How an Enormous Beached Buoy in Wells, Maine, Became a Temporary Tourist Attraction

If you've ever needed a reminder just how powerful the ocean can be, that reminder sat firmly on a beach in Wells, Maine, for the last several weeks.

According to WMTW, an enormous 12-foot-tall buoy has spent the last several weeks calling Wells Beach home. The United States Coast Guard had alerted residents that the buoy had been washed ashore thanks to powerful winds and storm surge from a recent nor'easter.

But the U.S. Coast Guard also made mention they were prepared to get rid of the old buoy and replace it with a new one. That led to an outpouring from Wells residents as well as consistent visitors, who viewed the big red and white buoy as a landmark.

People have become so attached to the buoy that Wells Beach has been filled with tourism during its off-peak season. So many have been flocking to see the gigantic buoy firsthand, as well as snap a photo next to it. There are few things more Maine than visiting a beach on a chilly spring day to take a photo next to a buoy.

The good news is the long-time buoy will continue to be of service. Rather than dispose of it, the U.S. Coast Guard heard the public's calls, and have decided to repair the old buoy and return it to the spot in the ocean it once called home.

The massive buoy is being hauled away for repairs on Monday, April 22.