Looking for a serene island escape just minutes from Portland? Head to Peaks Island! This quaint island offers ocean views, quiet beaches, art galleries, and bike-friendly roads. Whether you're kayaking around the shore or grabbing lobster rolls with a view, Peaks Island is a perfect day trip or weekend retreat in coastal Maine.
Peaks Island, ME Highlights:
- For Families: Explore Battery Steele – Discover WWII-era tunnels and lookout points in this overgrown coastal fort.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Bike the island loop road – Bring your bike or rent one and take in ocean vistas, rocky beaches, and hidden coves.
- For Kids: Swim and collect shells at Sandy Beach – A family-friendly stretch of sand with calm water and tide pools.
- For an Adventure: Kayak or paddleboard the island’s coast – Glide past granite cliffs, lobster buoys, and working boats.
- For Shoppers: Browse island galleries and gift shops – Discover local crafts, photography, and unique maritime treasures.
Best Time to Visit Peaks Island, ME
The best time to visit Peaks Island is from late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer offers ideal weather for biking, swimming, and exploring. Early fall is quieter, with colorful foliage and warm ocean breezes, while spring brings blooming wildflowers and fresh air.
How to Get to Peaks Island, ME
- By Ferry: Casco Bay Lines operates daily ferries from Portland to Peaks Island. The scenic ride takes about 20 minutes and departs multiple times a day.
- By Bike or Foot: Most visitors explore the island without a car. Bring or rent a bike near the ferry dock, or walk the scenic loop.
- By Car: Limited vehicle transport is available via the ferry, but not usually necessary unless staying overnight.
Where to Stay on Peaks Island, ME
- Inn on Peaks Island – Cozy inn with nautical charm, pub dining, and easy access to the ferry and beach.
- Peaks Island House Rentals – Book charming cottages and vacation homes through local listings or rental sites for an authentic island stay.
- Portland Hotels – Stay in downtown Portland and take day trips via ferry for easy access and more lodging options.
Best Things to Do on Peaks Island, ME
1. Celebrate Quirky Creativity at The Umbrella Cover Museum
The funky Umbrella Cover Museum was established in 1996, with the express wish to celebrate the mundane and to demonstrate the innate attractions of one of life’s most mundane inventions, the umbrella cover. Founder and curator Nancy Hoffman wanted to show visitors that there is wonder and beauty in all manner of strange things and to suggest that even the humble umbrella cover could have stories to tell. The unique and quirky museum has even travelled to the United Kingdom to present a pop-up exhibition. Visitors are welcome to bring along any covers they would like to donate to extend the museum collection.
The Umbrella Cover Museum, 62 B Island Ave, Peaks Island, ME 04108, Phone: 207-939-0301
2. If You Love Civil War History, Explore the 5th Maine Museum
Located in the Fifth Maine Regiment Memorial Hall, which was built by Civil War veterans of the Fifth Maine Volunteer Regiment in 1888, the 5th Maine Museum tells the story of the history of Peaks Island and the Fifth Maine Regiment. The building has been fully restored and is considered to be an architectural gem. The museum is roughly divided into two floors – the first floor devoted to the history of the Fifth Maine Regiment, while the second floor showcases Peaks Island history from the 1800’s to today. The museum hosts regular special exhibits, events and lectures during the season and is surrounded by a lovely garden offering excellent views across the water.
5th Maine Museum, 45 Seashore Ave, Peaks Island, ME 04108, Phone: 207-766-3330
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Immerse Yourself in Local Talent at Richard Boyd Art Gallery
Beautiful Peaks Island offers great inspiration for artistic souls and the Richard Boyd Art Gallery provides the ideal showcase for their works of art. Richard is an exceptional ceramicist who works in a studio directly above the gallery, which is open to the public daily from April through October. In the off-season the gallery opens on weekends only or by arrangement. Here you can admire (and purchase) the works of several established and emerging artists from Maine and beyond – there is usually a new exhibition every month and often you will be able to visit an inspirational themed exhibition. Paintings in various mediums, ceramics and sculptures are all represented at the gallery.
