Chebeague Island

Casco Bay’s Biggest Island

Chebeague Island, known locally as just “Chebeague” (rhymes with “league”), is the largest island in Casco Bay without a bridge to the mainland. Three miles long and a mile wide, it sits about 10 miles northeast of Portland in the middle of the bay. The island has a year-round population of roughly 400 that triples in the summer as seasonal residents return and visitors arrive by ferry.

What makes Chebeague different from the other Casco Bay islands is the sense of space. Where Peaks Island is compact and easily walked in an hour, Chebeague has room to breathe. Sandy beaches stretch along the southern shore. Quiet roads wind past farmland, old cemeteries, and cottages set back among the spruce. There is a nine-hole golf course with water views from every hole, a general store, a library, a church, and an inn. The pace is genuinely slow, and the island rewards the kind of visit where you bring a book and no itinerary.

In 2007, Chebeague seceded from the town of Cumberland and incorporated as its own municipality, making it one of the newest towns in Maine. The move was driven by island residents who wanted local control over their taxes and services. It was a characteristically independent act for a characteristically independent place.

Beaches

Chebeague’s beaches are its main draw for summer visitors.

Hamilton Beach on the southeast side of the island is the most popular. A long stretch of sand and cobble with views across the bay, it is a good spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The water is cold but swimmable in July and August.

Sandy Point at the eastern tip offers tidal flats that extend far at low tide. At low water, you can walk out hundreds of yards across the sand. It is a good spot for kids and for anyone who enjoys the particular beauty of a Maine tidal landscape.

Cycling the Island

Chebeague is one of the best islands in Maine for cycling. The roads are paved, mostly flat, and carry almost no traffic. A loop around the island covers roughly 5 to 6 miles and passes through all the island’s neighborhoods, past the golf course, along the shoreline, and through stands of spruce and birch.

Bikes can be brought on the ferry for an additional fee. There is no formal bike rental on the island, so bring your own.

The Chebeague Island Inn and Golf Course

The Chebeague Island Inn, a grand old summer hotel, sits on a hill overlooking the water. The inn’s restaurant is open to the public for dinner and is one of the few dining options on the island. Reservations are recommended in summer.

The Great Chebeague Golf Club, a nine-hole course founded in 1920, occupies a stretch of land with water views from every hole. The course is open to visitors and green fees are reasonable. It is a classic island links experience, informal and scenic.

Getting There

Two ferry services connect Chebeague to the mainland:

Chebeague Transportation Company (CTC) operates from Cousins Island in Yarmouth. This is the faster and more convenient option for most visitors. The crossing takes about 15 minutes. CTC runs multiple trips daily year-round. Fares are approximately $16 round trip for adults. Park at the Cousins Island lot and walk to the ferry. Call (207) 846-3700 or visit ctcferry.org.

Casco Bay Lines operates from Portland’s ferry terminal on Commercial Street. The crossing takes about 90 minutes, as the boat makes stops at other islands along the way. This is the scenic route. Fares are approximately $16 round trip during peak season. Visit cascobaylines.com.

When to Go

Practical Notes

Bring everything you need for the day. The island has a general store with basic supplies, but options are limited. Pack food, water, sunscreen, and layers.

Cell service is spotty. You will get a signal in some areas but not everywhere.

There is no public transportation on the island. Walking and cycling are the primary ways to get around. The distances are manageable on foot, but a bike makes the visit much more enjoyable.

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