Badger's Island - Image 1
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Badgers Island

4.5
·13 reviews·Kittery, United States

A charming island known for its local seafood, scenic bridge views, and peaceful residential atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed meal or stroll.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Special dining deals

CrowdMedium
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Badger's Island - Image 1

Badgers Island

Best Time

Sunday afternoons

Special dining deals

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming island known for its local seafood, scenic bridge views, and peaceful residential atmosphere. Perfect for a relaxed meal or stroll.

4.5
(13 reviews)

"Discover delicious lobster rolls and scenic views of the Memorial Bridge on this charming island."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 No Badgers Here!

Despite the name, don't expect to see badgers. Seagulls and the occasional cat are more likely sightings.

🦞 Lobster Roll Heaven

Many small eateries serve delicious lobster rolls. Look out for Sunday specials like all-you-can-eat pulled pork!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seaside Dining

Seaside Dining

Various restaurants

Savor fresh lobster rolls and other local delights. Sundays often bring special deals, like all-you-can-eat options.

Memorial Bridge Views

Memorial Bridge Views

Waterfront

Enjoy picturesque views of the iconic Memorial Bridge and the Portsmouth skyline from the island's edge.

Island Atmosphere

Island Atmosphere

Residential areas

Experience a quiet island vibe with new homes and a relaxed pace, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

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Island Access & What to Expect

Badgers Island is accessible by car and bike, offering a glimpse into local life with new homes and eateries. Don't expect badgers; seagulls and stray cats are more common. Enjoy waterfront views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Dining Delights & Views

Discover small restaurants serving local favorites like lobster rolls. Sundays might feature special deals, like all-you-can-eat pulled pork. The island provides scenic views of the Memorial Bridge and Portsmouth.

Best Times

When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Special dining deals
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet island exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What should I do for my two days off in the Portsmouth NH area?

🐾 No Badgers Here!

Despite the name, don't expect to see badgers. Seagulls and the occasional cat are more likely sightings. Reddit

🦞 Lobster Roll Heaven

Many small eateries serve delicious lobster rolls. Look out for Sunday specials like all-you-can-eat pulled pork! Reddit

reddit.com

I am headed to portsmouth next month to headline a stand-up comedy show and need to know what the best quality vs. price lobster roll is

reddit.com

Walking Spots

🌉 Scenic Bridge Views

Enjoy lovely views of the Memorial Bridge and Portsmouth from the island's waterfront. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Walk

The island is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a walk to admire the new homes and coastal scenery. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 No Badgers Here!

Despite the name, don't expect to see badgers. Seagulls and the occasional cat are more likely sightings. Reddit

🦞 Lobster Roll Heaven

Many small eateries serve delicious lobster rolls. Look out for Sunday specials like all-you-can-eat pulled pork! Reddit

🌉 Scenic Bridge Views

Enjoy lovely views of the Memorial Bridge and Portsmouth from the island's waterfront. Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Walk

The island is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or a walk to admire the new homes and coastal scenery. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(13 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Badgers Island charming for its local dining, particularly lobster rolls, and scenic views of the Memorial Bridge. While the name is misleading regarding badger sightings, the island offers a peaceful atmosphere with new residential developments and a relaxed pace, making it a pleasant stop for a meal or a short exploration.

"Well, my fellow Google Maps reviewer Buck Synder is correct, there are no 🦡 badgers. There were seagulls!
I have driven, 🚲 biked and walked past this island without giving it a second 🥈 thought 💭. When Google Maps pointed it out to me, I crossed over into Maine and took a look. A lot of nice houses 🏘️ are being built or remodeled. A noticeable amount of small restaurants serving lobster 🦞, pronuced "lob-stah", not "Leh-'nerd 'Skin-'nerd".
There is a good view of the Memorial Bridge and the city 🏙️ of Portsmouth"

Stephen Priest

"There was a restaurant here had all u can est pulled pork for $25, it was on a Sunday. Great staff, really good food."

Tae Hyun Kim

"Did not see a single badger. Only one stray cat. Complete rip!"

