Welcome to Islesboro Maine… The Best-Kept Secret in the MidCoast
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Whether you’re a lifelong Mainer or visiting for the first time, the state is brimming with incredible experiences. If you’re searching for a destination off the beaten path, Islesboro, Maine is a must-see.
This unassuming island community lies just 3 miles east of Lincolnville in Penobscot Bay.
It’s the perfect place for an adventure-filled day trip because it’s not a place visitors can walk or drive to. No, getting to Islesboro Maine requires a water or air arrival, giving adventurers a chance to smell the salt air, soak in the views, and prepare themselves to discover one of the best hidden gems on the MidCoast!
A Snapshot of Islesboro
Islesboro is a narrow, 14-mile-long island located off Maine’s MidCoast that’s actually one of several islands that make up Islesboro proper. Islesboro Island is the main island of the bunch, and the smaller ones surrounding it include Seal Island, Warren Island, Lime Island, and Flat Island.
The town has gone by many names over time. The Penobscot people once referred to it as Pitaubegwimenahanuk, meaning “the island that lies between two channels.” It was also once called Aiayascon and later Long Island Plantation.
First settled by farmers and fishermen in the late 18th century, it became part of the United States shortly after. Prior to the Civil War, it was home to Penobscot Bay’s largest commercial shipping fleet.
After the war, by the late 19th century, wealthy settlers established a summer colony here, and luxury yachts became a frequent sight throughout the Gulf of Maine.
Today, Islesboro remains a summer colony with its fair share of famous residents, including John Travolta, Kelly Preston, and Kirstie Alley.
Getting to Islesboro
While Islesboro may be a must-visit hidden gem in Maine, the only way to get there is by ferry, water taxi, private boat, or plane ride.
Ferry
The Maine State Ferry Service operates year-round trips from Lincolnville Beach, with more frequent departures in the summer. The 20-minute ferry ride to Islesboro accommodates both vehicles and walk-on passengers, giving riders time to feel the breeze and soak in the views on a nice day.
Water Taxi
Quicksilver offers water taxi services and scenic charters around Penobscot Bay.
Private Boat Docking
Public docking is available for private boats. Sailing enthusiasts often praise Islesboro’s waters as some of the world’s best.
Air Travel
Islesboro Airport supports seasonal flights and charter services, including Penobscot Island Air and Maine Instrument Flight.
Go Take a Hike
While it has fewer than 700 residents, Islesboro offers pristine landscapes perfect for exploration on the Atlantic Coast. Some of the best local hiking trails on Islesboro include…
Turtle Head Preserve
This 1.4-mile loop is a favorite among locals and visitors alike and takes trekkers around Islesboro’s northernmost tip. The journey offers ocean views, access to small beaches, and rocky areas to explore. You’ll even spot Sears Island across the bay.
Hutchins Island and Marsh Preserve
Access this preserve via a small pull-off on Bluff Road. After a short walk, you can choose between a direct trail to the tidal sandbar or Elaine’s Trail — a 1.7-mile loop around the marsh that leads to the shore.
Don’t miss the chance to cross the sandbar and hike the 0.6-mile loop on Hutchins Island (be sure to check the tides first!).
Broad Point Preserve
This easy 1-mile loop passes through a cedar swamp and ends at a gravel beach with a picnic table — perfect for a peaceful lunch.
Lily Guest Memorial Trail
Overlooking Jones Cove, this 1-mile loop features a unique artistic bridge and bench. Look for the trailhead on Golf Club Road, marked with a small sign.
Warren Island State Park
Accessible only by boat across Glikey Harbor, this 70-acre island park is a favorite among adventurers. A 1.5-mile trail loops the island, offering views of Penobscot Bay and the Camden Hills.
Keep an eye out for rare bird species while you hike, kayak, or fish. Note: The park has no amenities, so come prepared with supplies, such as water and food.
Discover More Things to Do on Islesboro
Although hiking is one of the best things to do, Islesboro offers plenty of other activities – both indoors and out!
Visit Local Beaches
Spragues Beach
Located on Turtle Head Cove, this beach offers stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
Islesboro Town Beach
Found at the southern tip of the island on Pendleton Point Road, this rocky beach has picnic tables and grills for a relaxing day by the water.
