Welcome to Brooksville, Maine (ZIP code 04617)—a peaceful and scenic village tucked along the Blue Hill Peninsula in Hancock County. Bordered by Penobscot Bay and dotted with tidal inlets, rolling hills, organic farms, and forested preserves, Brooksville offers a timeless slice of coastal Maine life. With its relaxed pace, breathtaking water views, and strong connection to the land, it’s a favorite for artists, nature lovers, boaters, and anyone seeking authenticity off the beaten path.
Where Maine’s Wild Beauty Meets Small-Town Soul
Incorporated in 1817, Brooksville was named after John Brooks, the governor of Massachusetts at the time. The town has long been associated with shipbuilding, fishing, and agriculture—industries that continue to shape its identity today. Home to a close-knit community of roughly 950 residents, Brooksville is known for its sustainability-minded farms, unspoiled shoreline, and as a hidden gem for summer visitors and year-round tranquility seekers.
From the Caterpillar Hill Overlook to Holbrook Island Sanctuary, Brooksville offers sweeping views and soul-soothing solitude without sacrificing access to cultural attractions nearby in Blue Hill, Deer Isle, and Stonington.
Top 15–20 Attractions In & Around Brooksville, Maine
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Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park – Over 1,200 acres of forest, fields, and coastline for hiking, birding, and snowshoeing.
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Caterpillar Hill Scenic Overlook – One of Maine’s most photographed vistas with sweeping views of Eggemoggin Reach and the Camden Hills.
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Bakeman Beach – A peaceful, lesser-known pebble beach with sunset views.
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Goose Falls – A reversing falls connecting the sanctuary to Penobscot Bay.
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The Good Life Center at Forest Farm – Final homestead of back-to-the-land authors Helen and Scott Nearing.
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Cape Rosier – Rugged and remote peninsula perfect for coastal drives and shoreline walks.
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Four Season Farm – An organic farm co-founded by Eliot Coleman, offering tours, farmstands, and sustainable agriculture education.
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Seal Cove Shoreline Trail – A scenic walk along tidal waters, often with eagle and seal sightings.
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Bagaduce River – Great for kayaking, clamming, and wildlife watching.
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Tinder Hearth Bakery – Wood-fired breads and pizza with a cult following—open seasonally, come early!
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Buck’s Harbor Marine – A quiet harbor with moorings and sailing access.
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Buck’s Harbor Market – A historic general store and cafe; great for gourmet grab-and-go.
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Haystack Mountain School of Crafts (Deer Isle) – A short drive away, globally acclaimed for fine crafts education.
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Friend Memorial Library (Brooklin) – A cozy library just south of Brooksville.
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Blue Hill Heritage Trust Trails – Dozens of nearby hiking and nature trails across the peninsula.
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Eggemoggin Reach – Ideal for sailing, paddleboarding, and coastal sightseeing.
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Walker Pond – Offers freshwater swimming, boating, and birdwatching.
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Holbrook Island Tidal Marshes – A haven for migrating birds and quiet photography.
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The Nearing Trail – A short walk through Forest Farm with interpretive signs.
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Brooksville’s Backroads – Scenic drives through fields, woods, and small farms.
Lodging & Dining Options in Brooksville
Brooksville offers a quiet and rustic lodging experience, with cozy inns, cottages, and vacation rentals nestled in the woods or overlooking the bay.
Where to Stay:
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Vacation Rentals & Airbnbs – Popular options include waterfront cabins on Cape Rosier, artist retreats, and historic homes.
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Cabins at Holbrook Island Sanctuary (seasonal) – Rustic state park accommodations near trails and shoreline.
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Nearby Inns – Options in Brooklin, Blue Hill, and Deer Isle provide boutique comfort close by.
Where to Eat:
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Tinder Hearth – Famous for fresh, wood-fired breads, pastries, and seasonal pizza nights.
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Buck’s Restaurant (Blue Hill) – Upscale dining in a romantic setting near the harbor.
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Buck’s Harbor Market – Gourmet sandwiches, local goods, and espresso drinks.
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Arborvine (Blue Hill) – A refined choice for farm-to-table cuisine.
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Fish Net (Blue Hill) – Casual seafood shack perfect for fried clams and lobster rolls.
Census & Demographic Snapshot
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Population: Around 950 full-time residents
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Area: Approximately 51 square miles
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Median Age: Skews older—ideal for retirees, second-home owners, and remote workers
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Housing: Mix of year-round homes, historic farmhouses, and seasonal coastal cottages
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Main Industries: Sustainable farming, tourism, construction, marine trades, and artisan crafts
Top 10 Search Questions About Brooksville, Maine
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What is Brooksville, Maine known for?
Scenic overlooks, Holbrook Island Sanctuary, organic farming, and quiet coastal living. -
Where is Brooksville located?
On the Blue Hill Peninsula in Hancock County, bordered by Penobscot Bay. -
What is there to do in Brooksville?
Hiking, birding, kayaking, visiting organic farms, and enjoying local artisan food. -
Is Brooksville a good place to retire?
Yes—it offers peace, beauty, and community without being touristy. -
Are there public beaches in Brooksville?
Yes—Bakeman Beach, Goose Falls, and other small, scenic tidal beaches. -
Can you hike in Brooksville?
Absolutely—Holbrook Island and nearby preserves offer many trails. -
How far is Brooksville from Acadia National Park?
About an hour to the Schoodic Peninsula or Mount Desert Island sections. -
Is Brooksville pet-friendly?
Yes—many trails and vacation rentals welcome pets. -
Where can you stay in Brooksville?
Primarily through vacation rentals, rustic cabins, and nearby inns. -
What makes Brooksville different from other coastal towns?
It’s less commercialized, with a strong focus on sustainability, nature, and quietude.
A Glimpse into Brooksville’s History
Brooksville was settled in the late 1700s and officially incorporated in 1817. With its access to Penobscot Bay, it became a center for shipbuilding, coastal trade, and farming. Over time, the town attracted a thoughtful, sustainability-minded community that valued simple living—epitomized by Helen and Scott Nearing, pioneers of the back-to-the-land movement. Their homestead, Forest Farm, still stands today as a museum and educational site.
✅ Summary
Brooksville, Maine is one of Downeast’s best-kept secrets—a quiet retreat framed by bay waters, fields, and woodlands. Here, you’ll find scenic trails, organic farms, cozy harbors, and a way of life centered on nature, simplicity, and sustainability. Whether you’re walking the shores of Holbrook Island or enjoying a loaf of Tinder Hearth’s legendary bread, Brooksville offers an authentic, enriching experience.
Let the quiet beauty of Brooksville be your next great Maine escape.