The East Penobscot Bay Region reaches from Belfast to the east and Ellsworth in the west, taking in a number of peninsulas and islands. In summer this is an ideal area for sailing and kayaking; in fall, the scarlet wild blueberry barrens are a sight to see.
Belfast offers an unmatched view of the open sea. This stunning seascape along with the remarkable collection of Federal, Victorian, Greek revival and Italian style homes built by sea merchants has lured artists, writers and craftspeople to live in the area. Boasting a quaint downtown with shop-lined streets, Belfast is an ideal place to find antiques, souvenirs, collectibles, Maine-made crafts and much more.
Searsport got its name from David Sears who made a fortune in the sea business and the China trade. You can see many of the artifacts brought back from these travels in the Penobscot Marine Museum. If you like antiques and flea markets you’ll be in heaven walking the brick sidewalks in the historic downtown.
The town of Blue Hill is on the east side of the peninsula and overlooks the 934 foot hill that takes on a blue appearance when viewed from a distance. Today, it is known for it crafts, pottery, and an eclectic collection of 620,000 music titles available at Bagaduc Music Library. Students perform at the Kneisel Hall Summer Music Center.
On the west coast of the peninsula you’ll find the quiet harbor town of Castine. Its strategic location for ships traveling inland made it a battleground. Today Castine is the home of Maine Maritime Academy. Today visitors to Castine may enjoy several historic sites and parks, a deep water harbor, tennis, golf, great restaurants, and more.
You can reach Deer Island by a short drive across the bridge from the Blue Hill Peninsula. Fishing communities dot this picturesque island which artists have discovered and captured with their paintings. The romance and mystique of Deer Isle was captured by John Steinbeck in his book Travels with Charley – “it disappears when you’re not there.”
Stonington, at the southern most tip of Deer Isle, remains an active harbor town that invites touring and picture taking.