Buck Snyder

What People Like

Delicious lobster rolls
Scenic bridge views
Quiet island atmosphere

What People Dislike

No actual badgers

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Badgers Island is easily accessible by car and bike, connected to the mainland. You can drive or cycle across to explore the island's charm. Reddit

Parking is generally available, especially near restaurants and residential areas. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival. Reddit

Absolutely! Walking and biking are popular ways to experience Badgers Island, offering scenic routes and easy exploration. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy a leisurely bike ride or a walk to take in the waterfront views and observe the island's residential development. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No tickets are required to visit Badgers Island. It's a public area accessible to everyone for exploration and dining. Reddit

There are no entrance fees to access Badgers Island. You can freely explore its streets and waterfront areas. Reddit

Badgers Island is accessible at all times, though individual restaurants will have their own operating hours. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find several small restaurants offering local New England fare, with a notable emphasis on delicious lobster rolls. Reddit

Yes, seafood is a specialty here, particularly lobster rolls. Many visitors rave about the fresh options available. Reddit

Some restaurants, particularly on Sundays, have offered specials like all-you-can-eat pulled pork for around $25. Reddit

While some restaurants offer specials, exploring the smaller eateries for a classic lobster roll can be a more budget-friendly option. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The waterfront offers great views of the Memorial Bridge and Portsmouth. The residential streets with new homes also provide charming photo opportunities. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos of the houses, especially the newly built or remodeled ones, as you explore the island. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer beautiful light for photographing the bridge and waterfront scenery. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Badgers Island can enjoy a relaxed outing focused on simple pleasures. While there are no specific playgrounds, the island's quiet streets are great for a leisurely bike ride or a short walk. The main draw for kids might be spotting seagulls and the occasional stray cat, adding a touch of wildlife observation. Reddit

Dining options include casual eateries that are generally accommodating for families. The focus on seafood like lobster rolls can be a fun culinary adventure for older children. The scenic views of the Memorial Bridge also offer a point of interest for younger visitors. It's a low-key destination perfect for a short, pleasant excursion.

🚗 Day-Trippers

Badgers Island is an ideal stop for day-trippers looking for a relaxed experience near Portsmouth. You can easily drive or bike onto the island and spend a few hours exploring. Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, perhaps indulging in a classic lobster roll, or simply take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to admire the views of the Memorial Bridge. Reddit

It's a great place to break up a longer journey or to add a quiet, scenic element to a visit to the broader Portsmouth area. The island offers a glimpse into local life without the crowds often found in larger tourist hubs.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Island Life and Development

Badgers Island, despite its name, is more known for its residential charm and dining options than its wildlife. Visitors often note the presence of new homes being built or remodeled, giving the island a fresh, developing feel. It's a place where you can observe local life and enjoy a quiet atmosphere, a stark contrast to the busier mainland. The island offers a unique perspective on coastal living in the Portsmouth area. Reddit

While the name might conjure images of woodland creatures, the reality is more about seagulls and the occasional stray cat. This has led to some humorous reviews from visitors expecting a wildlife encounter. The island's appeal lies in its serene environment, making it a pleasant spot for a leisurely drive, bike ride, or walk. Reddit

Culinary Delights and Local Flavors

The culinary scene on Badgers Island is characterized by its small, inviting restaurants, many of which specialize in classic New England seafood. The lobster roll is a frequently mentioned highlight, offering a taste of local tradition. Visitors have reported positive experiences with friendly staff and good food, with some even encountering special deals like all-you-can-eat pulled pork for around $25 on Sundays. Reddit

These eateries provide a casual dining experience, perfect for a relaxed meal after exploring the island. The focus on local ingredients and popular dishes like lobster makes Badgers Island a worthwhile stop for food enthusiasts looking for authentic regional flavors. Reddit

Scenic Vistas and Landmarks

Badgers Island offers picturesque views, most notably of the Memorial Bridge. This iconic landmark provides a striking backdrop for photos and a sense of connection to the wider Portsmouth area. The waterfront areas are ideal for taking in these sights, offering a tranquil setting to appreciate the bridge's architecture and the surrounding cityscape. Reddit

Beyond the bridge, the island itself presents charming residential streets with a mix of older and newer homes. These areas are pleasant to explore on foot or by bike, allowing visitors to appreciate the island's evolving character and coastal ambiance. The combination of scenic views and local charm makes Badgers Island a visually appealing destination. Reddit

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