A Day Trip to Monhegan Island: Art, Hiking, and a Whole Lot of Quiet
Monhegan is the kind of place that doesn’t need much hype — just a ferry schedule and a pair of good walking shoes. Located about 12 miles off the coast of Midcoast Maine, this tiny island has no paved roads, no cars, and no chain anything. What it does have: a long history as an artist’s retreat, a network of cliffside trails, and one of the most transportive day trips you can take from the Boothbay region.
Here’s how to plan a full and thoughtful day on Monhegan—whether you're heading out from Southport or just looking for a slower pace.
Getting to Monhegan
You can get to Monhegan by ferry from two ports:
From New Harbor: Hardy Boat Cruises
Drive time from Southport: ~45 minutes
Ferry ride: ~50 minutes
Schedule: Multiple sailings daily in summer (check ahead for seasonal times)
Bonus: Easier parking, more direct sailing
Price: $32 for adults (13+), $30 for kids age 3-12, $10 for kids 0-2
From Boothbay Harbor: Balmy Days Cruises
Drive time from Camelot: ~15 minutes
Ferry ride: ~1 hr 15 min
Schedule: Once per day, weather permitting
Bonus: Leaves from downtown Boothbay, so you can skip the drive entirely
Price: $25 for adults (12+), $16.50 for kids age 3-11
Tip: Boats fill up in July and August. If you're aiming for a weekend, book ahead online.
Once You Arrive: What to Expect
The ferry drops you off at Monhegan’s small harbor, and from there, it’s all on foot. The island is just over a square mile and packed with charm — no cars, no streetlights, just dirt paths, weathered cottages, and the occasional wheelbarrow.
There’s no visitor center. But there are hand-painted signs, lots of friendly people, and usually a bulletin board with trail maps near the dock.
What to Do on Monhegan
Hike the Trails
Monhegan has about 12 miles of hiking trails, and they range from easy woodland walks to dramatic cliffside climbs. Trails are well-marked and rustic (no railings or gravel paths here).
Lighthouse Hill Loop: A short walk up to the island’s lighthouse. Great views, and a gentle way to start.
Whitehead: One of the most dramatic points—watch the ocean crash below from a grassy bluff.
Cathedral Woods: A shady forest path with “fairy houses” built from sticks, moss, and shells. Yes, grown-ups are allowed to love this too.
Squeaker Cove & Burnt Head: Rugged coastal trail for those who want a real leg-stretch.
Note: Trails can be muddy or uneven — sneakers or hiking sandals are best.
Visit the Studios and Galleries
Monhegan has long been a haven for artists — Rockwell Kent, Jamie Wyeth, and many others have painted its landscapes. Many current artists live and work right on the island.
Look for small signs that say “Open Studio” or “Gallery” — they’re usually handwritten and posted near garden gates or porches.
Some consistent favorites:
Monhegan Museum of Art & History (housed in the old lighthouse)
Lara T. Whelan Studio (painter)
Don Stone Gallery (coastal oils, seasonal)
Eat & Drink
There are a handful of small food spots — most seasonal and a bit inconsistent, which is part of the charm. Call ahead or check recent reviews if you’re looking for something specific.
The Barnacle: Coffee, pastries, small lunches, and a harborfront perch
Monhegan Brewing Company: Great for a beer and light snacks (check hours)
Fish House Market: Casual seafood takeaway if it's open
Bring your own picnic: Seriously — you won’t regret it
Tip: Most places only take cash. Pack water and snacks just in case.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes (not flip-flops)
Water and a few snacks
Layers (even if it’s warm on the mainland, it might be cool or foggy here)
Cash for food, art, and ferry incidentals
A charged phone or camera
Optional: A small daypack, a book, and zero expectations
Timing Your Trip
Plan for at least 5–6 hours on the island, not including ferry time. That gives you room to hike, eat, explore, and slow down.
Ferries usually arrive mid-morning and leave mid-to-late afternoon
Avoid rushing to “do it all” — this isn’t that kind of place
Whether you hike out to the cliffs or meander between art studios and shady trails, Monhegan rewards unstructured wandering. It’s the kind of place that invites you to walk a little slower, breathe a little deeper, and notice the way fog drifts over pine trees. A day here won’t feel long (unless you stay for a few) — but it will feel full, in the best way. And by the time the boat pulls back into the harbor, you’ll understand why so many people return year after year.
Planning a few day trips? Don’t miss our round-up of the best easy day trips →
Want to stay coastal? Here's our guide to Pemaquid Point →