The moment temperatures start rising above “practically freezing,” New Englanders pile their coats into storage bins and head out for their “hot girl walks.”
As someone who’s lived here my whole life, I know this time of year well: The muddy snow has melted after what has felt like years, and the tulip buds are beginning to blossom in their pastel colors. Spring has arrived.
Summer in New England gets a lot of well-deserved hype, but I think the spring months are deeply underrated. By May, you can enjoy the coastal summer vibes, local seafood delicacies, and main attractions without the peak-season crowds.
Before the hustle and bustle of the summer season, Ogunquit, Maine, is a town I swear by visiting in the late spring — there’s nothing better than spending a cozy weekend eating fresh lobster rolls, strolling around the coastline, and watching artists paint colorful strokes of blue waves onto canvases.
Quaint inns are the best for a relaxing stay
Morgan Rizzo
The charming streets of Ogunquit are filled with cozy inns and bed and breakfasts.
I’m partial to the Gazebo Inn. The first time I visited, I felt right at home after pouring myself a glass of berry sangria and grabbing a soft, homemade chocolate-chip cookie. The restored New England farmhouse was full of character — the common room features a rustic chandelier made from lanterns.
Other cute spots to stay include the Blue Shutters Inn & Studios, an adult-only accommodation, and the Inn at Perkins Cove.
Walk the breathtaking Marginal Way into Perkins Cove
Morgan Rizzo
Heading out in the morning is key for a long day of enjoying classic Maine food, strolling through antique shops, and soaking in all the hidden gems Ogunquit has to offer.
My favorite thing to do is just walk around. This time of year brings highs in the low 70s — in other words, the ideal weather for tying a light sweater around your waist while you walk along Maine’s coast.
The 1.25-mile Marginal Way weaves along rocky edges with nooks and crannies perfect for wandering out to get a close look at the waves crashing.
Nearing the end of the path, a little village of buildings comes into view with a wooden white drawbridge in the distance. At Perkins Cove, you’ll find shops selling jewelry made from blue sea glass, scoops of rich, chocolatey ice cream, and — of course — buttery lobster rolls.
While taking in the sights, I love admiring the birdhouses shaped like grizzly bears, piglets, and other animals on the harbormaster’s building.
After a day of exploration, find your way to Main Street for nightlife
Morgan Rizzo
From local brews and casual eats at Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company to Mediterranean cuisine at The Front Yard, there’s something for every palate.
For late-night eats, make your way up the lighted stairs to a treehouse oasis for chips and queso and a fresh margarita at Treehouse Taqueria. Then, follow the piano tunes down the street to The Front Porch Piano Bar & Restaurant for a sing-along.
Another must-try is CREW Ogunquit, a restaurant and bar with live music. If you plan your trip for early June, you can even enjoy the restaurant’s rainbow menu of Pride Month cocktails.
Other coastal Maine towns are within short driving distance
Morgan Rizzo
If you’re looking for even more Maine charm, there are other cute towns that are easy to visit from Ogunquit. Kennebunkport, a dreamy destination filled with boats dotting the harbor and nautical shops, is less than a 30-minute drive away.
On your way there, stop once you’ve reached the teal vintage truck at Brewed Awakenings in Wells. This is my favorite spot for a pumpkin latte and mouthwatering breakfast sandwich.
You can’t go wrong with any of the nearby towns, though. Wherever your travels guide you in Maine, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beautiful scenery as you shop like a New England local — hopefully, with a belly full of blueberries and lobster.
