If someone asked me to describe Bailey Island, Maine, I would probably pause before giving my response, wondering whether I should refer to it as a physical place, or a as state of mind. And if you have ever been to Bailey's, you will know what I am talking about.

Route 24, from Cook's Corner in Brunswick, Maine, takes you out through the heavily-wooded Great Island, onto Orr's Island, and then across the one-of-a-kind Bailey Island Cribstone Bridge...

...before it dead-ends at one of the prettiest and most tranquil spots along Maine's Casco Bay - Bailey Island, Maine.

Typically not crowded, the tip of the island gives way to the northern Atlantic, with rocky formations, gravel beaches and extraordinary vistas.

The horizon is interrupted only by tree-topped islands, local lobstermen setting and hauling their traps, and in the summertime - the distant billowing sails of schooners, windjammers, and the smaller craft that love to navigate these chilly waters.

And off in the distance, visible through haze, is the Halfway Rock Lighthouse, marking the mid-point between Cape Elizabeth and Cape Small.

Back on land, high on the rocks, sits the Land's End Gift Shop, with a wonderful collection of nautical paraphernalia and gifts and souvenirs bearing the words - Made in Maine.

Although it may be hard to leave, once your senses are full and you have turned to take your last glance at the spectacular beauty, it's time to move on.

But wait! Your visit to Bailey Island, Maine is not yet over...

A stop at the Giant Stairs, also known as the Giant Staircase, offers panoramic views of Casco Bay and a bite to eat at the Giant Stairs Seafood Grille.

And, as you crossed the Bailey Island Bridge you may have noticed - on your right - and surrounded on three sides by water...

...Cook's Landing, home to Cook's Lobster House and Marina.

If you visit mid-day you can see the island from a different perspective, onboard the Casco Bay Lines Noontime Cruise as it departs Cook's wharf on its 1 hour and 45 minute excursion past neighboring islands.

Awaiting your return is seafood, fresh daily from Cook's docks. It is as unbeatable as the view from each table, indoors and out.

Or... Read more about Bailey Island Maine and other Maine coastal vacations at great-maine-vacations.com/bailey-island-maine.com.