About Monhegan Island
Monhegan Island is a small, remote island located off the coast of Maine. This unique destination attracts hikers, lighthouse enthusiasts, and art lovers alike. It serves as an ideal location for a day trip or an overnight stay, offering a tranquil escape from the mainland.
The island has a rich history that dates back to its original inhabitants, who were Native Americans who relied on the abundant fishing resources in the area. In the 1620s, European settlers established a permanent presence on the island, driven by the development of fishing and lobstering industries.
By the late 19th century, Monhegan Island became a hub for artists, drawing notable figures such as Edward Hopper, Rockwell Kent, George Bellows, Robert Henri, and the Wyeth family. These artists found inspiration in the island's dramatic landscapes, leading to the establishment of the Monhegan Museum of Art and History in 1959. The museum showcases the island's artistic legacy and cultural significance.
Getting to Monhegan Island
The only way to reach Monhegan Island is by passenger boat. There are several departure points along the Maine coast, including Boothbay Harbor, New Harbor, and Port Clyde. Each option offers a different experience and travel time.
From Boothbay Harbor, the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours each way with Balmy Days Cruises. The boat departs at 9:30 am and returns at 4:15 pm. From New Harbor, Hardy Boat Cruises provides a one-hour trip to the island and a 1.25-hour return. Lastly, the Monhegan Boat Line from Port Clyde offers a one-hour ride to the island.
All these boat trips can be booked online, but it’s important to note that round-trip tickets must be purchased separately. This detail might be confusing for first-time visitors, so it's worth considering when planning your trip.
Why Choose the Monhegan Boat Line?
Choosing the Monhegan Boat Line was based on personal preferences. The route from Port Clyde offered access to nearby lighthouses, which was a key factor for my visit. Additionally, I stayed overnight in Rockland, Maine, to avoid an early morning drive from Connecticut. We also considered the New Harbor option but had recently visited Pemaquid Lighthouse, making us eager to explore new areas.
We managed to visit three lighthouses before our ferry trip, including Rockland Harbor Light, Owls Head Light, and Marshall Point Lighthouse. Marshall Point Lighthouse was conveniently close to the ferry dock.
Getting Around on the Island
Since no cars are allowed on the island, walking is the primary mode of transportation. The island isn’t large, but it is hilly, making walking a bit challenging. Many visitors bring trekking poles to assist with navigation.
I used a hiking camera backpack to carry my gear, which helped distribute the weight more evenly. I also wore hiking boots for added support. A yellow golf cart marked "Monhegan Cab Co." was spotted at the ferry landing, suggesting a taxi service exists, though details about how it operates remain unclear.
What I Did on Monhegan Island
My visit was limited to a day trip, so I focused on key attractions. The first stop was the Monhegan Island Lighthouse, a short but steep walk from the ferry landing. The views from the top were breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding waters and Manana Island.
Inside the lighthouse, there is a museum and an art gallery. The museum features exhibits on the island's history and the lighthouse itself. The art gallery showcases works inspired by the island, including informative displays on local wildlife, such as ticks and Lyme disease research.
After exploring the lighthouse, we visited Monhegan Brewing Company for lunch. The brewery is part of the Maine Beer Trail, and while I wasn't a beer drinker, the food truck served delicious meals. We enjoyed chicken tenders and fried haddock, paired with fries.
A stop at The Barnacle provided a refreshing gelato treat, and I picked up a souvenir magnet from the Black Duck Emporium. I also enjoyed homemade lemonade at the Kissing Booth before heading back to the ferry.
Is Monhegan Island Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! I would have loved to spend more time on the island, especially for hiking. If I return, I plan to stay overnight to fully experience the trails and the peaceful atmosphere. Monhegan Island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture that makes it a memorable destination.
