Island Hopping in the MidCoast

Escape to the islands of Maine’s MidCoast, where time slows down and the land and sea are closely intertwined. With more coastal islands than anywhere else in America – over 3,000 if you’re counting – you could spend weeks island hopping along the Maine coast.

Each of the larger islands in the MidCoast has its own character, history, and natural beauty. Rocky shores, pristine beaches, and quiet villages provide backdrops for hiking, photography, wildlife watching, and the solitude of special places untouched by modern life. These are some of our favorite islands to explore.

 

 

Vinalhaven

As Maine’s largest island, the windswept beauty of Vinalhaven has captivated visitors and artists and has been home to hard-working fishermen for generations. A two-hour ferry ride from Rockland will bring you Carver’s Harbor and access to roads and trails to explore by bicycle, granite quarries for swimming, ocean kayaking, and casual places to eat.

 

 

North Haven

Also available by a ferry ride from Rockland, North Haven is about 30 square miles in size and is known for its scenic roads and trails which are perfect for cycling and hiking. The residents of the small, year-round community include lobstermen, artists, and people active in education and conservation efforts. The community center hosts musical performances and movie screenings and galleries and studios are open in the summer.

 

 

Islesboro

A short, 3-mile ferry ride from Lincolnville Beach will transport you to a simpler, quiet way of life on Isleboro. When you arrive on the island, you’ll immediately notice a tranquility and low-key feeling that is hard to find in other places. Because much of the 13-mile-long island is untouched, there are many, fantastic places to hike. When you get hungry, a few shops and dining options are available, but back on the mainland, there are many great restaurants to enjoy.

 

 

Matinicus

This is the most remote inhabited island in Maine, located about 20 miles offshore. Known for its rugged beauty, seclusion, and small community, Mantincus is a true haven for adventurous visitors who want to get away from the distractions and noise of modern life. Access to the island is also available by ferry from Rockland with a schedule based on high tides.

 

 

Warren Island State Park

Located off the coast of Lincolnville, Warren Island State Park is one of the few ocean island state parks to be found in New England. Accessible only by boat or water taxi, the island is a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a rustic camping experience. Twelve overnight family campgrounds make for a once-in-a-lifetime camping experience. The island’s rocky shores and scenic vistas provide hours of exploration, hiking, kayaking, and swimming.

 

 

Monhegan

A visit to Monhegan Island means seriously getting off the beaten path. There are no car ferries to the island, but it is easily reached by daily passenger boats from Port Clyde, New Harbor, and Boothbay Harbor. You can explore the one-square-mile island in a day, but, with its dramatic cliffs and distant ocean views you’ll want to stay. Several small inns, dining spots, a coffee roaster, and even a craft brewery, make staying here unforgettable.

 

 

Bailey and Orr’s Islands – Harpswell

These small, scenic islands are connected to the mainland and each other by bridges making them easily accessible while still preserving a sense of community and tranquil beauty. A notable icon is the world’s only cribstone bridge that connects the two islands. The rugged bridge is made with 10,000 tons of granite that are joined in a cob work pattern that allows the tide to flow freely. Constructed in 1928, the bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

 

Sears Island – Searsport

Sears Island is one of the largest, undeveloped islands on the eastern coast of the U.S. Accessible by a causeway with parking, The island has miles of quiet, wild shoreline to explore. The Shoreline Trail around the entire island is about five miles, but consider the tide if you want to make the entire hike – some places are impassible at high tide. No matter what the tide is, there are other trails to explore forests, beaches, and abundant wildlife.

 

For a full weekend experience, explore the Islands of Vinalhaven and North Haven. Or if you just want to float, paddle, or explore, here are some favorite ways to get out on the water in MidCoast Maine.