24 Best Things to Do in Stonington, Maine

If you’re planning a trip to Stonington, Maine, and on the hunt for the best things to do, you’re in the right spot!

I have spent five weeklong vacations in Stonington, ME over the past 10 years with my family so I have a lot of ideas to share with you from tasty foodie destinations to magical island trails. Each time I visited Stonington I researched new unique things to do and dug into the gems there.

We have enjoyed kayak camping amidst the gorgeous archipelago as well as cozy stays in an exquisite rental home, so I’ve experienced the diverse beauty of the area firsthand.

It’s time to dive into this guide on the best things to do in Stonington, Maine, ensuring your visit captures everything you wish for!

An Introduction to Stonington

If you’re seeking a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the popular Southern Coast Region, Deer Isle, ME is the perfect fit. The island comprises two towns: Deer Isle and Stonington. This part of Maine boasts beautiful waterways dotted with islands, offering both rocky and sandy beaches—an ocean lover’s paradise.

Island travel is always a delightful vacation choice. While there are myriad activities and things to do along the Maine coast, a stop in Stonington is a must.

The views often seem surreal, and the town, though visited by many, retains its unique charm without being overrun by typical tourist shops. Instead, you’ll find unexpected gems on Main Street and beyond.

The essence of Deer Isle and Stonington lies in their fishing community. Generations have depended on the ocean’s bounty, with many locals starting their workday as early as 3 or 4 am.

As you immerse yourself in the town, remember to respect the daily lives of these hardworking individuals. Beautiful working piers, though tempting, are private. Keep your dog, even if well-behaved, on a leash, and please pick up after it.

It’s important to remember that small places such as this do not have the infrastructure to support large groups of tourists so please be patient and respectful as you enjoy the quaintness of the town and the slow life that is enjoyed.

Best Things to Do in Stonington, Maine

There are an incredible number of things to do in Stonington, Maine but also, be sure to leave yourself time to appreciate not having a tight itinerary!

Consider drifting around the island to explore the nooks and crannies of this traditional fishing town, and appreciate the lifestyle of the residents who make this their home year-round.

However, also choose a few activities on this list to make solid plans for as some involve specific hours, boat departures, and seasonal schedules that need to be paid close attention to.

1. Pick Out Fresh Lobster at the Stonington Lobster Co-op

Your first visit to the Stonington Lobster Co-op will invoke such a feeling of luck; being in a unique place and having the privilege to get your lobster right from the lobstermen is really special.

Stop inside the office to get the bags for your lobsters and then head down the ramp to the dock to communicate with the lobstermen.

Afterward, you will pay for the lobsters back in the office. Be sure to arrive on time, well before 4 pm, to score a bagful of fresh lobsters for your dinner.

Right on the water, the co-op is a fixture of the Stonington waterfront that is not to be missed!

2. Grab a Lobster Roll and Dessert at Stonington Ice Cream Company

Serving up an assortment of gourmet sandwiches and plentiful flavors of Gifford’s ice cream (such as Sea Salt Caramel and Maine Black Bear) made right in Maine, this is an unavoidable stop on a hot summer day.

Order a fresh lobster roll right on the street at this bright red and white storefront topped with a giant lobster.

Enjoy cheery outdoor seating as you indulge in your meal followed by a sweet treat as you watch the activity in downtown Stonington from this central location. All forms of payment are accepted.

3. Take the Mail Boat to Isle Au Haut

For an unforgettable day, you must take the mail boat to Isle au Haut. Isle au Haut is part of Acadia National Park.

I recommend heading to the southern end, to Duck Harbor Cove, where you will have immediate access to hiking trails with some of the most breathtaking views of magical coves, crystal clear waters, and Atlantic ocean vistas galore.

Check the current schedule for the mail boat because depending on the season and the day of the week, the departure times and frequency change.

You don’t want to get left on Isle au Haut at the end of the day due to a missed ride back to Stonington!

In addition, pack your own day hike lunch and snacks because there are no amenities at the south end of the island. There is however a water pump to fill your bottles with after you complete your hike so only bring what you need for the trek.

