Welcome to 1 Big Sustainable Island (1BSI)
1BSI is a nonprofit, off-grid island retreat where lake time slows everything down in the best possible way. We are tucked into Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine, about an hour north of Portland and ten miles from Augusta, and we specialize in making island life feel both accessible and meaningful.
We Believe...
- Relaxation comes faster with pine air and loon calls.
- A little lake time (and a little island time) restores balance.
- The natural beauty here has a way of helping people find their place - and themselves.
Our Mission...
We craft private island stays with personal service and a down-to-earth welcome. Come curious, leave restored, and bring home a story or two (and maybe a new paddle skill). Our work is rooted in simplicity, sustainability, and the idea that stepping away can be deeply restorative.
Kent, Registered Maine Guide
Kent is our Executive Director, Lead Instigator, and a Registered Maine Guide who first stepped onto the island in 2007 - and never really left. Raised in Monmouth, he took a 25-year detour before returning home to build this dream alongside family, neighbors, and a growing community of island believers. He has been living, breathing, and teaching island life ever since.
Creating Community
Meet the staff, affectionately known as The Reset Crew. Mary, Em, Mel, Jenn, Bill, Ken, Jason, Cathy, Sheryl, and Penny keep the island running with skill, heart, and a healthy dose of Maine humor. We truly would not be here without them.
From the beginning, 1BSI has been about community. Our Annabessacook Lake neighbors are woven into the island's story - swinging hammers, running chainsaws, lending wisdom, and serving on our Board of Directors. This island is a shared effort, built by many hands.
Island Diplomacy
Meet Sky, our Island Dog Diplomat. She joined the family in 2018 and takes her role seriously. An Alaskan Husky/Pointer mix, Sky loves a good run and an even better hello. If her enthusiasm gets ahead of her manners, just say the word - we are happy to leash her up.
Ready to plan your overnight island stay?
Bookings go fast in peak season. We'll help you pick the right spot.
Book Your Stay