Welcome to our Beautiful Island!

Reachable by bridge, Deer Isle still retains the flavor of New England life in the 1950’s: rural, neighborly, and safe.  A cluster of small communities with almost 3,000 residents comprise the year round population. Lobstering is the mainstay of the economy although the diversity of the Island’s businesses draws many visitors from off Island. Granite is still quarried here. Internationally renowned Haystack Mountain School of Crafts has brought a wealth of artists and artisans to the Island, many of whom have chosen to live here. Galleries and studios dot the island. The Stonington Opera House has achieved national recognition as a year round performing arts center and  provides numerous productions throughout the year.

The K-8 school, built on the High School campus, is home to the Reach Performing Arts Center, a state-of-the-arts facility. The schools, churches and community organizations on the Island play central roles in bringing the community together throughout the year. Public suppers, festivals, craft fairs, boat races, basketball games and other sports events all contribute to a strong sense of community and island pride.

A wide variety of accommodations are available from inns, motels and b&b’s to rental cottages and campgrounds. Restaurants, coffee bars, antique shops, libraries, gift shops, book stores and galleries/studios all offer a rich selection of places to visit, to browse and to Buy Local. The Island Heritage Trust and the Deer Isle-Stonington Historical Society provide glimpses into the history of the ancient people who first inhabited the Island and of the first settlers.

Deer Isle is a paradise for photographers, birders, boaters and kayakers, artists, naturalists and anyone who loves the outdoors. We are fortunate to have more than twelve very diverse nature conservancies, many donated by generous residents. Several other conservancies are located on neighboring islands, including Acadia National Park land on Isle au Haut. The mixture of spruce-covered islands, quiet coves, granite outcroppings, fields of lupine and wildflowers, lobster boats, windjammers, glistening waters and pristine winter snow make a visit to Deer Isle, at any time of year, an enchanting and enriching experience.