The next time you consider a beautiful trip to Portland, Maine, why not add a taste of freshly caught seafood and comfortable luxury to your itinerary? Hidden among classic lighthouses and artisan shops lays the waters of Casco Bay, home to one of the most relaxing and amenity-rich Maine hotels you can experience.
With sparkling crystal water and incredible views, the Inn at Diamond Cove offers a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of life. Nestled perfectly on picturesque Diamond Island, this beautiful Maine lodging offers a serene retreat offering premium amenities and unmatched luxury — all with a touch of local comfort. Let’s explore all the Inn has to offer your next Maine vacation.
The Inn at Diamond Cove: The Ultimate Vacation Destination
The Inn at Diamond Cove: The Ultimate Vacation Destination
What separates the Inn at Diamond Cove as one of the most unique hotels near Portland, Maine, let alone the rest of the world? Take a quick ferry over to the island, and you’ll arrive at a unique space that blends history with modern relaxation.
The Inn is located within the restored barracks of Fort McKinley. Built in 1901, this turn-of-the-century fort allows guests to experience historical figures long since forgotten while residing in a space full of luxurious amenities.
The Inn at Diamond Cove is known as a boutique hotel among travelers, with 44 carefully designed rooms and suites providing superior comforts as a home away from home. Many of the rooms feature private balconies, kitchenettes, microwaves, mini-fridges, and direct access to the playground and game room to keep your kiddos entertained. For those adult guests wanting a break away from daily life, you can relax during a game of billiards, test out a cocktail at the Cabana Bar, or sit back and enjoy the game on your in-room flat screen TV with complete AC control.
Guests are welcomed to the Inn with stunning period details, including high ceilings, expansive windows with fantastic views, and 19th-century architecture sure to satisfy any history buff. Of course, the historical charm set among one of the prized coastal playgrounds of New England’s elite isn’t the only reason to visit this lovely Maine hotel. The Inn at Diamond Cove offers plenty of on-site amenities that make it truly stand out. This combination of history and luxury is why the Inn has been named to the Historic Hotels of America Top 25 Lists
Guests are welcomed to the Inn with stunning period details, including high ceilings, expansive windows with fantastic views, and 19th-century architecture sure to satisfy any history buff. Of course, the historical charm set among one of the prized coastal playgrounds of New England’s elite isn’t the only reason to visit this lovely Maine hotel. The Inn at Diamond Cove offers plenty of on-site amenities that make it truly stand out. This combination of history and luxury is why the Inn has been named to the Historic Hotels of America Top 25 Lists
A Cozy Maine Inn Destination
The Inn at Diamond Cove brings in tourists from around the globe thanks to the stunning restoration efforts completed in 2015. Guests get to stay in one of the most pivotal forts in defense of the United States. This rich history includes a trip down memory lane where the famous residents of Great Diamond Island, like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Harriet Beecher Stowe, spent time exploring long before the fort became an Army base.
The Great Diamond Island is a chain of meticulously hidden secrets scattered among dazzling quartz crystal waters. Each has remnants of military defense and historical significance between the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
From the moment you step inside the Inn, you’ll notice the architectural features of the Fort, translated into modern times with vaulted ceilings, large pillars, and relaxing seating befitting a New England staple. Every room has climate control settings with soft beds to help you sleep the night away and marine life accents along the carefully decorated walls. Whether you wish to rest in private patio Adirondack chairs from your exploration of all the island has to offer or enjoy a private suite with breakfast bar and leather couches, the Inn at Diamond Cove has it all.
You can easily explore all Portland has to offer before heading over to the island via ferry for a 4pm-10pm check in time. Just be sure not to miss the last launch as after-hours check-ins are not currently offered. With an 11am check out time, you’ll be able to catch up on some much-needed rest, hit the indoor basketball court, or enjoy a quick dip in the hot tub before continuing on your New England vacation.
Natural Beauty for the Outdoor Enthusiast
Many tourists flock to the tranquil serenity of Diamond Cove Island. When you stay at this hidden gem of an Inn, you get up close and personal with nature. After a quick stop at the Coffee Bar serving Starbucks, why not rent an adult sized bike or kayak. This empowers your vacation as you are immersed in scenic trails through lush forests and rocky coastlines. For those who prefer cooling off in the crisp waters of the islands, enjoy paddle boarding and kayaking for unique perspectives with unbeatable bird watching with Casco Bay as a backdrop.
