Looking for things to do that won’t disappoint? I’ve got you covered.
This guide walks you through everything you need to plan a perfect island trip. From ferry details to hidden spots, I’ll share the activities that make this place worth visiting.
You’ll learn how to get there, what to see, and where to eat. I’ve spent time researching the best ways to experience this island, so you don’t have to guess.
Peaks Island sits just 17 minutes from Portland’s waterfront. It’s close enough for a day trip but feels worlds away from city life.
Let’s start planning your trip.
Getting to Peaks Island
Getting there is easier than you might think. The ferry runs multiple times daily, making access simple for visitors.
Ferry Details and Schedule
Casco Bay Lines operates the main ferry service to the island. You’ll catch your ride from Commercial Street in Portland’s Old Port area.
The trip takes just 17 minutes. That’s barely enough time to finish your coffee before you arrive.
Ferries run year-round with multiple departures throughout the day. Summer months see more frequent trips, while winter has a reduced schedule.
Tickets cost around $8-10 for adults round-trip Kids and seniors get discounted rates. You can buy tickets at the terminal or online ahead of time.
Pro tip: Arrive 15-20 minutes early during peak season. Lines can get long on sunny weekends.
Planning Your Arrival
Forest City Landing serves as the main dock where you’ll step off the ferry. The island’s center is right there waiting for you.
Summer weekends bring the biggest crowds. Weekday mornings offer a quieter experience if you prefer fewer people around.
Bring cash for small purchases. Some island vendors don’t take cards. Pack sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking or biking most of the day.
Light layers work best since the island’s weather changes quickly. Even warm days can have cool ocean breezes.
Best Things to Do on Peaks Island
This section covers the main peaks and things to do that visitors love most. Each activity offers something different, so you can mix and match based on your interests.
Visit by Golf Cart
Golf cart rentals top the list for good reason. They let you cover the whole island without getting tired.
Brad’s Recycled Bike and Brad and Wyatt’s Golf Cart Rentals handle most bookings. You can find them near the ferry landing.
Carts fit 4-6 people and come with maps showing popular routes. You control the pace and can stop wherever it catches your eye.
Summer weekends book up fast. Reserve at least a week ahead if you’re visiting between June and September. Last-minute rentals rarely work out during busy times.
Bike Around the Island
Biking gives you more freedom than walking but costs less than golf carts. Several shops rent bikes right by the ferry dock.
Standard bikes run about $25-35 for the day. Tandems and kids’ bikes are also available at most rental spots.
The 5-mile loop around the island takes about an hour at a casual pace. Roads are mostly flat with a few small hills. Kids who can ride independently will handle the routes just fine.
Stop wherever you want. The flexibility makes biking one of the best things to do for active families.
Check Out Battery Steele
This abandoned World War II fort sits on the island’s backshore. Concrete structures and old military buildings create an interesting stop.
Graffiti artists have covered the walls with colorful murals. Some pieces show real skill and add character to the historic site.
A walking path leads from the main road to the battery area. The walk takes about 10 minutes from where you park your bike or cart.
Wear sturdy shoes since the ground gets uneven. The area is free to visit and open year-round.
Enjoy Fresh Lobster and Local Food
Island Lobster Company serves some of the best seafood around. Their waterfront deck offers water views with your meal.
Lobster rolls come packed with fresh meat and light mayo. They also serve clam chowder, fish and chips, and other coastal favorites.
The Inn on Peaks offers a more traditional restaurant setting. Their lobster dinner includes corn, potatoes, and coleslaw. It’s the full Maine experience on one plate.
Cockeyed Gull provides casual pub food and local beers. Il Leone makes wood-fired pizzas if you want something different from seafood.
Relax on Island Beaches
Sandy Beach and Centennial Beach offer the best swimming spots. Both have sandy shorelines and calm waters for families.
The backshore features rockier terrain with bigger waves. It’s better for walking and visiting than swimming.
Bring beach towels, sunscreen, and snacks. No lifeguards patrol these beaches, so watch kids closely in the water.
Beach time ranks high among Peaks Island things to do during summer months. The water stays cold even in July, but refreshing on hot days.
Visit the Fifth Maine Museum
This museum sits in a historic Civil War regiment building. Inside, you’ll find artifacts, photos, and stories from island history.
Hours vary by season. Summer months see more consistent opening times, usually afternoons from Tuesday through Sunday.
Admission costs just a few dollars per person. The small fee supports museum maintenance and preservation efforts.
History buffs appreciate the Civil War exhibits and island heritage displays. The building itself represents important Maine history.
Kayak Coastal Waters
Maine Island Kayak Co. offers guided tours and rentals for paddlers. You’ll visit Casco Bay’s coastline from the water level.
Tours last 2-3 hours and include basic instruction. No experience needed, though some fitness helps since you’ll be paddling most of the time.
Rentals work for people who already know how to kayak. You can visit at your own pace and route.
