These U.S.A. island retreats have all the romance, relaxation and seaside views you will need.
Chebeague Island
Photo courtesy of Chebeague Island Inn
About 10 miles off the coast of Portland, Maine are close to 200 small islands in Casco Bay. The largest of these is Chebeague Island — though, at about 3.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide, it’s not enormous. The charming hamlet offers several picturesque beaches and coves and plenty of outdoor and water-based fun.
What to do: Learn more about Chebeague (pronounced shuh big and translated to “isle of many springs”) at the local historic museum set in a 19th-century schoolhouse. Other activities include playing tennis at the recreation center, hitting the greens at the great Chebeague Golf Club and hiking to Deer Point to marvel at the rock formations. Take to the water and go tubing, sea kayaking or take a sailing lesson. Or connect with locals for interactive lobster and clamming excursions. Cruises to nearby great Diamond are also available, as are sails on historic windjammers, on which you’ll foat past lighthouses and seals.
Where to stay: Originally built in the 1880s, the historic, family-owned Chebeague Island Inn features 21 individually designed guest rooms with works by local artisans. The two and a half coastal acres include an oceanfront lawn where guests can partake in games of croquet or badminton. The noted on-site restaurant (the island’s only fine dining option) highlights local seafood and ingredients (room rates start at $180 a night; chebeagueislandinn.com).
