The Dunes. Ogunquit. And Social Distancing.
Take heart. The summer season has finally arrived. Travel restrictions have been lifted for most of the Northeast. And yes. We are open and once again welcoming guests to our cottages among the dunes. Seeing our town open back up is exciting. But we realize that social distancing remains the name of the game. It’s something we take very seriously. After all, keeping space between you and others is one of the best tools we have to avoid being exposed to COVID-19 and slowing its spread locally and across the country.
We realize that navigating your way through all of this while on vacation can be tough at best. To make it a little easier on you, we’ve put together a quick look at current Maine and local guidelines on social distancing, as well as a few ideas on having fun while staying safe. Because while this season has turned out to be anything but business as usual, you’ll still find many of the same experiences you’ve come to expect from a vacation at The Dunes.
Keeping You Safe
First, the basic tenets of our state and local social distancing policies.
- Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) away from other people
- Do not gather in groups
- Avoid overly-crowded situations and mass gatherings
- Per executive order of the Governor, you must wear a cloth face covering in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, crowded areas, sidewalks and parking lots.
Fun Ways to Keep Yourself Safe
From a day at the beach to a casual stroll or rugged hike, dining in … or dining out, exploring the narrow streets of Perkins Cove or just kicking back in one of our Adirondacks, you’d be surprised at just how many options are out there for safely having fun while making the most of your getaway at The Dunes.
The Beaches
Yes. They are open! And we’re talking two of the finest beaches along the southern Maine coast. In fact, Ogunquit Beach is a short walk, or row (depending on the tide), across the tidal river from our cottages. This section of the beach is a little more private, far removed from the noise and crowds further down the sand, which makes it a natural for social distancing … taking a dip …. a family picnic … or for a relaxing stroll through the breakers. General distancing regulations are in effect. Beach distancing, which requires beach goers to sit no closer than 12 feet from their nearest neighbor in any direction, is also in effect. Masks are required when six feet of distancing cannot be maintained. So be sure and bring one along.
The Great Outdoors
Looking to keep active? Get a little exercise? Explore the natural beauty all around Ogunquit and The Dunes? We offer lots (and we mean lots) of ways to do just that. The best way these days? On foot.
Marginal Way, a true Ogunquit landmark, is a can’t miss opportunity for a casual stroll and to grab some fresh air and fabulous views. This picturesque, one-mile trail winds along the ocean’s edge in Ogunquit, Many sections of our famed cliff walk are less than six feet wide, too narrow to maintain proper social distancing guidelines, so masks are required. Specific guidelines for COVID-19 safety are posted at the entry points to the trail.
Mount Agamenticus is another great spot for space, fresh air and magnificent views. Reaching an elevation of over 692 feet, Mount Agamenticus (or Mt. A as we refer to it around here) offers over 40 miles of hiking, biking and activity trails that lead to some of the most breathtaking views of southern Maine you’re likely to ever find. Best of all, it’s only a short drive from our Ogunquit Beach cottages. We recommend bringing along your mask, binoculars, some snacks and a hearty attitude.
There are a number of other really cool outdoor escapes – including The Rachel Carlson Wildlife Refuge, Greater Works Land Trust & Beach Plum Farm and The Wells Reserve Trail System.
Food
Eating out or dining in? It always seems to be the same old dilemma every vacation. But this year it’s even more so due to rising concerns over health.and safety issues. But whether you’re looking for that hip local eatery, a safe take-out alternative, or to settle in for a quiet evening with that special vacation meal you just prepared, there are plenty of safe dining options.
Dining In.
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a quiet dinner at home. Even when you’re away on vacation. Many of our accommodations feature kitchenettes. So throw that fresh catch on the stove or one of our outdoor grills. What about all the other accoutrements your special coastal meal demands? Well just sit back and relax. You don’t even have to leave your chair. Grocery stores like the nearby Village Food Market, located just a few steps away on Main Street, are offering free local delivery. Available within a 10 mile radius with a $50 minimum order.
Take Out
A great way to enjoy some of our most popular restaurants’ offerings in the comfort of your cottage, guest room or out on the lawn. This is a first-time venture for many of our local eateries so definitely consider taking advantage of this rare opportunity. Most offer prepaid curbside and take-out servrce. Which makes pickup easier while helping to reduce person-to-person contact. Some also offer delivery. Check with us or directly with the restaurant for further details.
Dining Out
What’s a vacation without that meal at your favorite local dining spot? Well then. Here’s some good news for all you foodies and culinary aficionados. Many of Ogunquit’s most popular eateries are once again fully open for business. To make guests more comfortable, most now offer both outdoor and indoor dining options. Reservations are often necessary due to distancing requirements. Diners need to wear masks in public spaces and must maintain all state-approved social distancing guidelines. Masks are not required once seated at your table.
The Dunes
Finally there’s The Dunes itself. You could say we’ve been into social distancing since long before the phrase became a part of our national lexicon. That might have something to do with our 12 acres of spacious, beautifully manicured lawns. They offer plenty of room to breathe, relax and reconnect with family and friends. And while you’re traipsing about the grounds, why not try your hand at croquet, shuffleboard or cornhole … go for a swim in our heated pool … take a row … or just gaze out over the water with a glass of wine?
After all you’ve been through the past few months, don’t you think you deserve a break this summer? Here at The Dunes, and in Ogunquit, you can do just that. And you can do it safely. For more information, contact us at dunesonthewaterfront.com or at (207) 646-2612. We look forward to seeing you soon.