Water temps stay chilly, so tours provide wetsuits or dry suits depending on the season. This activity adds thrill to your list of things to do. on the island of Peaks
Shop Local Island Stores
Take a Peak gift shop sells island-themed items and Maine souvenirs. T-shirts, postcards, and local art fill the shelves.
The Umbrella Cover Museum displays hundreds of umbrella sleeves in quirky exhibits. It’s free to visit and definitely unusual.
Small art galleries show work by island artists. Paintings, jewelry, and crafts make good gifts or personal keepsakes.
Most shops cluster near the ferry landing. You can browse several in under an hour without rushing.
Take Island Tours
Guided golf cart tours run with locals who know island history. They share stories and show spots you might miss on your own.
Tours last 60-90 minutes and cover major landmarks plus hidden areas. Your guide answers questions and provides context about island life.
These tours cost more than self-guided visits but offer a deeper understanding. Some visitors prefer having someone else drive while they focus on sightseeing.
Book ahead since tour sizes stay small. Most guides limit groups to one or two carts for a more personal experience.
Creating Your Self-Guided Island Itinerary
Planning your day helps you fit in the things to do that matter most to you. Here’s how to structure your visit.
- Catch an early morning ferry to maximize your time. Aim for the 9 or 10 AM departure if possible.
- Rent your golf cart or bikes first thing after arriving. Getting wheels sorted early prevents waiting around later.
- Spend your morning visiting the island loop. Stop at Battery Steele and beaches along the way. This takes 2-3 hours, depending on how many stops you make.
- Break for lunch at one of the island restaurants. Give yourself an hour to eat and rest before afternoon activities.
- Use the afternoon time for shopping, the museum, or water activities. Pick one or two things rather than rushing through everything.
- Head back to the ferry dock 20-30 minutes before your return trip. You don’t want to miss your ride back to Portland.
- This schedule covers the main highlights without feeling rushed. Adjust timing based on your specific interests and energy levels.
Where to Eat on Peaks Island
Food options range from quick snacks to full sit-down meals. Here’s what you need to know about island dining.
- Island Lobster Company and The Inn on Peaks handle most seafood cravings. Both offer waterfront settings and fresh catches.
- Down Front scoops ice cream and serves coffee drinks. It’s perfect for a mid-afternoon treat while visiting.
- Jones Landing pours drinks and serves light food with harbor views. The deck makes a nice spot to relax before catching your ferry.
- Cockeyed Gull and Il Leone provide alternatives to seafood. One serves pub fare, the other makes pizzas.
- Most places operate seasonal hours. Summer brings longer hours and fuller menus. Winter visitors find fewer options but the main spots stay open.
- Cash comes in handy at smaller vendors. Larger restaurants take cards, but bring backup payment just in case.
Insider Tips for Visiting Peaks Island
These practical tips make your visit smoother. I wish someone had told me these things before my first trip.
- Reserve golf carts at least a week ahead for summer weekends. They book up completely during peak times.
- Wear shoes you can walk in comfortably. Flip-flops work for beaches but not for visiting Battery Steele or hiking paths.
- Bring cash for small purchases. Ice cream stands, beach vendors, and some shops prefer or only accept cash payments.
- Check ferry return schedules before you leave Portland. Missing the last ferry means an expensive water taxi ride or overnight stay.
- Dress in layers since the weather changes throughout the day. Morning fog can give way to hot afternoon sun, then cool evening breezes.
- Pack sunscreen and bug spray during the summer months. The coastal location means sun exposure and occasional mosquitoes.
- Download the Casco Bay Lines schedule to your phone. Having it handy prevents confusion about departure times.
Conclusion
Peaks Island offers a refreshing break from mainland life. The short ferry ride delivers you to a place where life moves more slowly and simpler.
I’ve covered the main Peaks Island things to do, from golf cart tours to fresh lobster meals. You now have the details needed to plan a great visit.
The island works for quick day trips or longer stays. History, nature, food, and local culture all come together in one small place.
Book your ferry tickets and start planning. This accessible island escape deserves a spot on your Maine itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should You Spend on Peaks Island?
Most visitors spend 4-6 hours visiting the island comfortably. A half-day trip covers the main spots, while a full day lets you relax at beaches and try multiple restaurants without rushing.
Can You Walk Around the Entire Island?
Yes, you can walk the entire 5-mile loop around Peaks Island. The walk takes about 2 hours at a steady pace. Most people prefer biking or golf carts to save energy for other activities.
Is Peaks Island Open Year-Round?
The island itself stays accessible all year through ferry service. However, many businesses close or reduce hours during winter months. Summer offers the fullest experience with all shops and restaurants operating.
Are Dogs Allowed on Peaks Island?
Dogs can visit Peaks Island and ride the ferry with you. Keep them leashed in public areas and clean up after them. Check individual restaurant policies since some allow dogs on outdoor patios while others don’t.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit?
June through September brings warm weather and full business operations. Late spring and early fall offer fewer crowds with decent weather. Winter visits work for those seeking quiet island time, but expect limited services.