Before You Get to Swan’s Island
One of a handful of smaller islands only accessible by ferry or smaller boat, there are a few things to see before you even get onto the water to get to the island.
The Tremont Historical Society “Country Store Museum” is free to enter, set up as a 19th century country store, and filled with both historical and contemporary exhibits of how the
One of the best cups of “chowda” to be had in the area can be found at Maine-ly Delights. This casual restaurant is a local favorite, with an inexpensive menu of fresh foods including shrimp, clams, homemade chowders and bisques, and fallbacks for the kids including delicious hot dog and grilled cheese options. They’re also famous for their “Oh-Boy Doughboy Dessert.” While eating, you can sit on the deck and watch the ferries come and go in the harbor across the street. There are other restaurants in the area offering some swankier options, as well as C.H. Rich Co. Inc., selling fresh seafood seven days a week out of its warehouse.
The Bass Harbor Ferry, one of the Maine State ferry options, will take you straight to the Island. Walk on, bike on or drive on, as you take the approximately thirty minute ride, you’ll see hundreds, if not thousands of colorful lobster trap markers, and if you’re lucky, you may see porpoises or harbor seals in addition to other bird wildlife.
Contrary to the name “Swan’s Island,” there are no actual swans, as the kids had asked about. Rather, the island was named after a Scottish Colonel, James Swan of Fife, who bought and colonized the island in the 18th century.
The Beaches of Swan’s Island, Maine
From Fine Sand Beach, to “Beautiful Beach” (otherwise known as Iris Point), you may find lovely sands, plenty of rocks and rock formations, pebbles, streams, and more assuming you find the various beaches. They are often accessed only by foot paths, identified by small, sometimes hard to see, hand-made wooden signs, or via private roads and paths where owners have permitted day trippers to walk
The Quarry on the Island
A special place on the island is The Quarry, where, according to locals, “generations” of kids have spent summers swimming in the dark waters of its quarry hole, and winters skating on its surface. The quarry
Swan’s Island Tea Room
At the Swan’s Island Tea Room, customers are invited to come in and take a break from the “hustle and bustle of your day,” while enjoying a cup of tea or coffee and assorted baked goods. Be sure to check into their hours before you stop in for a spell.
For those that do visit Swan’s Island, keep in mind this is a special location where much of the fun is made by YOU. If you’re bringing kids, have them also bring their imaginations, as this is a place to explore and enjoy.
Lanie says
It looks beautiful. We have some little people with big imaginations who would love Swans Island. Hope that we can check it out one day!
Evan says
How have I never heard of this before? Sounds really fantastic.