Machias Seal Island- A photographer’s Dream

Perched on the border of the Gulf of Maine and the Bay of Fundy, Machias Seal Island is a rare and remarkable destination for wildlife photography. Known for its rugged beauty and thriving seabird colonies, the island offers an unforgettable opportunity to capture nature at its most untamed beauty. It is one of my favorite locations and I look forward to it every season. But getting a ticket is not easy and they being lucky enough to land on this piece of paradise is even harder.

Every summer, thousands of Atlantic puffins, razorbills, murres, and other seabirds flock to its rocky shores to breed, creating a vibrant spectacle of life and movement. From the iconic puffin’s colorful beak to the dramatic flight of terns over the open sea, every moment here is a chance to frame nature’s story through a photographer’s lens.

Access to the island is limited and regulated to protect its delicate ecosystem, making every visit feel like a privilege or as I always say, like a precious“Golden Ticket”. Photographers are guided to four small observation blinds, ensuring intimate, unobtrusive encounters with the wildlife. The ever-changing light of the Bay of Fundy adds another layer of magic—misty mornings, golden sunsets, and dramatic seascapes all await.

Whether you’re capturing close-up portraits of seabirds or wide-angle shots of the rugged coastline, Machias Seal Island is a bucket-list destination for wildlife and nature photography enthusiasts alike. It is like heaven on earth and one of my favorite places to visit let alone photograph.