Ogunquit, the Indian translation of "beautiful place by the sea", was first a village within Wells, Maine, settled by the English in 1641. Fishing was the major means of livelihood. The first sawmill was established in 1686, and shipbuilding was developed. Trading vessels traveled to Boston and the Caribbean laden with firewood and lumber, returning with sugar, molasses, rum and salt. In 1888, a bridge was built across the Ogunquit River, and the weatherbeaten and picturesque little village of Ogunquit, and vast stretch of pristine beach with glistening white sand, became an "artist paradise" and tourist area. By the end of the 19th century, Ogunquit had become a well-established artist colony. Accordingly, beginning in the early 1900s, Ogunquit has become a destination for LGBT tourists, and features several gay owned hotels, restaurants, bars, theaters, and shops - most in the "Village" area of the town. Ogunquit is by all accounts a vibrant seasonal resort town, having separated from Wells in 1980, but has retained its charming qualities where one can enjoy simple pleasures at a peaceful pace. There is no better way to unwind and feel refreshed than to stroll along the "Marginal Way", a mile-plus walkway embracing the village of Ogunquits rocky cliffs. The spectacle of the sea and the rolling Atlantic is mesmerizing. This quaint little village has something to offer everyone, from countless fine restaurants, an abundant selection of gift shops, cozy inns and guesthouses, and art galleries, to performing arts theaters, including the Ogunquit Playhouse that attracts star-name entertainment. Visitors can enjoy sailing, deep-sea fishing, whale watching, or kayaking. You will feel refreshed and uplifted after vacationing at Ogunquit, suitably called by the native Indians, "beautiful place by the sea".