Chebeague Island, Maine

Year-round Casco Bay island with working waterfronts

Overview

Chebeague Island became its own town in 2007 after seceding from Cumberland. The island mixes small farms, spruce woods, and coves with views across Casco Bay. A year-round ferry from Cousins Island and a seasonal run from Portland keep the community connected while preserving a relaxed island rhythm.

Key Facts

Population 377

Region Greater Portland

County Cumberland

Founded 2007

Nearest City Portland (40–55 minutes via ferry and drive)

Town Office Visit official website

What Chebeague Island Is Known For

Chebeague Island Local Highlights

Stone wharves and beaches

Sandy Point and Hamilton Beach offer easy shoreline access and classic Casco Bay scenery.

Lobster fishery

A small fleet still hauls out of island coves, shaping local life and food.

Island golf course

The Chebeague Island Golf Club sits on a former sheep pasture with sweeping bay views.

Things to Do

Walk the shore at low tide

Explore sandbars and tidal pools around the Hook and East End.

Play a round of island golf

Nine holes with views of boats and distant lighthouses.

Bike quiet roads

Ride past wharves, fields, and stone walls with light traffic.

Living in Chebeague Island

Chebeague Island offers small-town island living with essential services on-island and larger shopping in mainland Yarmouth and Portland. Ferries set the daily rhythm, and residents rely on community volunteerism.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 65-78 F with sea breezes

winter

Cold, 20-35 F with coastal wind

spring

Cool and damp, 40-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with clear bay views

How to Get There

Year-round Chebeague Transportation ferry from Cousins Island; seasonal Casco Bay Lines service from Portland.

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

Satellite preview

Chebeague Island outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Sea Kayaking

Summer & Fall (June - October)

Related Guides

Maine Ferry Guide

How to navigate the confusing mix of state, private, and mail boat ferries to reach the islands.

Guide to Unique Stays in Maine

Forget the chain hotels. Discover Maine's most memorable accommodations, from lighthouse keeper's houses and luxury treehouses to remote wilderness yurts.

Best Day Trips from Portland

From island hopping to mountain hikes, Portland's location makes it the perfect base for exploring Maine. 15 day trips within two hours of the city.

Free Things to Do in Maine

From hiking trails to museum free days, Maine offers countless ways to explore without spending a dime. Your guide to no-cost adventures.

Maine Islands Guide

From car-free escapes to working fishing communities, Maine's islands offer experiences unavailable on the mainland. Your guide to island adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chebeague Island known for?

Chebeague Island is known for its stone wharves and sandy beaches, working lobster fleet, and the Chebeague Island Golf Club with sweeping Casco Bay views. The island became its own town in 2007 after seceding from Cumberland.

How do you get to Chebeague Island?

Chebeague Island is accessible by year-round Chebeague Transportation ferry from Cousins Island (about 15 minutes) or seasonal Casco Bay Lines service from Portland. Total travel time from Portland is 40-55 minutes via ferry and drive.

What activities are available on Chebeague Island?

Chebeague Island offers beach walking and tidal pool exploring at Sandy Point and Hamilton Beach, island golf at the nine-hole course, biking quiet roads past wharves and stone walls, sea kayaking, and watching the lobster fleet work the coves.