The Dunes on the Waterfront, Ogunquit, Maine, Review

The Dunes on the Waterfront, an iconic resort in Ogunquit, Maine, has reopened under new management after a $10 million renovation. A fixture in the area for more than 85 years, the oceanfront property features 23 charming white cottages with green shutters and flower-filled window boxes. Situated on 30 oceanfront acres, each standalone cottage enjoys ample privacy. The renovation updated the resort with modern amenities while maintaining its historic charm.

The Dunes on the Waterfront is situated in a quiet tidal river location across from Ogunquit Beach, recently named one of America’s best beaches. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a heated oceanfront pool, kayaking and paddle boarding, or simply relax on their screened porch. The resort’s location, just a short distance from downtown Ogunquit, makes it easy for visitors to explore local shops and restaurants.

The location

The resort is separated from Ogunquit Beach by a narrow tidal river. You can easily walk across the dry riverbed at low tide in about five minutes and be on the sandy beach. At high tide you can take a free boat ride from the hotel to the beach or borrow a kayak, canoe or paddleboard to cross.

The property is located on a quiet residential street outside of the busy downtown area of ​​Ogunquit. I recommend borrowing one of the resort’s bikes (locks, helmets, lights, and baskets provided) to explore, so you can avoid the traffic that often congests downtown.

The rooms

The Dunes features 23 renovated cottages, each with a unique name and character, such as “Driftwood” or “Seagrass.” While the classic coastal exteriors remain, the interiors have been updated with modern amenities, including gas fireplaces, spacious bathrooms and kitchenettes.

I stayed in Lookout, a two-bedroom waterfront cottage decorated with local antiques and artwork. Modern comforts include Cuddledown bedding, plush bathrobes, a wet bar with complimentary drinks (including Whispering Angel wine) and snacks, a coffee maker, a gas fireplace, and a screened porch.

The thoughtful layout of the property ensures that almost all cottages have water views. Guests can choose from a variety of room configurations, ranging from one to three bedrooms, to suit their needs.

To dine

While The Dunes on the Waterfront does not have its own restaurant, it encourages guests to explore the more than 40 dining options nearby. The resort has partnered with its neighbor, the popular Ogunquit Lobster Pound, and offers guests a free dessert when they show their room key.

Mornings at The Dunes are a treat. Each day begins with a home delivery of pastries from local bakery Bread & Roses, accompanied by The New York Times and a thermos of hot coffee. Sitting on the screened porch reading the paper and sipping coffee was the highlight of my mornings here.

Services

The Dunes on the Waterfront embraces its seaside setting, with amenities that focus on the water. The beautiful heated pool overlooks the ocean and has plenty of sun loungers with umbrellas to lounge under. Bright yellow inflatable rings in the pool allow guests to float around while they read (or nap).

Other amenities include:

• Games on the lawn
• Fire pit and marshmallows
• Free bicycles
• Free shuttle to Ogunquit and nearby beaches
• Free use of kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and rowing boats
• Pastries, coffee and newspapers are delivered to your room every morning

Price and how to book

Prices start at around $1,000 per night and can be booked through Expedia.