Escape to a Working Waterfront Where Fishing, Family, and Scenic Beauty Converge
Welcome to Beals, Maine
Situated on an island off the coast of Washington County, Beals, Maine (ZIP code 04611) is a unique coastal village surrounded by the waters of Moosabec Reach. Linked to the mainland by a short bridge from Jonesport, Beals offers an authentic look at Maine’s fishing heritage, with lobster boats, salt air, and rugged shoreline views in every direction.
With a population of around 500 residents (according to the most recent U.S. Census), Beals is a small, tight-knit island community that thrives on tradition and the ocean's rhythm.
How Beals Got Its Name
Beals was incorporated in 1925 and was named for Manwarren Beal, one of the early settlers and a prominent local figure. The town’s name honors the legacy of hard-working families who helped shape the island into a center of maritime life—particularly lobster fishing, which remains the heart of Beals' economy and culture today.
Top 15 Things to Do in Beals, Maine
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Explore Great Wass Island Preserve – Over 1,500 acres of wild coastal land with trails, bogs, and stunning rocky shorelines.
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Lobster Boat Watching – Watch working boats haul in traps just off the coast in Moosabec Reach.
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Hiking the Little Cape Point Trail – A scenic trail through spruce forest to breathtaking seaside cliffs.
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Beachcombing & Tidepooling – Find shells, sea glass, and marine life along Beals' rugged shoreline.
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Photography at Sunset Rock – Capture the pastel skies and reflective waters around dusk.
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Birdwatching at Mud Hole Trail – Spot osprey, sandpipers, and migratory seabirds.
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Fishing off the Pier – Try your hand at mackerel, striped bass, or flounder from shore.
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Kayaking around Alleys Bay – Paddle through calm waters and watch for seals, eiders, and harbor porpoises.
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Clamming and Shellfishing – With the right permits, enjoy hands-on harvesting during low tide.
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Scenic Drive Across the Bridge – The causeway between Jonesport and Beals offers beautiful panoramic views.
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Picnicking on the Rocks – Pack lunch and enjoy it with the sights and sounds of crashing waves.
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Visit Local Lobster Pounds – Purchase freshly caught lobster straight from the source.
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Painting & Sketching Coastal Scenes – Beals is a favorite for plein-air artists inspired by its working harbor and weathered homes.
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Marine Ecology Exploration – Ideal for nature lovers curious about tidal life and conservation.
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Quiet Reflection & Relaxation – Sometimes the best thing to do in Beals is nothing at all—just enjoy the peace.
Lodging in Beals, Maine
While Beals has no major hotels, there are several cozy places to stay:
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Oceanfront cottages with direct water access
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Vacation rentals with panoramic views of the bay
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Lodging and motels available in nearby Jonesport (5 minutes away)
Dining in and Around Beals
Dining options on the island itself are limited, but nearby Jonesport provides:
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Moosabec Mussels & Lobster – Seafood shack offering the freshest catch
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Bayview Takeout – Local favorite for fried seafood, lobster rolls, and ice cream
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Jonesport Pizza Shop – Family-style pizza and subs
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Bring your own or grill at your cottage for the full island experience
Frequently Asked Questions About Beals, Maine
1. Where is Beals, Maine located?
Beals is located on Beals Island off the coast of Washington County, connected to Jonesport by bridge.
2. What is Beals known for?
It’s known for its rich lobstering heritage, coastal trails, and natural beauty.
3. What is the population of Beals?
Roughly 500 year-round residents.
4. Can I hike in Beals?
Yes! The Great Wass Island Preserve offers some of the best coastal hiking in Maine.
5. Are there public beaches in Beals?
Beals is more rocky than sandy, but there are scenic shorelines perfect for walking and tidepooling.
6. What wildlife can I see?
You’ll likely spot seabirds, seals, and a wide array of marine life during your visit.
7. Can I buy fresh seafood?
Yes, there are several local lobster pounds and seasonal seafood shacks.
8. Is Beals accessible year-round?
Yes, the bridge to Jonesport ensures year-round access by car.
9. Are there guided tours or boat rides?
Most boating is private or commercial, but local captains sometimes offer charters by request.
10. What’s the best time to visit Beals?
Late spring through early fall is best for outdoor activities and lobster season scenery.
Historical Highlights
Beals has always been a working town, shaped by generations of fishermen, boatbuilders, and coastal families. The town’s reliance on the sea, combined with its isolated geography, has created a community that is resilient, deeply connected to the tides, and fiercely proud of its heritage.
The area was originally part of Jonesport until its official incorporation as Beals in 1925, marking its own distinct identity while maintaining strong ties to its neighboring mainland town.
Summary: Why Visit Beals, Maine?
Beals, Maine is a raw and rugged island experience, perfect for those who love real coastal culture, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life. Here, you’ll find scenic trails, hardworking lobster boats, sea breeze in the air, and the quiet rhythms of a place untouched by mass tourism.
Whether you're hiking windswept trails, watching the tide roll in, or snacking on the freshest seafood imaginable, Beals offers a truly authentic Maine experience that’s as inspiring as it is tranquil.
Come see why Beals is one of Maine’s best-kept coastal secrets.