Jewell Island, Maine: The Crown Jewel of Casco Bay
One of Casco Bay’s most beloved destinations, Jewell Island offers trails, beaches, WWII relics, and unforgettable views.
Jewell Island is everything we love about Casco Bay — wild, beautiful, and waiting to be explored. Just a 30-minute boat ride from our dock, it’s one of the most iconic destinations for boaters in the Casco Bay.
With nearly 3.5 miles of trails, secluded beaches, and climbable WWII towers, Jewell feels like a hidden world. Hunt for sea glass in the Punchbowl, grill lunch on the rocks, or explore the quiet forest paths and abandoned bunkers. It’s rugged, off-grid, and completely unreachable by ferry, which is precisely why we love it.
Whether you’re anchoring overnight or stopping in for a day trip, Jewell offers something for everyone: peaceful escapes, big adventures, and unforgettable views of the open Atlantic. If you’re boating in Casco Bay, this wild island belongs at the top of your list.
Things to Do
Jewell Island offers a rugged, off-grid experience with plenty to explore. Here’s a full list of highlights and must-dos:
Climb the WWII Observation Towers
Jewell’s two concrete towers are steeped in history and offer incredible panoramic views. Carefully climb to the top for one of the best photo ops in Casco Bay.Explore the Battery and Military Ruins
Bring a flashlight and wander the moss-covered bunkers, gun mounts, and tunnels left behind from Jewell’s time as a WWII military outpost.Visit the Punchbowl
A crescent-shaped beach with warm shallows and tide pools, this is the perfect spot for beachcombing, fort-building, and hermit crab hunting — especially if you’re visiting with kids.Walk Buoy Beach
This driftwood-strewn beach on the southern end is decorated with colorful lobster buoys and offers excellent views and a peaceful vibe.Hike the 3.3-Mile Trail Network
Trails like the Cove Trail, Towers Trail, Smugglers Trail, Mine Trail, and Punchbowl Trail are flat, scenic, and easy to follow — great for families and relaxed hikers. The Maine Island Trail Association maintains trails. Here’s a Jewell Island Trail Map.Picnic on the beach or Camp at a Primitive Campsite
Multiple sites (first-come, first-served) are scattered around the island. Some offer shoreline views, others are tucked into the forest. Fires are allowed only in designated rings.Wildlife Spotting
Watch for seabirds, ospreys, seals, and even porpoises as you explore the coastline or paddle nearby waters.
Where to Anchor
The best anchorage is Cocktail Cove, a protected harbor on Jewell Island’s northwest shore. It’s a favorite among boaters for its calm waters and easy access to trails and campsites.
There are two main landing areas:
Main Landing (Eastern side of the cove):
Features stone steps up to the island’s trail system and several nearby campsites.The Point (Southern end of the cove):
A small, rocky spit with great views of Little Jewell Island and access to the trail network.
Know Before You Go
Time: Plan for about three hours total on the island, or longer if you’re spending the day swimming, hiking, or picnicking.
Access: Jewell Island is only reachable by private boat or charter. No ferry service is available.
Landing Conditions: Bring a dinghy or be prepared to wade ashore, especially at low tide.
Fires: Allowed in designated fire rings only. Follow Maine state fire regulations.
Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash, including food waste and toilet paper.
Facilities: Composting toilets are located at major trail intersections.
Cell Service: Spotty at best — plan to be mostly off-grid.
Seasonal Steward: A summer caretaker helps maintain campsites and promote responsible use.