How to Choose a Hotel in Ogunquit, Maine: 5 Things to Ask Yourself
Between gorgeous ocean views, a vibrant local arts scene, and incredible spots for scrumptious seaside dining, it’s no surprise that Ogunquit tops the list of USA Today’s Best Coastal Small Towns in America in 2016. However, this doesn’t mean you should overlook where you choose to stay in Ogunquit — and there’s a lot to consider when conducting your research. Here are some questions to ask when choosing a hotel in Ogunquit, Maine.
1. Where is my Ogunquit, Maine hotel relative to the rest of town?
Always a staple for any lodging search — location! When choosing an Ogunquit hotel, you should consider where you’d like to be in respect to the rest of Ogunquit. Do you want to be located in the heart of downtown’s shops and restaurants? Or, maybe you’d like to stay right on the glistening shores of Ogunquit Beach or Marginal Way.
No matter the case, you should know the areas to which you’d like to have the closest proximity. For example, The Dunes is about 0.7 miles from downtown, 1.8 miles from the end Marginal Way, and just a relaxing rowboat away from Ogunquit Beach.
2. How will I get around?
While the edges of Ogunquit’s attractions span a mere distance of approximately two miles, you’ll still need to consider the distance between your hotel and all of the shops, restaurants, and other attractions on your “must-visit” list. From that point, you can decide on the best way to get around town from your hotel in Ogunquit, Maine — be it walking, driving, or hopping aboard the trolley.
Since everything in Ogunquit is accessed via Route One, traffic and parking can be a bit of a hassle during peak season. Therefore, we usually steer away from driving — Ogunquit is easily walkable, and with 2.6 miles of new sidewalk paved in 2016, the timing has never been better for a relaxing stroll on a sunny day.
The Ogunquit Trolley runs nearly everywhere in town, all the way down to Perkins Cove, and offers brilliant views along the way of both the town and waterfront. Luckily for us, there’s even a stop just across the street from The Dunes’ main entrance.
3. What type of lodging experience do I want to have in Ogunquit?
Another aspect to consider is the personality of your Ogunquit hotel. Lodgings of different sizes and styles each have their own atmosphere and feel. A downtown hotel or a busy resort draws a stark contrast with a group of cottages by the sea, and each spot will yield a different sort of stay.
For example, starting the morning with a cup of coffee and a serene sunrise on the waterfront would vary from the experience you might have in an all-inclusive resort. When choosing an Ogunquit hotel, you’ll need to reflect on what your ideal getaway would feel like and how to best fulfill your vision.
You might also require a family-friendly atmosphere, or an approachable staff — don’t forget to do your research in this area by reading online reviews to check how your hotel accommodates its guests.
4. What will I do in Ogunquit and does the hotel allow easy access to these activities?
From paddleboarding on the Tidal River to peaceful strolls on Marginal Way, the list of things to do in Ogunquit is endless. What you need to consider is whether or not your Ogunquit hotel makes these activities convenient. What benefits does the hotel offer that allow you to relish in your favorite Maine activities during your stay?
For example, you might want a streamlined route to enjoy the nightlife in Ogunquit, or a hotel that provides easy access to Ogunquit’s Tidal River (a choice spot for kayaking and paddleboarding). Maybe it’s because we like to take our time out on the water, but we’re partial to our rowboats as a means of getting over to Ogunquit Beach.
It goes without saying that Ogunquit’s beauty and attractions are responsible for a lot of its visits from all across the country, and your choice of lodging is an important part of the experience. At The Dunes, we’d like to be more than just your favorite place to stay in Ogunquit — but your extended family and resident experts on this southern Maine town we all know and love.