Nearly 8 miles long by 5 miles wide, Vinalhaven is Maine's largest inhabited island, with about 1,200 year-round residents. That number burgeons with summer folk. Scalloped by harbors and coves, the stunningly beautiful, mostly wooded island is a quiet and rewarding day-trip destination.
Carver's Harbor's "downtown" is a short walk from the ferry dock. Along Main Street, you'll find a handful of shops and eateries where menus are heavy on freshly caught lobster and other local seafood. There's one small motel with comfortable rooms, perched over the water. (Reserve early for the summer season.)
In the early 1900s, there was a booming granite industry on the island. Today, the mostly abandoned quarries are great for swimming and picnicking. Many islanders work in the lobstering industry.
Despite being an island, Vinalhaven is relatively accessible. There are six ferry trips per day to and from the island in summer. The Maine State Ferry Terminal is right in the center of Rockland, on U.S. 1, across from the Navigator Motor Inn. The ferry runs throughout the year (except on major holidays), but the times change somewhat from the end of October through December, so it's best to call first or check their website. There is also regular ferry service to the island of North Haven, which lies just across the Fox Island Thorofare from Vinalhaven. These ferries are minimal in their amenities. You won’t find a restaurant, snack bar, lounge, or even a vending machine on board.
If you'd like to explore the island beyond the village, bring a bike or a car. There is no public transportation on the island.
Within a mile of the ferry dock, you will find two town parks and a nature conservancy area a short walk beyond the village center. There is only one main road, so it’s pretty easy to find your way around. Biking on the island can be fun, though there are no designated bike paths and the road can be a little rough outside the village.
Goose Rocks Lighthouse is located between North Haven and Vinalhaven.
