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 by some means 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 need to plan a day journey (or longer) to Bailey Island Maine with a go to to scenic “Land’s Finish,” too.
Editor’s Notice: We up to date this publish in July of 2022 to maintain it present and add new data.
CONTENTS: On this article, you’ll study every little thing you could 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 highway 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 an incredible scenic highway 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 kinds of different outside actions.
As it’s all saltwater at Bailey Island, you’ll be able to choose yours from the record of best inflatable kayaks for ocean.
Like at many coastal cities on the rugged Maine Shoreline, you’ll be able to look forward to finding stunning surroundings, quaint New England fishing communities, and an impartial lifestyle.
The area is residence to a few of 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 Higher 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 automotive.
Bailey Island is one in every of three islands—Bailey Island, Orrs Island, and Sebascodegan or “Nice Island.” Every is linked 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 known as “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 title of the island is for Deacon Timothy Bailey of Massachusetts.
Bailey is claimed to have purchased the island in 1750 for 1 pound of tobacco and 1 gallon of rum. Then, he named the island for himself.
How one can 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, it’s essential to journey Route 24 throughout the Cribstone Bridge. This bridge is the one one in every of its form on the earth. Extra on that, beneath.
Associated: Earlier than you hit the highway, be certain you take into account the pros and cons of traveling by car.
Crossing The Cribstone Bridge
Inbuilt 1927, the slender Cribstone Bridge is made completely of huge stacked granite blocks. The bridge is a historic civil engineering landmark, listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations.
It’s 1,122 ft lengthy and gravity alone holds collectively the blocks. This distinctive design permits water to circulate freely via the open cells with out disturbing the construction because the tide modifications.
The Cribstone bridge connects the islands of Bailey Island and Orr’s Island within the city of Harpswell.
We pulled over within the filth lot to the suitable earlier than crossing to take some images and to look at the boats gracing the waterway. (If the sunshine isn’t proper, you’ll be able to all the time use a photo retoucher to appropriate the shot.)
If you happen to’re on the lookout for a chunk to eat overlooking the water, Cook dinner’s Lobster & Ale Home is correct across the nook from the bridge.
How one can Get to Bailey Island Maine by Sea
The opposite technique to get to Bailey Island is by sea.
Casco Bay Strains affords scenic excursions departing from Portland, ME. Amongst others, the excursions embrace 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.
You too can arrive by sea on a crusing constitution, lobster tour, and even constitution your individual non-public tour.
Listed here are a number of choices you may take into account for arriving at Bailey Island by sea:
- Tevake Crusing Charters
- Casco Bay Websites-N-Lights
- West Wind Lobster Excursions
Associated Article: Learn our evaluation of this great lobster tour departing from Portland, Maine.
What to See and Do On Bailey Island Maine
As you’ll be able to 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 gorgeous ocean views, consuming the freshest seafood, and having fun with unimaginable photograph alternatives.
My suggestion 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’re more likely to come across 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 Seaside
- “BIGS” – Bailey Island Common Retailer
- Casco Bay
- Mackerel Cove (one of the photographed locations in Maine)
- Giants Stairway Path
- Betty’s Seaside Creations
- Abner Level
- Big Stairs Grille
- Bailey Island Lobster Co.
- Glen’s Lobsters
- Johnson Discipline Protect at Mackeral Cove
- MacIntosh Lot Protect
- Garrison Cove
- Harpswell Honey
- Harpswell Heritage Land Belief (a number of trails)
- Cedar Seaside
- Morse’s Cribstone Grill
- Land’s Finish Reward Store
One in all 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 ft.”
Associated Article: Discover out what to pack for a Fall Journey to New England here.
Take A Facet Journey to Close by Portland Maine
And if in case you have a little bit of time, positively cease by Portland Maine in your technique to Bailey Island.
Whilst you’re in Portland, you’ll be able to participate in an amazing, 2.5-hour historical tour of the area. Tickets begin at $40 per particular person and embrace professional commentary on over two-hundred years of historical past from a neighborhood information.
You’ll begin the tour on Business Avenue. Then, you’ll take a leisurely stroll via 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 good place to go to. It’s ony about an hour’s drive from Bailey Island.
From Portland, you possibly can 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 slender strolling paths alongside the shale.
The view is very 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 heaps subsequent to and throughout from Lands’ Finish Reward Store.
Plus, it’s price noting that if nature calls, you need to use the moveable restrooms within the first car parking zone subsequent to the reward store.
Exploring Land’s Finish
Whereas visiting Land’s Finish, you may select to:
- Calm down on the small, sea-glass strewn Bailey Island Seaside
- 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 Big’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 gorgeous views of Casco Bay. Chances are you’ll even catch a glimpse of seals, seabirds, and different sea life.
