Bailey’s Mistake, Lubec
Located in the heart of Maine’s Bold Coast, this 11.5-acre scenic oceanside preserve with a state-of-the-art boat ramp showcases views of Bailey’s Mistake Harbor, Grand Manan Island, and nearby rugged headlands.
Bailey’s Mistake is good for:
- Paddling – Explore the small coves and rocky shoreline of Bailey’s Mistake or, for experienced kayakers, venture further along the Bold Coast shore.
- Launching a boat – Launch a larger boat at mid tide or higher at a ramp open for commercial and recreational users.
- Picnicking – Enjoy a bite to eat at the universally accessible picnic area near its adjacent parking.
- Beachcombing – Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy beach, snap a photo of the surrounding beauty, and find a quiet spot to soak it all in.
How to get there
From Route 1 in Whiting, follow Route 189 east toward Lubec. In 5.8 miles, turn right onto Route 191. From Lubec, drive 5 miles west along Route 189 and turn left onto Route 191. Once on Route 191 (Dixie Road), continue 2.8 mile and then turn left onto Boot Cove Road. In 0.5 mile, reach the preserve on the right.
For a complete map with legend and guidelines, click on the Printable Preserve Map above.
See the story of how we protected access to Bailey's Mistake
MCHT land steward Melissa Lee and others from Lubec share the story of how this project came together.
Notes on topography, flora, and fauna
This small coastal preserve encompasses 11.5 acres on the northern shore of Bailey’s Mistake, a small harbor on the Bold Coast in the town of Lubec. The property is divided in two by Wallace Cove Road, with the smaller western parcel dominated by forested wetlands. The larger eastern parcel features mostly open habitat, an attractive sand beach, and outstanding views.
Given the preserve’s small size and long history of being mown, grazed, cultivated for potatoes, and bush-hogged, the species diversity on the preserve is limited. However, MCHT staff have identified at least 54 vascular plants. The shoreline habitat is also popular with migratory songbirds in the spring and shorebirds during the late summer.
How this place became open to the public
Maine Coast Heritage Trust acquired the preserve in 2018.
Preserve information/guidelines
- No camping or overnight parking permitted
- No fires permitted
- Carry out all trash
- Including human and pet waste and toilet paper
- Keep pets under control
- Please respect the privacy of preserve neighbors
- Please do not block the ramp other than for immediate entry into the water