$738,018Average Value$433Average Price per Sq Ft1Home For Sale
Long Island community keeps town alive
The only way to reach the rocky coasts of Long Island is by the Casco Bay Lines, which travels between Portland and the island. Today, the town is home to generations of fishing families and seasonal residents. The involved population of about 200 year-round residents grows to about 1,000 people in the summer. “There’s an opportunity to volunteer at every corner, whether you’re interested in the library, the school, the fire department or the civic association,” says Realtor Mary McAleney with Re/Max Shoreline, who has lived in the Casco Bay area for decades. “There is a strong sense of community.” It is those volunteers who run the community garden, wellness center, library and fitness center.
Beaches, beavers, bogs and books
There are many beaches along the shoreline. South Beach is a state park, also known as Andrews Beach, that spans about 3 acres of soft sand that residents say “sing” when dry. “Fowler Beach, Front Beach and Wreck Cove add to the diversity of the shoreline,” McAleney says. Fowler Beach is managed by the Long Island Civic Association on the west end of the island, while Front Beach greets people as they come off the ferry. “It’s a beautiful place to walk,” McAleney says. “There’s all sorts of treasures, like sea glass and pieces of pottery.” Trails throughout the town can lead to Wreck Cove, with views of the rocky shore. A 125-acre conservation affectionately referred to as “The Area,” fills the middle of the island. Hikers, bikers and skiers can keep an eye out for beavers and wildlife on the trails that pass through dense forests and cranberry bogs. The Long Island Civic Association manages “The Area,” as well as Fowlers and ball field where friends meet for a baseball and football pickup game. The Long Island Community Library is run by volunteers. Besides offering a collection of books, this year-round gathering space hosts art galleries and community events.
Andrews Beach is a gem on the shores of Long Island.
Residents may sit and enjoy the coast at South Beach on Long Island.
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Local lobster rolls on Long Island
While residents can take the ferry into Portland to visit one of the many restaurants in the city, many prefer to stay on the island and grab dinner from Byers & Sons Long Island Bakehouse. It is open every day during the summer and reduced hours for the rest of the year. When celebrating family milestones, or when they want a lobster bake, locals visit the Hardshell Cafe. The Boat House Beverage and Variety sells essential groceries, and the Ivy Hall Gift Shop donates its funds to the local churches. People can take the ferry into the city for more extensive shopping options, including Hannaford, Target and Lowe’s. Many residents also have their groceries delivered.
Long Island residents get daily necessities at the local store.
Byers & Sons Long Island Bakehouse is a popular restaurant in the summertime.
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Homes with views of the rocky coast
Roads wind through a dense collection of oaks and pines, leading to the rocky coastline. With most homes featuring a porch or sunroom, residents can start their day watching the sun rise over the water. Older houses include American Foursquares, Cape Cods and Craftsmans from the early 20th century, while seaside cottages with colonial influences were built as recently as 2021. Prices can range from $425,000 to $1 million, although few homes are for sale. While properties toward the center of the island have almost no risk of flooding, homeowners along the coast are encouraged to purchase flood insurance, which is required for anyone with a federally backed mortgage. Long Island has a CAP Index Crime Score of one out of 10, compared to the national average of four out of 10.
Homes are among the forest and shore on Long Island.
Bungalow style homes are a common sight tucked away in Long Island.
Classic New England homes with a guest house sits on a large lot in Long Island.
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Long Island students take ferry to Portland schools
Long Island Elementary School, which is unrated by Niche, is the only school on the island and has about 20 enrolled students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. For sixth through twelfth grade, students catch the ferry to attend Portland Public Schools, which receive a B from Niche. King Middle School scores a C, while Portland High School, founded in 1821 and the second oldest continuously operating public high school in the United States, earns a B-minus. Some students attend private schools, such as the A-plus-rated Waynflete School and the A-rated Cheverus High School.
The student population of Long Island Elementary School is 16 and the school serves K-5.
PHS is a diverse school with a student population that represents a variety of backgrounds.
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Neighbors gather for Lobster Boat Races
Every summer, the town hosts the Long Island Lobster Boat Races, where boaters go bow-to-bow along the island. When not watching the race, spectators can stroll through the annual Wharf Street Festival, where they grab a bite to eat and explore arts and crafts from local vendors while listening to live music.
Ferry goes to and from Portland
While residents can rely on their cars to get around the island, they need to take the Casco Bay Ferry to get to Portland. “Time on the ferry is well spent as islanders catch up on their lives and town business,” McAleney says. “Students do their homework and greet neighbors and friends from neighboring islands.” A water taxi also goes between Portland and the island, and a barge carries over large trucks and supplies, including building supplies and trash. Once on the mainland, it is a short drive to U.S. Route 1 and Interstate 295, as well as Portland International Jetport and the Downeaster Train. A fully equipped ambulance boat managed by the Long Island Fire Department transports people to Maine Medical Center.
Residents and visitors must board the ferry to leave the beauty of Long Island.
Written By
Zia Sampson
Photography Contributed By
Jeff Tippett
Video By
Mark Tilley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
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