Monhegan Island: A Remote Escape for Tranquility and Adventure
If you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Monhegan Island in Mid-Coast Maine is an ideal choice. Just ten miles from the nearest mainland and covering less than a square mile, this small island boasts no shopping malls or paved roads.
There are no cars allowed for visitors on Monhegan, so plan to explore the island on foot. Biking is also prohibited, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy walking and hiking.
Here, you’ll find a tranquil and secluded atmosphere with plenty of dining options, picturesque hiking trails, and a haven for artists. During our visit, we were delighted to see many painters immersed in capturing the island’s breathtaking landscapes, adding to the island’s artistic charm.
Planning Your Trip to Monhegan Island
How to get there?
To visit Monhegan Island, you’ll need to take a ferry. Ferries depart from either New Harbor with Hardy Boat Cruises or Boothbay Harbor with Balmy Day Cruises. It's a good idea to check the ferry schedules in advance and book your tickets early, especially during peak seasons.
How long does it take?
The ferry ride typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the departure point and weather conditions.
When's the best time to visit?
Monhegan Island is most popular in the summer and early fall when the weather is mild, and the island’s natural beauty is at its peak. Fall is also a great time to experience the stunning foliage.
What should I pack?
Monhegan Island is known for its rugged terrain and beautiful hiking trails, so be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for unpredictable weather, and plenty of water. Don’t forget a camera for the stunning coastal views!
Fun fact:
The name "Monhegan" means "faraway island" in the language of the Penobscot Indians. For centuries, they rowed the long distance to reach the island and fish in its surrounding waters.
Food + Drink
Despite its small size, Monhegan Island has a handful of excellent food and drink spots. Whether you're craving fresh seafood or looking to relax with a locally brewed beer or coffee, the island offers a delightful variety of options to satisfy any appetite.
The Barnacle
Located right at the ferry port, The Barnacle is a great spot to start your day with coffee and a pastry. Be sure to grab a trail map for $1 while you're there. We enjoyed some coffee along with a delicious croissant and a cinnamon roll with a caramelized, crispy bottom that was absolutely delicious. Later, when you're waiting for the ferry back to the mainland, it's also the perfect place to pick up a refreshing tea or a sweet treat.
The Fish House
Perched right on the shore, The Fish House offers fresh seafood with a stunning view. Whether you choose to sit at the picnic tables or chairs, you'll be able to soak in the picturesque scenery.
We tried the lobster BLT, a cup of lobster bisque, and crab tacos. While it’s not the cheapest option, enjoying seafood on an island, right by the beach, is a must! After a day of hiking, it truly hits the spot and is worth the splurge.
Monhegan Brewing Company
How cool is it that this island has its own brewery? Monhegan Brewing Company is a family-owned small craft brewery. Their open season runs from the first weekend in May until mid-October. Although I didn’t stay, I walked by and loved the lively atmosphere. The outdoor seating, with tables nestled in lobster traps, added a fun and unique touch!
Hiking + Viewpoints
Monhegan Island offers an incredible hiking experience surrounded by nature's beauty. The island's moss-covered forests are interwoven with scenic trails, where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful woods while still hearing the soothing sound of ocean waves in the distance. It's the perfect blend of forest and sea.
Lighthouse Hill
After disembarking from the ferry, take a left and follow the road uphill. You'll pass the small library and schoolhouse as you make your way to one of the island's best viewpoints—Lighthouse Hill. At the top, you'll find a lighthouse and a museum. From here, you’ll get the most stunning view of the island’s village and port.
Note: The grounds and the museum in the keeper's house are open to the public, but the lighthouse tower itself is not accessible.
The Cliff Trail
Located on the northern side of the island, the Cliff Trail is a more challenging hike, making it less ideal for day-trippers. The trail is marked on the map as taking several hours to complete, and while we started it, after a couple of hours, we decided to cut back through the center of the island.
If you're staying overnight and have more time, hiking the island’s perimeter and fully experiencing the Cliff Trail is well worth it. The views are breathtaking, and it would be perfect to bring a picnic and spend some time relaxing in this stunning part of the island.
Lobster Cove and The Ship Wreck
Head to the southern part of the island, just beyond Monhegan Brewery, and you'll find Lobster Cove. This small, rocky cove is dotted with rock cairns and features the remnants of a shipwreck—a rusted steel hull of a tugboat resting along the rugged shoreline.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
