The Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge contains more than 55 offshore islands and four coastal parcels, totaling more than 8,200 acres. The complex spans more than 250 miles of Maine coastline and includes five national wildlife refuges — Petit Manan, Cross Island, Franklin Island, Seal Island, and Pond Island. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages the refuge complex as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

The Service's primary focus at Maine Coastal Islands Refuge is restoring and managing colonies of nesting seabirds, and the mainland divisions also provide habitat for songbirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl, as well as opportunities for bird watching and hiking.

The Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge has a visitor center located at 9 Water Street in Rockland open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday, and offers free educational programs throughout the year.