What to Do on Monhegan Island Maine
- Laura
- 2 hours ago
- 6 min read
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Monhegan Island is a remote fishing port, artist’s colony, and hiking paradise off the coast of Maine. On one end of the island there is a village filled with art studios, shops, and eateries. The remainder of the island is crisscrossed by trails that wind through the forest to the shore. There is a lot to see. Our article can help you decide what to do on Monhegan Island Maine.
Developed in the 1800s, and largely unchanged, things to do on Monhegan Island revolve around the sea. Lobster traps line the dirt roads of the village. Between fish houses, a cluster of galleries feature scenes from the sea. Away from town, Maine’s magnificent rocky coast and granite cliffs are visible from almost everywhere.
Only accessible by boat, when you go, you’ll want to have a plan. Read our article to learn about the island’s ferries, hotels, and restaurants; and what to do on Monhegan Island.
COASTAL MAINE DAY TRIPS & TOURS
WHERE IS MONHEGAN ISLAND MAINE
Monhegan Island is surrounded by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The island sits about 10 miles off the coast of central Maine in Lincoln County. The roughly 1 square mile island has a year round population of around 75 people.
HOW TO GET TO MONHEGAN ISLAND MAINE
There is no airport on Mohegan Island. The island can be reached via three ferry services: Monhegan Boat Line out of Port Clyde, Hardy Boat Cruises out of New Harbor, and the Balmy Days II out of Boothbay Harbor (all in Maine).
Once on the island, the main source of transportation is by foot. No visitor cars are permitted, and there are no bike rentals. Golf carts can be rented, if needed.
MONHEGAN ISLAND WEATHER
July and August are the warmest months on Monhegan Island. At this time of year, long days in the 70s lead to nights in the 50s’F (fog is frequent). January and February are the coldest months with shorter days in 20s and 30s’F, and lots of ice and snow. In general, the moderating effects of the ocean lead to slightly warmer winters and cooler summers than on the mainland.
MONHEGAN ISLAND MAP
MAINE COAST TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
MONHEGAN ISLAND HOTELS
There are a variety of inns, boarding houses, and cottages to rent on Monhegan Island. Below, we have listed two long-standing, well-loved places to stay. For those who choose to see the island on a day trip, we have also suggested two hotels in Boothbay Harbor.
The Island Inn – Shortest walk to pier. Overlooks harbor with large porch. Dining Room with breakfast included. This is our favorite inn on the island.
The Monhegan House – 1870s inn with ocean, lighthouse, and meadow views. Elegant dining room.
Smugglers Cove Inn - Boothbay Harbor. Classic Maine waterfront resort.
Topside Inn- Boothbay Harbor. Comfortable rooms with elegant atmosphere.
WHAT TO DO ON MONHEGAN ISLAND
The best things to do on Monhegan Island involve being outdoors. Whether exploring the fishing village, artist’s studios, lighthouse museum, or hiking – the island’s windy bluffs and rocky shores are never far away.
On-island, check the Rope Shed and Wharf Shed for trail maps and opening days and hours of the sites described below. Here is a list of what to do on Monhegan Island:
Explore the Village
Artists’ Studios & Galleries
There is a vibrant artist’s community on Monhegan Island. Go to the Wharf Shed or Rope Shed for fliers listing individual artists opening hours and days. For art collaboratives try:
Edison Studio: (Lighthouse Hill Road) The studio features jewelry by Cat Bates, pottery by Kila Bates, Sculpture by Daphne Pulsifer, and paintings by Sylvia Albers. Generally, open Tuesday thru Sunday 1pm to 4pm, and by appointment.
The Lupine Gallery: (Main Street) This fine arts collaborative displays the works of 50 contemporary artists. Peruse paintings, prints, books, cards, and more. Generally, open 11am to 4:30pm daily.
The Lighthouse & Ice Pond
Built in 1824, the now automated lighthouse can be toured. Climb the tower for great views of the village, harbor, Manana Island, and the sea. Next to the lighthouse see old equipment once used for harvesting ice.
Monhegan Museum of Art & History
The museum is housed in the former lightkeeper’s cottage on the lighthouse’s grounds. The museum, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has exhibits on island history, botany, and fishing culture.
Village Walk
From the ferry wharf, a walk around the village is always enjoyable. See the fish houses, fishermen’s sheds, and lobster traps clustered around the narrow roads. Pause and soak up the sun on tiny Swim Beach (no facilities).
Move on to the Meadow, and read the Rope Shed bulletin board. Swing by the Schoolhouse (the island’s school) and the Tercentenary Tablet (a rock plaque commemorating John Smith’s voyage to Monhegan Island in 1614).
NEW ENGLAND TOURS & ADVENTURES
Explore the Forest and the Shore
Outside of the village, the island is heavily wooded with a spruce and balsam forest, and filled with rare flowers. Surrounding the forest is the rocky Maine coast with dramatic ocean cliffs and churning inlets.
There are 12 miles of hiking trails. When trekking, carry a trail map (published by the Monhegan Associates). Download the trail map online; or purchase at ferry offices, stores, and inns.
Be sure to wear sensible shoes for the rugged terrain. Bring food, water, bug spray, and sunscreen. Not all trails are well marked and the undergrowth is thick (so don’t stray from the trail). Not suitable for small children or mobility impaired persons. Don’t miss the following spots:
Lobster Cove: On the southern end of the island, this area is good for birdwatching. There are large flat rocks to climb and an old shipwreck to photograph. Dangerous undertows; no swimming.
The Headlands: On the back of the island, the Headlands are home to the island’s largest sea cliffs. From the bluffs enjoy views of Else au Huat, Matinicus, and Nova Scotia.
Gull Cove: On the back of the island, visit the rocky shore at eye level. At half-tide look for harbor seals on the granite outcroppings.
MONHEGAN ISLAND RESTAURANTS
Monhegan Brewing Company – Small batch beer, food truck, outside seating
Monhegan Coffee Roasters – Coffee, tea, and pastries
Monhegan Fish House – Lobster rolls, chowders, sandwiches. Picnic tables on Fish Beach
Monhegan House Dining – Breakfast and dinner at the Monhegan House.
Nite Nite Fattys – After-dinner dessert bar
The Barnacle – Sandwiches, salads, chowders, and pastries
The Island Dining Room – Breakfast and Dinner service overlooking harbor. Dinner reservations required
The Novelty – Pizza, salads, sandwiches, and ice cream
MONHEGAN ISLAND MAINE THINGS TO KNOW
Electronics: Be prepared to unplug. There are few TVs on the island (most hotel rooms do not have a TV). There is little access to the web.
Children: Monhegan Island is best for children who are sturdy, mobile, and love the outdoors. There are few planned activities and little indoor entertainment.
Swimming: One beach (tiny, exposed, and scruffy).
Trucks & Cars: The locals drive cars and trucks on the narrow lanes. Be alert and quick to get out of the way.
Pets: Pets must be leashed. No public trash receptacles. Carry in/Carry out waste.
Hiking Trails: No wheeled vehicles allowed including strollers, dirt bikes, bikes, and ATVs.
Camping and Fires: Not allowed.
See you bumbye (bye and bye) on the island, Laura and Randy
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