If you hike starting up Duck Harbor Mountain Trail, to Cliff Trail, and then finish with the Western Head Trail you will lose track of how many stunning coves you come upon. Each one has its own charm, personality, and shade of blue.

That particular loop leaves you plenty of time to make it back to the boat on time.

✔️ Duck Harbor Mountain, 1.2 miles, 1.5 hours, difficult

✔️ Cliff, 0.7 miles, 45 minutes, moderate

✔️ Western Head, 1.3 miles, takes an average of 1.25 hours, moderate

If time allows at the end of your hike check out Eben’s Head which is an easy 0.8 miles and takes 30 minutes.

If you are not much of a hiker, you can instead get off at the north end, the first mail boat stop.

This will bring you to the Isle au Haut town landing where you can walk up the road to explore the town, get a lobster roll (in season) at the Maine Lobster Lady food truck, and head to a few shops.

Dogs are allowed on the mail boat at no extra cost so if your best furry friend enjoys a good adventure, bring it along, and don’t forget the dog waste bags and a leash!

4. Hike Barred Island Preserve at Low Tide

If a 2.5-mile (out and back) hike through a beautiful charming mossy and root-lined trail to a swimming beach sounds appealing and magical then make time for this hike!

Please leave your dogs at home as the delicate ecosystem is preserved by the Island Heritage Trust.

Head down Goose Cove Rd about .8 miles to access the well-marked trailhead for Barred Island Preserve. Parking is limited but there is an overflow lot that provides a handful of extra parking spaces. If that is full please return at a later date.

It is very important to plan your trip to Barred Island Preserve around low tide (you have a window of two hours on either side) so that you will be able to walk across the sandy beach that forms and connects it to the peninsula near Goose Cove. Otherwise, this stretch of beach will be covered in up to five feet of water!

The trail is well marked and you may notice a side trail, the Shore Loop trail, which leads to two memorial benches on a boulder called Prayer Rock, while the main trail leads to the beach.

5. Explore Crockett Cove Woods Preserve

Crocket Cove Woods is a 98-acre nature preserve on Deer Isle. It is considered a coastal bog forest and is rich with lichens, mosses, and deep green trails moist with the ocean air.

Emily Muir, a well-known artist, and builder of Stonington donated the preserve to The Nature Conservancy in 1975.

Crockett Cove Woods Preserve has two different parking areas. One parking area can be accessed by turning from Rt 15 onto Whitman Rd (the turn is just past Burnt Cove Market heading west out of town) and turning right onto Crockett Cove Rd.

The second parking area is less frequented but can be accessed by turning from Rt 15 onto Barbour Farm Rd and driving until you see the trailhead sign with space for a couple of vehicles.

This is a relatively quiet road so the parking area is a good place to turn around to help preserve the privacy of residents who live in the area.

6. Watch the Sunset from Sand Beach

Sand Beach is the one public cove in Stonington that has a long stretch of lovely sandy beach, a rarity in this area! It’s truly beautiful with little rocks that jut out of the sand for sitting upon. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the calm setting.

Sand Beach is about five minutes outside of town, 1.5 miles west of the center. If you are lucky you will see ospreys and bald eagles overhead as you enjoy the scenic view. It is also a great place to swim, though most choose to do so in the warmer sunnier part of the day.

7. Order Fresh Oysters from Long Cove Sea Farm

If you are skilled at shucking oysters you must order some incredibly fresh local hand-harvested oysters straight from the source while visiting Deer Isle!

Stonington native, Abby Barrows, is the sea farmer behind this gem that supports locally grown sustainable seafood.

Be on the lookout on their site for weekly pop-ups scheduled throughout the summer such as Bubbles and Brine at 44 North Coffee, when shucked oysters on the half shell are served with lovely mignonettes and sauces. 

8. Browse the Curiosities at Marlinespike Chandlery

This unique stop on Main Street in the center of town will bring you back in time. As you enter you are immediately lured into the musty and earthy interior filled with marine relics, rope and fiber art, and nautical artifacts.