Richard Boyd Art Gallery, 15 Epps Street, Peaks Island, ME 04108, Phone: 207-766-2410
4. Paddle Scenic Waters with Maine Island Kayak Company
The Maine Island Kayak Company offers visitors to Peaks Island the opportunity to try a new hobby during their vacation. The calm waters around Peaks Island offer near-ideal conditions for paddling and the team at Maine Island Kayak Company are dedicated to getting newbies out on the water to enjoy an amazing adventure. Experience sea kayakers can rent all the equipment they need, while first-timers can sign up for a course to enable them to paddle safely. The company has experienced guides who can take you on guided kayaking adventures on Casco Bay and the other outlying islands of the archipelago. Half-day tours, full-day tours and sunset tours are available.
Maine Island Kayak Company, Kayak Beach, Peaks Island, ME 04108, Phone: 207-766-2373
5. Relax and Rejuvenate with Massage on Peaks Island
When you need a little pampering to enhance your vacation on Peaks Island you need look no further than Massage on Peaks Island. Your masseur, Thomas Kipp, has several years of training and experience in sport and therapeutic massage and is dedicated to offering customers a mix of relaxing and therapeutic techniques. At the end of your massage you should feel relaxed, rejuvenated and free of tension. Thomas works with hot stones and heated towel to enhance your experience and will customize the massage to suit your specific needs, to address your aches, pains and tensions. When the weather is good you can choose to enjoy your massage out on the verandah overlooking the ocean.
Massage on Peaks Island, 650 Seashore Avenue, Peaks Island, ME 04108, Phone: 781-771-2387
Where to Eat on Peaks Island, ME
- Cockeyed Gull – Coastal dining with creative American cuisine and stunning water views.
- Island Lobster Company – Dockside seafood shack serving fresh lobster rolls, chowder, and drinks.
- Milly’s Skillet – Seasonal food truck serving tacos, burgers, and picnic fare near the ferry dock.
If you are interested in local events:
- PeaksFest (June) – Community-run summer celebration with music, games, parades, and family fun.
- Battery Steele Arts Installations (Summer) – Pop-up performances and exhibits inside the historic fort.
- Peaks Island Farmers Market (Seasonal) – Find local produce, baked goods, and handmade items near the island center.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Peaks Island, Maine:
- Portland (20 min ferry) – Explore Old Port shops, restaurants, breweries, and the Portland Head Light.
- Cape Elizabeth (30 min drive from ferry) – Visit Fort Williams Park and walk oceanside trails.
- South Portland (25 min drive) – Browse beaches, lighthouses, and casual waterfront dining.
- Eastern Promenade (5 min from ferry landing) – Stroll Portland’s harborfront trail with great views of the bay and islands.
- Casco Bay Boat Tours (from Portland) – Take a scenic cruise around nearby islands like Little Diamond and Great Diamond.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Peaks Island located?
- Located in beautiful Casco Bay, Peaks Island is a popular summer getaway destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.
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What type of accommodations are available on Peaks Island?
- The island is dotted with distinctive island cottages where vacationers can relax and enjoy a variety of activities and attractions.
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What are the most popular activities on Peaks Island?
- Boating is one of the most popular island activities.
- Paddling is also very popular – visitors can find their sea legs by joining a course at the Maine Island Kayak Company.
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What attractions can visitors explore on Peaks Island?
- Several swimming beaches offer beautiful coastal views.
- Popular cultural and historical sites include:
- 5th Maine Museum – Showcasing island history and Civil War artifacts.
- Umbrella Cover Museum – A quirky and unique attraction displaying umbrella covers from around the world.
- Battery Steele – A WWII-era fortification offering a glimpse into the island’s military past.
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Is Peaks Island good for outdoor exploration?
- The island is ideal for cyclists, walkers, and hikers looking to explore its scenic trails and coastal beauty.
Plan Your Trip