That is a lot of what I really like about Maine. The rugged wilderness. The untamed Atlantic. A string of islands near Harpswell’s shore fabricated from shoal and sediment and sand—and perfumed by wild roses that in some way handle to take root. So, it ought to come as no shock that the charming, ocean-swept Bailey’s Island makes a unprecedented vacation spot. Be taught why you may wish to plan a day journey (or longer) to Bailey Island Maine with a go to to scenic “Land’s Finish,” too.
Editor’s Observe: We up to date this submit in July of 2022 to maintain it present and add new info.
CONTENTS: On this article, you’ll study every part it’s worthwhile to find out about planning a visit to Bailey Island Maine, together with:
Our Go to to Bailey Island Maine
My mom and I, together with my college-age son, took a street journey to Maine. We spent the higher a part of a day exploring Bailey Island in Harpswell earlier than assembly associates for dinner.
We may have lingered for much longer.
Bailey Island makes for a terrific scenic street journey in itself or mixed with different stops alongside an extended scenic Maine drive. It’s additionally a wonderful vacation spot for inflatable kayaks and all types of different out of doors actions.
As it’s all saltwater at Bailey Island, you may decide yours from the checklist of best inflatable kayaks for ocean.
Like at many coastal cities on the rugged Maine Shoreline, you may look forward to finding stunning surroundings, quaint New England fishing communities, and an impartial lifestyle.
The area is house to among the few remaining working harbors on the Maine coast.
Hold studying to study all about this stunning vacation spot, and why you’ll get pleasure from visiting Baily Island, Maine.
Associated Article: Journey additional inland to find picturesque Bethel, Maine.
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The place is Bailey Island Maine
You’ll discover Bailey Island within the Better Portland and Casco Bay area of Maine. It’s about an hour-and-a-half drive (50 miles) from Portland, and 15 miles south of Brunswick, Maine.
From Boston, it’s 140 miles by automobile.
Bailey Island is one among three islands—Bailey Island, Orrs Island, and Sebascodegan or “Nice Island.” Every is related to the mainland or one another by bridge.
The islands make up the city of Harpswell.
Extra particularly, Bailey Island is a part of the 216 miles of rocky shoreline that contains Harpswell Neck.
It’s additionally the final cease on Route 24.
Historical past of Bailey Island
Often called “Newaggin” when settled within the 1600s, Bailey Island is the smallest of the three islands. It’s a captivating coastal city in New England with a year-round inhabitants of simply 400. (Supply: 2000 Census).
The identify of the island is for Deacon Timothy Bailey of Massachusetts.
Bailey is alleged to have purchased the island in 1750 for 1 pound of tobacco and 1 gallon of rum. Then, he named the island for himself.
Get to Bailey Island Maine
There are two methods to get to Bailey island: by land or by sea.
With a view to get there from the mainland, you could journey Route 24 throughout the Cribstone Bridge. This bridge is the one one among its sort on this planet. Extra on that, beneath.
Associated: Earlier than you hit the street, be certain you think about the pros and cons of traveling by car.
Crossing The Cribstone Bridge
In-built 1927, the slim Cribstone Bridge is made solely of enormous stacked granite blocks. The bridge is a historic civil engineering landmark, listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations.
It’s 1,122 toes lengthy and gravity alone holds collectively the blocks. This distinctive design permits water to move freely by means of the open cells with out disturbing the construction because the tide adjustments.
The Cribstone bridge connects the islands of Bailey Island and Orr’s Island within the city of Harpswell.
We pulled over within the grime lot to the correct earlier than crossing to take some pictures and to observe the boats gracing the waterway. (If the sunshine isn’t proper, you may all the time use a photo retoucher to appropriate the shot.)
For those who’re on the lookout for a chew to eat overlooking the water, Cook dinner’s Lobster & Ale Home is correct across the nook from the bridge.
Get to Bailey Island Maine by Sea
The opposite solution to get to Bailey Island is by sea.
Casco Bay Traces presents scenic excursions departing from Portland, ME. Amongst others, the excursions embody Bailey Island and Mackerel Cove or Eagle Island. Each excursions present for a 2-hour layover on Bailey Island for lunch at Cook dinner’s Lobster & Ale Home.
It’s also possible to arrive by sea on a crusing constitution, lobster tour, and even constitution your personal non-public tour.
