Is a trip to Ogunquit, Maine on your boomer to do list? It makes a romantic getaway or fun-filled trip filled with gorgeous coastline, fabulous food, great people and of course, oodles of opportunity for active boomer travel.
If you’re looking for the “real” Maine, you’ll want to definitely go off the beaten path to places like Ogunquit. Guest writer, Vanessa Chiasson, from Turnipseed Travel, takes us on a romantic escape to this tiny, picturesque town on the Main coast.
Is there anything more charming and romantic than a seaside escape? There’s nothing like the sound of the ocean, the smell of salt spray, and the proverbial long walks on the beach.
The tiny town of Ogunquit, Maine, will check every box on your travel romance wish list, but this is no place to simply be idle. Active travelers, who like their excursions to have a romantic spark AND a spark of adventure, will find that Ogunquit sets your heart aflutter.
Where to stay in Ogunquit, Maine
The Cliff House Maine, actually on Bald Head Cliff inCape Neddic, is the perfect home base to explore Ogunquit—or just spend some time relaxing with your beloved. Situated directly on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, the rooms have incredible views.
The property recently underwent a major renovation, although no improvements were needed for those ocean views. Keen wildlife watchers will want to keep an eye out for seabirds and even the occasional whale.
I know I said there’s so much more to Ogunquit than being idle, but you’ll have to make an exception for the beautiful outdoor fireplaces at the Cliff House. It’s the perfect place to sit with a pre-dinner blueberry martini. The area is famous for its local blueberries and they’re deliciously present in all drinks and desserts.
But as famous as Maine is for its blueberries, there’s something even more renowned on the Ogunquit menu. This is ground zero for lobster consumption!
As long as you don’t mind getting a bit messy when you eat, I heartily recommend the Cliff House’s classic lobster dinner. There’s nothing more scintillating than being coating in butter—and pieces of shell, right? Maybe not! Fortunately, lobster and good manners can still go together if you order your plate ‘lazy man’ style with the meat shelled for you.
Enjoy an Ogunquit lobster roll crawl
If you believe that lobster is the perfect food for every meal of the day like I do, you’re going to fall in love with the local lobster roll crawl. There’s a lot of hot competition for the title of best lobster roll in the eastern United States but I’m inclined to put my vote with Maine.
Their classic combination of a grilled hot dog bun, fresh lobster meat lightly tossed in either mayonnaise or melted butter, and no more adornment than a leaf of lettuce is simple, sexy, and succulent. The lobster roll crawl takes in 4 famous properties around the area, and includes samples of other Maine classics like clam chowder. Prepare to be very, very full and very, very happy.
Getting active in Ogunquit
If you’re up for a little adventure, or just eager to balance out all those great lobster rolls, you can borrow complimentary bikes from the Cliff House and head out to explore the twisting country roads. You might even find your own favourite lobster shack.
The area has beautiful sandy beaches, sweet little gift shops, and a great local arts scene. But you’ll want to save some energy for the evening, because Ogunquit has a secret up its sleeve.
Enjoy a romantic date night at Ogunquit Playhouse
The Ogunquit Playhouse is a national treasure and has been showcasing theatre productions for over 80 years, earning a well-deserved space on the National Register of Historic Places. Every year the Ogunquit Playhouse produces a number of classic, crowd pleasing productions. The list of actors that have appeared on their stage is a combination of rising stars and Hollywood royalty.
The reasonably priced tickets start are an incredible value compared to the cost of similar experiences in nearby Boston or New York City. It’s the perfect place for a date night in Ogunquit.
It’s hard not to visit Maine and not fall in love with the scenery, the ocean, and the people. And I think Ogunquit is the ideal place to fall in love with your partner all over again.
Extend your trip to Maine
After a romantic getaway in Ogunquit, extend your trip with these Maine travel ideas.
Enjoy a Maine Windjammer Cruise on Penobscot Bay.
Explore Portland, Maine for more fun on the coastline. Lobster rolls and lighthouses are included in this fun-filled trip.
Go off-the-beaten-path with a trip to Star Island.
Disclosure: Vanessa’s travel experience was provided by The Cliff House.