Right here’s an incredible aerial video of the realm to present you a style of the pure magnificence you’ll be able to anticipate whereas visiting Land’s Finish:
If you happen to comply with alongside the coastal path, I’m instructed you’ll arrive at what’s identified regionally as “The Giants Steps.” This can be a pure rock formation that appears like stairs main all the way down to the ocean. (Tip: Be careful for poison ivy.)
On the path, you’ll encounter a small rocky seashore referred to as Pinnacle Rock. That’s the place you’ll need to hold 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 in depth number of Maine-made souvenirs.
Two flooring are stuffed with artisan items, trinkets, t-shirts, and extra, crafted by practically 100 Maine artisans. Belief me, you’ll need 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 totally transformed in 1978 after a dangerous January storm.
At this time, Land’s Finish is run by Ruby and Ed’s son, Howard Hutchins, alongside along with his spouse Karen.
As well as, the store gives 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 popularity as a seasonal neighborhood, Land’s Finish Reward Store is open seven days per week from April via October. It’s additionally open on weekends in December, faculty trip week in February, and weekends in March.
New England winters could be bitter chilly, particularly on the coast. A go to to Land’s Finish within the spring, summer season, or fall may be the higher timing.
Land’s Finish Seaside
Adjoining to Land’s Finish Reward Retailer, you’ll discover the diminutive Land’s Finish Seaside. Just some steps down from the small car parking zone, it’s identified for sea glass and its beautiful views of the ocean.
You might also get pleasure from swimming within the tender sandy backside seashore. However bear in mind, the ocean water at Maine seashores could be chilly!
This seashore reveals a whole lot of sea glass at low tide. For the most effective likelihood to seek out some sea glass on your assortment, examine 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 an incredible 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 take into account one in every of these glorious 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 well-liked 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 night time and embrace 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.
If you happen to keep at Log Cabin Island Inn, you’ll get pleasure from a full complimentary breakfast. You might also go for a scrumptious dinner along 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 affords pristine, non-public cabins for lease on their three-acre oceanfront location overlooking stunning Casco Bay. Internet hosting consists of housekeeping providers and using their saltwater swimming pool.
Or, lease “The Mansion,” which accurately sleeps a full home of as much as 16 company.
Click to See The Driftwood Inn Rates & Availability.
Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson Home
Maybe one of the luxurious lodging on Bailey Island is the Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson Home.
It comfortably hosts as much as ten company, making it excellent for household holidays and occasions.
Every room consists of ensuite loos, luxurious linens, and comfortable sitting areas. They provide completely different view of the inlets and sounds surrounding the island.
The wrap-around deck gives outside eating with a fuel grill and a three-burner exterior vary. Plus, you’ll need 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.
Closing 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’ll be able to totally expertise the relaxed vibe, coastal magnificence, and “Down East” hospitality you’re certain to come across.
Do you like Maine’s coastal islands, like I do? You then may need 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 data, please see the next Disclosure.
Assets
In alphabetical order
Bailey Island Common Retailer (“BIGS”)
2124 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-2400
More Info
Bailey Island Lobster Co.
51 Abner Level Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Cellphone: (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
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-6645
More Info
Capt. Lawrence E. Johnson Home
1965 Harpswell Islands Rd
Bailey Island, ME 04003-2573
Cellphone: +1 (207) 541-9187
E mail: [email protected]
Check Rates & Availability
Casco Bay Strains
P.O. Field 4656
Portland, ME
04112-4656
Cellphone: +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
Cellphone: 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
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-2818
Menu: https://www.cookslobster.com/
Driftwood Inn
1958 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003, USA
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-5461
E mail: [email protected] | [email protected]
Check Rates & Availability
Big Stairs Seafood Grille
2118 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-5000
More Info
Glen’s Lobsters
Abner Level Rd
Bailey Island, Maine 04003
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-6138
More Info
Harpswell Honey
W. Shore Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-5858
Lands Finish Reward Store
2391 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-2313
E mail: [email protected]
Log Cabin Island Inn
5 Log Cabin Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-5546
Check Rates & Availablity
Morse’s Cribstone Grill
1945 Harpswell Islands Highway
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Cellphone: +1 (207) 833-7775
Menu: https://www.morsescribstonegrill.net/
Tevake Crusing Charters
Sea Escape Charters
3 Sea Escape Lane
Bailey Island, ME 04003
Cellphone: +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
Cellphone: +1 (207) 939-5481
Web site: https://www.westwindlobstertours.com/
Regularly Requested Questions About Bailey Island, Maine
Beneath are solutions to a few of 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 might need guessed–an island. It’s linked to the mainland by a Cribstone bridge you’ll be able to drive over.
How lengthy is Bailey Island Maine?
Bailey Island Maine could 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 affords superb 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, excellent 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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