We may never get around to exploring all 3500 islands off the coast of Maine, but every time out on the boat there’s the possibility of seeing a new one. For sure, there will be some feature that makes it different from any other island.
Some islands are little more than rock formations likely created by volcanic activity thousands of years ago. If there is surface where a tree can root, it’s not surprising to see a few.
There are lovely tree covered islands with paths leading through the woods to who knows where which makes exploring a real adventure.
Occasionally there is an island with an expanse of white sand beach,
but most have rocky shores that can be craggy
or worn smooth and covered with lichen. Since access to most islands is by dinghy, you can guess which shoreline is preferable!
Speaking of rocks, in summer it is wonderful to find an island with sun warmed stones that are perfect for relaxing or maybe napping.
Some islands are preserves and if you time the visit just right, you may find them lush with blueberries and raspberries. Your may also find that you share the island with wild sheep or deer who compete with you for the berries
or there may be items on the shore indicating you are sharing the island with other people.
Far out to sea are a few scattered islands that are nesting places for puffins in the spring. Catching sight of these perky little birds is quite exciting.
Here and there are surprises like the remains of a quarry
or fairy houses left behind.
No matter the shape or size or topography of an island, its rugged beauty always has distinguishing features. Some are so inaccessible it is possible to think no human foot has ever touched there. No matter how many islands I visit or see from afar, each holds a special mystery waiting to be discovered.
i so appreciate your visit and the comments you leave behind
Lulu's Musings 
I am planning a trip to Maine in late September. I would have loved seeing the puffins but they will be long gone by the time we get there. St. Helena looks like such an interesting place. I enjoyed your island hop.
Let me know where you will be.
Bar Harbor. My friend just went to the hospital and I hope she is OK to make our trip at the end of Sept.
If you are going to pass through or be anywhere near Rockport, we should meet for coffee, lunch or whatever.
I will let you know, thanks.
How beautiful are those islands and the rocks are wonderful…love that little fairy garden left behind…I can see that we need to catch a boat tour the next time we are there…thanks for the tour!!!
Huh. I had no idea there were so many islands off Maine. Beautiful pix, esp of the water and them perky birds.
What fun to have islands to explore. So adventurous. Your pictures are great, and I love the idea of relaxing on warm rocks. laurie
Love this post Lulu – I have a thing for teeny islands, always dream about having a cottage on one.
What beautiful surroundings you have! I’ve never seen those birds before – or heard of them, either. I enjoyed my outing with you today! 🙂
What a great way to spend the day… Love exploring…
Sounds like you have many adventures ahead of you as you try to see these islands. Fun times!
The puffins made my day, Lulu. 🙂
When I was a little girl, we were on vacation and saw a tiny island similar to your first picture. It captured my imagination: how I would live there, the different things I would see from each side.
I agree with that there’s something wonderful about napping on a sun-heated bed of small stones. Muscles and tendons relax, and the whole body responds.
Ay yi yi!!! SO beautiful!!! That must be really cool to lay down on those warm rocks like that. You’d pay big bucks at the spa for basically the same thing! 🙂
I love it that you have such an adventurous spirit! I’m a silly ol’ homebody, but I like it that I can live vicariously through your heightened sense of adventure and fun!
Beautiful! When Judy was young she used to go with her family to the Isles of Shoals on the New Hampshire border. She has very fond memories from those summer trips.
what a magical way to spend the day~ thanks for another beautiful boat ride~
Jenna
3500 islands? Goodness! What fun it must be to explore a few of them. 🙂
I love this post ~ makes me feel like I’m there with you! Maine is so beautiful, especially by boat! How lucky you are to explore with your family! Enjoy every special moment!
Love the different topographies of the islands.
Interesting photos…especially like the one of the puffins.