Deer Isle is my favorite place in Maine which is saying a lot as there are SO many places I love here. Located in the Downeast region of Maine, Deer Isle is accessed over a bridge and a small island (via a road). Even getting to Deer Isle is a stunningly beautiful experience.
My favorite place to stay is Aragosta at Goose Cove. Chef Devin and her family run the hotel and restaurant on site. Aragosta has suites and cottages nestled in the woods along the ocean (and private beach). It's also connected to the Barred Island Preserve hiking trails which I recommend. At low tide, you can hike out to Barred Island for a picnic, swim, and tidal pool exploration with views for miles.
Devin Finigan has been a James Beard finalist in recent years - her tasting menu foraged from her garden and local purveyors is one of the best and most beautiful meals in Maine. The rooms and cottages are simple and minimalist with everything you need.
One morning at breakfast during our stay, we watched a family anchor their sailboat and come in to stay for a few days which was a common occurrence for Aragosta but a first for us to see and added to the ambiance.
While you're on the island, make sure to grab coffee at 44 North (they have two locations) or you can swing by Bucklyn Coffee in Blue Hill on your way home.
While you're checking out Stonington Harbor, grab an ice cream cone at Stonington Ice Cream Company. You can take the mail boat ferry around the islands or take a ferry to Isle Au Haut (part of Acadia National Park), or head to one of the beaches on the island to take a swim.
Deer Isle has the cozy harbor town local feel while still serving up that quintessential Downeast feel.