Listed here are a number of choices you may think about for arriving at Bailey Island by sea:
- Tevake Crusing Charters
- Casco Bay Websites-N-Lights
- West Wind Lobster Excursions
Associated Article: Learn our evaluate of this great lobster tour departing from Portland, Maine.
What to See and Do On Bailey Island Maine
As you may think about, the tempo is slower, right here on Bailey Island. It’s a really perfect vacation spot for somebody who likes to meander about, taking in beautiful ocean views, consuming the freshest seafood, and having fun with unbelievable picture alternatives.
My advice is to only take your time to casually discover this quaint little island by yourself.
However in the event you favor a extra stable plan, there are a selection of points of interest you may put in your itinerary.
Actually, let’s go forward and design a treasure hunt for you, regardless that you might be more likely to come upon many of those points of interest your self.
Bailey Island Maine Treasure Hunt
Listed in random order
- Cook dinner’s Lobster & Ale Home
- Bailey Island Bridge
- Bailey Island Seashore
- “BIGS” – Bailey Island Normal Retailer
- Casco Bay
- Mackerel Cove (probably the most photographed locations in Maine)
- Giants Stairway Path
- Betty’s Seaside Creations
- Abner Level
- Large Stairs Grille
- Bailey Island Lobster Co.
- Glen’s Lobsters
- Johnson Area Protect at Mackeral Cove
- MacIntosh Lot Protect
- Garrison Cove
- Harpswell Honey
- Harpswell Heritage Land Belief (plenty of trails)
- Cedar Seashore
- Morse’s Cribstone Grill
- Land’s Finish Reward Store
One in every of my favourite scenic stops is Land’s Finish.
To get there, comply with alongside Route 24 till it actually ends. You’ll know you’re getting shut if you see an indication that warns “Highway Ends 500 toes.”
Associated Article: Discover out what to pack for a Fall Journey to New England here.
Take A Aspect Journey to Close by Portland Maine
And when you have a little bit of time, undoubtedly cease by Portland Maine in your solution to Bailey Island.
Whilst you’re in Portland, you may participate in an amazing, 2.5-hour historical tour of the area. Tickets begin at $40 per particular person and embody professional commentary on over two-hundred years of historical past from a neighborhood information.
You’ll begin the tour on Industrial Avenue. Then, you’ll take a leisurely stroll by means of the city’s many cobblestone lanes as you discover the Previous Port. Lastly, you’ll find yourself on the downtown waterfront space in Portland.
Alongside the way in which, you’ll admire the city’s well-known lobster statue, see the previous residence of Henry Wadsworth-Longfellow, go to the Jap cemetery, cease by the Abyssinian Church, and finish the day with a complimentary candy deal with from a neighborhood meals vendor.
Portland Maine is a superb place to go to. It’s ony about an hour’s drive from Bailey Island.
From Portland, you may even plan a fast visit to the quaint Peaks Island.
What’s Land’s Finish in Harpswell ME?
Land’s Finish is a scenic vacation spot on the southernmost tip of Bailey Island.
At Land’s Finish, you’ll discover mesmerizing views of the Atlantic Ocean, Turnip Island, and Jaquish Island. You’ll additionally see a myriad of different small outcroppings on the horizon. (Enjoyable Truth: About 200 islands of Harpswell are reachable solely by boat.)
You’ll additionally discover the “Maine Lobsterman” sculpture, in addition to slim strolling paths alongside the shale.
The view is particularly breathtaking from the deck of the Land’s Finish Reward Store—to not be confused with the mail-order clothes catalog.
The place to Park at Land’s Finish
You’ll discover two free parking tons subsequent to and throughout from Lands’ Finish Reward Store.
Plus, it’s price noting that if nature calls, you should utilize the moveable restrooms within the first parking zone subsequent to the reward store.
Exploring Land’s Finish
Whereas visiting Land’s Finish, you may select to:
- Chill out on the small, sea-glass strewn Bailey Island Seashore
- Watch the boats cruise Casco Bay
- Admire the enduring ‘Maine Lobsterman’, a bronze statue created for the 1939 World’s Truthful
- Stroll alongside the rocky path ending on the Large’s Stairway
- Cool off and store the reward retailer for distinctive Maine-made souvenirs
At Land’s Finish, comply with the trail that meanders alongside the shoreline to benefit from the beautiful views of Casco Bay. It’s possible you’ll even catch a glimpse of seals, seabirds, and different sea life.
