The climb can take anywhere between one to two hours, depending on the hiker's pace. Next to the ferry landing, Grimes Park is 2.5 acres and juts into Sand Cove. There are also several benches placed along the summit for hikers to rest and take in the stunning views. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. With its picturesque landscapes, serene atmosphere, and quaint town, Vinalhaven is a go-to destination for tourists and locals alike. One of the most popular activities in the summer months is swimming at the Basin. Among the destinations to choose from are Lanes Island, a 45-acre nature preserve thats just a 20-minute walk from the ferry, and Tip Toe Mountain Preserve, which has short, steep hikes to panoramic views. It is awesome. See all Claws reviews, "Treat yourself to a little trip to the village of Stockton Springs and this new restaurant that is a treasure." One of the most memorable ways to explore the island is from the water. Fishing excursions, whale watching, and lighthouse tours are also great options in Maine. It's also important to dress for the weather, as the sea breeze can be cool even on a sunny day. Yet it's on a small Island accessible only by ferry from Rockland, Maine. This gallery features a variety of handmade goods, including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and more. It had a few picnic tables and a couple rustic trails. Today, many people refer to the island simply as "Vinalhaven." You can also take a guided kayaking tour, which is a great way to learn about the history and geology of the island. Please contact us if you have something that should be added. 21 History Museums Basin Preserve 5 Nature & Wildlife Areas Grimes Park 5 Parks Blue Yonder Sail Charters - Day Tours 31 Boat Tours, Nature & Wildlife Tours Sea Kayak Stonington 49 Boat Tours, Kayaking & Canoeing Guided Island Tours 7 Boat Tours Directions. The Maine State Ferry Service terminals are in Rockland and Vinalhavens Carvers Harbor. Vinalhaven, Maine is a beautiful island community located in Penobscot Bay. One popular route for kayaking around Vinalhaven is the North Haven-Vinalhaven Thoroughfare. The restaurant has a charming, rustic atmosphere with a great view of the harbor. Maines vast and rugged coastlines make it a picturesque place for vacationers and seekers of lands that is often less traveled. Today, the island town is known for having one of the biggest lobster fishing fleets in the world. The island is full of wonderful surprises, and it is an ideal place to reconnect with nature and take in all that its natural beauty has to offer. The island is home to two beautiful nature preserves: Next, you'll cross over a lovely causeway, which leads directly to the area. The beaches on Vinalhaven are easily accessible, and there are several areas where you can set up camp for the night. This post was first published in 2019 and has been updated. THE 5 BEST Things to Do in Vinalhaven - UPDATED 2023 - Must See Attractions in Vinalhaven, ME | Tripadvisor Vinalhaven Hotels Things to Do Restaurants Flights Vacation Rentals Travel Stories Cruises Rental Cars United States Maine (ME) Mid Coast Maine Vinalhaven Things to do in Vinalhaven Top Things to Do in Vinalhaven, ME - Vinalhaven Attractions See Tripadvisor's 511 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Vinalhaven attractions Vinalhaven, Maine is the perfect place to see for the quintessential Maine experience! One of the great things about fishing at Carvers Pond is that it is accessible to everyone. Technically speaking, there are over 4,600 islands off the coast of Maine.This includes the largest actual island (Mount Desert Island) to tiny ledges that can only be considered islands during a very low tide.There are a fair few that fall right in the middle, perfect for exploring no matter what your budget might be. At the eastern end of this beach is a set of stairs to the trails. Whether you're looking for a refreshing cocktail, satisfying cuisine, or live music, the Harbor Gawker is sure to please. Compared to some of the other protected lands on Vinalhaven Maine, Whitmore Pond Sanctuary is small at 8 acres. You can rent canoes and kayaks to explore at your own pace. Thank you! The island's main village, also known as Vinalhaven, is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to start your biking journey. Even better, Vinalhaven is big enough to offer restaurant, shops, and even that rarest of Maine island amenities: a welcoming and up-to-date inn. Plus:homemade ice cream sandwiches! See all Hartstone Inn & Hideaway reviews, "It was a very nice Small Bistro table set up on the lawn behind the restaurant overlooking the beautiful Rockport Harbor." The Basin Preserve on Vinalhaven Maine consists of four trails. Enjoy panoramic views at Tip Toe Mountain Preserve. The views of the the bay were pretty. This easy walk passes through a high biodiversity area to a scenic overlook and seaside gravel beach on Pollys Cove. