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One of my favorite activities in Maine is ferrying from Portland to some of the state’s beautiful islands. While many visit popular destinations such as Peak’s Island, other options are less visited.

I visited Diamond Cove, but I was a bit confused when planning my trip. Here is everything you need to know about planning a visit, from the rules you need to follow to the best things to do.

Diamond Cove

Diamond Cove is a picturesque enclave on Great Diamond Island, one of the many scenic islands in Casco Bay in Maine. Originally established as a military installation in the late 19th century, Diamond Cove has since been transformed into a charming residential community that preserves its historic character.

The most important thing to know when visiting Diamond Cove is that you are only allowed to walk on Diamond Ave.

The rest of the island is private and accessible only to those who live there or rent vacation homes.

That means, as much as we wish they were, the hiking trails you see on Google Maps are not open to the public.

How To Get To Diamond Cove

One of the reasons I visited was that it is accessible via ferry from Portland. The ferry ride takes 30-45 minutes one-way, making it the perfect way to get out on the water.

The ferry costs $14 for a round trip, making it a cheap activity.

Make sure to allow plenty of time to find parking, as the Ferry Parking Garage usually is full and doesn’t allow any more cars once it is.

Pro Tip: You can buy your tickets in person at the Casco Bay Ferry Terminal. They do offer tickets in advance.

5 Things To Do In Diamond Cove

Here are the best things to do on the island. While you won’t need to spend all day here, it is the perfect afternoon activity.

1. Walk Diamond Ave

You can walk along Diamond Avenue to access the restaurants (within 50 yards of the ferry stop) and lodging facilities.

But you cannot walk through the private property, parade ground, parks, beaches, or private roads or use any amenities within this community without an escort.

We walked up the road while admiring the beautiful homes and flowers.

2. Admire The Historic Fort McKinley

Fort McKinley was designed to defend Portland Harbor during the Spanish-American War. Built between 1891 and 1907, the fort housed over 1,000 soldiers in brick barracks and Queen Anne-style officers’ quarters surrounding a stately parade ground. The fort was retired from active service in 1945.

Historic Fort McKinley has been restored to its original elegance and is now home to beautiful residences. Barracks and Officer’s Quarters have become gracious homes with slate roofs, wooden porches, grand staircases, and fireplaces. Diamond Cove is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, and every effort is made to preserve its architectural integrity.

3. Grab A Cocktail At Diamond’s Edge Restaurant

The former Quartermaster’s storehouse is now home to Diamond’s Edge Restaurant, a 5-star restaurant operated seasonally. We did not eat dinner here but grabbed a cocktail at the bar.

We then enjoyed it on the patio, which has beautiful harbor views. There are even a few Adirondack chairs on the lawn.

4. Relax At The Inn at Diamond Cove

If you want to spend the night at Diamond Cove, you can relax at the Inn at Diamond Cove. The Inn offers a variety of accommodations, including elegant rooms and spacious suites, many with views of the cove or surrounding woods. The rooms are tastefully decorated, combining historical elements with modern amenities.

Guests can enjoy various amenities, including a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center. The inn also provides bicycles and golf carts for exploring the island.

5. Eat Oysters At Crown Jewel

Crown Jewel is one of the few restaurants on the island, open from 11:30 am to 10 pm. They serve small plates, seafood dishes, and handcrafted cocktails. I recommend trying the oysters sourced locally from neighboring islands and peninsulas.

Pair that with an island cocktail for the whole experience.

Can You Drive Around Diamond Cove?

No gas-powered vehicles are allowed on Diamond Cove except for maintenance vehicles. Electric golf carts are permitted and used by tourists and locals on the island.

Is Diamond Cove Worth Visiting?

Yes, for a few hours, but not much more than that. Unless you are lucky enough to relax at the Inn or spend the week in one of the vacation homes, I would recommend coming here for a few drinks and even dinner.

One of my favorite parts of visiting was taking the ferry ride back to Portland at sunset. That alone made the entire trip worth it.

Where Is Diamond Cove?

Diamond Cove is one of Maine’s many islands in Casco Bay.

I love Maine, and there is so much to do here!

You can try a variety of lobster rolls when visiting. I would read my A Local’s Guide To The Best Lobster Rolls In Maine for an overview of my favorites.

You should also try some of Maine’s cocktail bars, such as This Boothbay Speakeasy, Which Has The Best Cocktails In Maine

Maine also has a variety of state parks for you to visit! A Visit To Birch Point State Park Near Rockland, Maine  or Your Ultimate Guide To Ferry Beach State Park

Are you visiting Acadia? Here are 20 Exciting Things To Do In Acadia National Park, as well as 13 Great Places To Stay Near Acadia National Park.

Here is my entire Acadia National Park Collection, which includes hiking trails and places to eat!