Right here’s a terrific aerial video of the realm to offer you a style of the pure magnificence you may anticipate whereas visiting Land’s Finish:
For those who comply with alongside the coastal path, I’m advised you’ll arrive at what’s identified domestically as “The Giants Steps.” This can be a pure rock formation that appears like stairs main right down to the ocean. (Tip: Be careful for poison ivy.)
On the path, you’ll encounter a small rocky seashore known as Pinnacle Rock. That’s the place you’ll wish to maintain your eyes out for stunning sea glass.
You possibly can look ahead to the waves crashing in “Thunder Gap,” too.
A Should-See: The Reward Store
Land’s Finish has a big reward store with home-made fudge, gentle snacks, water, and an intensive choice of Maine-made souvenirs.
Two flooring are stuffed with artisan items, trinkets, t-shirts, and extra, crafted by almost 100 Maine artisans. Belief me, you’ll wish to spend a while right here to take all of it in. That is memento heaven.
Land’s Finish Reward Store has been owned and run by the Hutchins household since 1959. It was initially a small snack bar and retailer opened by Ed Hutchin’s grandparents within the Nineteen Thirties.
The constructing was absolutely transformed in 1978 after a dangerous January storm.
At present, Land’s Finish is run by Ruby and Ed’s son, Howard Hutchins, alongside along with his spouse Karen.
As well as, the store supplies loads of benches on the wraparound deck (alive with whirligigs) overlooking the waterfront. It’s an ideal resting level if you wish to sit comfortably and take within the view of Casco Bay.
That’s what I did. I beloved catching some rays right here, sipping a ginger beer, and taking all of it in.
Finest Time of Yr to Go to Land’s Finish Reward Store
Regardless of Harpswell’s fame as a seasonal group, Land’s Finish Reward Store is open seven days per week from April by means of October. It’s additionally open on weekends in December, faculty trip week in February, and weekends in March.
New England winters might be bitter chilly, particularly on the coast. A go to to Land’s Finish within the spring, summer time, or fall could be the higher timing.
Land’s Finish Seashore
Adjoining to Land’s Finish Reward Retailer, you’ll discover the diminutive Land’s Finish Seashore. Only a few steps down from the small parking zone, it’s identified for sea glass and its beautiful views of the ocean.
You may additionally get pleasure from swimming within the tender sandy backside seashore. However keep in mind, the ocean water at Maine seashores might be chilly!
This seashore reveals loads of sea glass at low tide. For the perfect probability to seek out some sea glass on your assortment, test the tide charts. Then, plan to reach an hour or two earlier than low tide.
The place to Keep on Bailey Island
Once we visited this space, we had been staying within the close by city of Brunswick. This was a terrific day journey, however I may have simply been persuaded to in a single day on Bailey Island.
Along with a number of cottages on the island, you may think about one among these wonderful lodging decisions.
Bailey Island Motel
Simply over the Cribstone Bridge and on the water’s edge, is Bailey Island Motel.
This can be a nice family-friendly possibility inside strolling distance to in style points of interest. You’ll discover decks overlooking the water, night campfires, and complimentary use of their kayaks, too.
Waterside rooms at this modest however snug motel are well-priced at $130 per evening and embody complimentary breakfast.
A typical breakfast at Bailey Island Motel consists of espresso, tea, and scrumptious, freshly baked muffins. You’ll additionally get pleasure from cable TV, free Wi-Fi, ocean views, mini-fridges, and entry to a personal dock.
Click to see Bailey Island Motel Rates & Availability.
Log Cabin Island Inn
You’ll discover breathtaking sundown views of the bay and a firsthand take a look at lobster boats at Log Cabin Island Inn.
Plus, every room is uniquely styled. Some suites are fairly spacious with full kitchens and a jacuzzi. All are well-appointed.
For those who keep at Log Cabin Island Inn, you’ll get pleasure from a full complimentary breakfast. You may additionally go for a scrumptious dinner together with your keep, too.
Click to see Log Cabin Island Rates & Availability.
The Driftwood Inn
The Driftwood Inn is the oldest inn on Bailey Island. It has been in steady operation for over 100 years.
It presents pristine, non-public cabins for lease on their three-acre oceanfront location overlooking stunning Casco Bay. Internet hosting contains housekeeping providers and the usage of their saltwater swimming pool.
Or, lease “The Mansion,” which accurately sleeps a full home of as much as 16 visitors.
