Ogunquit, Coastal resort town in York County, Maine, US
Ogunquit is a coastal town in York County, Maine, known for its long sandy beaches bordered by granite rock formations and a small working harbor. A network of footpaths runs along the shore, connecting the main beach area to the harbor village nearby.
The area was originally Abenaki land before artists began arriving in the early 1900s and shaped it into a gathering place for painters and performers. Ogunquit was officially incorporated as a separate town only in the late 20th century, splitting off from the neighboring town of Wells.
Ogunquit has been one of New England's most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers for decades, and that openness shapes daily life in noticeable ways. Many of the shops, bars, and guesthouses along the main street cater directly to gay visitors, giving the town a relaxed and inclusive feel.
The town is easiest to visit in the warmer months when all beaches, paths, and businesses are fully open and accessible. Many parts of the area are best explored on foot, so sturdy and comfortable shoes are a good idea, particularly along the rocky coastal sections.
The name Ogunquit comes from the Abenaki language and means something close to "beautiful place by the sea," making it one of the few places on the Maine coast where a native name has stayed in everyday use. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art sits directly on a rocky ledge above the ocean, giving it one of the most unusual settings of any art museum on the East Coast.
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