After your private lunch along any of the local beaches, soak up the sun on your balcony or enjoy an afternoon of duckpin bowling. Why not let your stress float away as you practice your vinyasas in the yoga studio or watch the sun lazily set as you sip a relaxing drink from the cabana bar and find a seat around the outdoor fire pit. If you’re looking for that perfect Maine experience, the Inn at Diamond Cove is a “must-do.”
Vibrant Culture and Artistic Community
The Inn at Diamond Cove is strategically located only one mile away from the marina where you can utilize local water taxis and the Casco Bay Ferry. As you travel out to your accommodations, be sure to ask about local artist and author events.
Plenty of authors, local artisans, and musicians have journeyed to the quiet world of Diamond Cove. This is the perfect environment for allowing the creative energy necessary for growth. That is why you’ll hear about all kinds of literary readings and unforgettable musical performances. Be sure to ask the concierge at the Inn at Diamond Cove for any local insights during your stay.
Don’t be surprised to see a wedding or large group event hosted at the Inn as you arrive. With over 5,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor private meeting spaces, there is always a breakfast buffet, family spectacular, or Maine lobster bake going on.
Culinary Delights of a Coastal Maine Inn
What would a vacation getaway be without a chance to sample local food, wine, and cuisine? The Inn at Diamond Cover never disappoints by offering mouthwatering cuisine carefully crafted for every palate and taste. Having a meal at the Diamonds Edge Restaurant and Marina allows you to sample incredible food while learning the personal stories of local celebrities and wallflowers.
As you dine, guests will enjoy breathtaking ocean views of the bay while sampling signature dishes like clam chowder, lobster bisque soup, fresh-caught fish platters, and so much more. This dining option is open Wednesday to Saturday with the bar opening at 4pm and the main dining area at 5pm. Sunday allows dining from 12pm to 5pm.
Every single meal is designed through sustainable and environmentally conscious practices that ensure the marine life of Casco Bay remains vibrant and healthy for generations to enjoy. We recommend dining on the porch with a basket of Fried Whole Belly Clams and booking your reservation early, as this restaurant does fill up in the evening.
The Inn at Diamond Cove is also home to three other restaurant features. You are always welcome to start your day with a delicious plate of Farm Fresh Eggs or Brioche French Toast inside The Lobby Bar + Café. We recommend the outdoor seating so you can smell the fresh ocean air as you dine. You can order from the Lobby Bar + Café for breakfast (7am-11am), lunch (11:30am-2pm), and dinner from 5pm-9pm.
For those interested in a quick bite near the fire pit after a long day, check out the Grilled Piri-Piri Shrimp Corn Tacos or Maine Sliders at the Cabana Bar. Be sure to compliment your meal with any of the refreshing domestic beers, assorted soft drinks, and local cocktails readily available for serving around the fire pit or nearby heated outdoor pool. The Cabana Bar stays open from 11am to 4pm — weather permitting.
The Inn welcomes many families staying for a week or two as they explore nearby destinations. These guests prefer to have some on-hand snacks inside their rooms or suites with kitchenettes. Luckily, the Inn has a fully stocked Diamond’s Edge Market complete with prepared foods, beer, wine, salads, sandwiches, and much more. Every stay is a unique opportunity to sample all the delicious and tasty treats Maine has to offer. Don’t forget the whoppie pie!
One of the Best Places to Stay in Maine
The next time you’re filling up your summer “to-do” list with all the top Maine lodging and explorations you can imagine, be sure to include the Inn at Diamond Cove. This is a hidden gem, effortlessly blending historic charm, natural beauty, and modern luxury for any guest. You’ll delight in the stunning vistas and relax on pristine beaches as you sip local drinks and fill your bellies with New England delights.
As a destination full of enchanted charm and an ideal break from the rest of daily life, now is your chance to book a stay at the Inn at Diamond Cove. Booking starts on weekends from late May (Memorial Day) to June and runs all week long from June until early October. Be sure to follow the Inn’s social media accounts to get early access to seasonal bookings. Simply select your dates, book your favorite room, and start packing for an incredible vacation.
Discover the beauty today and immerse yourself in one of coastal Maine’s greatest historical and natural treasures.
