There are many small, uninhabited islands off the coast of Maine to explore and look for sea glass and other treasures. A group of friends invited us to Long Island off the coast of Blue Hill. Our three-hour tour, which was closer to five hours, started out of Northeast Harbor, then headed towards Bernard and by the Bass Harbor Lighthouse.
- Updated: 27 Sept 2024
Bass Harbor
There is a large lobster fishing community operating out of Bass Harbor. As a working harbor, it tends to be less touristy than the rest of the island. The exception is the lighthouse, which is usually busy. It is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine. During the summer, you must get there early to find your spot for sunset! One morning we went for moonset, rather than sunset and we were basically alone.
Long Island
Long Island has a lovely beach called Fogg Cove. While there, we found some treasures: a heart-shaped rock, a sand dollar, and a piece of white sea glass. After anchoring off the beach, we took turns coming ashore in an inflatable raft, which is safe for up to 350 lbs per trip, which we doubled and managed to stay mostly dry.
Exploring Maine’s Smaller Islands
On a hot day, boating is a great way to cool down. The air on the water can be 10 degrees cooler and much breezier than in town, and when the temperature starts to climb, island hopping is just the thing.
Time Lapse at Long Island
I spent most of my time setting up a time-lapse of the tide coming in to cover a small sand bar. On the way back, we made the loop to circle the island of Mount Desert. We went under the Trenton Bridge, past the cruise ships anchored off Bar Harbor, and then followed the Park Loop Road around to Seal Harbor. Then, we cruised past the beautiful summer cottages, took a quick stop to watch the sailing races, and then back to the Fleet.
Cruising around Mount Desert Island
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Exploring Maine’s Smaller Islands
On a hot day, boating is a great way to cool down. The air on the water can be 10 degrees cooler and much breezier than in town, and when the temperature starts to climb, island hopping is just the thing.
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Visit Bar Harbor
I have been going to Bar Harbor, actually Northeast Harbor, its smaller neighbor, in July and/or August for the past 25 summers. This is what I have learned over the years, and it is what I tell my friends who ask me about Maine, my insider’s advice for your visit.
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