The owner, Timothy Whitten, is an interesting person to chat with regarding the history of the store, his creations (such as stone pendants and bellropes), the findings he has for sale, and the materials he works with.

The Chandlery is open year round but it is recommended to text Tim for an off-season appointment ahead of time if making a special trip. He is also available to conduct workshops or instruction sessions for interested groups.

9. Attend a Stonington Opera House Arts Event

On the National Register of Historic Places Since 1991, this theatrical venue holds live music performances and offers movies and other forms of visual art to the public.

Delicious concessions are available in the lobby for purchase including snacks such as organic popcorn and homemade flatbread, beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Opera House Arts also hosts film festivals and workshops in acting and voice. When you enter the historic building and turn to face the harbor you will enjoy one of the best ocean views from town!

Some events are held at other locations such as the drive-in movie screen at the Stonington Ball Field and the Burnt Cove Church Community Center where some performances take place.

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10. Grab a Perfect Pourover at 44 North Coffee

This small-batch organic coffee roasting company is women-owned, by Megan Wood and Melissa Raftery, and serves up freshly brewed super delicious, and ethically-sourced coffee on Main Streets in both Stonington and the town of Deer Isle.

The blend of modern and rustic decor is welcoming while the aroma of the coffee is tantalizing. Whole bean coffee, mugs, coffee gear, stickers, clothing, and more are stocked on the wooden-crate shelving.

Most satisfying is the row of colorful ceramic pour-over cones at the counter awaiting the next eager customer. Order yours and enjoy a custom fresh single-cup pour-over alongside a locally-made fresh baked treat for a satisfying pick-me-up.

For the coffee connoisseur who wants to be fully immersed and visit the shop often, 44 North rents out a two-bedroom coffee loft upstairs, complete with wifi, as a hip and affordable in-town accommodation.

11. Book a Private Chartered Island Tour with Bugaboo Ocean Adventure Tours

Climb aboard an authentic 31′ Duffy Lobsterboat with Captain Charlie Beam as he takes you around exploring the abundant islands in the Stonington archipelago.

There are over 60 uninhabited islands in Penobscot Bay. Captain Beam will take you out to enjoy this unspoiled awe-inspiring part of Maine. You will likely spot seals, bald eagles, and more!

You will also see boats of all kinds in the lobster buoy-dotted waters around Stonington! It’s quite a beautiful place to just take in the view.

Call Charlie at 518-461-9393 to book your custom tour or put in a request for a specific tour HERE.

12. Join in the Fun at a Burnt Cove Boil

Are you ready for an absolute full-on Maine crustacean feast on the waterfront? Make a reservation for your spot at the table at Burnt Cove Boil. You will not be disappointed.

Jake McCarty sells seafood dinners, complete with saltwater-steamed Lobster and Jonah Crabs on casual picnic tables lining the shore of Burnt Cove in Stonington near his home.

You will enjoy a memorable family-style meal complete with the most magnificent sunset.

Abby Burrows of Long Cove Sea Farm also makes an appearance to shuck her briny oysters for these dinners as well!

Guests can BYOB beverages, must supply their own glasses and silverware, and may also tote along their own side of potato salad or greens to share. It’s truly special, give it a try.

13. Venture Out Kayaking, Self-Guided, to Explore Merchant Row

Located between Stonington and Isle au Haut, Merchant’s Row archipelago is one of the largest clusters of islands in the country.

When out in a kayak this experience provides stunning views of the Maine coastline and islands you would not see otherwise.

Of important consideration in this area is the lobster boat traffic and the waves these working boats create. Attempt to avoid crossings where lobster boats tend to travel and know that you do NOT have the right of way in a kayak.

ALWAYS assume these boats do not see you and leave ample time for crossings at lower traffic hours.

There are a couple of options in the area for kayak rentals. Plan to journey around the Stonington archipelago on a self-guided tour with their rentals. One company that offers rentals and island-camping guidance is Stonington Paddle.

