While dinners usually form the highlight of any given vacation day in Ogunquit – the sea having its typical effect of stimulating the appetite, and the offerings of fresh seafood giving us more options than our usual land-locked availability – the shops of this quaint town offer their own appeal and magic, with unique and lovely items that can’t be found anywhere else. Here are few of my favorites.
Perkins Cove Bookstore – This year marked my first visit to this charming little bookhouse, located near the entry point to Perkins Cove. It’s a cozy, beautifully laid-out space, ideal for taking your time and browsing all sorts of books – from local Maine authors to an extensive LGBTQ+ section, along with a robust children’s and Young Adult selection – in short, there is something for everyone here.
Kiki’s Ogunquit – Fabulous and fun fashion, alluring and artistic accessories, and a sparkling assortment of jewelry, Kiki’s provides a finely-curated collection of wearable pieces of art. I always manage to find at least one item for myself here, as well gifts for my Mom, in this colorful and vibrant two-story expanse of exquisite delight.
Spoiled Rotten – An entire grand house unfurls its many rooms of retail wonder, each opening up with gifts and pleasures to savor and experience. Lots of food options abound, along with the beautiful bowls and utensils and trays and napkins on which to serve them – in addition to objects of art and whimsy and local flavor. It’s the sort of place that requires a dedicated stretch of time to peruse and get lost amid its many amusements.
Perkins Cove Pottery Shop – Local artisans have crafted many of the items available here, and my Mom’s home has an extensive collection of their pottery, each of which is a work of unique art, and fully-functional for home dining fanciness. Along with their gorgeous lineup of pottery, there are gifts and art for the indoors and outdoors – lots of whimsical books, a spattering of rings and jewelry, and some of the friendliest staff of any store in Ogunquit, which is a feat in itself given the overflowing friendliness of most places.
Calluna Fine Flowers and Gifts – One of the most beautiful shops in Ogunquit, Calluna is a floral feast of olfactory glory, with the best blooms in town, and a cozy space that packs a pretty punch. I don’t know how they manage to fit all the fine clothing, soaps, lotions, and other luxury gift items into the little expanse, but a walk through feels like a journey to another world, where beauty is the order of the day.
On the Main – A charming bastion of Main Street, this lovely gift shop offers glassware, cards, jewelry, art prints, frames, and accessories to capture a little of Maine’s magic for your own home.
