkins Cove, to downtown Ogunquit, and there is a stop at almost every hotel. Not only are the trolleys, a convenient ride, they each have their own personality, with a quirky trolley driver acting as the voice of Ogunquit. Each trolley even has their own name, rhyming with-you guessed it-trolley! So whether you're on Molly, Lolly, Polly or Dolly, you're in for a pleasurable experience.
2. Downtown Ogunquit
Downtown Ogunquit is the hub of the town. It is right near the beach and only a mile away from most hotels. There are numerous shops and restaurants for all ages. At night, it can be nearly impossible to walk down the sidewalk because of the crowds of families. My personal favorite pub is Maxwell's, and if you love candy, be sure to stop at the Harbor Candy Shop!
3. Perkins Cove
Perkins Cove is perhaps one of the most famous destinations in Ogunquit. You can either walk about a mile down the main road from downtown or you can walk along the Marginal Way. Perkins cove is located at an extremely picturesque cove, with a beautiful white bridge that allows for the ships to come in and out. There are also so many quaint shops and restaurants that keep people there 24/7. One of my favorite places in Ogunquit is the Perkins Cove Candies. They have some of the most delicious treats! Whether you want a pretty picture to post on Facebook or a delicious meal, Perkins Cove can meet all your vacation needs.
4. The Marginal Way 
Perhaps one of the most beautiful trails in Maine, the Marginal Way is a mile long path that leads from Perkins Cove, to the center of Ogunquit. It follows the cliffs of the sea, and the entire walk is filled with the most amazing view of the ocean. The Marginal Way never fails to fill up your camera roll with pictures that look too good to be true. Not only is it a great form of exercise while you're on vacation, but it also gives you a great dose of the sea in its natural beauty.
5. The Beach!
Okay, Duh! The Ogunquit beaches are easily my favorite thing about coming to Maine. As soon as you walk the little trail to the beach, you can see how blue the water is, and how soft the sand looks. There is little to no seaweed, and the beach is extremely clean. While many complain that the water is too cold (usually around 68 degrees), I say, the colder the better. It feels so refreshing! There is also almost no rocks, and the rocks that are on the beach are unique to Ogunquit. They are extremely smooth and wonderful souvenirs. My dad has hundreds of "Maine rocks" as we call them. The view is AWESOME. The Ogunquit beach stretches about six miles, beginning in Ogunquit and ending in Wells. The simplicity and beauty of the beach keeps me coming back after seventeen years, and I look forward to bringing my own family to this wonderful town in the future.
