1 Big Sustainable Island

Events: Weddings, Families, Retreats

Maine glamping for large groups on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine — near Winthrop!

Quick Answer: Events: Weddings, Families, Retreats is A private island on Annabessacook Lake for weddings, family reunions, retreats, or big gatherings. Sleep in whimsical stays, eat under event tents, paddle pristine water, and reset together in nature. Bring clothes, friends, off-leash pups & lots of food. We’ve got the rest: easy transport, comfy-real-beds, cooking options, hot shower & super clean, Maine Guide hospitality. All levels of nature lovers on Annabessacook Lake in Monmouth, Maine.

A private island on Annabessacook Lake for weddings, family reunions, retreats, or big gatherings. Sleep in whimsical stays, eat under event tents, paddle pristine water, and reset together in nature. Bring clothes, friends, off-leash pups & lots of food. We’ve got the rest: easy transport, comfy-real-beds, cooking options, hot shower & super clean, Maine Guide hospitality. All levels of nature lovers.

Guest Reviews from Revyoos — Showing 10 of 47 Reviews

Atiba July 19 2024
Rating: 5.0 / 5

We had a team of 15 cyclists who rode bikes from Florida to Maine over a five week period along the East Coast Greenway and we needed “a vacation” for one day & night and 1BSI was the “perfect retreat” site and the co-hosts are wonderful, kind & loving people. <br/>No one should not come to this place if they want the creature comforts and microwave amenities of 21st century life because this place & space is a dream getaway for anyone who wants peace & love with another Nature❤️

Carly Palmer June 10 2024
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Went here for a 2 night stay last weekend. Had car touble on the way up and a family emergency, and Kent and Heather were beyond accommodating. As for the island itself, we could not believe how private it was. All 5 sites were full Saturday night and we had no idea. We felt like (and thought lol) that we were by ourselves on the island. We did see Kent and Heather on Saturday and chatted a bit but they went out of their ways to be always available but give us so much space to enjoy ourselves. The site itself was absolutely lovely. We stayed in Hemlock Haven and next time would like to try out Loon Point. All of the basics you need are provided, along with special touches like books and games. What a perfect place to escape from life for a weekend, leave your phone and watch in the tent, and explore. We cannot thank Kent and Heather, Sky, Bella (and the younger brother who's name is escaping me at the moment) enough. This was our first vacation together and despite our challenges we had the most amazing time just being surrounded by an almost untouched peacefulness. We cannot wait to come back at least once a year, and plan on bringing family with us as well. See you again soon!

Ashley Martinez June 05 2024
Rating: 5.0 / 5

If you are looking for the most peaceful place to clear your head look no further.. One Big Sustainable Island is the most beautiful place to stay. This was my second trip and I couldn't be more happy. Kent is so helpful and has wonderful recommendations. I used the kayak, canoes and the stand-up paddle board! I even caught a fish! Thank you Kent and Heather!

Sue September 13 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5

The most relaxing stay on earth. Definitely try the nautilus, it’s really peaceful. A lot of effort was made so that you feel like you have a private island. Loved Kent’s energy - it’s clearly a passion project and we are so lucky to experience it. Highly recommend!

Jet Gurl September 12 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5

My husband and I recently stayed in the Octagon House on the island. It was the most beautiful place to relax have fun and get back to nature. Kent our guide was so incredibly kind! He takes you on a boat over to the island and shows you everything. We used the free kayaks and unlimited fire wood. Watched the most gorgeous sun set! It's truly the best experience! Thank you Kent! We will be back next month!

Ruby Knight August 22 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5
Nickolas August 20 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5

Kent made the process of getting to the and from the island extremely easy, from the wheelbarrows being pulled to and from our cabins, to the scenic boat ride over. He was extremely helpful with late guest arrivals, and with the firewood and ice packs. He was able to give you and your group the privacy you wanted while maintaining a very attentive and helpful experience. Will be going back.

Erika Long July 27 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5

My husband and I decided to honeymoon to this lovely get-away in Maine and it did NOT disappoint!! We stayed in the new Nautilus Floating House and it was a dream to wake up to breathtaking views from our bed every morning. Hiking, swimming, and canoeing filled our day with fun. Kent and Heather were amazing hosts that made sure our stay was top notch. If you’re looking for a peaceful, beautiful, vacation, you’ve found it!!

Alex July 23 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5

1 Big Sustainable Island is an experience like no other. As long as you go into it understanding you are going to be essentially camping on an island, the stay is immaculate. Kent was amazing, responsive and beyond helpful. He's an expert and takes pride in what he does. We had a large group on the island and loved every minute of it. If you want a memorable time, come to the island!

K Shirley July 19 2023
Rating: 5.0 / 5

This tiny island is the perfect place to take a break from the real world, disconnect, and connect with nature. Everything is exactly as advertised: the amenities, canoes, kayaks, shower. Kent was so helpful and brought fresh ice packs for our coolers, battery packs to charge our devices.. he’s a great host. The water around the island is shallow, our dogs loved walking around splashing in it. The ferry ride is easy and they have wheelbarrows to help load your stuff from the car to the ferry. We had the best time. I suggest bringing a lot of reading material so you can hang out on the hammock (one outside, one inside). There is a grill, a fire pit, rocking chairs. If you want to shower, you can pump the water for a few minutes and then clean up. We were so pleased with our stay that we will definitely be back! Thank you, Kent!

Events: Weddings, Families, Retreats (whole island) - FAQs

Can 1BSI host weddings and large group events?

Yes! Our island has hosted weddings, team retreats, training workshops, and multi-day gatherings with logistics support.

What group sizes can you accommodate?

We've supported groups as small as 10 and as large as 85 for retreats, ceremonies, and corporate events.

Is event catering and vendor support available?

We can assist with coordinating caterers, stylists, and other vendors - just ask us as you're planning.