This New England Island Is A Perfect Destination For A Remote, Coastal Escape

If you're dreaming of heading off on a quiet, serene escape, then New England has you covered. Cliff Island, located in Casco Bay, Maine, is an ideal destination for those on the hunt for a remote coastal getaway. It sits just 8 miles from Portland and is accessible by ferry, with boats departing several times a day in both directions. These typically take between one and two hours from port to port.

This small island is home to less than 100 people year-round, but in summer, the population more than doubles thanks to those who choose to live there seasonally. Cliff Island is considered one of the most underrated small towns in America. Thanks to its small population and unpaved roads, there are few cars around; most people opt to walk, bicycle, or even use golf carts as transportation. This is one of the things that makes this island escape feel like a completely different world. A place that is remote, rustic, and far removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Cliff Island may be the smallest year-round inhabited island in Casco Bay, but what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in sustainability. With much of its land preserved from development, visitors find unpaved roads, scenic dirt paths, and little to no traffic. Most of the land on the island is under conservation, making it a timeless, well-preserved destination.

However, there isn't much to do on the island. It consists of only a library, a small seasonal grocery store and cafe, a full-service post office, a tennis court, a community hall, and a one-room school serving a handful of pupils. This means there's not a huge amount to do here for those looking to enjoy activities, but it is a perfect spot for those looking to be out and about in nature. Many visitors enjoy walking along the hiking trails or visiting the beach for a picnic. Visitors opting to stay in Portland and visit the island for a day or an afternoon have plenty of options for experiencing a slice of island Iife off Maine's coast, with lobster shacks, kayaking, and seaside serenity all around Casco Bay.

Those looking to visit Cliff Island should primarily stay in the charming East Coast town of Portland because the island is so small and authentic that it doesn't even have a hotel; it boasts just a couple of small cottages. Instead, most people stay on the mainland, in Portland, where there is a range of hotels suited to any budget. A stay in Portland, Maine, can cost anywhere between $100 and $400 per night, with many gorgeous hotels conveniently located by the port.

Cliff Island also only has one tiny shop that may not always be open, and no restaurants. For this reason, it's important to bring everything with you that you need for your time on the island, including any food and drinks. It's also a good idea to pack extra drinking water, walking shoes, and bug repellent, especially if you're planning on going hiking along some of the island's walking trails. Cell phone coverage can be spotty on the island, but for those looking for a true escape, this can definitely enhance the off-grid appeal. Just be sure to remember your way back to the ferry port when it comes time to head back to the mainland!