The perfect getaway in a car-free resort within the Casco Bay Islands in Maine.

HISTORY

Telling the history of The Inn at Diamond Cove in the Casco Bay Islands in Maine wouldn’t be complete without telling the story of the Island itself. Between 1873 to 1947, the U.S. Army operated a coastal defense fort named Fort McKinley. Named for President William McKinley, the 200 acres on the Great Diamond Island was the largest of four Maine coastal forts used to defend the Portland Harbor during World War I and World War II, housing 200 soldiers. Since then, the Island was redeveloped as a gated community, and named Diamond Cove. Most of the batteries are heavily overgrown and on private property.

Fort McKinley passed through several owners before Bateman Partners acquired the property in 1993 and began efforts to revitalize the area into a resort community, building by building. The Inn, which was once an Army barrack on the National Register of Historic Places, needed major structural repairs due to water infiltration and decades of abandonment. When the project was 95% complete, a fire broke out and burned all of the interior structure. Some of the brick exterior and one interior brick wall was left standing.

Inn at Diamond Cove Fire

Inn at Diamond Cove Fire

Inn at Diamond Cove Fire

Inn at Diamond Cove Fire

Like a phoenix, the Inn at Diamond Cove has risen once more against all odds. In 2015, the building was completed and restored to its natural beauty. In 2021, Colwen Hotels acquired a controlling interest in the Inn at Diamond Cove, and operates the 44-room resort. Although the address is Portland, Maine, it will take a 30-minute ferry ride from Portland’s Old Port district to arrive at the Inn at Diamond Cove, located on the North end of Great Diamond Island. Today, Diamond Cove is a vibrant historically significant site shared by Inn guests and Island residents.

Great Diamond Island

The Island looks like a lobster claw, doesn’t it?

Great Diamond Island

HOW TO GET THERE

Guests arrive on the Diamond Cove Dock via Ferry or Water Taxi. The most common method of transportation is the Ferry service, provided by Casco Bay Lines, located at 56 Commercial St., Portland, Maine. Before you board, stop by Luke’s Lobster for a meal, and pick up an awesome loaf of bread and delectable desserts at Standard Baking Co., just steps from the docks.

While the Inn is located on Great Diamond Island, ensure you are purchasing tickets to the Diamond Cove Dock, as there are two stops for this Island, and not all trips stop at the Diamond Cove Dock. Check out the Casco Bay Lines ferry schedule here. You’ll pay for your outbound trip, with no ticket needed for the return.

Remember, you can’t take your car! Diamond Cove is a car-free community. Locals and visitors use golf carts and bicycles to get around the island. If you need parking, there is a garage adjacent to the Casco Bay Lines Terminal, or try Bug Light Park in South Portland, associated with the Fore River Boat Facility. Overnight parking is $8 per night.

Golf-carts

Bikes Diamond Island

ACCOMODATIONS

Opulent and spacious, the Inn offers condo guest rooms with varying layouts and amenities. Most rooms offer plenty of space to spread out, many with balconies.

Inn at Diamond Cove

THINGS TO DO

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

  1. Don’t let the hotel’s Portland address fool you…The Inn at Diamond Cove is tucked away on Great Diamond Island in Casco Bay. We bring this up since there seems to be confusion that the property resides on the mainland in the city of Portland. Manny, the hotel GM can tell you many stories!
  2. If your stay is longer than a few days, bring food and drinks to the Island. There are no grocery stores (except for a small General Store with limited hours), but there are plenty of local options on the mainland to stock up on goodies. Call direct for delivery options to the Island.
  3. Bring layers of clothing. Weather changes and you’ll be cold one moment and warm the next! The boat rides can be chilly as well.
  4. The Island is car free, so bring comfortable shoes for walking and biking.
  5. Unless you’re there to attend a special event like a wedding, you won’t need to dress up unless you want to! The whole Island has a casual vibe.
  6. Wifi is spotty but it worked most of the time. If you have troubles, connect using the hotel’s  complimentary wifi.

ISLAND FOOD & DRINK

There are limited options for food on the Island! You’ll have a few options in the hotel, and two options outside of the hotel:

  • In the hotel: The Lobby Bar + Café. Breakfast, drinks, and light bites. Good vibes and friendly staff. Say hello to Cameron.
  • In the hotel: The Cabana Bar: Poolside serving snacks, sandwiches, salads, and beverages.
  • A short walk down the hill: The hotel’s Diamond’s Edge Restaurant & Marina. Waterfront views open for lunch, dinner and cocktails. Hours vary.
  • A short walk down the hill: Crown Jewel (not associated with the hotel. Formerly a military blacksmithery, this quaint restaurant serves up a tasty, eclectic menu. Hours vary.

The Inn at Diamond Cove is a wonderful getaway for a weekend trip or extended stays, perfect for couples and families alike. The GM Manny and his staff were hospitable, and we enjoyed the hotel and quaint setting. We loved it, and we’re certain you will too.

Inn at Diamond Cove
22 Mckinley Court, Portland, Maine 04109
(207) 805-9836