Taking the ferry from Portland to Peaks Island.
Whether you're a local or a tourist in Portland looking for a fun and easy getaway for just one day, take the Casco Bay Lines ferry to Peaks Island. It's only a 15 - 20 minute trip from the mainland to the island and it might just be the most fun afternoon or day getaway from Portland.The quick trip across the harbor gives views of Bug Light, Spring Point, and Portland Head Light along with Fort Gorges and maybe harbor seals if you're lucky. Some of the scheduled departures allow for vehicles, but there are golf carts for rent on the island and you'll definitely want to do that instead.
A round-trip ticket to Peaks Island from the Maine State Pier is only $7.70 and departs about once an hour. Make sure to check the ferry schedule and plan on arriving with enough time to find available parking on the waterfront. Sometimes the parking structure at the pier is full so show up early or plan on spending some time at the Porthole while you wait for the next ferry like I did.
The ferry moves pretty quickly when it's out of the no wake zone and approaches the pier at Peaks with remarkable efficiency. It only takes a few minutes to unload both cars and passengers.
First stop: Jones Landing for a beverage. This is also a great spot for brunch and Reggae Sunday has been a tradition here for over 25 years. But don't spend your entire afternoon here. It's a great view of the harbor you just crossed, but there is much more to see on the island.
A short, mile-long walk will bring you to the islands coolest hidden gem, Battery Steele. Traveling by cart or bike, I would definitely suggest taking the scenic route along Seashore Ave.
Battery Steele is an old fort from World War II on a land preserve that has become home to the areas most impressive street art. Graffiti covers almost every inch of the walls of the corridors that connect the many entrances of the fort.
The corridors are long and dark. Without a flashlight, you'll see nothing but the entrance behind you and the exit ahead - which is an eerily fun adventure, but bring a headlamp or flashlight to explore the art and hidden stairways to other levels.
After exploring the fort, take a trip down Seashore Ave. It's only a mile and a half back to the ferry terminal along the waterfront so it's an easy and beautiful walk with museums along the way. You could also take Seashore Ave almost all the way around the island to get back.
This coastal route is one of the most beautiful walks or drives in the area, with views of many lighthouses, and beautiful rock gardens on the waterfront.
After hiking around the island and exploring forts all afternoon, it's time to refuel. Island Lobster Co. is another great spot that is conveniently located right next to the ferry terminal and offers great views of the bay. If you have room for dessert, swing by Down Front for some ice cream.
If you time it right, you can catch the ferry back at sunset. Most of the island closes pretty early, so getting out at sunset works out well and the trip gives incredible views of Portland's waterfront.
Watching the sun silhouette the city an incredible sight and Fort Gorges has never looked more gorgeous. A well-timed departure of Peaks Island is well worth it.
