Islands, peninsulas, coves and bays make an irregular coastline that provides the visitor with scenic views ranging from intimate detail to spectacular grandeur. The sea is also the reason for many of the settlements in the region. The economies of some towns are closely tied to fishing and related activity such as boat building. The strong maritime tradition of the area is based on the many fine harbors from Castine to Eastport. The sea Downeast is dotted with islands, from those barely visible at high tide to the mountainous Mount Desert Island.
Visitors can find many that are easy to reach and worthy of a trip.
Mount Desert Island is the site of four towns and the largest part of Acadia National park, visited by millions annually. The island is richly endowed with beautiful scenery, interesting features and picturesque harbors. Deer Isle and Little Deer Isle are connected to the mainland by a bridge on Route 15. At the end of Route 15 in Stonington, visitors can take the mail boat to Isle au Haut, about half of which is included in Acadia National Park and has many scenic trails. Swans Island, accessible by the state car ferry from Bass Harbor, is worth exploring for its scenic views and quiet charm.