Museums
Islesboro Historical Society Museum
Located in the 1894 Town Hall, this museum showcases island history with photos and artifacts. The society has preserved local history since 1964 and maintains the museum, local archives, and Pendleton Hall, which hosts guest speakers, film screenings, art shows, and more.
Grindle Point Sailor’s Museum and Lighthouse
Next to the ferry docks, this museum highlights Islesboro’s maritime history. Visitors can see model ships on display, photos of captains pictured with their Islesboro ships, paintings, antiques, and more. Visitors can also stop into the gift shop to peruse a selection of postcards, books, clothing, and gifts.
Of course, no visit here would be complete without soaking in some incredible views. Visitors can visit the lighthouse tower from July through Labor Day or by appointment, climb to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of Penobscot Bay and Gilkey Harbor.
Shopping
Islesboro doesn’t have many places to shop compared to other places in Maine’s MidCoast, but there are a few places locals and visitors can stop for essentials. Durkee’s General Store, The Island Market, or the Islesboro Farmer’s Market all offer essentials and a chance to shop for locally made goods.
For shoppers hunting for more unique finds, Islesboro has a few options. The Summer Shop in Dark Harbor offers a little bit of everything for gift and keepsake seekers. The store’s selection includes candles, rugs, Maine-themed home decor, and more.
Get a Bite to Eat
Whether you’re planning to eat on one of the islands or grab a meal on the mainland, there are several restaurants in Islesboro and the surrounding towns and islands to satiate your hunger.
On Islesboro
Beyond the local supply shops, hungry visitors to Islesboro have a few options to choose from.
The Sandcastle Grille is a seasonal, family-run establishment that offers deliciousness from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., giving customers the option of stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner while they wait for the ferry back to Lincolnville.
Customers can dig into simple options like bagels and breakfast sandwiches or enjoy heartier fare like deluxe cheeseburgers, fish sandwiches, lobster rolls, and other seafood options.
The Dark Harbor Shop offers ice cream and sandwiches, giving customers a chance to enjoy a little dessert after their meal. The shop offers a variety of ice cream flavors (give Maine Tracks a try) and mouthwatering sandwiches (the Reuben is recommended), and the atmosphere is authentically Maine.
On the Mainland
After a trip to Islesboro, adventurers can head to McLaughlin’s Lobster Shack in Lincolnville for fresh seafood. This is the perfect spot to get an authentic lobster dinner or lobster roll, and customers can order Gifford’s ice cream — it’s local — for dessert.
Natalie’s Restaurant is a nice spot for an upscale meal and offers a chance to savor hearty chowders, crisp wines, and some of the freshest seafood you’re likely to find anywhere.
Visitors and locals in MidCoast Maine can also explore Camden’s vibrant dining scene, including the Asian-inspired dishes at Long Grain.
Stay a Day… or Week
While there’s no public lodging on the island itself (vacation rentals may be available), there are plenty of mainland hotels in MidCoast Maine to consider…
The Country Inn at Camden Rockport
8 Country Inn Way, Rockport, ME
Located just one mile from downtown Camden, the Country Inn provides a pleasant ambiance with modern amenities and is pet-friendly. The Inn is just a short drive to the ferry, so it’s easy to get back to after a day of exploring.
Spouter Inn Bed and Breakfast
2506 Atlantic Hwy, Lincolnville, ME
This beautiful Colonial-style home was built in 1832 and offers a view of the ocean from every room. Situated on 1.5 acres with gorgeous flower gardens, guests can walk to the Islesboro ferry or walk to different restaurants and shops along Lincolnville Beach.
Pine Grove Cottages
2076 Atlantic Hwy, Lincolnville, ME
Located just two miles from the Islesboro ferry and Lincolnville Beach, guests here can find cozy cottages with private decks and BBQ grills or studio log cabins where they’re close to shops, restaurants, sailing, beaches, and hiking trails.
Get Inspired in Islesboro Maine
There are plenty of places in Maine where locals and visitors can stop to enjoy seaside views, fresh seafood, and local culture. But Islesboro is a unique place all its own that showcases the beauty and charm of small-town Maine.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect day trip, want to feel the breeze on a scenic ferry ride, or discover nature’s beauty on a scenic hike, Islesboro Maine is a bucket-list destination on the MidCoast waiting to be explored.