The Long Island in Penobscot Bay
Islesboro is a 14-mile-long island in upper Penobscot Bay, shaped like a long thin finger pointing northeast from the mainland town of Lincolnville. The car ferry crosses in 20 minutes, making it one of the most accessible islands in Maine, yet it feels much farther away than the short crossing suggests. The roads are quiet, the views across the bay to the Camden Hills are constant, and there is very little in the way of commercial development. Islesboro is the kind of place where you drive to the end of the road, park, and sit on a rock looking at the water.
The year-round population is about 600, with a long history as a summer retreat. Since the late 1800s, Islesboro has attracted wealthy summer families who built estates along the western shore facing the Camden Hills. The Rockefellers, Astors, and Harrimans all had houses here. That summer colony tradition continues, though the island today is more diverse and less exclusive than the old summer crowd might suggest. There is a school, a library, a historical society, a town office, and a strong sense of community identity.
Grindle Point Lighthouse
The Grindle Point Lighthouse stands at the entrance to Gilkey Harbor, right next to the ferry landing. You can see it from the boat as you approach. The original lighthouse was built in 1851 and replaced by the current structure in 1874. The squat, pyramidal tower is one of the more distinctive lighthouse shapes in Maine.
The keeper’s house now contains the Sailors’ Memorial Museum, which houses maritime artifacts, ship models, and exhibits on island history. The lighthouse tower was reopened to the public in 2025 after six years of safety repairs, and you can climb to the top for views across Gilkey Harbor and the bay. The museum is open Friday through Sunday, July through Labor Day. Free admission.
Exploring the Island
Islesboro is 14 miles long but only about 2 miles wide at its broadest. Route 1A (the island’s main road) runs the full length from Grindle Point in the south to Turtle Head in the north. The drive takes about 25 minutes without stops, but you will stop. Views of the Camden Hills and Penobscot Bay appear constantly on both sides.
At the northern tip, Turtle Head offers a rocky shore with views toward Castine and Fort Point. A short walk from the road leads to ledges at the water’s edge.
The island’s interior is a mix of fields, spruce forest, and old farmland. Side roads lead to coves, beaches, and overlooks that are not visible from the main road. Get lost on purpose.
Warren Island State Park
Warren Island State Park occupies a small, 70-acre island just off the southern end of Islesboro in Gilkey Harbor. The park is covered in spruce forest and is accessible only by boat. A 1.5-mile trail circles the island with views of Penobscot Bay and the Camden Hills.
The park has picnic facilities, campsites, and a dock. It is open from Memorial Day through mid-September. If you have a kayak or small boat, it is a worthwhile side trip from Islesboro. Some visitors paddle over from the Islesboro shore.
Getting There
The Maine State Ferry Service operates a car ferry between Lincolnville Beach and Islesboro. The crossing takes about 20 minutes. The ferry departs Lincolnville on the hour and Islesboro on the half hour, with 12 to 18 crossings per day depending on the season.
Peak-season fares (June through September) are approximately $17 round trip per adult passenger and $42.50 for a vehicle. Off-peak fares are approximately $10 per adult and $30 per vehicle. No reservations are taken for the Islesboro ferry; it is first-come, first-served. Arrive 30 minutes early in summer.
The Lincolnville Beach terminal is on Route 1, about 5 miles north of Camden. Parking is available at the terminal.
When to Go
Summer
Best season. Lighthouse museum open, Warren Island accessible, warmest weather for cycling and kayaking. Most frequent ferry schedule.
Fall
Quieter. Beautiful light and foliage. Museum closes after Labor Day. Ferry runs on a full schedule through October.
Winter
Year-round residents only. Reduced ferry schedule. No visitor services. The island is quiet and atmospheric.
Spring
Muddy roads, cool weather. Ferry schedule increases in April. Not much open for visitors.
Cycling Islesboro
Islesboro is excellent for cycling. The main road is paved and mostly flat, with gentle hills. The 14-mile length of the island makes a manageable out-and-back ride, or you can explore the network of side roads. Traffic is light, especially on weekdays. Bring your bike on the ferry.
FAQ
How do you get to Islesboro?
Take the Maine State Ferry from Lincolnville Beach. The crossing is 20 minutes. Ferries run every 60 to 90 minutes. No reservations; first come, first served.
Can I bring my car to Islesboro?
Yes, the ferry carries vehicles. Peak-season vehicle fare is approximately $42.50 round trip. A bike is a good alternative for day trips.
Is Grindle Point Lighthouse open to visitors?
Yes. The lighthouse tower reopened to the public in 2025. The Sailors Memorial Museum in the keeper's house is open Friday through Sunday, July through Labor Day.
Are there restaurants on Islesboro?
Dining options are extremely limited. Bring a picnic. The island has a small store with basic supplies.
How long should I spend on Islesboro?
A half day to a full day. The ferry schedule allows plenty of flexibility. Cycling the island and visiting the lighthouse takes three to four hours.
