Capstan Island is a small fishing community with a rocky coastline. It is not actually an island but got its name from a small tidal island off shore where in 1851 the residents constructed a capstan, a sturdy wooden post and handle, mounted in a stabilizing frame, used to wind-in a rope or cable. The capstan pulled a line attached to the door of a seal net, or trap, that stretched to the mainland capturing seals on their spring migration.

Capstan Island has excellent garden soil and the region's only commercial greenhouse is located here.