This island, 16km/9mi from the coast, resembles a whale emerging from the sea. As you get closer, you will spy the sharp cliffs plunging straight into the ocean. Monhegan Island is one of the rare islands off the coast of Maine to be inhabited all year long. In the summer, its population increases three-fold with an influx of artists, hikers and tourists, all of whom are lured by the region's wild beauty and numerous hiking paths.