Have you ever heard of the expression, island time? Island time refers to the vacuum created by the ocean’s presence and is when everything moves at a more peaceful pace. Island time is an attitude. At the Camden Harbor Inn, we want you to experience the luxury of island time on your next Maine vacation. Boasting a massive coastline, Maine is home to a variety of breathtaking islands that make for fun day trips. Below we let you in on the best island day trips Maine has to offer (for more seaworthy adventures, don’t forget to check out our post The Best Sailing Day Trips on the Coast of Maine)
Monhegan Island
Monhegan is a small, rocky island ten miles from the nearest mainland and hardly a square mile in the area. The island features over 12 miles of trails that lead through wooded areas and over stony ledges up to the highest cliffs on the Maine coastline. For more than 100 years, Monhegan has been a summer haven for artists, some of whom have viewing hours in their studios.
Isle Au Haut
Isle Au Haut is a semi-remote island outpost of Acadia National Park located 5 miles south of Stonington. About half the island is in park ownership, the rest consists of the community of Isle Au Haut. Untouched by tourism development, the island is a naturalist’s dream. Flush with rocky beaches and wooded trails, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the local deer, seals, osprey, and porpoise.
Peaks Island
Peaks Island is a part of the city of Portland, located just 3 miles from downtown. The island is the most populous in all of Casco Bay but boasts a small town, relaxed vibe. City folk flock the island during the summertime and enjoy the restaurants, shops and the famous Reggae Sundays at the local watering hole, Jones Landing. Take a bike ride through town or off the beaten path, and enjoy unparalleled views of sparkling Casco Bay.
Swan’s Island
Located 6 miles south of Mt. Desert Island, Swan’s Island has some 7,000 acres with a highly irregular and beautiful shoreline. There is a quarry for swimming as well as spots to explore both on bike or foot. Lobstering is the main gig on the island, home to about 40 full-time lobstermen and women. Visit the Lobster & Marine Museum, and don’t miss the lighthouse that looks over the island’s bounty of lobster boats.
Campobello Island
You will have to bring your passport for this gem. Campobello Island is accessed by the bridge from Lubec but rests in beautiful New Brunswick on the Bay of Fundy. Campobello Island will steal your heart with its jaw-dropping views and unspoiled nature at its best. Visit the summer home of FDR and Eleanor Roosevelt, and hike the trails of Herring Cove Provincial Park.
For Your Next Maine Vacation Stay in Camden, Maine
If you’re looking to plan a Maine vacation getaway to remember, look no further than the heart of coastal Maine. Camden is home to the award-winning, world-renowned Relais & Chateaux inn, Camden Harbour Inn. With the finest ocean view suites and the most opulent amenities in the region luxury travelers return again and again to experience Maine at its finest. For more information about Camden Harbour Inn, or to make your reservation, call 1-800-236-4266 today.