$45 day parking at the beach!!

Question

Beware! Just there for the day on Mother's Day, parking is now $45 aday at the town beach lots! Ridiculous!! The greedy town is going to shoot themselves in the foot! There will be less Canadians this year and with this outrageous parking fee less others also! Go somewhere else where the parking is free or less expensive, the water is warmer and they probably have nice bike trails! My question is, is the town trying to kill business?

Answer

It's understandable to be frustrated with the $45 parking fee at Ogunquit's beach lots, especially considering the increase in costs over time. Parking fees like this can definitely make a visit feel less appealing, particularly for those who were hoping to enjoy the area without breaking the bank. While the fee may seem excessive, there could be a few reasons behind this pricing decision.

Ogunquit is a popular tourist destination, and as with many coastal towns, they face the challenge of balancing demand for limited parking spaces with the need to generate revenue. The high price could be an attempt to manage overcrowding during peak season or to fund beach maintenance and other local services. That said, the fee does risk driving away some visitors, especially those who may feel the cost is prohibitive for a day trip.

Here are a few things to consider about Ogunquit's approach and alternatives for parking and beach access:

Parking Alternatives: While the beach lots are expensive, there may be other parking options available a little further from the beach, such as in nearby public lots or street parking. These may offer a more affordable alternative, though they can fill up quickly during peak times.
Public Transportation: If you’re staying nearby or in a neighboring town, consider using public transit or shuttle services to get to the beach. This could save you the hassle and cost of parking altogether.
Bike or Walk: Ogunquit is a beautiful town with plenty of scenic areas to explore. If you're up for it, consider biking or walking to the beach from a nearby area, which could be a more enjoyable and cost-effective option.
Nearby Beaches: If Ogunquit’s fees feel too steep, you might consider exploring other beaches in the area. There are several beaches along the southern Maine coast that may have more affordable parking or are free to access.

As for whether the town is trying to "kill business," it's likely a matter of balancing revenue needs with maintaining the tourist appeal. While the high parking fee may turn some away, Ogunquit remains a popular destination due to its natural beauty and coastal charm. The challenge will be whether visitors continue to feel the price is justified for a day at the beach.

Ultimately, if the high parking fees are a dealbreaker, it may be worth exploring other nearby towns with more affordable options, but if you're set on Ogunquit, planning ahead for parking and alternatives might make the visit more manageable.