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Bailey Island, Maine

Home of the world's only cribstone bridge

Overview

Bailey Island is a year-round fishing community at the end of Route 24, connected to the mainland by the famous Cribstone Bridge—the only bridge of its kind in the world. Generations of families have worked these waters, and the island retains its authentic maritime character with lobster boats, weathered docks, and the Giant's Stairs rock formation drawing visitors from around the world.

Key Facts

Population 425
Region Midcoast Maine
County Cumberland
Founded 1928
Nearest City Brunswick (25 minutes)

What Bailey Island Is Known For

Bailey Island Local Highlights

Cribstone Bridge
Built 1927-1928 using 10,000 tons of granite stacked without cement, the Cribstone Bridge is the only structure of its kind in the world. The lattice design allows tides to pass through while the weight of the granite holds everything in place.
Giant's Stairs
This dramatic coastal trail follows rocky ledges that erosion has carved into step-like formations. Donated to the town in 1910 by Captain William Henry Sinnett, it offers spectacular views of Casco Bay and includes Thunder Hole and Pinnacle Rock.
Working Fishing Village
Unlike many coastal Maine communities that have become purely tourist destinations, Bailey Island maintains an active fishing fleet. Lobster boats depart daily, and the rhythm of the working waterfront continues.
Mackerel Cove
This scenic harbor on the island's western shore provides anchorage for fishing boats and visiting vessels, with views that epitomize the Maine coast.

Things to Do

1
Walk the Giant's Stairs
Follow the 2.5-acre coastal preserve along dramatic rock formations, with views of Casco Bay, Thunder Hole, and Pinnacle Rock. The trail runs along rocky ledges that give the impression of giant steps.
2
Cross the Cribstone Bridge
Drive or walk across the world's only cribstone bridge, a National Register of Historic Places landmark built entirely from granite blocks stacked without mortar.
3
Explore Mackerel Cove
Visit this working harbor where lobster boats tie up and the island's fishing heritage remains visible in daily life.
4
Kayak Casco Bay
Paddle the protected waters around Bailey Island, exploring rocky coves, watching for seals, and experiencing the coast from water level.
5
Dine on Fresh Lobster
Several restaurants on the island serve lobster pulled from these very waters, offering the freshest seafood in an authentic waterfront setting.

Living in Bailey Island

Bailey Island is part of the town of Harpswell, one of Maine's most geographically complex municipalities. The island community maintains its fishing heritage while accommodating summer residents and visitors who are drawn to its authentic character. Real estate is expensive and limited, with many properties having been in families for generations. The community is tight-knit, with residents connected by shared reliance on the sea and the bridge that links them to the mainland.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild and breezy, 65-75°F

winter

Cold with ocean moderation, 20-35°F

spring

Cool and damp, 40-55°F

fall

Crisp and scenic, 45-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Harbor seals Bald eagles Ospreys Cormorants Great blue herons Lobster (abundant) Porpoises

How to Get There

Bailey Island is reached via Route 24 from Cook's Corner in Brunswick. The 14.5-mile drive crosses the Cribstone Bridge from Orr's Island—a scenic journey through Harpswell's island geography.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Bailey Island outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Cribstone Bridge unique?

The bridge is built from granite blocks stacked in a crisscross lattice pattern without any cement or mortar. The weight of 10,000 tons of granite holds it in place, while the gaps between stones allow tides to flow through. It's the only bridge of this construction in the world.

Is Giant's Stairs difficult to walk?

The trail involves walking on uneven rocky surfaces and can be slippery when wet. It's suitable for most visitors but requires careful footing. The dramatic views make the effort worthwhile.

Can I buy lobster directly from fishermen?

While some fishermen sell from the dock, the easiest way to enjoy local lobster is at the island's restaurants, which source directly from the boats you see in the harbor.

Nearby Towns

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Midcoast Maine Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature