Maine’s coast is dotted with thousands of islands, and a handful are unforgettable places to visit. After three decades running Maine’s resource guide, these are the islands we recommend, from Acadia’s Mount Desert to the car-free artist colony of Monhegan.
The best islands to visit in Maine are Mount Desert Island, Monhegan, Peaks Island, Vinalhaven, Isle au Haut, Chebeague, and Swans Island. Mount Desert (home to Acadia) is the best overall, Monhegan the best for art and quiet, and Peaks the easiest day trip. Each is covered below.
1. Mount Desert Island
Mount Desert Island is the best island in Maine. Home to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, and Cadillac Mountain, Mount Desert is Maine’s largest and most spectacular island – where mountains meet the Atlantic. The one island nearly every visitor should see. ★ 4.9 from 25,000+ Google reviews.
2. Monhegan Island
Monhegan Island is the best island for art and quiet. A tiny, car-free island 10 miles offshore, Monhegan has drawn painters for over a century with its dramatic cliffs, wild headlands, and complete escape from the modern world. Reached by ferry from Port Clyde, New Harbor, or Boothbay.
3. Peaks Island
Peaks Island is the best island day trip. A 20-minute ferry from Portland, Peaks Island offers beaches, bike rentals, and a charming year-round community – the easiest island escape in Maine and a perfect half-day trip.
4. Vinalhaven
Vinalhaven is the best island for authentic life. A working lobstering island in Penobscot Bay reached by ferry from Rockland, Vinalhaven offers quarries turned swimming holes, granite shores, and a glimpse of genuine Maine island life far from tourism.
5. Isle au Haut
Isle au Haut is the best island for wilderness. Half of this remote island belongs to Acadia National Park, with rugged trails and almost no crowds. Reached by mailboat from Stonington, it is the quietest corner of the park.
6. Chebeague Island
Chebeague Island is the best island for a peaceful getaway. A quiet Casco Bay island reached by ferry from Portland or Cousins Island, Chebeague offers beaches, walking, and a slow, unspoiled pace – island life without the crowds.
7. Swans Island
Swans Island is the best off-the-beaten-path island. A working island south of Mount Desert reached by ferry from Bass Harbor, Swans Island has a lighthouse, quiet beaches, and a genuine fishing-community feel.
Best Islands in Maine: FAQ
What is the best island to visit in Maine?
Mount Desert Island is the best island to visit in Maine, home to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, and Cadillac Mountain. For a car-free, quieter experience, Monhegan is the best, and Peaks Island is the easiest day trip from Portland.
Which Maine island is best for a day trip?
Peaks Island is the best day trip – just a 20-minute ferry from Portland, with beaches and bike rentals. Monhegan and Vinalhaven make excellent longer day trips for those wanting a more remote island experience.
Can you visit Maine islands without a car?
Yes – most Maine islands are best explored without a car. Monhegan is entirely car-free, and Peaks, Chebeague, and Isle au Haut are all walkable or bikeable. Passenger ferries serve all of them from mainland harbors.
See also our best coastal towns in Maine and best things to do in Maine. MaineGuide.com has been Maine’s resource guide since 1995.
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