Ultimate 2026 Guide to Ogunquit Beach

1. When is Ogunquit Beach Open?

Ogunquit Beach is open year-round, from sunrise until 11 PM. While access is always available, full services like lifeguards, showers, and restrooms operate from late May to early September. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week during the summer season.

2. Are Dogs Allowed on Ogunquit Beach? (2026 Dog Rules)

Dogs are allowed on Ogunquit Beach during the off-season only. Here are the exact rules for 2026:

• April 1 – September 8: Dogs are not allowed on the beach
• September 9 – March 31: Dogs are allowed, but must be on a leash
• Year-round: Dogs are never allowed in the Ogunquit River Estuary

Footbridge Beach follows the same seasonal dog policy as Main Beach. If you're visiting in peak summer with a dog, consider Moody Beach in Wells, ME, which has more relaxed rules. Always clean up after your pet — violations can result in fines.

3. Ogunquit Beach Parking: 2026 Rates, Hours & Tips

Beach access itself is free, but parking is paid. There are three main parking lots serving Ogunquit Beach, each with different rates:

Main Beach Parking Lot

📍 1 Beach St, Ogunquit, ME 03907
💰 $9 / hour — $50 daily rate
🕐 Lot Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Paid parking season for 2026 is April 17 through October 31.

The largest and most central lot, located at the main Beach Street entrance. Closest to the boardwalk, lifeguards, and restrooms. Fills first — arrive before 9 AM in July and August.

Footbridge Beach Parking Lot

📍 End of Ocean St, Ogunquit, ME 03907
💰 $8 / hour — $45 daily rate
🕐 Lot Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

A more affordable option at the northern end of the beach, accessed via Ocean Street off Route 1. The lot leads to a footbridge over the Ogunquit River to the beach. Tends to fill a little later than Main Beach — a good choice for families looking to save on parking costs. See our full Footbridge Beach guide for more details.

North Beach Parking Lot

📍 North Beach, Ogunquit, ME 03907
💰 $8 / hour — $45 daily maximum
🕐 Lot Hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Located at the quieter northern end of the beach. Less crowded, good for those who prefer a more relaxed stretch of sand.

How to Pay for Ogunquit Beach Parking

Payment is accepted at kiosks in each lot via credit card plus the Passport Parking or ParkMobile apps. No cash is required. Download your preferred app before you arrive to speed up the process.

Is There Free Parking at Ogunquit Beach?

There is no free parking within the official beach lots. However, some street parking exists on side roads near the beach (Ocean Street, Ocean Ave), but these spots fill extremely early — often before 8 AM on summer weekends. Your best option to avoid parking costs entirely is to ride the Ogunquit Trolley to the beach. For stops and routes, see our Combined Trolley Map.

Ogunquit Beach Parking Tips

• Arrive before 9 AM in July and August — lots fill fast
• Try Footbridge or North Beach lots if Main Beach is full
• Weekday mornings are significantly less crowded than weekends
• Use the Ogunquit Trolley from your hotel to skip parking entirely
• The ParkMobile app lets you extend your parking time remotely

4. Is Ogunquit Beach Public?

Yes. Ogunquit Beach is a fully public beach, welcoming all visitors. It is managed by the town and offers open access year-round.

5. Where Is Ogunquit Beach in Maine?

Ogunquit Beach is in southern Maine, nestled between Kennebunkport and York. It's easily reached via Route 1, located approximately 1.5 hours north of Boston, MA and 45 minutes south of Portland, ME.

📍 Main Entrance Address: 1 Beach Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907

6. What Time Does Ogunquit Beach Open?

The beach is accessible from sunrise to 11 PM daily. Sunrise in summer occurs around 5:00 AM, and lifeguard services run from 10 AM to 5 PM.

7. When Is Low Tide at Ogunquit Beach?

Tide times change daily. To find today's high and low tides, check US Harbors Tide Charts for Ogunquit. Low tide is great for long beach walks and exploring tide pools.

8. Ogunquit Beach Regulations

Not allowed on the beach:

• No dogs from April 1 – September 8
• Dogs allowed September 9 – March 31 must be on a leash
• No fires, barbecues, or camping
• No smoking, glass containers, or alcohol
• No motor vehicles
• No bikes from May 16 – September 14

Allowed:

• Fishing, with a Maine license
• Bikes from September 15 – May 15
• Weddings, with proper permits

How Long Is Ogunquit Beach?

Ogunquit Beach spans 3 miles of Atlantic shoreline — from Main Beach to Moody Beach. During low tide, the sandbar expands, creating ample room for beach games, kite flying, and leisurely strolls.