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. So be sure to add exploring the town's art galleries to your travel itinerary it's an experience you won't want to miss! The longest path in this preserve is the 1.2-mile Round Pond Trail, which follows an old town road through granite outcrops and spruces. 18 were here. The exhibit also features photographs and stories of local fishermen and their families, giving visitors an idea of what life was like on the island during its heyday. The summer-only, unheated behemoth eventually strained finances to the point we rented offseason. Aside from the seabirds that are constantly overhead, there are plenty of other birds and animals to see on VinalhavenIsland, a popular haven for bird-watching enthusiasts. Its within walking distance of the ferry terminal too. The 1-mile Overlook Trail loop is also moderately difficult. Mount Pleasant is a must-see destination for all hiking enthusiasts visiting Vinalhaven. Letters to the editor of the Globe Magazine - The Boston Globe Vinalhaven also provides a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and other Maine island amenities. THE BEST Indoor Things to Do in Vinalhaven on a Rainy Day - Tripadvisor Exciting! Our favorite things about The Tidewater is that its built right over the water! See all Front & Main reviews, "It used to be on Saturday morning I would head into Belfast go to the farmers market and head home." Vinalhaven, Maine is a beautiful and scenic island located off the coast of Maine. On the southern side of Vinalhaven is Carver's Harbor, a charming port town. Find trails in Maine leading to Mount Katahdin where moose are plentiful at Baxter State Park or visit islands like Vinalhaven to see a famous Maine lighthouse. Australia: 12-Night Melbourne, Cairns & Sydney Pennsylvania: Daily Car Rentals from Pittsburgh. One of the best ways to experience the island's natural beauty is to go kayaking around its coast. Starting the 1820s and continuing for about a century, it was a leading U.S. producer of granite; the islands fine pinkish-gray stone can be found in everything fromthe Brooklyn Bridge to the Washington Monument. Bing Maps - Directions, trip planning, traffic cameras & more We are sorry. 3. Visit the Vinalhaven Historical Society. Steak and frites were a surprise: abs"more, "Always a pleasure to view the coast of Maine atop Mt Battie Tower. Answer: Carrying Place Trail, Island Heritage Trust Trails, and the Basin Trail are a few popular hiking trails in Vinalhaven that offer beautiful vistas and breathtaking scenery. 8 Islands Off The Coast Of Maine You Need To Visit ASAP - Only In Your Housed in an 1836 church, it has an extensive collection of genealogical records, photos, and other artifacts. From hiking, swimming, and boat tours to photo ops, shops, and restaurants, there is plenty to see and things to do on Vinalhaven Maine. There are a few rental options in the center of town with reasonable day rates. This attention to detail ensures that every customer gets a lobster roll thats cooked to perfection. You can rent a bike from a local shop or bring your own on the ferry from Rockland. It . Look for seals, eagles, and other wildlife on a boat tour or from the shore. They both offer crystal-clear water and are perfect for taking a dip in on a hot summer day. Guide to Vinalhaven, Maine | Eat, Stay & Play - New England Additionally, hikers should carry a map or GPS device, as cell service on the island can be spotty. We serve a homemade breakfast every morning as well. Don't miss exploring the best things to do on Vinalhaven Maine this year when you visit the Midcoast region! Additionally, there are several other beaches on the island that are perfect for this activity, such as Lane's Island Beach, Indian Creek Beach, and Pebble Beach. Vinalhaven is Maine's largest offshore island. The world's largest living creatures can be found feeding and frolicking just 20 miles off the Maine coast. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Warren Island has something for everyone. From the 1820s until the early 1900s, the community was a leading producer of high-quality granite in the United States. Things to Do in Vinalhaven Enter dates Filters Attractions Traveler favorites Category types Attractions Shopping Types of Attractions Nature & Parks Museums Traveler rating Good for Budget-friendly Good for Kids Hidden Gems Good for a Rainy Day 6 places sorted by traveler favorites 1. there are 16 nature preserves on Vinalhaven Island, with Huber Preserve and Lane's Island Preserve being the most popular. If you dont mind a 15-minute drive to the ferry terminal, The Country Inn is our year-round bed-and-breakfast-style inn. See all Fin & Fern reviews, "So we went all out for a celebratory dinner and gor