Plan Your Trip to Widow's Bay

Widow's Bay lies beyond the northern shoals, one long ferry ride from the New England coast. The harbor is old, the weather changes quickly, and cellular service is unreliable. Pack warm layers, a flashlight, and enough provisions for an unplanned night ashore.

Seaside station and boardwalk beside the marsh — Welcome to Widow's Bay — boardwalk straight ahead

Ferry Schedule

Times subject to fog, storms, and harbor closure. Buy tickets at the mainland dock. Cash or traveler's checks.

Island ferry crossing bright blue water — The mainland ferry — weather permitting

Depart	Arrive	Time	Notes
Mainland	Widow's Bay	7:00 AM	Daily
Widow's Bay	Mainland	10:30 AM	Daily
Mainland	Widow's Bay	2:00 PM	Daily
Widow's Bay	Mainland	5:45 PM	Fog cancels
Mainland	Widow's Bay	8:15 PM	Fri-Sun

Harbor Walk

Weathered red pier building over the harbor — Start at the docks

Small harbor office at the end of a weathered pier — Harbor office at the end of the pier

Start at the docks, follow the painted gulls past the red dinghy fleet, and read the plaques marking vessels lost on the northern shoals. Souvenir shops sell lighthouse snow globes, locally disputed curse pamphlets, and postcards you will actually need to send.

Lighthouse Tours

White lighthouse and keeper's house on the rocky shore — Climb weather permitting · keeper's house included

Climb for a clear view of the bay and the fog gathering beyond the shoals. Tours pause during advisories. Do not enter the keeper's stairwell after closing, even if you hear someone below.

Fishing & the Working Waterfront

Mayor Tom Loftis waving from the water's edge — Mayor Loftis demonstrates total confidence in local waters

Watch the morning haul come in, rent a red rowboat from the Harbor Master, or buy bait at Pier Shed #2. Locals will tell you where the fish are biting. Whether you believe them is between you and the tide. Ask twice if they point north.

Island Map

Aerial view of Widow's Bay and its dark coastline — The island from above · roads not guaranteed

Paper maps are available at Town Hall and the Chamber desk. Digital maps lose accuracy inland. If the fog overtakes you, stay where you are and wait for the harbor bell. It will ring twice.

Kids Corner

Quiet sandy beach with weathered driftwood — Driftwood beach at low tide

Crowded island beach beside a rocky outcrop — The popular side of the cove

Tide pools at low tide (supervised)
Community Center board games (several incomplete)
Supervised story hour at the mobile library
Do not play near the well in the woods

Safety & Emergency Shelters

In severe weather, follow posted shelter signs or ask at Town Hall. Temporary curfews may be announced during heavy fog. If the church bell rings after midnight, proceed calmly to the nearest shelter. Do not wait for a second notice.

Visitor FAQ

Q: Is there Wi-Fi?

A: No. Telephone service is also unreliable. Postcards are available at the Chamber.

Q: Is the island cursed?

A: The Town recognizes no evidence of a curse. The Historical Society recommends that visitors draw their own conclusions in daylight.

Q: Can I leave whenever I want?

A: Ferry schedule permitting. Fog, storms, and active harbor investigations may delay departure.

Q: Are the woods safe at night?

A: No. Stay on marked paths and return to town before dusk. Do not answer voices calling from beyond the tree line.

Q: Where should first-timers stay?

A: The Breakwater Inn is historic and central. Guests concerned by confined spaces should avoid Suite 3.

Ready to book? Browse lodging or write the Mayor.