Flying into Manchester, NH, and then drive to ME coast. Know nothing about the area other than what I've read in all these posts and various guidebooks. Want nice scenic view for Columbus Day Weekend. Need to book now.

After reading guidebooks and posts, you must be leaning towards something?

It depends on what you are planning on doing. Antiques? Hiking?

The first couple of days (2 nights) will just enjoy beach view even though it is October and maybe just drive around. Maybe rent some bikes for riding, do a little shopping. I was looking at Ogunquit. Opinions anyone?

Ogunquit is awesome! They have open air trolleys that can take you up and down the main drag for a minimal cost. Lots of nice hotels and bed and breakfast. A variety of restaurants, as well....try the Lobster Pound. You pick out your own lobster and they steam it for you...can east inside or out. Another fun town is Rockport.

The coast isn't where you'll find most of your fall foliage.
That said, check out ogunquit (www.ogunquitmotel.com - what a pool!) and Ocean Park (www.billowhouse.com) and Boothbay Harbor (www.welchhouse.com

We did a similiar trip last year. We spent a couple of night in Boothbay Harbor (very nice), couple of nights in Bar Harbor (not as nice - so many people - but pretty) but I would recommend the National Park...awesome! We just hiked and drove through it. We actually left Maine and drove up to Canada on the route that cuts through middle of Maine. I don't recommend that drive..very boring. Have a great time! Definitely need to spend some time in Boothbay! Jamcat

Ogunquit is lovely, and central on the southern Maine coast. If you want to go further North, Camden is charming, and plenty far enough for a long weekend. To see more foliage, head west in New Hampshire: Jackson, Bretton Woods, and Lincoln, before heading back south to the airport. Have fun!

Try Kennebunkport. We love the Kennebunkport Inn. Its not on the water, but its right in the center of town. A bit pricey, but worth it.
Also like to go to Ogunquit, try the Georges Grant for reasonable accomodations around that time. The two cities are about a 20 minute drive apart.