🌲 Check Availability and BOOK a Half Day Self-Guided Paddle in Stonington! 🌲

Another outfitter in the area is Sea Kayak Stonington owned by Michael and Rebecca Daugherty. They offer an incredible amount of information and safety tips for their rentals and also offer tours. They can be seen kayaking most days!

Kayak to Green Island to Swim in the Quarry

Would you believe there is a freshwater quarry that you can swim in on an island off of the coast of Stonington, Maine? It is definitely worth checking out. Green Island is a 47-acre island with a standout swimming hole!

Access is on the south end of the island where visitors will find a cove with two ladders leading to an old stone wharf. Dinghies may be tied off here by folks with sailboats looking for a side adventure.

Kayakers can use the tiny low beach area to pull their boats uphill from shore. Remember tides can come and go surprisingly fast so please pull boats up further than you think.

Take time to enjoy a swim in the quarry but also check out the loop trail which is short and quite enjoyable. Beautiful lichens, mosses, and outlooks are part of the 1-mile trail which only takes about 15 minutes to hike.

Experience the Turquoise Water and Sandy Beach at Little Camp Island

Little Camp Island is well-known for its easy landing spots at all tides at either one of the two beaches. It’s a stunning location and you will find yourself glancing at the waters trying to remember if you are in the Caribbean or Maine.

Little Camp is a largely treeless island and is a popular picnic destination. Locals enjoy using this spot for clambakes! Visitors will definitely enjoy its weathered shoreline, clear swimmable waters, and scenic vistas. 

Please note fires are by permit only on this island. Contact Maine Forest Service at 207-827-1800 for a permit.

14. Book a Sunset Kayaking Tour with Osprey’s Echo Sea Kayaking

Perhaps you don’t own a kayak, you are a complete beginner when it comes to kayaking or maybe you are not comfortable heading out in the waters of Penobscot Bay on your own.

Osprey’s Echo Sea Kayaking provides a wonderful supporting opportunity for you to have a peaceful, memorable experience kayaking with their professional guides as the sun sets over Stonington.

The company is family-owned and its guides have grown up paddling around the Deer Isle area. Osprey’s Echo Sea Kayaking also offers other tours as well as lessons. Check out the options HERE.

15. Settlement Quarry Preserve

This interesting walk is full of historical tidbits and is only a 5-minute drive from the center of Stonington and is in the Oceanville area. Your dog is welcome here on a leash!

Take the Glacial Erratic Trail from nearby the parking area and end up at the beautiful expansive lookout point over Webb Cove. You will walk through mossy woods and over little boardwalks as you approach the lookout.

After enjoying the ocean view and reading the interesting signage, continue on to find your way to the historic quarry remnants where you can wander around and explore this unique area. Be aware of private land signs as this preserve borders landowners’ homes in the area.

16. The Perfect Rainy Day Activity is Going to the Discovery Wharf

The Discovery Wharf at Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries is an absolute must, especially if you have kids! While it is an excellent stop for families it is also a fun get-your-hands-wet educational experience for all ages.

Leroy Weed, a retired local fisherman and a bit of a local celebrity, will guide you through this interactive exhibit with a good mix of humor and his stories of years of hard work at sea, since childhood.

He will teach you interesting facts about local sea life at the center, encouraging lots of questions. If you are lucky, a resident rare lobster will be there for viewing and handling!

Admission to the Discovery Wharf is free but we highly encourage a donation of $10 for a family to support the efforts of the Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries.

17. Visit the gWatson Gallery

Right next door to Stonington Ice Cream Company and owned by the same gentleman, Ron Watson, this gallery is a worthwhile visit to see some carefully curated artworks close up.

In addition to established painters whose work can be found in major museums, the gWatson Gallery features emerging artists whose work is gaining new attention. Watson chooses work he likes and work he believes visitors will appreciate.

The space has been open for more than 20 years, while other art galleries have come and gone. This is a testament to the quality of the work shown! The space also hosts several musical performances each summer. It is open from May through to October.

18. Order from Lily’s House

It’s always fun finding unique places such as Lily’s House while vacationing that add a special flair to your dining or picnicking experiences.

