If you’ve ever wanted to live out your private island dreams, look no further than New England’s most exclusive private island getaway: Clapboard Island Estate. Located minutes off the coast of Portland, Maine, this idyllic, under-the-radar escape is a quintessential New England destination surrounded by dense forest, preserved land, natural beauty, and the blue waters of Casco Bay.

Built in 1898 by a Philadelphia railroad owner, Clapboard Island Estate oozes Kennedy-era style. Filled with signature New England flair (think: pale blue and white hues coastal hues, maritime decor, and shingle-style buildings), the estate is a luxurious place to enjoy a private nature-filled stay. The main home has 13 bedrooms and 9.5 bathrooms and sleeps, on average, around 16 people. There is also a nearby antique farmhouse that sleeps up to six guests. New England charm is everywhere, from the antique gardens with perennial flowers to the updated interiors, and there is a chef’s kitchen, butler pantry, and state-of-the-art exercise equipment. Guests can either arrive by boat or helicopter, with parking accommodations arranged on the mainland.

Clapboard Island Estate beckons you to engage with nature, like enjoying the six sequestered swimmable beaches to boating excursions, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or simply enjoying a good book outside with Casco Bay’s sea breeze keeping you cool. This region has served as inspiration for artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Winslow Homer and New Englanders have enjoyed these private coastal islands for more than 200 years. From 22 acres of dense pine forest to 3,200 feet of beach frontage, the island feels virtually untouched. It’s an off-grid holiday (primarily powered by solar energy) that is relaxing and active.

If you’re craving time under the sun, there are just as many activities outdoors to experience as there are inside your mansion. The region is ripe for exploring and relaxing, and luckily, a concierge is able to tend to your every need. Guests are able to book a chef any day or night of the week, arrange lobster delivery, organize a kid’s scavenger hunt, or charter boats and sailboats. The property has plenty of walking and jogging trails, water-based activities, volleyball, badminton, a helicopter landing area, and gardens. There’s no limit to what you can do or request, including fishing, golfing on the neighboring Great Chebeague Island, outdoor movie nights, live music or pottery classes. Perhaps one of the most simple, yet enjoyable activities is relaxing in an Adirondack chair lined up on the pristine grass lawn. For the more adventurous, there is a zip line that is sure to thrill the whole family.

Clapboard Island Estate not only offers peaceful solitude of a private island but, is an easy jaunt to the nearby coast. Located just minutes off the coast of Portland, Maine, visitors can choose to explore the mainland as well. With plenty of restaurants, shopping, galleries, and live entertainment to choose from, there is no limit to the exciting activities guests can experience in this classic New England town.

Pricing is based on a 16-person occupancy. The farmhouse is an optional add-on for larger groups or guests in need of staff accommodations and is considered on a case-by-case basis. For Maison Benjamin members, now is the perfect time to reserve your stay, with a minimum of seven nights, for Spring or Summer. Contact Maison Benjamin here for inquiries and schedule your Clapboard Island Estate retreat today.

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