I've always found the same problem. If you're in the Merchant Islands, it's a haul by dinghy to Stonington(we row) Anchor off Crotch Island just west of the few moorings just off the Deer Isle Thoroughfare. It's an easy ride or row to town from there. Great dinghy dock right in Stonington. You can tie up your sailboat at the town dock for 2 hours but I wouldn't recommend it. It's a working harbor and dock so it's a little hectic. And draft looks iffy in spots too, but it's open to the public.

Across from Crotch, there's sort of cove between the 2-3 islands to the east that is well protected and close too(a hand full of moorings in there). It's a beautiful area all around. There's a small island Rock( I think) in the middle that is state owned and has a wonderful beach on the island.

There's a little lobsterboat traffic through there during daylight but not too bad. Also the quarry fires up during the week making a little noise but not on weekends. You only hear that from Crotch Island.

The large grocery store is open in town as is the new restaurant on the water I think you mentioned.