Damariscove Island is a 210-acre historic island six miles out to sea from Boothbay Harbor in open ocean and is accessible to boaters. It offers an excellent, tiny protected harbor with two BRLT courtesy moorings available to the public for up to 24-hours. Tie-ups are not permitted on the stone pier, but two courtesy dinghies are available for boaters to use in the harbor.
On the southern portion of the hourglass-shaped island are two miles of easy hiking trails that extend through fields and along the water’s edge. The northern half of Damariscove is a protected bird nesting area without trails. Access is prohibited during the summer nesting season. Because of the nesting birds and the fragile ecosystem, NO DOGS are permitted on Damariscove at any time.
Damariscove provides a beautiful setting for day hikes and picnicking. Along the trails that loop around the island are stone foundations of early farms, and an unusual ecosystem of coastal tundra with moss, lichens and alpine plants. Hikers will also encounter tidal pools along the rocky shore, a six-acre freshwater pond, a cobble beach, an upland meadow, and a salt marsh. The stone pier in the harbor is used by local fishermen as a working waterfront. Visitors are asked not to disturb commercial fishing gear stored at the pier. The former Coast Guard station near the harbor is privately owned. We ask that visitors respect this private property and stay on the marked trails at all time.
A small museum at the head of the harbor provides information about Damariscove’s flora, fauna, and rich history. A restroom is available near the harbor. Seasonal caretakers live on the island throughout the summer months and may be available to answer questions.
TRAIL MAP
