Since 1963, our motel has been a welcoming stop in Ogunquit, Maine—a town where coastal beauty, art, and tradition come together. From summer road trips to timeless New England getaways, we’ve been part of the memories for generations.
Here’s a look back at the history of Ogunquit—and how our motel became a part of it.
Beautiful Place by the Sea
Long before Ogunquit, Maine became a coastal retreat, it was home to the Abenaki people, part of the larger Wabanaki Confederacy—a group of Algonquian-speaking tribes that inhabited much of northern New England and the Canadian Maritimes. The Abenaki lived along the rivers, coastal areas, and forests of what is now southern Maine, including the lands around Ogunquit, which in their language means “beautiful place by the sea.”
The Abenaki were skilled hunters, fishers, and farmers who lived in harmony with the seasonal rhythms of the land and sea. They traveled by canoe along tidal rivers and the Atlantic shoreline, trading with other tribes and later with European explorers. Summers were often spent near the coast, where they harvested shellfish, fished, and gathered berries and herbs, while winters were passed inland in sheltered areas.
Originally part of the neighboring town of Wells, the area began attracting settlers in the 1600s. These early colonists, primarily from Europe, built fishing villages and small farms along the rocky coastline and tidal rivers. One of the most important features of early Ogunquit was Perkins Cove, a protected harbor that supported a booming fishing industry. Over time, this harbor transformed from a working waterfront into a charming focal point for visitors, artists, and locals alike.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ogunquit, Maine had begun to establish itself as a vibrant art colony. Drawn by the rugged shoreline, vivid light, and serene landscapes, painters and creatives set up studios in the area, laying the foundation for a thriving arts scene. This artistic energy helped shape Ogunquit’s identity, leading to the creation of galleries, art schools, and the iconic Ogunquit Playhouse, which opened its doors in 1933 and remains a beloved cultural institution to this day.
The early 1960s brought a unique mix of whimsy and growth to Ogunquit, Maine. One of the most talked-about moments of the decade was the “Perkins Cove Gold Rush” in March 1960. Attracted by rumors of gold, over 2,500 hopeful prospectors swarmed the harbor with makeshift tools like pie pans and kitchen strainers. Though the gold proved elusive, the event created a buzz that drew media attention and a much-needed off-season boost for local businesses—earning its place as one of the town’s most memorable stories.
During this same era, Ogunquit saw steady growth in tourism, fueled in part by the expansion of the Maine Turnpike after World War II. Easier access to the coast opened the doors for increased seasonal travel, and the 1950s and ’60s saw a surge in the development of inns, motels, and summer homes. Ogunquit, Maine quickly became a favorite summer destination for families seeking an authentic New England beach vacation.
Among the local families contributing to Ogunquit’s hospitality scene were the Bournes, who played a key role in shaping the town’s tourism landscape. In 1963, the Bourne family expanded their long-standing family home by adding ten guest units and founded Bourne’s Motel just a short walk from Footbridge Beach. They welcomed their first guests—a family from Ohio—on July 3 of that year. The property has grown steadily over the decades and is now known as Ocean Acres Ogunquit, a third-generation, family-owned and operated motel that continues the tradition of warm, personal hospitality that has become a hallmark of the town.
Beyond Ogunquit, the Bourne family’s legacy also touches nearby Kennebunk, where they were associated with the iconic Wedding Cake House—a landmark Victorian home known for its elaborate trim and historical charm. Once operated as an inn by a family descendant, the home serves as another example of the Bournes’ longstanding presence in southern Maine’s history.
