Exploring Bustins Island: A Travel Guide To Maine's Hidden Gem

Bustins Island is an island in inner Casco Bay, Maine, United States. It is part of the town of Freeport and has approximately 117 summer cottages. The island operates its own ferry, the Lilly B, which runs from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. The ferry departs from the South Freeport town wharf and arrives at the public dock at the southwestern tip of the island. The best time to visit the island is on the weekend when the Nature Centre is open.

Getting to Bustins Island: The island's ferry, the Lilly B, departs from the South Freeport town wharf

The Town Dock in South Freeport, where the ferry departs, is located near the Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster. Be prepared to introduce yourself to your fellow passengers, as they are known to be a friendly bunch! The best time to visit the island is on the weekend when the Nature Centre is open. There is a road that loops around the island for about 1.5 to 2 miles, making it an easy walk. It's best to bring your own water bottles and snacks, and don't forget to take your trash with you when you leave.

When to visit: The ferry operates from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend

If you're planning a trip to Bustins Island, you'll want to take note of the ferry schedule, as this is the primary way to travel to the island. The island operates its own ferry, the Lilly B, which typically runs from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. This means that the ferry generally starts running at the end of May and continues through the summer until the second Monday in October.

During this time, you can catch the ferry from the South Freeport town wharf, also known as the Town Dock. The ferry arrives at the public dock at the southwestern tip of the island, and there is also a steamer dock on the western side of the island. Keep in mind that the island is completely seasonal, with residents and guests arriving in May and departing in October.

So, if you're planning your trip to Bustins Island, aim for the summer months when the ferry is in operation. This will ensure you can get to and from the island with ease and enjoy all that it has to offer during its thriving summer community season.

In addition to the ferry schedule, you may also want to consider any events or activities happening on the island during your desired travel dates to ensure you get the full Bustins Island experience.

What to do: The island has a six-hole golf course and tennis courts

To get to Bustins Island, Maine, you can take the ferry, Lilly B, from the South Freeport town wharf. The ferry operates from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend, arriving at the public dock at the southwestern tip of the island.

What to Do on Bustins Island

The island has a six-hole golf course on its eastern side and tennis courts at the centre, behind the fire barn. If you're looking for a more relaxed activity, you can visit the Community House, which is the hub of many activities on the island. You can also visit the schoolhouse, built in 1888, or the fire barn, which houses two of the island's four fire trucks.

The island is a great place to enjoy the outdoors, as its interior is undeveloped and part of a resource protection area. You can explore the island's 1.5-mile main road, Bustins Island Road, which loops around, or visit the nature centre to learn more about the local environment.

Attractions: The Community House is the hub of many activities and stands beside the schoolhouse and fire barn

To get to Bustins Island, Maine, you can take a ferry from the South Freeport town wharf. The island operates its own ferry, the Lilly B, which usually runs from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. The ferry arrives at the public dock at the southwestern tip of the island, with a steamer dock on the western side and a public landing ramp at the northern end.

Bustins Island is an island in inner Casco Bay, Maine, and part of the town of Freeport. The island has approximately 117 summer cottages, some dating back to the 18th century. The main road, Bustins Island Road, loops around the island for about 1.5 miles (2.4 km), with offshoot roads leading to each island building.

Now, onto the attractions:

The Community House, located near the centre of the island, is the hub of many activities and social gatherings. It is the focal point of the island, with a rich history of bringing people together. It stands beside two other significant structures: the schoolhouse and the fire barn.

The schoolhouse, built in 1888, holds a special place in the island's history. John Hackett, the first teacher, educated eleven pupils in this very room. The schoolhouse has since been meticulously renovated by the Bustins Island Historical Society (BIHS), preserving its charm and educational legacy.

The fire barn, also located next to the Community House, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of the island community. It houses two of the island's four fire trucks, as well as essential equipment, including a tractor and utility trailers. The presence of this fire station reflects the island's constant threat of fire due to the age of its cottages.

The Community House, schoolhouse, and fire barn form a triangle of attractions that showcase the social, educational, and practical aspects of life on Bustins Island. They stand as a testament to the island's sense of community, historical preservation, and proactive safety measures. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in the various activities hosted at the Community House or simply explore the neighbouring landmarks to gain a deeper understanding of the island's unique character.

Nature: The island is part of a resource protection area, with pine forests, meadows and coastline

Bustins Island is a picturesque destination nestled in inner Casco Bay, Maine, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and a charming summer community. The island boasts approximately 117 summer cottages, with some dating back to the 18th century, adding a touch of antique charm to the island's character.

The island's interior is a nature lover's paradise, as it is part of a resource protection area, preserving its pristine state. This protection area encompasses pine forests, meadows, and coastline, providing a diverse and rich ecosystem. The pine forests tower overhead, offering shade from the summer sun, while the meadows provide a lush, green expanse for leisure and exploration.

One of the standout natural features of Bustins Island is Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, located on the coast not far from the L.L. Bean headquarters. This park offers the perfect picnic spots with tables and grills scattered throughout, inviting visitors to enjoy an al fresco meal surrounded by nature. It is also a popular place to observe wild osprey and other native Maine wildlife, providing a unique opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife photography.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bustins Island also offers a range of activities and amenities for visitors. The island has its own golf course, tennis courts, and a community house that serves as the hub for various social events. The schoolhouse, built in 1888, has been meticulously renovated by the Bustins Island Historical Society, preserving the island's rich history.

The island is accessible via the Lilly B ferry, which operates from Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day weekend. This ferry service provides convenient transportation to and from the island, making it a popular destination for those seeking a tranquil escape from their everyday lives.

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