Soak up Bailey Island's alluring old-world vibe
Jutting off Maine's ruggedly beautiful coast into the deep blue Atlantic, Bailey Island lures visitors from far and wide thanks to its pristine shorelines, its sedate way of life and its beguiling old-world ambience. Bailey is located in the town of Harpswell, home to one of Maine's last remaining working harbors, which you'll invariably find packed with gently bobbing fishing boats and yachts. The island is also scattered with quirky boutiques and welcoming inns serving hearty home-cooked fare. Bailey Island vacation rentals range from cozy cottages perfect for a romantic getaway to sprawling family homes where you could host a big family get-together.
Bailey Island's natural wonders
As you approach the island, it's certainly worth stopping to marvel at the distinctive Bailey Island Bridge. Constructed in the 1920s, it was recognized in 1984 as a Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, as it was believed to be the only bridge on the planet made of granite cribstone. Once you've settled into your Bailey Island vacation rental, be sure to make a pit-stop at Mackerel Cove, a picture-postcard harbor where the shimmering water is ideal for swimming in the summer, and crabbing when it's cooler outside. For further spectacular coastal scenery, take a short hike to the Giant's Stairs, a dramatic rocky outcrop that dates back over 500 million years, where crashing waves can often be seen in the gleaming sunshine.
Shopping and seafood feasts on Bailey Island
Discerning shoppers will be enthralled by Bailey Island's array of independent stores, where you can pick up everything from one-of-a-kind artworks to exquisite hand-crafted jewelry to chic designer fashion. Bailey's dining scene is similarly captivating, Freshly-caught seafood naturally features prominently on many menus, so you can look forward to feasting on creamy clam chowder, buttery lobster rolls, decadent deep-fried clams or locally harvested oysters. If you fancy learning how your dinner was caught, join a lobster harvesting tour, where a local expert will talk you through the history of lobster trapping as you head out to sea, before showing you precisely how it's done.
Vivid seasons on Bailey Island
Bailey Island vacation rentals draw in big numbers of visitors during the sun-dappled months of summer. The days are long, warm and sunny, ideal for afternoons at sea or strolling down coastal paths. Winters, by contrast, are rather cold, with temperatures frequently tumbling below freezing and a fair amount of snowfall. Spring and fall are great times to visit, with mild to warm temperatures and fewer out-of-towners competing for prime accommodation.
Exploring the natural landscape of Bailey Island
Whether you're an active traveler or just want to take in the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in Bailey Island. Here are a few of the area's most enchanting features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Casco Bay (2.8 mi / 4.6 km)
- Popham Beach State Park (9.8 mi / 15.7 km)
- Popham Beach (10.7 mi / 17.3 km)
- Desert of Maine (11.7 mi / 18.8 km)
- Thomas Point Beach (12.1 mi / 19.4 km)
- East End Beach (13.2 mi / 21.2 km)
Transportation to and around Bailey Island
The nearest airport is in Portland Intl. Jetport Airport (PWM), located 17 mi (27.3 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could book a flight to Wiscasset, ME (ISS), which is 21.1 mi (33.9 km) away.
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