Hi, Maine

Chris and I recently went to Maine. It wasn’t a last-minute trip, but very little planning went into it. We mentioned that we booked flights to Boston with the intention of driving to Maine, and a family member kindly took it upon themselves to immediately make a reservation for us at an inn in Ogunquit. I didn’t know how to pronounce Ogunquit, and I definitely didn’t know what the vibe was there. I did, however, trust the recommendation, and wow, am I glad I did.

This is a classic tale of going on a trip with little to no expectations, only to find them blown away. I like to research before a trip as much as the next type-A planner. I like to make sure I’m experiencing all the best things when I travel, but in this case, the lack of preparation led to a really refreshing experience.

Ogunquit is just south of Kennebunkport, and simply put, everything in and surrounding both towns is adorable. We arrived the night before the Fourth of July, and the main stretch was buzzing. Yes, in a touristy way, but also in a perfect summer vacation way that felt super nostalgic. We saw sunburnt families eating ice cream, blossoming summer love, and American flag sweaters all within five minutes of pulling into town.

Three days and a minimum of 15,000 steps per day later, we had fallen in love with Maine.

On the morning of the 4th, we walked around Kennebunkport, a truly serotonin-spiking experience. We shopped at a yard sale full of coastal treasures, admired the idyllic homes and sailboats, and were mesmerized by the coastal charm.

Kennebunkport

Because we were staying in Ogunquit, we spent a lot of time in Perkins Cove. Perkins Cove is visually stunning and full of delicious things. It’s a small fishing village and harbor bay with a wooden drawbridge at the entrance…are you kidding? Beyond quaint.

Perkins Cove

Perkins Cove

Obviously, the lobster rolls were calling to us, and we tried a few in Perkins Cove.

#1 Barnacle Billy’s hot lobster roll with butter only. The lobster roll was good, the rum punch was great (the nutmeg topper…so cozy, so yum).

Barnacle Billy's

#2 Footbridge Lobster. Honestly, this was the one. Served hot, half butter, half mayo, no notes.

Footbridge Lobster

I love an old-school candy shop and Perkins Cove Candies was such a vibe. The view from the shop, the shell-shaped chocolate pops, the salt water taffy, so good. The branding was also chic. 10/10 would have bought merch from here, such a missed opportunity - Perkins Cove Candies, call me.

Perkins Cove Candies

Speaking of accessories and apparel, I put about as much effort into packing for this trip as I did planning it. And again, it just worked out.

This casual look was perfect for bopping around town and dipping in the ocean at the cove behind the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.

• Thrifted Men’s button-down, I’d grab a 100% cotton one like this one from Gap

• J Crew Cotton Dock Short (borrowed from Chris’ suitcase), I’ve been eyeing these from Colorful Standard

• Classic black Havaianas

• Monday Malibu Swim Top + Sorrento Bottom in black

This dress is so versatile. My cost per wear is absolutely in the negative, I think I actually make money when I wear this dress (girl math?). It was perfect for dinner at M.C. Perkins Cove, my top pick for dinner in Ogunquit. Everything was delicious but the onion dip (not pictured) was WOW.

M.C. Perkins

I literally shed a tear when we stumbled upon the Cove Cafe (also located in Perkins Cove) on our morning walk. Cove Cafe is simple and perfect and the blueberry french toast cannot be missed.

Cove Cafe

A friend recommended The Tides in Goose Rocks Beach. We made it there for dinner and would absolutely stay there on a future trip. We also heard great things about the sister property, Hidden Pond. A few more F&B mentions:

• Brewed awakenings bagels

• Ogunquit Village Food Market sandwiches (we got the Italian but the Caprese came highly recommended)

• Cape Porpoise Kitchen English muffin breakfast sandwiches

This trip was a great reminder to not plan myself out of possibility and to leave room for the unknown. Maine is pure magic, there’s so much more to explore and we’ll be back.