Great Diamond Island, ME The Inn at Diamond Cove, a seasonal retreat located in Casco Bay, reopened for the 2025 season on May 22, welcoming guests through October 13. A member of the Historic Hotels of America, the inn is a short ferry ride from Portland’s Old Port.

Guests can make the most of their stay with complimentary bikes, along with kayak and paddleboard rentals. Diamond’s Edge Market will also reopen for the season, offering grab-and-go items, snacks, and essentials.

“Each season, we look for thoughtful ways to enhance the guest experience while honoring the unique history and natural beauty of this island,” said Erik O’Brien, general manager of the Inn at Diamond Cove. 

“Whether someone’s visiting for the first time or returning with family, we want the experience to feel effortless and memorable, with the magic of the island taking center stage.”

Diamond’s Edge Restaurant and Marina will offer lunch and dinner service throughout the season. Known for its waterfront views and dockside ambiance, the restaurant is a longstanding favorite among guests and boaters. Outdoor fire pits with expanded seating areas create more space to gather and enjoy the ocean air. Live music will return this season, with a full schedule of events to be announced soon. Additionally, online ordering will be available for added convenience. Hours vary, so guests are encouraged to check the website for current hours and menus.

Originally home to Fort McKinley, built between 1891 and 1907 to defend Portland Harbor during the Spanish-American War, Great Diamond Island still retains much of its military past through preserved architecture and landscape. The Inn, rebuilt from former army barracks and opened in 2015, has been meticulously restored to maintain its original character. Inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2023, the Inn blends the island’s storied past with modern comfort.

Accessible only by ferry, water taxi, or private boat, the island is a peaceful retreat where golf carts and bicycles serve as the primary mode of transportation. The Inn features spacious island condominiums with balconies, along with a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, tennis courts, and indoor recreational offerings including a yoga studio, basketball court, duckpin bowling, and arcade games. Families and couples alike are drawn to its relaxed pace and distinctive character.