Enjoy chatting wine, ordering gourmet pantry goods or even a custom case of delicious natural wines from Kyra Alex. Pick-up is at her Victorian house located at the corner of Rt 15 and Airport Rd.

19. Shop for Local Produce at Stonington Farmer’s and Artisan’s Market

The farmer’s market is open from June to mid-September and features fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and more. It is on Fridays from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, rain or shine.

The beauty of a farmer’s market such as this one is the variety of craftspeople and fine local artists selling their work in addition to the expected fresh goods.

At the market, shoppers can buy locally-grown produce, freshly prepared foods, meat, local seafood, cheese, baked goods, and more! Vendors such as Sunset Acres Farm, Blue Zee Farm, Blue Hill Spoonworks, and Yellow Birch Farm are regulars.

20. Dine at Aragosta Restaurant at Goose Cove

If you want to eat at the very best restaurant in Stonington, be sure to make reservations well in advance at Aragosta in Goose Cove! This treasure is located down a wooded dirt lane and perched on a hillside overlooking the cove. We were lucky enough to score an opening for brunch last minute during a trip in September.

Chef Devin Finigan has created an experience to be remembered with her seasonally flavored exceptional dishes in a unique location with endless views of the sea.

You can make reservations for dinner, which consists of a tasting menu, or Sunday brunch. You can also choose to hop in to wait for a spot at happy hour which occurs on M-W evenings, is a la carte, and first come first served.

The Happy Hour menu is plentiful with items such as fresh oysters, specialty pizzas, mezze platters, burgers, and more. Arrive early to wait your turn.

Classy cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options are available for order. If you need a sweet ending it’s recommended you try the soft-serve ice cream presented in a homemade waffle cone!

Brunch is also a lovely more casual option to consider. I really enjoyed the atmosphere and the view from the deck in the late morning. You can still order oysters (with either a bloody mary or blueberry mignonette) at brunch and other potential dishes include a lobster roll, chowder, Turkish eggs, crab toast, or a Dutch baby. Whatever you choose, it will be exquisite.

The small market on the walk from the parking lot to the restaurant, Piccolo Mercato, is an absolutely wonderful place to stop in for a gift, a book, a gourmet pantry offering, or a handmade local item.

I bought some lovely books at this market and a couple of delectable spreads to enjoy with cheese and crackers.

21. Watch the Stonington Lobster Boat Races

This event is a Maine tradition that happens in coastal towns every summer. In Stonington, it takes place every July, usually about a week after the 4th. Races start at 10 am the day of.

Recreational boaters are asked to stay clear of the track on the day of the race and fishermen are respectfully asked to clear the track of lobster gear prior to the race.

The best viewing is from the water but land-based spots, including the wharf of Isle au Haut Boat Services and behind the Lobster Co-op on Atlantic Avenue, are also good.

22. Take a Walk to Ames Pond to View Water Lilies

From the center of town, walk about one mile east, down Indian Point Road, until you reach the lily pond. Riding a bike is enjoyable as well if you happen to have one.

Ames Pond is one of the most photographed locations in Stonington. It is a beautiful place any time of day but at sunrise or sunset, you can take advantage of the dramatic lighting.

We stayed at a rental just down the road from the lily pond for several of our vacations and it was a treat to take a walk here every morning with our dog to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and bird-watching.

23. Plan to Visit During Maine Open Lighthouse Weekend
(only in September)

There are at least eight lighthouses within 12 miles of the shores of Deer Isle. Isle au Haut Boat Services offers two-day tours of ten lighthouses for Maine’s Open Lighthouse Weekend! These tours last 4-5 hours.

Some of the lighthouses that will be seen are Mark Island Light, Blue Hill Bay Lighthouse (also called Eggemoggin Lighthouse), Heron Neck Light, and Isle au Haut Light.

Isle au Haut Boat Services requires a minimum of 10 passenger reservations for each day. Be sure to make reservations and plans well in advance. These tours fill up fast! Shore visits are not available on these boat rides, lighthouses will be viewed from offshore.