the Omakase for two, the rockland roll and a tonnnn of sashimi." Its Fish Hook Trail is really short at 0.3 miles but moderately difficult. The island's steep hills will test your endurance, but the views at the top are well worth the effort. Another fun kayaking route is the Eastern Harbor. Tip Toe Mountain Preserve covers approximately 40 acres and consists of salt marshes, wetlands, rocky summits, and more. Beyond the lobster rolls, Harbor Gawker also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, including clam chowder, fried clams, and haddock sandwiches. The Basin has some small beaches and rocky areas where swimmers can jump into the water. Encompassing 1.3 acres on Sand Cove, Skoog Park is the home of the Vinalhaven Land Trusts office. Best Things To Do in Vinalhaven, Maine - TripHobo When it comes to biking, the island's paved roads provide a scenic and challenging ride for cyclists of all levels. These Small Towns in Maine Come Alive in Summer - WorldAtlas Maine's coast has more than 3,000 islands, each one unique with its geography and splendid attractions. If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a leap off one of the cliffs into the water for an exhilarating experience. We have rooms, suites, and cottages, as well as a deluxe breakfast and luxury amenities. This small community may be small in size but it has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. The result is a soft and buttery bun filled to the brim with succulent, tender chunks of lobster meat. A visit to Vinalhaven, where we're watching the tides roll in Search these out! See all Fresh & Co reviews, "We had chips/queso, crab dip, lobster Caesar, bacon cheeseburger, blueberry pie (soooo delish! For outdoor enthusiasts, camping in the area is an adventure that you can't miss. Its open during the day for meandering, picnicking, and watching the lobster boats in the harbor. Copyright 20042023 Yelp Inc. Yelp, , and related marks are registered trademarks of Yelp. On the 1-mile Granite Island and Story Trail loop, you can follow a few side paths to scenic overlooks. Saturday 7:00 PM On the 2.1-mile Platform Loop Trail, you see a diverse habitat, a view between the trees, and a little waterfall via a short side trail. Have you ever been to Vinalhaven, Maine? There are no fees to fish at Carvers Pond, and the area is open to the public year-round, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a day of fishing any time of year. Be friendly and ask questions to learn more about the area and how it's changed. There are two really great swimming spots on Vinalhaven Maine. Through artifacts and exhibits, it tells the story of the island from its early farming and fishing days to the rise of its granite industry and its modern-day identity as both a vital fishing community and a summer retreat. Another must-see exhibit is the town's industry heritage. What are people saying about things to do in Vinalhaven, ME? If you get lucky, you may even spot some seals in the bay. The hottest month in Maine is July when the average high reaches 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Bar Harbor Area. Vinalhaven Maine has become a popular destination among tourists who are looking to enjoy a peaceful and scenic getaway. It has a nice view of the ferry landing to see when it arrives or leave. See all Rustica Cucina Italiana reviews, "I ordered the trio of soups (lobster bisque, seafood chowder, and clam chowder) with crab cake and savored every bite." A beloved local institution run by seventh-generation islander Greta McCarthy, this food truck near the ferry serves burgers, creative sandwiches, and a lobster roll that has been hailed as one of the best lobster rolls in Maine. The journey takes you through charming fishing villages, past granite quarries, and up to the island's highest point, where you can take in the panoramic views. 2023 Memorial Day Parades & Celebrations in Vinalhaven, ME Vinalhaven might be a bit off the beaten path for those who live in Southern Maine. Listed below are just a few of the great places to check out in Vinalhaven, Maine, including the Rockland Ferry Schedule. You can drive to Browns Head Light Station on the northwest corner of the island and walk around the grounds. Each bite is a savory and decadent experience that's hard to resist. It is important for hikers to be prepared before embarking on the Mount Pleasant trail. 10 Best and Fun Things To Do In Vinalhaven, Maine - Touristwire 1. One of the museum's most fascinating sections is the maritime exhibit, which covers the island's history as a bustling harbor in the 18th and 19th centuries. The island is surrounded by the ocean, so you have the added benefit of listening to the sound of the waves as you lay on the beach and gaze at the stars above. Lawson's Quarry is a public swimming area on Vinalhaven. It winds through a dense forest and leads to the Seal Bay shoreline with picnic spots. But first, lets address the name. In conclusion, if you're planning to visit Vinalhaven, Maine, trying the lobster rolls at Harbor Gawker is a must. Here Are 8 Islands In Maine That Are An Absolute Must Visit. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Free & Cheap Things to Do in Vinalhaven, ME Kid-Friendly Free & Cheap Date Ideas Rainy Day All Filter by Distance: 5 ml 10 ml 25 ml 50 ml 100 ml Refine Your Search RESET ( 204 results) Categories All (204) Outdoor Places (50) Museums & Galleries (44) Sights & Landmarks (36) Water Activities (19) Adventures (13) Shopping (11) Amusement (10) Dine in a Maine luxury overlooking the ocean! They are often also educational. Next came the Abenaki. A breakfast hub for fishermen, the Surfside is renowned for its homemade fish cakes but also scores with specialty omelets, fruit and yogurt parfaits, and fresh-baked pastries, including jumbo cinnamon rolls. All "things to do" results in Vinalhaven, Maine, "Located to the south from Rockland on the Owls Head peninsula this active lighthouse is still an aid to navigation. Take a tour of a working lobster pound and learn about the island's fishing industry. Map Vinalhaven Maine Photos Vinalhaven, the largest of the main islands in Penobscot Bay, is located just 12 miles out of Rockland, Maine. It is recommended that hikers wear comfortable and supportive shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack snacks for energy. These are some highly rated things to do in Vinalhaven, ME: What are some things to do with a large number of reviews in Vinalhaven, ME? On the northwest side of Vinalhaven, Middle Mountain Town Park features 75 acres of land. Vinalhaven Maine - Rockland Maine Things to Do - TakeMe2 Camden Maine Love Maine? Located in the heart of Vinalhaven village, the museum's exhibits showcase the island's development from its earliest days to the present day. Carvers Harbor in Vinalhaven, ME, United States - Marinas.com You can arrange flights from Knox County Regional Airport in Owls Head to Mary Talbot Memorial Airfield, which is the islands private airport. Though these two neighbors share the same windswept beauty, Vinalhaven is bigger in both population (about 1,1,00) and size (at 23 square miles, its Maines largest offshore island). The Harbor Gawker has a knack for booking local talent, as well as musicians from outside the island, which provides visitors with a satisfying and unique listening experience. In conclusion, if you're looking for a unique way to experience Vinalhaven, Maine, head to one of the island's secluded beaches at night and take in the beautiful night sky. This means you can see the tide rush in and rush out twice a day right from your room! On a clear night, you may even be able to see the Milky Way, one of the most beautiful sights in the universe. What are three popular things to do on Vinalhaven Island? Vinalhaven has a small year-round community, with a population that swells slightly in the summer. One of the best features of The Tidewater Motel is that the water rushes under the building during the tidal change. The inn also assists guests in booking local lobster boat tours, like the ones run by captain Bobby Warren on the Seabreeze. For a spectacular view of Crockett Cove, climb to the summit of Big Tip Toe Mountain. Click here to find out more about business membership. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and nothing is more iconic than its lobster rolls. Thank you for your feedback! There are many companies offering kayak tours throughout the area, or you can rent one and go out on your own. corpsnewengland / Flickr. See all McLoons Lobster Shack reviews, "Super fresh lobster meat, not too much mayo, and nice sides including pickled veggies and a carrot grain salad." We met a local lobsterman who told us about the changing face of the lobster industry on the island. We stayed in a cabin, wh." more 2. There are also areas where the water is deeper and good for diving. Another really short trail, the Carrying Place Bridge trail is just 0.15 miles through mixed woods and a popular kayaking access point on Winter Harbor. 1. For those who prefer to fish in a group setting, there are several local fishing charters that offer guided tours of the area. Farnsworth Art Museum Art Museums "While vacationing at my in-laws house in Maine they purchased tickets for us to atten." more 3. Stargazing at night on the beaches of Vinalhaven is not only a beautiful and serene experience, but it's also a great way to relax and unwind. Very welcoming, and "more, "A true home kitchen experience!!! One of the highlights of any trip to Vinalhaven is visiting the Lanes Island Preserve. Some easy climbing. Kid Friendly Things To Do In Vinalhaven, Maine Grounding! Stargazing on the beaches of Vinalhaven is truly a unique experience.