Exploring Deer Isle, Maine: Your Ultimate Summer Guide
Deer Isle Maine is a nature lovers paradise, especially in the summertime! Stunning landscapes, clear blue/green water, hikes, campgrounds, kayaking, fishing, lobster, and so much more. My boyfriend and I went on a long weekend getaway to the beautiful Deer Isle and explored as much as possible. I’m so excited to share everything with you!!
Deer Isle is located about an hour and a half south of Acadia National Park, it’s a really comparably beautiful place and much less busy than the park!
We spent four days exploring this amazing place from sunrise to sunset. The two of us wanted to see and experience as much as possible.
In this guide I am going to share with you my full list of recommendations! Where to stay, restaurants, hikes, must see places, and everything you want to know before you visit!
Where is Deer Isle Located?
Deer Isle is located in the Acadia Region of Maine and is a well hidden gem!
Deer Isle sits below Acadia National Park, it takes about an hour and a half to drive there from Deer Isle.
A lot of the Islands in Maine require a ferry ride or some sort of boat to access but this one you can actually get to by causeways! No boat or ferry ride needed.
Is Deer Isle Worth Visiting on my Trip to Maine?
Yes!! If you are looking for a less touristy, stunning, coastal part of Maine this is where you want to visit during the summer on your trip to Maine!
Deer Isle brings in its share of visitors but nothing like the crowds that Acadia brings in. Deer Isle is much more quaint and relaxing.
And another plus, if you are interested in visiting one of Maine’s Islands, Deer Isle is a great option and easily accessible via causeways!
The Best Time to Visit Deer Isle?
The best time to visit Deer Isle is mid Spring through October!
Summertime will offer the best weather and allow you to enjoy the ocean to the fullest! The rest of the year the water is just way too cold!
If you want to experience Deer Isle with as minimal people as possible visit in late April/early May. The weather is still great and you can explore town with only the locals.
Exploring Deer Isle, Maine: Your Ultimate Summer Guide
How to get to Deer Isle, Maine?
From Boston Logan Airport: 259 miles – 4 hours and 40 minutes
From Portland International Jetport: 158 miles – 3 hours
Do I have to take a Ferry to get to Deer Isle?
No you don’t, there is no need to look for any ferry tickets! You can drive the entire way to Deer Isle.
Take advantage of this! Not all of Maine’s Islands are this easy to get to, I don’t think most people realize you can drive all the way out to Deer Isle but really can!
The Best Places to Stay on Deer Isle, Maine
Deer Isle offers a mix of accommodations! I recommend booking the place you want to stay at ASAP because in the summer months things do fill up fast.
My top picks for accommodations on Deer Isle, Maine:
Aragosta at Goose Cove | @aragosta.maine
Oceanfront lodging with cottage or suite options. Beautiful design and well thought out. Amazing dining options right on sight! 300 Goose Cove Rd, Deer Isle, ME 04627
Four Acre Woods Campground | @four_acre_woods_campground
A beautiful campground located in a thickly forested area on Deer Isle, Maine. The campsites are the perfect size and the campground has everything you need for a fun and adventurous getaway! 1181 Sunshine Rd, Deer Isle, ME 04627
Island Getaway – Modern Tiny House Coastal Retreat
An Airbnb in Stonington that is within walking distance from downtown. Beautiful water views from the bedrooms. Cozy design and fully equip wiht everything you need! Perfect for a couples getaway or a small family! Stonington, Maine
Top Things to do in Deer Isle, Maine
Visit Sand Beach
This is a must do!! Sand Beach is my favorite place we visited in the Deer Isle/Stonington area! It’s such a beautiful beach that reminded me so much of Lake Tahoe. The big rocks, the color of the water, the tall trees in all directions…it’s incredible!
Put in: Sand Beach Rd, Stonington, ME 04681 into your GPS. There are a few parking spots for visitors. You will walk out onto a beautiful beach but also be sure to take a left and walk through the little pathway into the woods for the most amazing view!
I recommend visiting earlier in the day on a sunny day if possible to see the sun shine on the beautiful color of the water! Then also visit again at sunset to watch the sunset over the ocean! Both times are amazing and look so different!
