Beals, Maine
Great Wass Island and lobster boats
Overview
Beals (often called Beals Island) is a quintessential Downeast lobster fishing community. Connected to Jonesport by a bridge, it is famous for the "Beals Island" style of lobster boat—seaworthy crafts with a distinctive hull shape. The town also encompasses Great Wass Island, home to a spectacular Nature Conservancy preserve.
Key Facts
Population 500
Region Downeast & Acadia
County Washington
Founded 1925
Nearest City Machias (25 minutes)
Town Office
Visit official website
What Beals Is Known For
Beals Local Highlights
Great Wass Island Preserve
A 4.5-mile hiking loop through jack pine forests to a rugged, windswept granite coastline that feels prehistoric.
Boatbuilding
The birthplace of the modern Downeast lobster boat design.
Downeast Institute
A marine research laboratory and education center focusing on shellfish.
Things to Do
1
Hike Great Wass
Walk the Little Cape Point Trail for some of the best coastal hiking in Maine.
2
Watch the Races
The Moosabec Reach Lobster Boat Races in July are a high-speed spectacle.
3
Buy Fresh Lobster
Purchase directly from the wharves or local co-ops.
Living in Beals
Beals is a tight-knit community where life revolves around the tides and the seasons. It is quiet, traditional, and proud of its maritime heritage.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Foggy and cool, 60-70°F
winter
Windy, 20-35°F
spring
Late spring, 40-50°F
fall
Clear and beautiful, 50-60°F
Local Wildlife & Nature
Carnivorous Plants (Sundews in the bogs) Eagles Seals Sea Ducks
How to Get There
Take Route 187 from Route 1 in Jonesboro or Columbia Falls to Jonesport, then cross the bridge.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Beals outline
Outdoor Recreation
Key Facts
Population
500
Region
Downeast & Acadia
County
Washington
Founded
1925
Nearest City
Machias (25 minutes)
Town Office
Visit official website