Island Inn

For those seeking an idyllic "Hotels Near Of Me" destination that promises tranquility, breathtaking views, and exquisite culinary experiences, The Island Inn on Monhegan Island, Maine, stands as an unparalleled choice. This historic inn, perched majestically on a bluff overlooking Monhegan Harbor, offers a quintessential New England island escape, blending timeless charm with modern comforts.

The Island Inn is located at 1 Ocean Ave, Monhegan, ME 04852, USA. For inquiries and reservations, guests can reach the inn by phone at (207) 596-0371 or mobile at +1 207-596-0371. As with all accommodations on Monhegan, access to the island is by ferry only from mainland ports such as Port Clyde, New Harbor, or Boothbay Harbor. Upon arrival, guests will find the inn conveniently located near the wharf, offering easy access to the village and island attractions.

The Island Inn boasts a captivating environment that seamlessly integrates with Monhegan's unique island charm. The main building, with parts dating back to 1816 (originally known as the Pink House), was significantly extended in 1907 and last enlarged in 1910 to form The Island Inn as it appears today. Its architecture represents a classic turn-of-the-century summer hotel, a style rarely preserved in such form today. This historic structure sits atop a bluff, providing a spectacular vantage point for westward views over Monhegan Harbor towards the ocean, making it an ideal location for witnessing dramatic sunsets and the magnificent colors that accompany them.

The inn features 32 rooms, each thoughtfully designed to offer a comfortable and authentic island experience. The rooms are characterized by painted floors, original antique oak furniture, and extremely comfortable new beds adorned with down duvets and crisp white linens. In keeping with the island's serene and unplugged ethos, rooms at The Island Inn do not include telephones or televisions, encouraging guests to immerse themselves fully in the natural surroundings and island life. Many rooms offer stunning ocean and harbor views, ensuring that the beauty of Monhegan is never far from sight. An extensive renovation program has upgraded all interior spaces, adding private bathrooms to many rooms and suites while sympathetically maintaining the period style.

Beyond the rooms, the inn’s common areas invite relaxation and contemplation. Enjoying your morning coffee or evening wine on the expansive lawn overlooking the harbor is described by guests as "one of the best ways to enjoy Monhegan’s beauty." The public sitting rooms of the main building are heated, providing cozy spaces at either end of the season. The Pierce Cottage, added to the property in 1924, offers additional accommodations with beautiful views towards the lighthouse and the island's interior.

The Island Inn is renowned for its exceptional service and culinary offerings, which are consistently praised by guests. The staff is described as kind, welcoming, and attentive, ensuring a perfect stay for visitors. The commitment to guest satisfaction extends to the dining experience, which is a significant draw for both inn guests and island visitors.

Dining at The Island Inn is a highlight. A full American breakfast is included in the room rate for overnight guests, providing a delicious start to the day. For dinner, the dining room, open to both guests and the public, offers an à la carte menu with reservations required. The culinary team prides itself on combining fresh, local Maine cuisine with creative flair. Guests have raved about the well-prepared and creative food, noting a significant evolution from simpler offerings of the past. The menu features locally sourced seafood, including lobster, scallops, and mussels, alongside grilled and roasted meats and a commendable array of vegetarian and vegan options. One guest specifically highlighted "plenty of yummy vegan options at breakfast and dinner," a testament to the inn's commitment to accommodating diverse dietary needs.

In addition to the main dining room, The Island Inn also operates "The Barnacle Cafe," conveniently located near the wharf. The Barnacle offers a more casual dining experience with sandwiches, chowder, salads, baked goods, and beverages, perfect for a quick bite or a take-away meal to enjoy on a hike. It also serves a variety of coffees using locally roasted beans from Monhegan Coffee Roasters and offers a selection of wines, Maine beers, and ciders. This dual dining approach provides flexibility and variety for guests throughout their stay.

The Island Inn's unique features are deeply intertwined with the charm of Monhegan Island itself. The inn serves as a comfortable base from which to explore this remarkable island. Monhegan is a car-free island, approximately 10 miles off the coast of Maine, known for its pristine natural beauty and vibrant artist community. Over two-thirds of the island, encompassing 350 acres, is protected as a nature preserve by the Monhegan Associates, maintaining miles of walking and hiking trails. These trails lead to dramatic cliff faces, secluded coves, and lush forests, offering incredible opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and peaceful contemplation.

The inn's strategic location provides not only stunning harbor views but also easy access to the island's numerous art galleries and studios. Monhegan has a long history as an artists' colony, attracting renowned painters for generations. Visitors can browse contemporary art or pick up an artist studio map to see where island artists live and work.

Other noteworthy features and activities include:

• Spectacular Sunsets: The Inn's westward-facing location provides unparalleled opportunities to view magnificent sunsets over the harbor and ocean.
• Access to Nature: With 9 miles of cliffside, forested, and meadow trails readily accessible, guests are encouraged to explore the island's untamed beauty. Packing sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots is highly recommended.
• Unplugged Experience: The absence of phones and televisions in rooms reinforces Monhegan's simpler way of life, inviting guests to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature and their companions.
• The Barnacle Cafe: Beyond casual dining, The Barnacle is also a hub for local events, including concert series and trivia nights, fostering a sense of community.
• Proximity to Island Amenities: The inn is close to the wharf, where ferries arrive, and provides easy access to the village's limited but essential services and shops.
• Historical Significance: Staying at The Island Inn is an experience in itself, offering a glimpse into the island's rich past and its enduring tradition of welcoming visitors.

The Island Inn is promoted as a perfect getaway for those seeking a tranquil and authentic Maine island experience. Guest reviews consistently highlight the inn's key strengths:

• Exceptional Food: Repeated praise for the "incredible food," including creative dishes and ample vegan options, makes dining a memorable part of the stay.
• Kind and Accommodating Staff: The friendly and helpful nature of the staff ensures a warm welcome and a comfortable visit.
• Cozy Rooms with Views: Guests appreciate the comfortable accommodations, with many rooms offering stunning harbor or ocean vistas.
• Unbeatable Location: The inn's position on the bluff provides unparalleled views and easy access to island activities.

One satisfied guest stated, "We had a perfect stay at the Island Inn just after Labor Day. The staff was kind, all the food was incredible, and our room was cozy. They had plenty of yummy vegan options at breakfast and dinner, too." Another eloquently captured the essence of the experience: "Enjoying your morning coffee or evening wine on the lawn is one of the best ways to enjoy Monhegan’s beauty." Even those who only dined at the inn were impressed: "The food was well prepared and creative, with the chef's personal flair."

For those looking for a "Hotels Near Of Me" option that promises more than just a place to sleep—an immersive experience into the beauty, art, and tranquility of a unique Maine island—The Island Inn on Monhegan provides an unforgettable coastal haven. It's a place to unwind, explore, and savor the simple yet profound joys of island life.