Questions About The Beach, Marginal Way, And More
How can I purchase a memorial bench on the Marginal Way?
There is currently a moratorium on the placement of benches along the Marginal Way; this moratorium has been in effect for a number of years. we will take names and addresses of interested people in case there should ever be another program such as this, but just to let you know, the list as of this date has over 100 people on it. If you would like to be put on the list, please submit your name, address and telephone number to the Town Offices.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Emery, Administrative Assistant to the Town Manager
I heard that the Marginal has been damaged. Is the full Marginal Way open?
The Marginal Way sustained severe damage in the Mother’s Day storm of 2006 and the Patriots Day storm of 2007. Thanks to generous donations, repairs are in progress, and the full Marginal Way is again open.
When are the beach roses in bloom along the Marginal Way?
The beach roses, rosa rugosa, bloom from June to September. The rose hips appear in late summer and early autumn. The beach roses thrive in the salty environment, and help prevent erosion. They originated in the orient, and were introduced to New England in 1845.
How long is the Marginal Way?
The Marginal Way is approximately 1.25 to 1.5 miles long. There are several areas where it is possible to exit the Marginal Way between the two end points. Please see our Touring Map for route information.
Is the Marginal Way open in the winter?
Yes. The Marginal Way is open to visitors year round. However, due to the nature of the path, it is not always snow and ice free in winter, so it is suggested that visitors pass at their own risk.
Can I get married on the beach or the Marginal Way?
Yes. At this time, no special beach permits are needed, but you can contact the town office at 207-646-5139 for updated information.
Where can I park to walk the Marginal Way?
There are two municipal lots near the Marginal Way. One lot is at Perkins Cove, at the south end of the Marginal Way. Obed's Lot is at the north end of the Marginal Way, and can be entered from Cottage Street (off of Shore Road). For a list of the parking fees, click here.
Is the Marginal Way handicap accessible?
Yes. The Marginal Way is paved. There are no stairs on the Marginal Way, though parts of the pavement are smoother than others. Though it winds and has modest inclines, it is possible to navigate a wheelchair along the path.
Can I ride my bicycle on the beach?
Yes. There are no prohibitions against riding bicycles on the beach. See below for information on other areas to ride your bike.
Is the Ogunquit Beach handicap accessible?
Yes. The main beach at the end of Beach Street has a ramp to the sand. The Ogunquit lifeguards have a beach wheelchair for use, and they can also be rented from Prime Care Medical Supply. (See our services listings for contact info).
Is there parking at the beach?
Yes. There are public lots at the Main Beach (end of Beach Street), Footbridge Beach (end of Ocean Street) and North Beach (follow Bourne Road east, turn south at the end, and the road dead-ends at the parking lot. For information on fees, click here. There are also several private lots near the beaches.
Does the beach have lifeguards?
Lifeguards are on duty 10am to 5pm, 7 days a week during the summer.
How do I get a beach pass?
Beach passes for parking are only available to year round residents and property owners who have habitable buildings on their land. The year round renters must prove that they live in town all year. Contact the Police Department to apply for the pass.
Can we have a barbeque, clambake, or bonfire on the beach?
No. Fires of any type are not allowed on any Ogunquit Beach.
Can we camp on the beach?
No. Camping areas are not allowed within the Town limits. However, you can find several campgrounds on our accommodations pages, and most have free transportation to the beach.
Are there public restrooms at the beach?
Yes. There are public restrooms near or in all of the public beach parking lots.
Are beach umbrellas and chairs available at the beach?
Yes. The sundries shop at the Norseman Resort on the Main Beach rents umbrellas and chairs daily.
Are dogs allowed on the beach and Marginal Way?
The current Town Ordinance states:
Dogs are not permitted within the Ogunquit Beach area or the Marginal Way from April 1st to September 30th.
Dogs are permitted within the Ogunquit Beach Area and Marginal Way from October 1st to March 31st.
Dogs are not permitted in the Ogunquit River Estuary at any time.
Is Ogunquit home to any endangered species?
Yes. You may find the nests of endangered "piping plovers" and "least terns" when you visit the beach this summer. You can help protect them by following some simple guidelines. HOW CAN YOU HELP?
--Stay clear of fenced areas marked with "Restricted Area" signs.
--If you see chicks on the beach, do not follow or chase them. Leave them plenty of space to feed.
--Fly kites well away from nesting areas. Plovers and terns mistake them for predators and leave their nests to ward off the "intruders."
--Take your trash and food scraps with you when you leave the beach for the day. Garbage attracts predators.
--Immediately notify the Maine Audubon Society (781-2330) or the Project Coordinator (251-4058) of disturbances to the birds or nesting areas.
If you would like more information or would like to volunteer to help protect the piping plover and least tern, please call Maine Audubon at (207) 781-2330.
Are there any bike trails in the area?
Yes. Mount Agamenticus provides mountain biking trails. Click here for a trail map. You can find information on the Eastern Trail Alliance trail at http://www.exploremaine.org/bike/pdfs/eastern_trail.pdf. Information on the Southern Maine Loop (including Wells and Kennebunkport) at http://www.exploremaine.org/bike/pdfs/southern_coast.pdf.
What is that odd tree outside the Ogunquit Welcome Center?
The tree is called a Weeping Purple Beech. As you can tell from the name, it is supposed to be purple, and yes, its branches are supposed to droop!
How can I reach the Ogunquit Police Department?
The Ogunquit Police are located downstairs at the Dunaway Center, on Cottage Street. In an emergency please call 911. If it is not an emergency, please call 207-646-9362. The Ogunquit Police Department has a new newsletter available for your information and enjoyment. Click here for new and back issues.
Do you have information on the Transfer Station?
Yes. Click here for the Transfer Station Brochure.
When is the July 4th Fireworks Display?
Fireworks will be shot from the Main Beach at 9:15pm on July 4, 2010.