Coastal Trail Leads to Lighthouse in Maine

Marginal Way is an iconic coastal trail, stretching 2.2 miles along a paved walkway.

It’s perfect for those needing a break on their drive to Acadia National Park or for those returning home who want to enjoy the beauty of Maine’s shoreline one last time.

The out-and-back trail is best enjoyed from spring through fall, particularly during early mornings or late afternoons when the lighting is captivating and crowds are minimal, as it attracts approximately 400,000 visitors each year. Dogs on leashes are permitted from October 1 to March 31.

To access the trailhead, travelers should head southeast from U.S. Hwy. 1 in Ogunquit onto Shore Road, then turn right onto Cottage Street and park at the Obeds Lane municipal lot. After crossing Shore Road, a right turn leads to the trail entrance within 0.1 miles. Paid parking is available at Perkins Cove at the southern end of the trail, and a trolley service operates to the trailhead from June through Columbus Day.

Along the route, visitors can admire the vibrant blooms of rugosa roses, bayberry, and bush honeysuckle. At 0.4 miles, stairs lead down to a cobblestone beach framed by striking red cliff walls, where the waves gradually erode the cliffs, contributing to the formation of nearby sandy beaches.

The trail also features a passage through a tunnel of hedgerows, followed by another staircase leading to the beach.

At the 0.5-mile mark, the Marginal Way Lighthouse (sometimes referred to on maps as Lobster Point Lighthouse) is reached, and the trail concludes at 1.1 miles.

On the return journey, stunning views of Ogunquit Beach with its whitecaps can be enjoyed to the north.