Discover Vinalhaven
...and see what Maine Island living is all about!
Known as the largest offshore island of coastal Maine, Vinalhaven is home to one of Maine's largest lobster fishing fleets and is known for its stunning natural beauty and strong sense of community. A short distance from Midcoast Maine, Vinalhaven neighbors the island of North Haven, a smaller island just across the Fox Islands Thorofare. While the two islands are located in Penobscot Bay and are collectively called the Fox Islands, each island is unique. The town of Vinalhaven has a population of 1,200 within its 23.46 square miles, and has more coves and inlets than one can count. Life on Vinalhaven can feel a bit like a step back in time, and many refer to the lifestyle and beauty as "Old Maine". Vinalhaven boasts a rich history and economy that maintain a level of sustainability, stability, and longevity for year-round residents, longtime summer residents, and annual visitors. Scenic coastlines, hiking trails, boating, and swimming quarries are a few of the many attractive features of this granite gem.
With its pristine landscape and rugged coastline, Vinalhaven is a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike, attracting artists, outdoor enthusiasts, boaters, and entrepreneurs. For about a century beginning in the 1820s, Vinalhaven was a leading producer of granite, which has been used in many national monuments and infrastructures from the Washington Monument to the Brooklyn Bridge to New York's St. John the Divine. Today, Vinalhaven has a lucrative fishing industry and is home to Maine's second-largest lobstering fleet. Carver's Harbor is located on Vinalhaven's southernmost side where the majority of the local fleet is moored, where the village is located, and where you can board a ferry to Rockland. In addition to the freshest lobster one can find, Vinalhaven also has crabmeat, halibut, and oysters.
One of the features of Maine island living is the remote location, which has contributed to the authenticity and "real" Maine experience. Sitting in the middle of Penobscot Bay, there is no bridge connecting Vinalhaven to the mainland. The island is primarily accessible by a 75-minute ferry ride across the bay, but is also accessible by private boat or a quick flight via Penobscot Air. Once on the island, many restaurants and shops in the village are within walking distance of the ferry terminal, simplifying transportation. In fact, locals might suggest you leave your car behind altogether. From picturesque Carver's Harbor to the numerous hiking trails and gorgeous waterfront and preserves, there is every reason to spend time here on the island.
Vinalhaven has plenty of enjoyable activities, including hiking on the Vinalhaven Land Trust trails, several public beaches, swimming in the quarries, and more . The town bursts with history and culture, as seen throughout the island and especially on its Main Street which has most of its original architecture in tact. Some popular destinations on Vinalhaven's Main Street include Skål, an island speakeasy and music venue, New Era Gallery, Island Spirits for wine and goodies, Carver's Harbor Market, Dot and Millie's Restaurant, The Sand Bar, Homeport Restaurant/Vinalhaven Candy Co, Go Fish, Surfside Breakfast, Greet's Eats food truck, WindHorse Arts, Creelman Farm Store, the Pizza Pit and others. A must-visit site is Vinalhaven Historical Society museum, which tells the story of the island's early settlers and its lobster fishing legacy through numerous exhibits. In addition to the seafood options and various shops, Vinalhaven boasts two farms--Roberts Harbor Farm and Creelman Farm--which provide incredible produce through the season. Within walking distance of the ferry and village are two amazing preserves--Lane's Island Preserve and Armbrust Hill.
With internet service and 21st century technology island living is a magnificent place to work remotely or start a new business.
So many reasons to live on an island. What are you waiting for?
Find Your Vinalhaven Dream Home
Are you moving to Vinalhaven or the Fox Islands, but haven't started your home search yet? Which island is right for you— Vinalhaven or North Haven? In this process, you'll want to make sure you have the best local realtors on hand to help navigate you through the process of moving to mid-coast Maine.
Davidson Realty agents are your island real estate experts with a combined eight generations of experience. All agents have extensive local knowledge and are year-round residents, including broker and owner Kris, associate brokers Lisa and Alex, and sales agent Kathy. Contact the Davidson Realty team online or call 207-863-2200 to learn more. You can also stop by our year-round Vinalhaven office. Let us help you get started!
If you want to learn more about living on a neighboring island, we also show real estate listings on North Haven.
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