The Dunes on the Waterfront … Ogunquit … and Gay Pride Month
The Dunes is rolling out its red, yellow, orange, green, blue and purple carpet this June. Our special Pride Getaway Package is our way of joining Ogunquit in its celebration of Gay Pride Month. After all, Ogunquit is recognized internationally as a gay resort town. In fact, it is one of America’s foremost LGBTQ+ vacation destinations – ranking right up there with East Coast hotspots Provincetown, Fire Island and Miami. Of course Ogunquit is a bit quieter and less crowded than its brethren. Yet it offers three miles of magnificent beach (recognized as one of America’s finest), plenty of culture (it was once an artists’ colony) and a spirited nightlife to help close out the day on and off the beach. And best of all, it’s easily accessible with a location just off Route One – close to Boston, New York City, Albany and Portland just to name a few.
The town is divided into two sections – the Village, where most of the gay venues are, and Perkins Cove, a quaint New England area with shops and restaurants. Ogunquit’s 4-square mile radius makes it easy to navigate and most restaurants, galleries and shops are within walking distance of the beach.
In Ogunquit there are plenty of beautiful places to stroll, party, shop, dine and sunbathe. Here are a few high points to make your stay with us a trip to remember.
Ogunquit Beach. Why else would you come? Three miles of pristine beach that is ranked one of the most beautiful in the U.S. It’s a short walk, or row (depending on the tide), across the tidal river from The Dunes on the Waterfront cottages. You’ll find the LGBTQ+ section a short stroll down the beach two hundred yards from the main entrance.
Marginal Way. A true Ogunquit landmark, It’s a can’t miss opportunity for a casual stroll, some fresh air and some fabulous views. This picturesque, one-mile trail overlooks the Atlantic as it winds along the ocean’s edge in Ogunquit.
Shopping. What would a beach vacation be without shopping? Especially if you need a respite from all that sand and fun? Spend an afternoon exploring our stores, galleries and gift shops. From nautical knick knacks to art, fashion and coastal edibles, there are plenty of items to take home as a reminder of your stay.
The Arts. Once an artists’ colony always an artists’ colony. There are some incredible galleries featuring the work of local artists, including Barn Gallery and The Green Heron. Then there’s The Ogunquit Museum of American Art. Ogunquit is nearly as famous for its theater as its beach (almost). Located off Route 1 in Ogunquit, and known as “America’s foremost summer theater”, the Ogunquit Playhouse has been a summer staple since 1933. Their off-Broadway shows, which are both new productions and classic favorites, draw some of the best Broadway talent who come to work and escape the heat of the city.
Restaurants and Entertainment. Ogunquit is widely known for its vibrant entertainment scene. Whether you’re looking for dinner and a show or a cocktail with live music, Ogunquit has a myriad of ways to have fun off the beach and after dark. Join in a sing-along at The Front Porch piano bar and restaurant, dance the night away at Maine Street. Then of course, there’s a plethora of dining options to satisfy just about any taste. Start off your day at The Greenery Cafe. Grab a lobster roll or a cup of lobster stew at The Lobster Shack. Kick back on the patio for a legendary rum punch and seafood at Barnacle Billy’s. Try Angelina’s for the area’s finest Italian food. Dine on the water at M.C. Perkins and Oarweed. Or drop by Brix + Brine, Jonathan’s Ogunquit or Caffé Preggo .
The Great Outdoors. If your idea of outdoor fun entails more than frolicing on the beach, we have tons of really cool activities to keep you occupied. There are picnics, paddleboarding, kayaking, rowing, bike rides, walking and hiking, and crabbing. The list goes on. And don’t forget us. Here at The Dunes our 12 acres of beautifully landscapes grounds offer a great opportunity to stroll, try your hand at some lawn games, take a dip in our heated pool, grill out or just watch the sunset with a glass of wine in one of our Adirondack chairs.