A Slice Of Island Life Off Maine's Coast Has Lobster Shacks, Kayaking, And Seaside Serenity

When we think of natural splendor in the U.S., the towering mountains, unspoiled beaches, and sweeping vistas found throughout the American West tend to dominate the conversation. That said, the eastern part of the country also has its share of outdoor gems, especially when it comes to Maine. This large New England state is a treasure trove of outdoor attractions — such as Rangeley Lake State Park — that will give anywhere else in the country a run for its money.

Perhaps nowhere embodies this more than the Maine coastline. This rocky seashore is home to islands, lighthouses, and untamed ocean life that make it a perfect spot for anyone looking to get away from it all and relax into nature's daily rhythms. The good news is that you don't have to travel very far from civilization to enjoy this in its purest form.

Just north of charming Portland is Casco Bay. This large stretch of water hosts numerous islands which are easily accessed by ferry from Maine's biggest burg. The islands of Casco Bay are home to settlements where life goes by at a leisurely pace. They are best explored on foot, by bicycle, or from the seat of a kayak. While you can choose nearby Portland as your base of operations, you can also stay on the islands, where you'll fall asleep at night to the sound of waves lapping the rocks.

The watershed that makes up Casco Bay estuary encompasses over 1,000 square miles, making it a vital and unique ecosystem. The bay's 785 landmasses and outcroppings are known as the Calendar Islands due to the fact that there is one for every day of the year. While many of them are wild, there are a few villages and towns worth checking out.

If you only have time to hit one spot, Peaks Island is your best bet. Just a 17-minute boat ride from Portland, this settlement of 1,000 permanent residents offers secluded beaches and amenities such as cafes, galleries, shops, and restaurants. The main method of transportation on the island is golf carts, but these book up fast, so if you feel the need for four-wheel transport, make sure to reserve one ahead of time. You can also cruise around the island on a rental bike. When it comes time for lunch, make sure to sit on the deck and dive into a lobster roll at the Cockeyed Gull Restaurant. Afterward, savor a coffee at the quaint Baba's Cafe.

Peaks Island is most popular because it's closest to the city, but if you have the time, make sure to check out more islands served by the ferry. Long Island is home to a small community of lobster fishermen and a famous sandy beach. Chebeague Island (pronounced "shuh-big") is the largest and arguably most beautiful island in Casco Bay. It boasts some picture-perfect homes, while the narrow, "H"-shaped Cliff Island is known for its laid-back rural charm and not having paved roads.

Five rivers flow into Casco Bay, resulting in waters rich in nutrients and plankton. This makes up the base for the food chain that supports a tremendous amount of wildlife, including 850 species of marine creatures and over 150 varieties of birds, making the region a prime destination for birdwatchers. It's also a top spot to spy marine mammals including dolphins, porpoises, seals, and finback, minke, and humpback whales. A good way to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures is via kayak, and Casco Bay Kayak offers guided tours out of the town of Harpswell. You can also take lessons and rent your own at Maine Island Kayak Co. on Peaks Island.

The islands of Casco Bay are most hopping in the summer. Winter is cold and bleak, with minimal ferry service and shuttered businesses, so it's best to visit when things warm up. When it comes to sleeping overnight, the Inn on Peaks Island and Chebeague Island Inn offer charming and comfortable accommodations with great views of the water. For the proper lobster shack experience, head to Erica's Seafood in Harpswell or Bite into Maine on Cape Cottage, which, while not in the actual Calendar Islands, looks out over the bay and onto them.

Casco Bay and the Calendar Islands are served by Casco Bay Lines out of Portland, Maine. The ferry trips vary in length from just under 20 minutes to an hour, and Portland is also home to a small international airport. Boston's Logan Airport — a major hub — is around two hours from Portland. For some of Maine's inland glory, head into this national park to see local wildlife.