One fun note is that a Lighthouse Passport was created by Deer Isle in collaboration with the US Lighthouse Society and Lighthousefriends, and it allows you to collect stamps at each of the eight lighthouses.

24. Visit the Deer Isle Granite Museum

The Granite Museum gives people a chance to visit a working 3D model of the granite quarry on Crotch Island, located in the Gulf of Maine just south of Stonington, from the early 1900s.

The museum is a must-visit for history buffs. Learn interesting facts about the quarriers’ risky work in the Stonington area that cut the distinctive pink granite used in such 20th-century monuments as New York’s Rockefeller Center.

The museum is located at 51 Main St. in Stonington. During the summer season, it is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from 12-4.

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More Noteworthy Things to Do in Stonington Maine

The list is seemingly endless as there are more worthy gems in Stonington than can be shared in a blog post. Here are a few more items you can consider adding to your itinerary if time allows!

Restaurants in Stonington, Maine

Besides the dining places already highlighted in the list above, there are more places to enjoy local cuisine in quaint Stonington.

Stonecutters Kitchen
It’s great for pizza-to-go or an easy quick bite to eat where you can also grab some essentials in the adjoining Harbor View Store. This is a mainstay of the community. You can sit on the patio which looks out on the harbor.

Goody’s Grub
I had the pleasure of meeting Mike Goodson “Goody” on our last visit to Stonington. I highly recommend you stop by his food truck parked right in town. He serves up delicious dishes that include blackened salmon, spicy chicken tenders, and my favorite: fried corn on the cob!

Where to Stay in Stonington, Maine

➡️ Boyce’s Motel is located right in the center of Stonington. You will find immaculate rooms here, very personal service, and attention to detail. The rooms are not only comfortable but also cute. The deck on the harbor is a great place to sit and enjoy the view.

➡️ The Inn on the Harbor is front and center on the harbor in Stonington with a spectacular view of the Penobscot Bay islands that you can enjoy from some of the rooms but also the large deck that is shared by guests. The rooms are very clean and comfortable, and nicely decorated.

Our family stayed here in the summer of 2023 and it was such a great experience! The manager and the employees take great pride in and go above and beyond to make your stay pleasant. The common area is full of thoughtful items to make your stay cozy; coffee, tea, snacks, cold drinks, games, a cozy sitting area, and more!

➡️ Pres du Port which has been family-run for 15 years is a lovely option if you prefer the vibe of a bed and breakfast.

There are also private accommodations in town if you prefer to not stay at an inn. The below options are great because they come with kayaks.

🦮 Pet-Friendly Accommodation

➡️ House At The Point, Rustic Cottage on Ocean’s Edge, Sleeps 4

Enjoy getting away from it all at this simple, off-grid, and rustic cabin that sits just 50 feet from the ocean! Disconnect, take in the views, enjoy nearby trails, and be present in this spectacular location only a few minutes from town.

How to Get to Stonington, Maine

Stonington is a town in Hancock County, Maine, United States. The town is located on the Stonington peninsula, surrounded by Penobscot Bay.

• From the south, take I-95 to Augusta, Rte. 3 East from Augusta to Belfast, connect to Rte. 1 North to Bucksport, via the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, and then follow Rte. 15 South to the Deer Isle Bridge and then pass through Causeway Beach. Continue on Rt. 15 to Stonington.

• To get to Stonington from Bangor, Take ME-15 S, ME-199 S and ME-175 S to ME-15 S in Sedgwick. Continue on over the Deer Isle Bridge and pass by Causeway Beach. Follow ME-15 S to Church St in Stonington.

Arriving By Plane: The nearest airport is Bangor International Airport, located just 1.5 hours away from Stonington. Follow the directions above.

Things to Do Near Stonington, Maine

The towns of Deer Isle, Sedgewick, Brooksville, and Brooklin are all within a thirty-minute drive from Stonington with Deer Isle being the closest neighboring town.

If you want to take a drive outside of Stonington there are plenty of things to do in Deer Isle, Maine. There is also the second location for 44 North Coffee to enjoy in Deer Isle, which is open year-round.