Hike the Tennis Preserve Loop Trail
The Tennis Preserve Loop Trail takes you on a walk through the woods and along the beautiful coastline!
Length: 2.6 miles
Route type: Loop
Time: 1 hour
Hike the Barred Island Preserve Trail
A scenic hike that winds through a lush forest and then to a serene sandy beach!
Barred Island is accessible only during low tide, so be mindful of the tides when planning your visit. At high tide, the channel between the island and mainland is submerged under approximately five feet of water. You can still do the hike a high tide you just won’t be able to go across to the Island.
Length: 2.5 miles
Route type: Out & back
Time: 1 hour
Explore Downtown Stonington
Downtown Stonington is definitely worth checking out while on Deer Isle!
There are a few shops, restaurants, a coffee shop, and more. Pretty much everything is located along the water… It’s so beautiful.
Bring your camera and walk around! We did this and had so much fun!
Hike the Shore Acres Preserve Trail
Fun and easy hike that offers beautiful views of the water! If you are looking for a quick hike with some reward, check this one out!
Length: 1.7 miles
Route type: Loop
Time: 35 minutes
Kayak around the Archipelago
Go on a kayaking adventure! The islands and the color of the ocean around Deer Isle are just amazing… I felt a lot of similar Lake Tahoe vibes!
There are a few places you can rent kayaks from, and you can either go with a guide or alone. I recommend reaching out to Caleb, the owner of Four Acre Woods Campground, and booking a trip with him!
Caleb knows the area so well, is very kind, and will take you on an unforgettable kayaking experience around the Archipelago!
Watch the Sunrise at Reach Beach
The sunrise come up over the ocean on Reach Beach on Deer Isle.
It’s so worth waking up early one morning to do this!! The beach was super quiet when we went…we were the only ones there for sunrise. Try and go on a clear morning, the colors will be absolutely amazing!
Watch the Sunset at Sand Beach
Check what time sunset is and get to Sand Beach a little before. This is the perfect place to watch the sun set over the ocean!
Take a ferry over to Isle a Haut for the day
Isle au Haut, a tiny island that forms a remote part of Acadia National Park!
Accessible only by ferry, this secluded Island is perfect if you are looking to experience the beauty and serenity of one of Maine’s hidden gems. Be sure to check the ferry schedule to plan your visit and make the most of this adventure!
Best Restaurants in Deer Isle
We wanted to try as many places as possible while exploring Deer Isle. Everywhere we went was delicious and the people are all very friendly. If you are looking for a nice place to go for dinner definitely make it a point to check out Fin and Fern! It was our favorite!
- Stonecutters Kitchen– A delicious seafood restaurant in the Harbor of Stonington
- 44 North Coffee– Amazing coffee & great atmosphere
- Fin and Fern– Local, delicious, must-try!
- 27 Fathoms Waterfront Grille– Waterfront restaurant in town
- Harbor View Store– Breakfast & lunch togo
- There’s a Treat– Burgers, fries, shakes, and ice cream!
Deer Isle Travel Tips
- Spend at least four days to really explore everything Deer Isle has to offer!
- Deer Isle is safe
- The locals are very friendly
- Stonington is the nation’s lobster capital
- The ocean is absolutely beautiful and looks very inviting but be aware the water is cold
- If you want to avoid the busy season but still have nice weather visit in the Fall
- Try seafood! It’s fresh and delicious
- Be aware of the tides on hikes, kayaking, paddle boarding, etc.
- Have fun!!
Deer Isle
Our adventure to Deer Isle, Maine, was an unforgettable experience, filled with stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and endless outdoor activities!
Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, kayaking around the archipelago, or relaxing on the beach, Deer Isle offers something special for every outdoor enthusiast. This special destination, less crowded than its neighbor Acadia National Park, provides a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Trust me, Deer Isle is a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Safe travels!! 😊🥾🌊
sierra
Hello there! It's wonderful to have you here. I'm Sierra, a NH native with a love for travel and adventure. I have a constant desire to explore beautiful places around the world and go on awesome adventures! I seek to inspire others to travel to see all the beauty and culture the world has to offer! 🌞⛰️🌼🫶🏼🦋🌲📸🥾💛
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