An Island A Day - Calendar Islands, Casco
Bay, Maine
by: Nate Soule
Stand by the shores of Casco Bay on the coast of Maine and you may
expect to find ocean as far as the eye can see. Instead seemingly endless
islands dot the seascape. Sometimes called the calendar islands, there
is rumored to be an island in the bay for every day of the year.
Stretching from Cape Elizabeth to Cape Small these islands with their
rocky shores and rustic way of life define the stereotypical New England
coastline. Mostly uninhabited, they provide a serene escape from everyday
life. Their natural beauty and their sheer numbers create a place one
could visit every day and still never have completely explored. With
an island for every day of the year there is more than enough shelter
from the wind to allow everything from large fishing vessels to solo
kayaks to roam the bay. While sandy beaches are few and far between
here, the rock strewn shores and miles of nature trails can supply a
continual source of enjoyment.
If you know where to look the Casco Bay islands will also provide a
glimpse of Maine maritime history. Being located on the eastern most
part of the country, these islands served their time during World War
II as bases and look outs for German U-Boats. Great towers and forts
still remain on Jewel Island, and while mostly converted to homes now,
the military buildings on Great Diamond Island are hard to miss. During
the war anti-submarine nets and mines were deployed at many harbor entrances
and the islands took on a front line role. Even before WWII Casco Bay
held military purposes. In 1858 Fort Georges was constructed and armed
for the Civil War, Spanish American War, and was used to store submarine
mines during WWI.
Many opportunities await those looking to enjoy the islands for their
less historical characteristics. Chebeague is the largest of the Casco
Bay islands, and one of the few with a year round population. Ferry
service takes visitors from Portland or nearby Cousin’s Island
to the perfect setting for an adventuresome hike or leisurely bike ride.
You can finish the day off with a delicious dinner or nights rest at
the breath taking Chebeague Inn. Great Diamond Island also offers an
exceptional dining experience at the Diamond’s Edge restaurant
in Diamond’s Cove. Peaks and Long islands both present dining
opportunities to their guests and their proximity to Portland makes
them popular tourist attractions.
If you are looking for a little less populated destination then you
have literally hundreds of choices. You can relax on the beaches of
Sand Island, watch the seals bask on the rocks of French Island, or
setup a picturesque camping site on one of the Gosling islands. Many
of these smaller islands will require you to provide your own transportation,
but kayak, canoe, sail, and motor boat rentals all provide easy access.
Whether you are looking for fine dining, a historical stroll, or a
relaxing day on the beach Casco Bay offers something for every visitor
and an island for every day of the year.
About The Author - Nate Soule is a travel enthusiast
and helps maintain the travel website AcrossDistance.com (http://www.acrossdistance.com).
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