Kittery Island is a charming town located in the state of Maine. The town was first settled in 1635 by English Puritans who named it after their hometown of Kittery in England. Today, Kittery Island is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful scenery and convenient location.
The town is home to a number of attractions, including the Kittery Point Lighthouse, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Additionally, the town is known for its seafood restaurants, which serve some of the best lobsters in the country.
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History
The first Europeans to explore Kittery Island were the Portuguese in the early 1500s. The English began exploring the area in 1604, and it became part of the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1636. The island was named for Sir Francis Kittery, an English military officer who explored the area. In 1692, the island became part of Maine when it was split from Massachusetts. Kittery Island served as a naval base during the American Revolution and also during World War II. Today, it is a popular tourist destination with attractions including its lighthouse, beaches, and maritime history museum.
Geography
The geography of Kittery Island can be roughly divided into three parts: the mainland, the ocean, and the island. The mainland is made up of low-lying areas and includes the town of Kittery on the eastern shore. The ocean stretches from Kittery to Scarborough on the west coast and includes rocky reefs, bays, and inlets. The island is home to most of the businesses and residences on Kittery Island.
Ecosystem
Kittery Island is a small, sparsely populated island located in Maine’s Midcoast region. It functions as both a tourist destination and an important part of the local fishing industry. The island is home to a variety of ecosystems, including salt marshes, ecoregions of woods and shrublands, and coastal wetlands. Kittery Island is also a habitat for a number of rare and endangered species of plants and animals.
Population
As of the 2010 census, there were 1,937 people living on Kittery Island. The majority of residents are employed in the fishing industry or in related businesses.
Economy
The economy of Kittery Island is primarily driven by the tourism industry. The town has a variety of lodging options and attractions that cater to visitors from around the world. Fishing, whale watching, and other outdoor activities are also popular in the area. The local grocery stores and restaurants are typically geared towards tourists, who can often find lower prices than locals.
Climate
The climate on Kittery Island is moderated by the ocean and has a humid continental climate. Summers are warm and humid, with a high chance of showers and thunderstorms. Winters are mild, but windy and damp, with occasional snowstorms. The January mean temperature is 36.6 degrees Fahrenheit, while the July mean temperature is 71.6 degrees Fahrenheit.
Culture and Religion
The majority of residents on Kittery Island are Protestant Christians. There is a small Catholic population, as well as a variety of other religious groups.
Languages
The main languages spoken on Kittery Island are English and French.
Education
Kittery Island is a great place to learn about a variety of different subjects. From maritime law to environmental science, there is something for everyone on Kittery Island. Here are some of the top schools on Kittery Island that offer quality education:
- Kittery Technical School – This school offers a variety of programs that include maritime law, environmental science, carpentry, and more. Students can also take classes online or at the school’s satellite location.
- Kittery High School – This school offers a rigorous academic program that prepares students for college and careers. Students can choose from a variety of courses, including maritime business, marine engineering technology, and more.
- Cape Elizabeth Community College – This college offers programs in maritime business, environmental science, computer science, and more. Students can also take classes at the college’s main campus or at its satellite locations around the island.
Politics
Kittery Island is a safe place to live, with low rates of crime. The police department is rated as “excellent” by the Better Business Bureau.
Healthcare
There are many healthcare options on Kittery Island. From doctors’ offices to hospitals, residents have access to quality care. Here are some of the top health care providers on Kittery Island:
- Portsmouth Regional Hospital – This hospital provides treatment for both residents and visitors to the island.
- Kittery Regional Medical Center – This hospital offers a variety of services, including medical care, surgery, and more.
- Islesboro Community Hospital – This hospital provides treatment for residents of both Kittery Island and Eastport Maine.
Government Services
Kittery Island is a part of the United States, and residents have access to many government services. Here are some of the most important services available to islanders:
- The US Post Office – This post office provides residents with mail deliveries, online shopping, and more.
- The Social Security Administration – This agency offers benefits such as retirement planning and more.
- Department of Motor Vehicles – This department provides drivers’ licenses, vehicle registration, and more.
Tourism
Kittery Island is a picturesque tourist destination that is located in Maine and has been nicknamed the “Island of Windows.” The island is well known for its lighthouses and historic architecture, as well as its beautiful beaches. Kittery Island is a popular tourist destination for people who enjoy coastal vacations and activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking. The island also has a number of attractions that are perfect for tourists of all ages, including museums, amusement parks, and historical sites.
Hotels and Resorts List
Here are some of the top hotels and resorts on Kittery Island:
- The Grand Hotel – This resort offers luxury accommodations and stunning views of the ocean.
- The Ocean House Resort – This property features a beautiful beachfront location, as well as spacious rooms and luxurious facilities.
- The White Birch Inn & Cottage – This inn has unique cottage-style lodging that is perfect for vacationers who want to experience real Maine life.
Attractions
Kittery Island is a small coastal island located in Maine, United States. It is known for its picturesque beaches, rugged coastline, and natural environment. The island has a population of around 2,000 people and offers a wide range of activities for visitors, including fishing, hiking, biking, bird watching, and whale watching. Kittery is also home to the only lighthouse in Maine.
Some of the attractions that make Kittery Island great for tourists include its beautiful beaches, lush forests and trails, picturesque lighthouses, and interesting history. Some of the notable historical sites on the island include Fort Constitution (the first military fort in New England), Fort William and Mary (the first British settlement in North America), and the Kittery Point Lighthouse (the oldest surviving light station in the US).
Activities
There are a number of activities that visitors can enjoy on Kittery Island. These include fishing, hiking, biking, bird watching, and whale watching. Fishing is a popular activity on the island because of its abundant supply of fish and sea mammals. The mostly undeveloped coastline makes hiking an enjoyable way to explore the area while also taking in stunning views. Bike enthusiasts will love the many miles of scenic trails that crisscross through the forested areas of the island. Birdwatchers will be able to see a variety of different bird species in the area, while whale watchers can spot some interesting marine mammals from shore.
Transport
Kittery Island is accessible by boat or plane. Boats can be taken from Kittery Point in the north of the island, while flights can be booked at either Kittery Air National Guard Base or Portsmouth International Airport.
Cuisine
There are a few different cuisines that can be found on Kittery Island, each with its own specialties. One of the most popular cuisines on Kittery is seafood, and there are many places where you can get fresh seafood. Some of the best seafood restaurants in Kittery include The Lobster Pot, Salt Point Lobster Company, and The Fish House. Other popular cuisines include Italian, Chinese, and Thai. There are also a few places where you can get traditional American food, such as Applebee’s and Red Lobster. Whatever your taste, you’re sure to find a restaurant that suits it on Kittery Island!
Conclusion
Kittery Island is an amazing place to visit, full of natural beauty and plenty of opportunities for fun. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the tranquility that comes with being surrounded by water. Whether you’re looking for seafood adventures, views of wildlife, or something in between, Kittery Island has everything you need and more!
FAQs
1. What Are the Transportation Options Available to Get to Kittery Island?
There are a few different ways that you can get to Kittery Island: by boat, plane, or walking.
2. Is There a Recommended Time for Visiting Kittery Island?
The best time to visit Kittery Island is during the summer months when the weather is warm and there’s plenty of sunshine. However, any time of year is great, and you can always enjoy the island’s natural beauty year-round.
3. Is There a Recommended Budget for Visiting Kittery Island?
There is no specific budget that needs to be followed when visiting Kittery Island, as every person has different spending habits and preferences. However, some general tips on how to save money while traveling would include staying in hostels or guesthouses instead of expensive hotels and exploring local markets where you can buy cheaper food.
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