Click to See The Driftwood Inn Rates & Availability.
Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson Home
Maybe probably the most luxurious lodging on Bailey Island is the Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson Home.
It comfortably hosts as much as ten visitors, making it good for household holidays and occasions.
Every room contains ensuite bogs, luxurious linens, and comfortable sitting areas. They provide totally different view of the inlets and sounds surrounding the island.
The wrap-around deck supplies out of doors eating with a gasoline grill and a three-burner outdoors vary. Plus, you’ll wish to try the rooftop deck full with a moist bar.
You may even be tempted to lease this property for a month at a time.
Click to see Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson House Rates & Availability.
Last Ideas
Bailey Island makes a memorable day journey in the event you occur to be inside driving distance of Harpswell, Maine.
And in the event you’re additional away, even higher. Plan to remain over on the island so you may absolutely expertise the relaxed vibe, coastal magnificence, and “Down East” hospitality you’re positive to come across.
Do you like Maine’s coastal islands, like I do? Then you definitely may wish to try this text about Peaks Island, too!
This text might include affiliate hyperlinks. As all the time, all opinions expressed are my very own. For extra info, please see the next Disclosure.
Sources
In alphabetical order
Bailey Island Normal Retailer (“BIGS”)
2124 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-2400
More Info
Bailey Island Lobster Co.
51 Abner Level Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: (207) 833-6099
Bailey Island Motel
1951 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
+1 (207) 833-2886
Web site: baileyislandmotel.com
E-mail: [email protected]
Check Rates & Availability
Betty’s Seaside Creations
47 Washington Avenue
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-6645
More Info
Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson Home
1965 Harpswell Islands Rd
Bailey Island, ME 04003-2573
Telephone: +1 (207) 541-9187
E-mail: [email protected]
Check Rates & Availability
Casco Bay Traces
P.O. Field 4656
Portland, ME
04112-4656
Telephone: +1 (207) 774-7871
E-mail: [email protected]
Web site: https://www.cascobaylines.com/
Casco Bay Websites-N-Lights
1945 Harpswell Island Highway
Bailey Island, Me. 04003
Telephone: Cell – +1 (207) 837-1788 | Dwelling – +1 (207) 406-2124
electronic mail: [email protected]
Web site: https://cascobaysightseeing.com/
Cook dinner’s Lobster & Ale Home
68 Garrison Cove Highway
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-2818
Menu: https://www.cookslobster.com/
Driftwood Inn
1958 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003, USA
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-5461
E-mail: [email protected] | [email protected]
Check Rates & Availability
Large Stairs Seafood Grille
2118 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-5000
More Info
Glen’s Lobsters
Abner Level Rd
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-6138
More Info
Harpswell Honey
W. Shore Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-5858
Lands Finish Reward Store
2391 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-2313
E-mail: [email protected]
Log Cabin Island Inn
5 Log Cabin Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-5546
Check Rates & Availablity
Morse’s Cribstone Grill
1945 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 833-7775
Menu: https://www.morsescribstonegrill.net/
Tevake Crusing Charters
Sea Escape Charters
3 Sea Escape Lane
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 841-9125 (cell) | +1 (207) 833-5531
Web site: https://seaescapecottages.com/sailing-charters/
West Wind Lobster Excursions
1945 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
Telephone: +1 (207) 939-5481
Web site: https://www.westwindlobstertours.com/
Continuously Requested Questions About Bailey Island, Maine
Beneath are solutions to among the commonest questions on Bailey Island.
What city is Bailey Island in?
You’ll discover Bailey Island within the city of Harpswell, Maine. It’s a part of Cumberland County. This charming little city proper on the coast overlooking Casco Bay. Bailey Island is–as you may need guessed–an island. It’s related to the mainland by a Cribstone bridge you may drive over.
How lengthy is Bailey Island Maine?
Bailey Island Maine may be very drivable at 2.5 miles lengthy and only a half mile huge. You’ll discover scenic vistas nearly in every single place.
What’s Land’s Finish in Maine?
On the southern tip of Bailey Island, you’ll discover Land’s Finish. This scenic vacation spot presents wonderful views to the Atlantic Ocean, in addition to views to smaller islands and outcroppings, like Jaquish Island and Turnip Island. Trails wrap round this a part of the rugged Maine shoreline, good for strolling to get pleasure from a nature break and wildlife. Or, cease into the reward store for some souvenirs and a cool beverage.
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